MONDAY 19TH JUNE 2023

Protest rocks Angola over fuel price hike Fuel subsidy: NLC, TUC resume talks with FG today

Deji Elumoye and Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja with agency report The cost of shipping oil from Nigeria surged the most in more than a year this weekend, prompting some ship

owners to stay away from Africa’s largest oil producer, a Bloomberg report has said. This emerged as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) were expected to resume talks today with

federal government over steps being taken to alleviate the suffering associated with the withdrawal of

Fresh Crisis Brews in PDP Over Minority House Leaders...

Page 40

Tinubu

10th the successful inauguration of the National Assembly and the emergence of Godswill Akpabio (South-south) as Senate President

Ndume, Kalu, Buhari, Musa, others eye senate leader

Senate: Jostling for Principal Offices Begins and Barau Jibrin (North-West) as his deputy. The remaining four principal officers positions – Senate Leader,

Deputy Senate Leader, Chief Whip and Deputy Whip – would now be shared among the North Central, North West, South East and the

North East geopolitical zones. Apart from the North Central, all the zones had been adequately represented in the top positions so

far decided in both the executive and legislative arms of government

Bloomberg: Nigeria’s Oil Shipping Costs Soar as Tanker Owners Steer Clear Sunday Aborisade in Abuja The race for principal offices in the 10th senate has started, following

Pegs withdrawal from domiciliary accounts at $10, 000 per day

To prioritise orderly settlement of FX forward transactions to boost market confidence

Directs banks to ensure expeditious processing of BTA, PTA, school fees, others Apex bank to normalise its CRR maintenance processes, ensure equity

L-R: Chief Executive Officer/ Managing Director, Airtel Nigeria, Carl Cruz; Board Member, Airtel Africa, Awuneba Ajumogobia; Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Group Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Africa, Segun Ogunsanya; Renowned Businesswoman and Philanthropist, Hajia Bola Shagaya; Chief of Staff, Ekiti State (representing the Governor of Ekiti State), Tolu Ibitola; during An Evening with Airtel and the launch of Airtel Touching Lives Season 7 in Lagos, on Sunday

Afreximbank Pushes Ahead with Continental Payment System as Several Countries Join

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

A pan-African payment system that would allow African nations to trade among themselves, using their own currencies, is gaining momentum.

The African Export-Import Bank expects 15 to 20 countries to have joined the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) by the end of the year, Afreximbank

President Benedict Oramah said in an interview ahead of the lender’s annual meetings in Accra, Ghana’s

capital, that runs Sunday through June 21.

The platform has started commercial operations with nine countries signed up so far, he told Bloomberg.

The system, known as PAPSS, is using dollar exchange rates for now, said Oramah, whose bank funds the system. “But we are working with central banks to develop an exchange-rate mechanism that would allow Africa’s 42 currencies to be convertible among themselves. What we are doing is to domesticate

intra-African payments,” he said.

The vast majority of Africa’s intra-regional trade is done through conversions to the dollar. Initiatives like PAPSS and the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, which would create the world’s largest free trade zone by area, seek to boost internal trade by reducing barriers, including the need for intermediaries such as the US dollar.

The free trade zone and the payment system are ambitious projects in a fragmented region of 54

10TH SENATE: JOSTLING FOR PRINCIPAL OFFICES BEGINS

following the successful conclusion of the 2023 general elections.

President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima are from the South West and North East geopolitical zones respectively.

The distribution of the presiding officers positions in the National Assembly was supposed to take care of the other zones but the North Central was shortchanged because two presiding offices – Deputy Senate President and Speaker, House of Representatives – were given to the North West.

Some analysts had argued that a ranking senator from the North Central geopolitical zone should

automatically be made the Senate Leader in the spirit of equity, fairness and justice while others insisted that the rule of ranking must be strictly adhered to.

Some of the senators, who spoke with THISDAY on the development had also maintained that a ranking senator from the South West geopolitical zone should be appointed the Senate Leader, because President Tinubu is from the zone.

They claimed that the last two Senate Leader in the second term of former president Muhammadu Buhari, Senators Yahaya Abdullahi and Ibrahim Gobir were both from the North West geopolitical zone,

the same zone with Buhari.

But the claims had been countered by those who said there was no historical antecedents to support such argument.

One of the senators, who spoke on conditions of anonymity, countered the argument being advanced that the Senate Leader should be from the President's geopolitical zone.

He said, "The first Senate Leader during the period of President Olusegun Obasanjo was a senator from Katsina State and another Katsina senator took over from him.

"During the era of the late President Umaru Yar'adua, Senator Teslim Folarin from South West was

countries, with different languages, currencies, and regulations.

Africans trade more outside the continent than among themselves, with just 17 per cent of exports going somewhere else within the region, according to a McKinsey Global Institute report published this month. That excludes informal trade, which is difficult to quantify.

Africa isn’t alone in looking for ways to break its dependency on the US currency; there’s been a dedollarisation push across emerging markets, including India’s efforts

Senate Leader and he was there until former president Goodluck Jonathan completed the tenure of Yar'adua.

"Senator Victor Ndoma Egba from the South South took over as Senate Leader, when Jonathan was elected president.

"When President Muhammadu Buhari (North West) took over, Senator Ali Ndume from the North East was Senate Leader before he was removed and replaced with Senator Ahmad Lawan, from the same zone

"In 2019, Senator Yahaya Abdullahi from Kebbi North was the Senate Leader before he defected to the Peoples Democratic Party and

to clear trade through the rupee, Sweden’s SEB AB said in a May 2 note.

China and Malaysia have played with the idea of an Asian Monetary Fund, while Brazil and Argentina announced a project for a common currency called the “sur.”

These alternatives are unlikely to unilaterally dethrone the dollar as the global reserve currency, SEB Chief EM strategist Erik Meyersson wrote, without referring to PAPSS.

But if emerging markets “are instead more interested in simply

Senator Ibrahim Gobir took over. There was no history that backed up the claims that the Senate Leader must come from the same zone as the President.

"It happened by circumstances, when Jonathan won his first presidential election in 2011 and when Buhari won his second term in office in 2019."

However, going by the ranking rule, Senator Abdulfatai Buhari is the most ranking senator in the South West. He was in the House of Representatives in 2003 before he was elected senator in 2015, 2019 and 2023.

He is being followed closely by

CBN: FX REFORMS AIMED AT TRANSPARENCY, LIQUIDITY, DISCOURAGE SPECULATION

James Emejo in Abuja

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), yesterday, clarified that the recent policy changes introduced in the country's foreign exchange (FX) market were meant to promote transparency, liquidity, and price discovery in the market in order to improve supply, discourage speculation, enhance customer confidence, as well as ensure overall stability in the FX market.

CBN also announced that going forward domiciliary account holders were permitted to utilise cash deposits not exceeding $10,000 per day or its equivalent via telegraphic transfer.

CBN Director, Corporate Communications Department, Dr. Isa Abdulmumin, in a statement issued after an extraordinary Bankers' Committee meeting held over the weekend, explained that all visible and invisible transactions, including medicals, school fees, Business Travel Allowance (BTA), Personal Travel Allowance (PTA), airline, and other

remittances, were eligible for the Investors' and Exporters' (I & E) window.

As a result, Abdulmumin said banks shall ensure expeditious processing of all eligible invisible transactions on behalf of their customers using the applicable rate at the I & E window.

The central bank director pointed out that the meeting had discussed the policy implementation and implications for the banking public.

Abdulmumin further explained that ordinary domiciliary account holders shall have unfettered and unrestricted access to funds in their accounts. He said Deposit Monet Banks (DMBs) shall provide returns to the CBN, including the "purpose" for such transactions.

The CBN director added that cash deposits into domiciliary accounts would not be restricted, subject to DMBs conducting proper KnowYour-Customer (KYC), due diligence, and adhering to the spirit and letter of extant Anti-Money Laundering/ Combating the Financing of

Terrorism (AML/CFT) laws and other relevant rules and regulations.

Abdulmumin also said the apex bank would prioritise orderly settlement of any committed FX forward transactions as they fell due in order to boost market confidence.

He added that the central bank would normalise its Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) maintenance processes and ensure equity in its implementation across the banking industry.

He said, "The CBN will continue to engage stakeholders and issue further guidance as it implements the on-going reforms."

The CBN last week abolished segmentation in the FX market and collapsed all rates into the I&E window.

The central bank gave the directive in a circular titled, “Operational Changes to the Foreign Exchange Market,” signed by its Director, Financial Markets, Dr. Angela Sere-Ejembi, dated June 14, 2023.

The I&E FX window is the market trading segment for investors, exporters and end-users that allows

for FX trades to be made at exchange rates determined based on prevailing market circumstances, thus, ensuring efficient and effective price discovery in the Nigerian FX market. The FX window was established by the CBN in 2017.

CBN had, in the same circular, pointed out that applications for medicals, school fees, BTA/PTA, and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) would continue to be processed through deposit money banks, just as it announced the reintroduction of the “Willing Buyer, Willing Seller” model at the I&E window.

The apex bank stated, “Operations in this window shall be guided by the extant circular on the establishment of the window, dated 21 April 2017 and referenced FMD/DIR/ CIR/GEN/08/007. AlI eligible transactions are permitted to access foreign exchange at this window.”

The central bank also pointed out that the operational rate for all government-related transactions “shall be the weighted average rate of the

preceding day’s executed transactions at the l&E window, calculated to two decimal places.”

It also announced the proscription of trading limits on oversold FX positions with permission to hedge short positions with OTC futures. Limits on overbought positions shall be zero, it stated, while announcing the “re-introduction of order-based two-way quotes, with bid-ask spread of A1. All transactions shall be cleared by a Central Counter Party (CCP).”

CBN further announced, “Reintroduction of Order Book to ensure transparency of orders and seamless execution of trades. The operational hours of trades shall be from 9am to 4pm, Nigeria time.

“Cessation of RT200 Rebate Scheme and the Naira4Dollar Remittance Scheme, with effect from 30 June 2023.

“Further guidance on these matters shall be communicated in due course. All market participants and the general public are kindly enjoined to abide by these rules.”

BLOOMBERG: NIGERIA’S OIL SHIPPING COSTS SOAR AS TANKER OWNERS STEER CLEAR

of President Bola Tinubu.

Freight for ships hauling about one million barrels of crude from Nigeria to Europe jumped almost $16,000 a day, the biggest gain since April 2022. It rose to just over $64,000 a day, data from the Baltic Exchange, quoted by the report showed.

Earlier in the week, at least two ship-owners said they were keeping their vessels away from Nigeria after a series of multimillion dollar tax bills were sent out, seeking to claw back unpaid duties from 2010 to 2019.

“Some owners have decided to stay away and, if nothing else, it’s really shifted sentiment because there’s a smaller pool of vessels willing to go there,” said Halvor Ellefsen, a tanker broker at Fearnleys Shipbrokers UK Ltd.

Quoting international news agency, THISDAY reported last week that at least two oil tanker owners were staying away from Nigeria after several companies received backdated tax bills totalling millions of dollars.

Multiple businesses received demands from Nigeria’s Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), according to a member notice by industry group Intertanko.

They cover the period from 2010 to 2019 and range in amount from $400,000 to $1.1 million per vessel. In aggregate, some claims reach tens of millions of dollars, the report stated.

As a result, at least two ship-owners, who asked not to be identified discussing commercial matters, are steering clear of Nigerian ports to

avoid the risk of having their ships arrested.

Tanker earnings from West Africa to Europe have soared more than 42 per cent in three days so far during the week, according to Baltic Exchange data.

Ships staying away from Nigeria make it easier for those owners still willing to go there to get higher rates for their vessels.

Many of the tax bills referred to a previous law published by Nigeria’s revenue service in July 2021. That measure says any vessel carrying crude oil, gas or refined fuels from Nigeria is liable to pay tax there.

Meanwhile, Angolan police have fired tear gas in the capital Luanda and other cities, like Benguela and Namibe, as thousands of protesters took to the streets a week after clashes over a recent fuel hike killed at least five people.

President Joao Lourenco on June 8 fired the economic coordination minister and replaced him with the central bank governor in the wake of the deadly protests.

Africa’s second biggest crude oil producer earlier this month joined its larger continental rival, Nigeria, in reducing gasoline subsidies, almost doubling pump prices and triggering protests. The subsidy cut nearly doubled the petrol price to almost 300 kwanzas ($0.4781) per litre, although that was still below the market rate. Local media at the time quoted Angolan Economic Coordination

Minister Manuel Nunes Junior, who was subsequently fired, as saying the aim was to rein in government spending.

On Saturday in Benguela, a large crowd of protesters holding cardboard placards were shown on social and local media as anti-riot police with batons and helmets patrolled the streets, a Reuters report said.

In Luanda, police shot teargas to control the crowd, with TV footage showing at least one burning barricade spewing smoke.

Angola had reduced its gasoline subsidy, almost doubling pump prices in a nation that has some of the world’s cheapest fuel.

The decision came the same week that Nigeria, Africa’s biggest oil producer, scrapped its own subsidy, causing pump prices to triple. Like Angola, Nigeria is seeking to rein in expenditure as its economy languishes.

During his inauguration, President Bola Tinubu announced that fuel subsidy was “gone”, promising to re-channel the savings to education, health, infrastructure, among others.

There has been no major public protest in Nigeria, as the federal government said it would continue negotiations with organised labour after the courts earlier halted a planned strike.

Fuel Subsidy: NLC, TUC Resume Talks with FG

Meanwhile, NLC and TUC would today resume talks with the federal government over steps to alleviate the suffering associated with the withdrawal of fuel subsidy by the Tinubu administration.

TUC and NLC had after meeting with representatives of government at the State House, Abuja, a fortnight ago, suspended its planned nationwide indefinite strike action to protest last month's withdrawal of fuel subsidy.

A top official of NLC confirmed to THISDAY yesterday that the meeting would hold as scheduled at 4pm, at the office of the Chief of Staff, inside the State House.

The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the labour centres (both NLC and TUC) would insist on the implementation of all the agreements reached with the federal government’s representatives two weeks ago.

According to him, "We will not budge or shift ground on all the issues already contained in the agreement we signed the last tme we met with government."

Labour and government had at a meeting on June 6 arrived at a seven-point resolution at the end of a negotiation meeting between the federal government, TUC and NLC, held at the conference room of the Chief of Staff at the State House, Abuja.

The resolutions in the form of a communiqué were signed by six members of the negotiating team,

reducing their relative dependence on the USD as well as finding alternatives as a potential hedge against the West’s weaponisation of sanctions and other economic measures, there are signs they may be achieving some results.”

Oramah bucked against the idea that PAPSS might seek to bypass the dollar. “We’re not bypassing anybody,” he said. “Not the dollar, not the yuan, not the euro. That’s not the objective of the project. It does, though, aim to cut dollar reliance over time,” he said.

Senator Solomon Adeola, who was in the House of Representatives in 2011 and moved over to the Senate in 2015, and was reelected in 2015 and 2023

In the South East geopolitical zone, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and Osita Izunaso were the two most ranking senators in the South East. Both of them had been to the House of Representatives and the Senate twice.

However, Kalu was in the House of Representatives in 1993 while Izunaso was in the green chamber in 2007.

The only thing is that Kalu's period in the Lower Chamber lasted just three months before it was truncated by the military junta of Sani Abacha. In the North Central, Senators Sani Musa (Niger East) and Saheed Umar (Kwara North) are the two leading ranking senators. Both of them had been to the Senate twice, 2019 and 2023.

The most ranking senator from the North East geopolitical zone is Ahmad Lawan, who just concluded his tenure as the Senate President, followed by Ali Ndume.

However, Lawan may not accept to be the Senate Leader. It will now be left with Ndume, who had played similar role during the era of Bukola Saraki's Senate presidency.

Ndume however had to contend with Senator Danjuma Goje for the exhalted position.

Ranking senators, who spoke with THISDAY were of the view that if the leadership of the All Progressives Congress would adhere strictly to the ranking system in choosing the principal officers, one of the senior senators listed above would emerge as Senate Leader.

They noted that the three others would be appointed as deputy Senate Leader, Chief Whip and the Deputy Whip respectively.

including President of NLC, Joe Ajaero; President of TUC, Festus Osifo; Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Ms. Kachollom S. Daju; and then Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila (now Chief of Staff to the Presdent).

According to the communiqué, the agreements are that "the NLC to suspend the notice of strike forthwith to enable further consultations.

"The TUC and the NLC to continue the on-going engagements with the federal government and secure closure on the resolutions above.

"The labour centres and the federal government to meet on June 19, 2023, to agree on an implementation framework."

The communiqué further read, "Following the engagements between the federal government, TUC and the NLC, with the intervention of the Speaker, House of Representatives to resolve the disputes that arose from the withdrawal of subsidy on PMS, the following resolutions were reached:

"The federal government, the TUC and the NLC to establish a joint committee to review the proposal for any wage increase or award and establish a framework and timeline for implementation.

"The federal government, the TUC and the NLC to review World Bank-financed cash transfer scheme and propose inclusion of low-income earners in the program.

"The federal government, the

TUC and the NLC to revive the CNG conversion program earlier agreed with labour centres in 2021 and work out detailed implementation and timing.

"The labour centres and the federal government to review issues hindering effective delivery in the education sector and propose solutions for implementation.

"The labour centres and the federal government to review and establish the framework for completion of the rehabilitation of the nation's refineries.

"The federal government to provide a framework for the maintenance of roads and expansion of rail networks across the country.

"All other demands submitted by the TUC to the federal government will be assessed by the joint committee."

Tinubu had on May 29, while giving his speech after his inauguration at Eagles Square in Abuja, declared that fuel subsidy regime was gone for good, which led to increase in fuel price by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC).

That had elicited immediate reaction from both NLC and TUC, which claimed necessary consultations were not made by government before removing the fuel subsidy.

The National Economic Council (NEC), chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, had last week proposed palliatives for workers and vulnerable groups in the country, to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal.

VISIT BY OFFICIALS OF RABOBANK TO FCMB…

Benin Port: Bidders Inspect Project Site to Assess Condition of Support Facilities

In line with efforts by the Edo State Government to fast-track the development of the Benin Port, bidders for the project have visited and inspected the confluence of the Benin River and Osse River, to assess the site conditions and available facilities to support the port. During the visit, the Project Director, Benin Port, Dr. Joe Aigboduwa, who led representatives of the host communities and the Edo State Government officials to the site, said the visit by the bidders was in response to the issued Request for Proposals (RFP) and in continuation of the certified

Federal Government procurement process.

He said, “In response to the issued Request for Proposals (RFP) and in continuation of the federal government approved procurement process under Public-Private Partnership, the internationally pre-qualified bidders for the Benin Port Project have conducted site visits to the project location.”

According to him, “The 2-day exercise entailed a visit by boat to the foreshores of the site at the confluence of Benin River and Osse River on Tuesday 13th June 2023, and a visit by road to the proposed Benin Port dual carriageway Access

Arafat Day'- Saudi Arabia Commits over $87bn to Upgrade Infrastructure

NAHCON assures pilgrims of adequate care

Hammed Shittu in Makkah

Ahead of the next week’s Arafat day, the Saudi Arabian authorities have disclosed that the Kingdom has spent over $87 billion to upgrade infrastructure in strategic locations across the country in order to assist the pilgrims perform their hajji rites without hindrance.

The authorities also said improvement have been made in the areas of health, security, logistics, among others, all aimed at ensuring quality and efficient service delivery to pilgrims during the hajji exercises.

The Kingdom’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq Bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, disclosed this in Jeddah, during a meeting with the Organisation of Islamic Countries (OIC) conference held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia over the weekend.

He said, "the spending of the huge sum of funds is also meant to ease the performance of Hajj and Umrah rites for Muslims who visit the Holy land from across the world."

The minister explained that the Kingdom has spent over 200 billion Saudi Riyals (About 54 billion dollars) in the expansion works on the Grand Mosque “being the largest building in history.”

He added that another 60 billion Saudi Riyals (About 16.2 billion dollars) was expended on the two

Holy Mosques train project which has greatly reduced travel stress between Makkah and Madinah for pilgrims.

Al-Rabiah stated that the King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah has so far consumed over 64 billion Riyals ( About 17.28 Dollars).

He re-ecoched the resolve of the Kingdom to make Umrah, Hajj and other visitations easy by extending Umrah Visa from 30 days to 90 in addition to allowing Visa holders to perform Umrah without any hindrance.

The minister reiterated their resolve to take Umrah and Hajj to the highest level possible through diligent implementation of the Pilgrims Experience Programme, inaugurated by the Custodian of the two Holy Mosques, King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, as a crucial component of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

Meanwhile, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, (NAHCON,) has expressed satisfaction with the level of preparation and provisions made the by company of Mutawwif to adequately take care of the entire Nigerian pilgrims to this year's Hajj.

The Company of Mutawwif is saddled with the responsibilities of attending to pilgrims from non-African countries and Nigeria is among such countries.

Road, through Ekehuan Road on Wednesday 14th June 2023.

“The visit afforded bidders the opportunity of physical assessment of the site conditions and the available facilities. They expressed satisfaction with what we have on the ground.”

He noted: “The team comprises the Bidders, the Transaction Advisers (CPCS Transcom, Canada), representatives of the host communities, and Edo State

Government officials.

Aigboduwa said, “Bids are due for submission in Abuja by 30th June 2023, following which there would be an evaluation exercise by the Ministerial Project Delivery Team (PDT) under the Chairmanship of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). Other members of the PDT include the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Federal Ministry of Finance, Federal Ministry of Justice, Infrastructure

Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Bureau of Public Enterprise (BPE), the Transaction Advisers, and Edo State Government.

He said, “The Benin Port Project is designed to be a unique agro-based Port in Nigeria that encompasses a complete smart Port Community Complex for industrial processing and export of agricultural produce and other goods, with independent clean and renewable energy installations.

“The container and multipurpose terminals of the port would also have RoRo facilities to enable direct importation of vehicles for the thriving automobile industry in Edo State, among others. This legacy project of His Excellency Governor Godwin Obaseki is expected to create massive employment and business opportunities in transforming the economy of Edo State and Nigeria.”

ICAN to World Bank: Use Our Accountability Index to Approve Loans for Nigerian Govts

Dike Onwuamaeze

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) has appealed to the World Bank to approve loans for the federal and state governments in Nigeria based on their ranking on the ICAN Accountability Index.

The index was developed to promote high quality public finance management’s system in Nigeria.

The President of ICAN, Dr. Innocent Okwuosa, made this appeal in Abuja, when he paid a courtesy visit to the Country Director of the World Bank, Mr. Chubham Chaudhuri.

Okwuosa, in a press statement titled: ‘ICAN Urges World Bank to Grant Loans to federal and state Governments Based on Performance in ICAN Accountability Index Ranking,” that was issued during the weekend by Assistant Director, Corporate Communications ICAN,

Ms. Olubunmi Owolabi, described the ICAN Accountability Index as a public financial management tool initiated by ICAN to ensure that the three tiers of government in Nigeria embraced best practices in public finance management.

The statement added: “ICAN has called on the World Bank to approve loans for the federal and state governments in Nigeria based on their ranking on the ICAN Accountability Index.”

Okwuosa acknowledged that, “corruption, unaccountability and poor public financial management are systemic within the Nigerian economic system,” adding that “the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals cannot be achieved under this socio-economic environment.”

He, therefore, solicited the World Bank’s collaboration for the accountability index to ensure compliance with best practice in public finance management in Nigeria.

“This collaboration will ensure that the assessments remain independent of government interference, retain its objectivity and could replace States Fiscal Transparency, Accountability and Sustainability (SFTAS) Framework through World Bank endorsement” he concluded.

Okwuosa explained further that ICAN, in its public interest mandate, is positioned to play a vital role in the improvement of public sector financial management and accountability in Nigeria.

He added that the ICAN’s accountability index has been acknowledged as having wider scope and better suited for Nigeria than similar initiatives like the Public Expenditure and Financial Accountability (PEFA) and the States Fiscal Transparency, Accountability and Sustainability (SFTAS) Frameworks due to the scope captured in its five pillars, 25 indicators and 70 dimensions,

which are scaled across the federal, states and local governments.

He said: “For the tiers of government to improve their performances in the ICAN-AI, it is important that financial data are made publicly available to facilitate easy computation of the index by the institute.”

In addition, he enjoined stakeholders at the federal, states and local government to cooperate with ICAN-AI Assessors that are sent to visit Ministries, Departments and Agencies to collate relevant data.

The ICAN, however, commended the entities for the positive progress in the amount of financial information provided.

“On average, 50 per cent of the information required was provided across the various levels of government in the 2020 assessment, compared to only 35 per cent and 28 per cent average availability rates in 2019 and 2018 respectively.

Two Nigerian Qatar-based Drug Lords Arrested as NDLEA Intercepts Consignment at Lagos Airport

Two Qatar-based drug kingpins, Eyah Nnamdi, alias Murphy and Ugwuoke Oluchukwu have been arrested by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) following the interception of their methamphetamine consignment at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

A statement signed by the spokesman of the anti-narcotics agency, Femi Babafemi, stated that Ugwuoke was the first to be arrested on June 9, during the outward clearance of Qatar Airways passengers at the departure point, Terminal 2 of the Lagos airport. Babafemi disclosed that the NDLEA officers discovered that the suspect was travelling to Doha

with an Ivorian international passport with the name Hien Narcisse, noting that a further scrutiny of his black carry-on luggage led to the discovery of a false bottom concealment of two parcels of crystalline substance that tested positive to methamphetamine weighing 1 kilogramme.

He added that preliminary investigation revealed that the

suspect “is a Nigerian who had gone to obtain an Ivorian passport for his travels,” stressing that the suspect confessed that he travelled to Qatar in August 2022, and returned from the Arab nation about two months ago to perfect arrangement for the movement of the drug consignment.

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

L-R: Team Lead, Agric Channels and Liability, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Gregory Ekanem; Global Head, Agric and Banking Advisory Services, Rabobank, The Netherlands, David Gerbrands; Senior Project Manager Africa of the Bank, Madelon Pfeiffer; Divisional Head, Agribusiness & Non-Oil Exports, FCMB, Kudzai Gumunyu; Lead Agriculture Exchange Africa, Rabobank, Roswitha Berlinda Knol and Head, Agribusiness & Structured Trade Commodity Finance, FCMB, Daniel Olorunsuyi, during a visit by officials of Rabobank to FCMB in Lagos...recently

REA Inspects Solar Power Installations in Underserved Lagos Community

Installs 100kw solar power grid in Ogun

and economic challenges of the community.

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has inspected some decentralised Solar Home Systems (SHS) installed in Makoko, Lagos State, in furtherance of the federal government's efforts to bridge energy access gap in the underserved and off-grid riverine community.

This was just as it emerged that the federal government through REA, has installed a 100kw Solar Powered Mini Grid for use by entrepreneurs in the agric sector. The solar powered mini grid is located at Eriwe in Odogbolu Local Government area of Ogun State. The agricultural settlement, where several agricultural stakeholders operate, is owned by Ijebu Development Initiative on Poverty Reduction.

However, in Lagos, the Chief Executive Officer of REA, Mr. Salihijo Ahmad, during the inspection of the solar systems in Makoko, at the weekend, said the SHS deployment was a project captured under the federal government’s National Poverty Reduction and Growth Strategy.

Ahmad said given the agency’s role in providing access to electricity for unserved and under-served areas, the role being played by the agency was more of a social service to mitigate the environmental

He added that the installation continued the implementation of the government’s Economic Sustainability Plan, noting that the inspection was part of a more extensive visit to the South-west region, with sites at Osogbo and Ijebu-Ode also visited.

Ahmad stated, “The management will return and assess the impact of the projects so far. Stakeholder engagement (state governments, community groups and end-users) will continue while all the feedback gathered is considered.

“What is evident even in the immediate aftermath is that using a decentralised approach toward electrification of communities such as Makoko is the right approach given the difficulty of operating a traditional grid system.

“We are here on an inspection visit to access the solar systems that were installed six months ago in schools, hospitals and some homes in the Makoko community.

“We wanted to test and deploy a more decentralised solar system of 150 watts to critical places like schools, hospitals and essential places to provide lightening for effectiveness.

“About 30 solar units have been deployed so far, and we plan to deploy more.

“We wanted to scale up the

project, but it is important to inspect the facilities and see the impact in the community."

He maintained that the agency was also mindful of the impact of the petrol subsidy removal on communities, adding that the solar project would alleviate the suffering of people in the community.

He said the decentralised SHS would go a long way to impact rural communities in Nigeria positively.

He noted that the project would enable schools, hospitals and households to power fans, bulbs and televisions.

Responding, the Baale of the Makoko Community, Mr. Jeje-Aide Albert, expressed the community's excitement at the development.

He lauded the agency for bringing life to rural communities and urged the federal government to do more to alleviate the suffering of the residents of the community.

“We are grateful to the federal government through the Rural Electrification Agency, for providing solar systems to schools, hospitals and homes in Makoko community.

“We hope it will be sustainable. Makoko community has been neglected for years,” he said.

Relatedly, the solar power in Odogbolu Local Government area of Ogun State, was situated in a settlement, noted for poultry, piggery and fishery, boasts of annual fish sale in excess of N 2.5 billion and

said to be the largest fish farm in terms of tonnage and market in West Africa.

Also leading a team on an inspection tour of the facility and the farm settlement, Ahmad, said findings during the inspection revealed the need to expand the capacity of the power grid.

He explained that the project was part of REA's policies on alleviation of poverty especially around the agricultural sector.

Ahmad, a renewable energy advocate, said the idea was to have one of the project in each of the six geopolitical zones.

He said the project would reduce cost and reliance on fuel to power pumping machines by the fish farmers, most especially now that fuel subsidy had been removed.

Ahmad explained, "The project is part of our pragmatic approach to budgeting that we have been doing in the last couple of years where we are looking at alleviation of poverty especially around the agricultural sector. We have one at each of the geopolitical zones.

"What we have here is a 100 kilowatt system, powering the agricultural setting under the Ijebu development community programme for poverty alleviation.

"Beyond the mini-grid being powered, this inspection is to see what is the best use of the power

Seplat Energy Provides Free Eye Treatment for 90 Communities in Edo, Delta

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Seplat Energy at the weekend announced the provision of free eye treatment and other healthcare services to 90 communities in Edo and Delta States

The company's incoming Director of External Affairs and Sustainability, Mrs. Chioma Afe, who announced this at this year's, "Eye Can See," programme which climaxed at the Oba of Benin palace in Benin City, added that 13 centres were designated to ensure that the communities within its operational areas are captured in the exercise. She explained that the programme was designed to ensure provision of eyesight through

surgery of cataracts, free eyeglasses and lectures to teach people how to manage their health, including diabetes.

She further disclosed that Seplat Energy as a responsible corporate citizen, has through the programme which commenced in 2012, treated over 96,000 people in its operational areas.

Besides, Afe stated that the company has through the programme which is for all ages, carried out eye surgeries on 4,218 patients and given out 45, 000 free eyeglasses to others since the exercise began.

In his remarks, Seplat New Energy Director, Mr. Effiong Okon, disclosed that Edo remains one of

the company's strategic states in business, assuring that the health programme would be sustained as long as the business continues.

"In Seplat, we are purpose-driven, we are here to serve. We have put down purposeful structure to ensure that the programme continues for a very long time", he said, while commending the NNPC Exploration and Production, the Health personnel and communities for their support.

On his part, the Managing Director of NNPC Exploration and Production who was represented by Mrs. Emily Ajakaye, pledged continued collaboration with Seplat in execution of the healthcare programme.

Commending Seplat Energy, the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare ll, represented by Chief Stanley Obamwonyi, noted that his subjects who benefitted from the programme were greatly relieved. He therefore, praised the company and urged it not to relent in mounting subsequent programme.

In her speech, one of the beneficiaries of the cataract surgeries, Mrs. Maria Aigbedo, commended Seplat for the programme saying: "I am very happy for what the company has done for us. But for Seplat, I would not have been able to get the finance to carry out Eye surgery. I thank the Oba and everybody."

that we have provided here," he explained.

The managing director said the project presently can only power 10 per cent of the farm, but, "there is a plan for expansion of the project based on the demands we get."

Ahmad added, "This is 100 kilowatts and I am hearing that it is only powering 10 per cent and so essentially, what is needed here, is about one megawatt grid.

"In terms of the payment, obviously, it is not going to be free because this is something the government has done as a proof of concept so that we can create that environment for private developers to actually expand upon it."

He noted that the subscription fee would be determined by stakeholders in such a way that it would be affordable to the farmers.

The President of Farmer

Aquaculture Union, Eriwe Farm Village, Quadri Oriyomi, described the project as a laudable initiative, saying it would relieve the farmers. According to him, after the fuel subsidy removal, "it has been difficult for farmers to buy N500 per litre of fuel to power their pumping machines because it won't yield any profit."

He expressed the farmers' willingness to pay for the subscription, saying it would pay off if compared to the money spent daily to buy fuel.

"The project can only cover 10 per cent because the land here is over 156 hectares where we have over 500 farmers. "We have about 42 groups and in each group we have over 30 people. This like they said is just like a sample to test-run how it is going to go round so that everybody will benefit.

Court Fixes July 7 for Definite Hearing on $4.2m Suit against ExxonMobil

Wale Igbintade

Justice Rabiu Gwandu of the National Industrial Court, Lagos, has fixed July 7, 2023, for definite hearing on the $4.2 million suit instituted against a multinational oil company, ExxonMobil Corporation and its parent body, Mobil Producing Nigeria Limited, by its former staff, James Nwagbogwu Ebede, over alleged forceful retirement.

Joined as co-defendant in the suit is the Vice President and the overall executive officer of ExxonMobil Iraq Limited between 15th February, 2017 and December, 2017, Mr.Ronald W. Romere.

Last Friday, the hearing of the case was supposed to resume, but the lead counsel, for the defence, Paul Usoro, was absent but sent a letter to the court, that he may not be able to come to court that day as he was busy attending to election petition matters at the election petition tribunal, and that the cases at the tribunal were time-bound. He therefore asked for adjournment.

However, James Ebede's counsel, Chucks Nguru, objected to any adjournment been given on the ground that, the case had lingered for long time since 2018, adding that his client has no access to his property as they have all been locked up.

He urged the court to allow his client to be cross examined or the

defence should forfeit the right of cross examination

He also stated that the defendants were in contempt of the court, because they have not obeyed the order of court that directed them to deposit $4.2million money in an interest yielding account.

Consequently, Nguru, told the court that Usoro has a big law firm with retinue of lawyers who could adequately represent him.

On the issue of contempt proceeding, lawyer representing Exommobil M A. Sowumi, told the court that, they have appeal against the ruling of the court and filed stay of execution of the order, but Nguru told the court that the contempt, proceeding was a separate case on its own.

He said since the order was made nothing has been done.

Court had ordered that the 2nd defendant, Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited to furnish an account in any name with enough funds to offset the Judgment of this Honourable Court should the claimant’s claims succeed, but the company has failed to obey the order of the court.

Leading to the issuance of form 48 consequence of disobedience to order of the court against six officials of the company namely Richard Lang, Alexander Savva,Mr Olusegun Banwo, Dozie Adesuwa, Aliyu Bala and Adelabu Adedoyin.

Peter Uzoho, Oluchi Chibuzor in Lagos and James Sowole in Abeokuta

L-R: Assistant Director, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Halima Mohammed; Member, Governing Council, Ministry of Fina Dr. Chidi Diugwu; Founder, Startpreneurs, Jennifer Chizua, and Assistant Director, NCC, Dr. Amaka Agwaniru, at a Blockchain technology conference hosted by the Commission in Abuja… recently

COURTESY VISIT TO GOVERNMENT HOUSE…

International,

Design

Effectiveness

North-West Govs Meet Tinubu over Insecurity, Agriculture

James

The Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has led his North-West counterparts to a meeting with President Bola Tinubu on issues concerning

insecurity, agriculture and other national issues.

Radda, who is the Chairman of the North West Governors Forum was joined by Governors of Kaduna, Kano, Jigawa, Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara States at the

University of Osun Dons Receive $9.3m Grant for Research

Yinka

Two Professors of Osun State University have formed a research consortium with Bradford University on the project "AfriquEurope".

This was revealed in a statement issued by the University Public Relations Officer, Ademola Adesoji, at the weekend.

The statement read in part: "Osun State University's Director of Global Affairs and Sustainable Development Institute (GASDI), Prof. John Agbonifo and the Director of the Office of Research and Innovation Management (ORIM), Prof. Olukoya Ogen, have formed a research consortium with Prof. Jean-Marc Trouille of Bradford University, to carry out a research titled 'The European Union and Africa in a Multi Crises World.'

The project is funded by the ERASMUS-JMO-2023NETWORKS-HEI-NON-EUAFRICA to the tune of €7,800,000 ($9.3 million). Agbonifo is a key facilitator of the project, while Ogen is the Project Financial Signatory.

Speaking on the grant, the ViceChancellor, Prof. 'Ayo Clement Adebooye, stated: "It was part of my mission statement when I applied for this job to encourage and proliferate research works amongst the university staff in

order to proffer solutions to global problems.

" I am happy that this is gradually being fulfilled, and this year alone, we have won over $2 million in grants. In total, therefore, UNIOSUN has raked in a total of $12 million in 2023 alone.

"We are proud of our researchers. This latest grant is another milestone in our research and global visibility agenda. I believe that in the not-too-distant-future, we would be among universities with the highest grants won in this part of the world.

"AfriquEurope is the largest Jean Monnet network of its kind, and the largest academic network in terms of its number of participating institutions and the number of countries represented across Africa and Europe.

"It will also provide a framework for a unique cooperation between universities and think-tanks on matters relevant to Africans and Europeans.

"The aim of the 'AfriquEurope' Network is to support the EU's effort to recalibrate its partnership with Africa, whilst advocating closer cooperation between the two continents."

He congratulated Agbonifo and Ogen on behalf of Senate, management, staff and students of the university.

Presidential Villa.

A statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Katsina State Governor, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed in Abuja, stated that the governors discussed some measures they are putting in place to enhance security in the region, which had been plagued with security threats, especially

by the bandits. They maintained that for a region which is known for its agricultural prowess to live up to its mandate, security must be enhanced to ensure unhindered access to the farmlands by farmers.

Tinubu, however, further pledged his support at working closely with the governors,

who were the first to meet the president, to improve on the security of the region.

The president said agriculture remained one of the priorities of his administration and would stop at nothing in ensuring that the nation is self-sufficient in food production.

Tinubu further stated his resolve

at working with the governors on providing palliatives to the natives to reduce the impact of fuel subsidy removal.

Radda said, "Our meeting with the president under my leadership was basically on areas of security, agriculture and other national issues ,i believe it was apt, fruitful and really engaging."

Council Warns Pharmacists to Desist from Violation of Ethical Standards

Shuts down 30,000 outlets in four years

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has cautioned pharmacists in the country to always stick to the ethics and standards of their profession

The Registrar of PCN, Ibrahim Babashehu Ahmed, disclosed that in the last four years, the council has clamped down on close to 30,000 pharmacy outlets for violation of professional standards.

Ahmed who spoke to THISDAY, at the weekend, explained that the cases bothering on professional misconduct were reported and taken through investigation.

He said the action of the tribunal signified that the Council was effectively using the instruments that set it up.

He said: "The decision of the council signifies that the Council is effectively using the instruments that actually set it up, which of course, has the overall goal of ensuring that the pharmaceutical practice setting as well as education and training are properly conducted with some measures on ground to ensure that whoever in anyway fails to comply

with expected objectives, should be appropriately taken up and sanctioned to serve as deterrent to others for either attempting to copy them or from falling into temptation of trying to do something that is wrong."

The PCN is a federal government's agency established by the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2022 to regulate the standard of practice, personnel, premises and business of pharmacy in Nigeria

The Disciplinary Tribunal of the PCN had last Thursday, suspended four pharmacists from practice in the country.

The four pharmacists were among the eight respondents that faced trial before the tribunal for various offences during the day.

Two of the accused were given three-year ban from pharmacy practice, while the other was suspended from practice for a period of one year.

Daniel Aghanemuzor, who was arraigned before the Tribunal for conversion/ diversion of company's funds was suspended from practice for a period of 33 months.

Another Pharmacist, Fidelis

Ogonna Okenwa, was arraigned before the Tribunal for holding dual employment and making false statements to the council for the purpose of procuring the registration of another pharmaceutical premises.

The tribunal ordered that the Registrar suspends the erring Pharmacist’s licence for three years

In another case, Nwakpuma Richard Nwophe, was brought before the Tribunal for holding dual employment and falsifying Remita Retrieval Reference (RRR) payment receipt to the PCN and making false statement to the council for the purpose of procuring the registration of another pharmaceutical premises.

In its ruling, the tribunal ordered that the Registrar suspends Nwophe's licence for 12 months.

Delivering judgement during the tribunal's sitting at PCN's headquarters in Abuja, the Chairman of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, Prof. Ahmed Mora, who doubles as Chairman of the disciplinary tribunal, said the accused were found guilty of violating the ethical standard of pharmacy practice.

Mora, added that the cases dispensed with were among many

others being investigated by the council.

"I am happy that these judgements were passed today because they have been lingering for some time now," he said.

Mora, said the names of the four pharmacists would be deleted from the registrar of registered pharmacists in Nigeria for the period they are on suspension.

"For you to practice pharmacy in Nigeria, you are granted a licence which is renewed every year. So for the next three years, they will not have the licence to practise, meaning that they cannot practise for three years," he explained.

"These are the cases that have been ongoing for quite some time and the tribunal passed judgement today. I am happy that these judgements were passed today because they have been lingering for some time and others will go on trial.

"The Disciplinary Tribunal is an important component of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria for those pharmacists that have fallen short of ethical standards in the practice of pharmacy."

Judiciously Expend Monthly Allocation to Tackle Effect of Oil Subsidy Removal, Group Tells Governors

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has called on governors of the 36 states of the federation and the upcoming Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to judiciously expend the monthly allocation from the federation account to remove hardship from the citizens, especially brought about by the removal of oil subsidy.

The association in a statement signed yesterday, by its National

President, Hon Khalil Bello said: “The state governors and the incoming Minister of the Federal Capital Territory should make sure that they judiciously utilise the billions of naira to be received from the federal government's coffer monthly as subvention due to the surplus earning because of the total removal of oil subsidy to better the lives of their citizens and in the execution of various development projects such that people will not feel the full weight of the negative impact of the oil subsidy removal.

“This would ensure a safe guard from inflation, making commodities is cheaper or at affordable prices and make Nigerians happy and proud of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Administration policies and programmes.”

The group noted that, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is one of the very few democratically elected presidents of Nigeria who comes with boldness, courage and strong commendable actions to take any measure that will stabilise the nation's economy which shall enable him

develop the country and improve the living standard of its people.”

The group recalled that, “from the very beginning, after his swearing-in as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on 29th May 2023, when he was delivering his inaugural speech, he surprised Nigerians and the entire world when he took a bold step on how to minimise corruption in the country and generate enough revenue that will enable our governments to actively operate as true government rather than

remain as mere institutions that are just answering the names of government but are not rendering the peoples developmental services that their electorates are expecting to see.

“At the same time and going by the series of decisions and decisive measures/actions he had taken including the welldeserved appointment of Chief of Staff; Secretary to the Federal Government; Special Adviser, Security just to mention but a few, as well as the suspension of various top

government's officers and given order for thorough investigation of their various Departments/ Agencies to prove to Nigerians that, his good administration has nothing to hide as per as transparency and accountability in governance is concern.

“He has beyond doubt proved to all Nigerians that, he is a qualitative leader who came well prepared to govern this country in the rightful ways and direction so that we could see positive changes within the shortest possible time.”

Emejo in Abuja

L-R: MERL Manager-Strategic Analytics Business Development,

and

(BDDE), Heifer International, Molina Jose; Americas Senior Director of Programmes, Americas Programmes, Heifer

Adriana Garcia-DeVun; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Chief of Missions Effectiveness, Heifer International, Haddigan Hillary, and MERL Manager Proposals and Initiatives, Heifer International, Daniel Dianga, during a courtesy visit at the Government House, in Benin City...

Kolawole in Osogbo.

MBAH HOSTS AKPABIO, KALU…

NAFDAC Begins Malaria Vaccine Clinical Trial

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) said it has mandated the pharmaceutical industry in Nigeria to establish a Pharmacovigilance (PV) Surveillance department as the agency was set for full implementation of PV across the country.

The Director General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, dropped the hint at the weekend, at the Pharmacovigilance Inspection interactive session with Pharma Stakeholders in Lagos. She said the agency was about

to begin Malaria Vaccine Clinical trial as part of its resolve to exterminate malaria scourge in Nigeria.

Adeyeye, said the country still lacks a good pharmacovigilance system.

The NAFDAC boss explained that the pharmaceutical industry must put structures in place to ensure adequate monitoring of their products throughout the supply chain.

She, however, added that they must have strategies, goals, and clear objectives that would ensure the safe use of their products.

In a statement by NAFDAC's Resident Media Consultant, Sayo

Akintola, yesterday, Adeyeye pointed out that the MAHs must as a matter of importance, train and further engage all relevant stakeholders along their supply chain on the need for pharmacovigilance and use of relevant reporting platforms for reporting ADRs/AEFIs to the agency.

According to her, the sustained safety of medical products in Nigeria lies on a vast array of stakeholders and it has become imperative to continually improve on our pharmacovigilance processes for safety monitoring.

She also noted that the various public health programs

involved in the importation of medical products for use in their respective programmes were regarded as marketing authorisation holders for their products.

She therefore encouraged them to establish and identify key personnel that will coordinate the activities of pharmacovigilance within their programmes.

She however noted that the six pharmacovigilance centers established across the six geopolitical zones of the country would be strengthened further to serve as convergence centers from the states to the centre: but most importantly

Oil Theft Allegation: Dokubo Should Be Invited by DSS, Group Tells Tinubu

His comment may pitch Nigerians against Military, APC chieftain warns

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

A Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Maja-Maja Group (MMG) yesterday, called on President Bola Tinubu to direct the Directorate of State Services (DSS) to invite a former Niger-Delta warlord, Mujahid Asari-Dokubo, for questioning over his allegations against the military on oil theft.

The group in a statement by its National Coordinator, Adesina Akinpelu, said Asari-Dokubo needed to make more clarifications about his allegation, stating that he should be bold enough to mention names of military officers involved in the criminal act.

Asari-Dokubo had while speaking with newsmen after a meeting with Tinubu in Abuja, last Friday, accused the military of being at the centre of oil theft in the Niger-Delta region and that 99 per cent of oil theft could be traced to the Nigerian military, especially the Army and the Navy.

He also explained the reason why Tinubu must not release detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

But the Yoruba socio-cultural group maintained that Dokubo was just scheming to rubbish Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo (a.k.a Tompolo) before the administration of Tinubu, adding

that no amount of his hypocrisy would rubbish Tompolo's achievements in the Niger-Delta region, especially as regards the protection of petroleum pipelines.

Adesina also condemned the call for continued detention of Kanu by Dokubo, describing it as an act of hypocrisy.

He stated that it was uncharitable for him to call Kanu a criminal that should be made to face the law, all because he (Dokubo) was seeking for pipeline contract from Tinubu.

He then enjoined Dokubo to remember that he himself was once detained by the federal government during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

The group similarly urged Tinubu to use the proposed population census exercise to get accurate data base for the country, noting that this would be needed if the administration really desired to address the socio - economic and political problems facing Nigeria.

It added that both the BVN and NIN policies could not address the lingering insecurity problems in the country because of the lack of accurate data base.

Meanwhile, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Akinola Kazeem has warned that the recent statement by Dokubo, was capable of pitching Nigerians against the military.

Kazeem, in a statement issued yesterday, urged Tinubu to be wary of those who are out to blackmail the military to score cheap goal.

The APC Chieftain described Dokubo’s utterance as unfounded and unfortunate and should be condemned by all well-meaning Nigerians.

He said "This statement by Dokubo is capable of setting the country ablaze. His statement may pitch Nigerians against the military and create room to distrust, and this is not good for the country."

The retired military officer recalled that Dokubo at a point

was awarded the contract to secure the pipelines in the Niger Delta region, saying he should also explain why there was oil theft in the region.

He said Dokubo has no moral right to talk down on the military because he has been in the business of securing the pipeline for years, yet oil was stolen under his nose.

The APC chieftain challenged the ex-militant to come out clean and make his intentions known to the president if he was lobbying for contract to secure the pipeline instead of blackmailing the Nigerian Military.

from the communities to the states to the Centers.

She said those centers that have been approved should also be involved, as she vowed to take charge of strengthening them personally.

She explained that community pharmacists are strategic in this call because they reach the populace more than any other sector with impressive records.

She noted that since community pharmacists are also involved with immunisation delivery services, it has become imperative that their pharmacovigilance system should be inspected to ensure compliance with PV regulations and guidelines.

Adeyeye said NAFDAC since its inception had engaged in some level of activities towards ensuring the safe use of medical products in-country.

She stated that in recent times, pharmacovigilance has been brought to the fore with the COVID-19 pandemic and the key role that the African Union smart safety surveillance (AU 3S) played in assuring safety of products used in the pandemic within the member countries including Nigeria.

The AU-3S programme, led by African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), aims to create a sustainable continental safety monitoring system to improve the safety of priority medical products for patients across Africa.

The AU3S coordinated surveillance system was piloted with the COVID 19 vaccines in the five member countries with

the goal of future continent-wide safety surveillance of other medical products.

Adeyeye further explained that the AU3S also provided platform for capacity building of our Staff on various aspects of Pharmacovigilance, noting that this greatly contributed towards NAFDACs attainment of Maturity Level 3 (ML3) under the WHO global benchmarking system.

“This means that we are now a stable, well-functioning and integrated regulatory system,” she added.

Having achieved this feat, she said the agency was now poised to delve into aspects of pharmacovigilance inspection which before now we had not ventured into.

She opined that Pharmacovigilance Inspections of Marketing Authorization Holders (MAHs) was a key aspect of Pharmacovigilance which cannot be ignored by any regulatory authority that has intent on ensuring patient safety with use of medical products and attaining higher levels of maturity in its regulatory processes.

She added that this entailed that all MAHs must have a wellestablished pharmacovigilance system in place and most importantly, vigilance activities are being carried out in accordance with national regulations and guidelines.

Adeyeye recalled with pain the parlous state of Pharmacovigilance in NAFDAC when she got to the agency in 2017, prompting her resolve to change the tide.

Oba of Benin Pledges Support for Estate Surveyors, Valuers

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The Benin monarch, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, has pledged his support for the real estate development sector in Edo State in particular and Nigeria at large.

The Royal father made the pledge when the President of Nigerian Institute of Estate Surveyors and Valuers paid him a courtesy visit in his Palace in Benin City at the weekend.

He attributed the success recorded in real estate businesses to the abolition of Community

Development Associations (CDAs) by the palace and the Edo State Government years ago.

"When CDAs were vibrant, nobody could do anything. Once in a while when I drive around, I see billboards, this real estate, that real estate. People can now build. They are doing surveying, they are doing evaluations," he said.

The Royal father also pledged his support for the body, ahead of its Triennial Delegates Conference scheduled for next year in Edo State.

Earlier in his address to the Benin throne, President

of the institute, Mr Johnbull Amayaevbo, commended the Oba Ewuare's fatherly disposition, which he noted made investment in real estate to flourish in the State.

Amayaevbo, who also solicited for Royal blessing and prayers, commended the monarch for the donation of a parcel of land to the institute for its proposed secretariat in the state years ago.

According to him, "Your Royal Majesty, I am very much aware of all that you have been doing not just for the people of this state, but for the entire

country, especially in the area of our sector.

"The real estate sector of Nigeria. We know actions that you have taken in this Kingdom that have led to rapid real estate development.

"We are also very glad and happy that some years back, the Palace gave our professional body a land," he said.

Highpoint of the visit was the presentation of a plaque and souvenir to Oba Ewuare II in recognition for his support for the 54-year-old institute by its President.

L-R: Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Enugu State Governor, Mr Peter Mbah and Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu at an event hosted by the Governor in Enugu ... recently

How Wike Swings PDP Senators’Votes for Akpabio

Chuks Okocha in this narrative explains how former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, convinced opposition PDP Senators to vote for Senator Godswill Akpabio, as President of 10th Senate.

Before the election of presiding officers of 10th Senate on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, many Nigerians, especially members of the opposition political parties, were working together to recast the event of 2015, that led to the emergence of Senator Bukola Saraki, former Governor of Kwara state, as president of the 8th Senate, against the choice of the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).

But, shockingly, the result of the election and the emergence of Senator Godswill Akpabio, who was the choice of President Bola Tinubu and his party, the APC, totally changed the political climate before the inauguration of the 10th Senate.

Due to last minute realignment of interest, blackmail and other pecuniary interest, the former governor of Akwa Ibom State and ex- Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio, emerged Senate President and Chairman of the National Assembly.

It was further revealed that the underground intrigues was full of blackmail and the betrayal by some members of opposition across party and religious lines.

Money from a former governor played a substantial impact and thus left many people pondering about the future of democracy in Nigeria due to the influence of money.

The main opposition political party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had moved against Akpabio because of self interest to safe guard the unity of the party in the South South geo-political zone.

PDP had also boasted that it had the numerical strength to ensure that the former governor of Zamfara state, Abdulaziz Yari, emerge Senate President.

PDP’s position hours to inauguration of 10th N’Assembly said it all.

PDP boasted of the numerical strength of the opposition in the Senate, thus: the PDP has 36 Senators, APGA has one, YPP has one, NNPP has three, Labour has eight and the SDP two. Out of this, Yari was banking on 42 senators.

According to the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Debo Ologunagba, “We the PDP and other minority political parties are united and we shall maximally decide how the presiding officers of the

National Assembky

“With regard to the current race for the Presiding Officers of the National Assembly, it is instructive to note that the opposition parties put together form a strong majority in the National Assembly and we are very mindful of that.

“The PDP leadership is working together with our members-elect and opposition parties in the two chambers.

“Irrespective of the on-going and claims in the media, I want to inform you that the PDP has a clear direction which we hold close to our chest, our members are united in that direction and it will show on the floor of both Houses of the National Assembly on Tuesday, June 13, 2023.

“In all, we do not discountenance the fact that put the opposition parties in the majority in the National Assembly which we are ready to deploy maximally”, he stated.

But this confidence was deflated by series of WhatsApp messages by an APC governor from the Southeast using pseudo name with various inciting messages.

One of such messages was asking how can Nigeria be termed a secular state with a President

and Vice President being muslim and the same religion scheming to take over Senate leadership.

The argument marshalled was that with Yari as the Senate President Nigeria would have almost been turned to an Islamic state.

This position was followed by quotes by Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, who commented on the implication of having a Moslem elected as Senate President, the number three office in the country.

For Vice President Shettima, the Senate President had to be Godswill Akpabio or no one else.

24 hours before the election, Shettima at a meeting with APC chieftains which included Abdulaziz Yari, offered to go on his kneels to prevail on them to allow Akpabio emerge victorious without a contest.

He told them that another round of debate concerning muslim-muslim ticket must be clearly avoided. Describing himself as a child of circumstance, the former Borno State Governor argued that in the event of Yari emerging as Senate President, it would be very difficult to defend the fact that the choice of muslims in the leadership of the executive, legislative and judicial arms of government was not deliberate.

It was a persuasive argument that cracked the pro-Yari campaigners who left the venue of the meeting weakened than they came.

To the PDP, their support for Yari was simply based on political self interest.

According to the calculation of the PDP, with an Akpabio Senate Presidency, it would amount to reducing the number of states in the hands of the PDP in the South South.

Currently, only Cross River state in the SouthSouth is under the control of the APC.

A source from the PDP that confided to THISDAY said “the powers of the Senate President, especially an Akpabio is enormous and this could be dangerous to the unity of the party in the zone “

This is coupled with the ravaging moves of the former governor of Rivers state, Nyesom Wike. To the PDP, a combination of Akpabio and Wike will wrath a fatal danger to the unity of the PDP in the zone.

Another inside factor that facilitated victory was the Wike-led G5 Integrity group. The group led by the former governor of Rivers state, ably supported by the Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde rallied Senators of the PDP to support the Akpabio Senate Presidency

From these two vintage positions, the ego of the PDP was deflated as the position of the party boasting of having the numerical strength to make a difference failed in less than 48 hours to the inauguration to the 10th National Assembly.

Wike, it was learnt, conveyed a special meeting of the PDP senators where he was able to extract a promise that they will vote Akpabio as Senate President.

The argument was of what value would it be to have a national parliament that would antagonise Tinubu’s presidency.

Multiple sources at the meeting said Wike and his team severally asked, “what is the essence of having a President from the South and allowing to be wedged with a hostile Senate President?”.

The Senators were said to have bought the idea and it became a fait accomplished.

The last minute intervention by President Tinubu, when he met with the President of the 9th National Assembly, Dr Ahmad Lawan and his team was the last blow that tore apart the support base of Yari.

This could explain why Akpabio and his team hurriedly paid a thank you visit to Wike after he emerged the Senate President.

Yari

Wike Akpabio

Wike, it was learnt, conveyed a special meeting of the PDP senators where he was able to extract a promise that they will vote Akpabio as Senate President. The argument was of what value would it be to have a national parliament that would antagonise Tinubu’s presidency.

Multiple sources at the meeting said Wike and his team severally asked, “what is the essence of having a President from the South and allowing to be wedged with a hostile Senate President?”.

With 63,111 Nigerians Killed in 8 Years, Buhari's 'Chaotic Change' Mantra and Other Unkept Promises

With 63,111 reported deaths recorded in eight years from terrorism, Insurgency and other forms of crime, Chiemelie Ezeobi and Sunday Ehigiator review the Change Mantra on whose wings, former President Muhammadu Buhari and his vice president, Professor Yemi Osinbajo rode in to government. With the baton passed on May 29, 2023 to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and his vice, Kashim Shettima of the All Progressives Congress, under the Renewed Hope mantra, it might be a tall order to repair the "chaos" experienced across all sectors

For an administration that promised to raise life expectancy level by an additional 10 years on average, the reality was a whooping 63,111 lives gruesomely lost from May 29, 2015 to date under the watch of former President Muhammadu Buhari and his vice president, Professor Yemi Osinbajo.

The Nigeria Security Tracker, NST, a project of the Council on Foreign Relations’ Africa programme, who compiled the data posited that the deaths primarily spread across cases of extra-judicial killings, terrorism, banditry, communal crises, cult clashes and herders/ farmers clashes, among others.

Buhari and Osinbajo, of the All Peoples Congress (APC), ran on the "Change" mantra during the 2015 General Elections.

Having contested the Presidency and failed thrice, Buhari inherited a fragile economy, a heavily polarised state and would fight to reclaim swaths of ungoverned territory from Boko Haram’s grip, an incident which greatly marred the reelection of the incumbent, President Goodluck Jonathan of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in same 2015 election.

Bokoharam terrorists had not only seized lands, many of the 276 Chibok schoolgirls abducted from their school were still held captive, wherein Buhari had promised to set them free.

On the day of the inauguration, President Buhari stood as tall as his reputation, as a then military head of state asserting all confidence and hopes in Nigerians craving for a secured country, and as a no-nonsense leader poised to uproot deep-seated corruption, crush the Boko Haram insurgency, restore security and revamp Africa’s largest economy.

These expectations were neither arbitrary nor thrust upon him. They were only a result of his promises; promises of change, hope and opportunity for citizens who, he said, had endured 16 years of bad governance under the PDP, especially as demonstrated by the ousting of his predecessor through a democratic election process.

The numerous promises made by them to Nigerians were contained in their manifesto and other campaign policy documents that they willingly brandished to all that cared to listen. The change mantra appeared attractive and of course won the minds of Nigerians who were simply tired of PDP.

Promises made on Change Mantra

Some of the promises contained not only in the APC Manifesto but also in other campaign documents curated by Hon. Celestine Eronmosele of Mandate Protection Vanguard (MPV) include:

*State and community policing. *Curbing medical tourism, especially for government officials. *Making Nigeria one of the fastestgrowing emerging economies in the world.

*Introduction of National Gender Policy and offer of 35 per cent appointment to women. *Creating three million jobs per year. *Declaring assets and liabilities publicly for himself and other government officials. *Reviving the Ajaokuta Steel Company *Creating a Social Welfare Programme where a minimum of N5000 would be paid to 25 million poor- est and most vulnerable citizens. *Power generation and transition to achieve 24/7 uninterrupted power supply. *Employing

740,000 graduates across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. *Paying discharged but unemployed Youth Corps members for 12 months while in the skills and entrepreneurial development programme. *Establishment of a free-tuition and scholarship scheme for pupils who have shown exceptional aptitude in science subjects at O/Levels to study ICT-related courses.

*Making 3 million middle-class Nigerians to be new homeowners. *Creating a National Conflict Resolution Commission to prevent, mitigate and resolve civil conflicts within the polity. *Addressing the needs of special education by building six centres of excellence. * Establishing a national mortgage system to lend funds at single-digit interest rates for prospective homeowners and *Creating a national infrastructural development bank to provide loans at nominal interest rates exclusively for this sector.

Others include * Raising life expectancy level by an additional 10 years on average. *Construction of 3,000km of superhighways with service trunks. *Ensuring a minimum number of seats in the National Assembly are reserved for women.

*Making free education at primary, secondary and tertiary levels for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and education.

*Establishing a single ECOWAS currency by 2020 under Nigeria’s leadership. *Making naira stable at the international market. *Early identification of talents and making them participate in games locally and internationally to enable them to become professionals. *Giving up to 20 per cent of the national budget for the educational sector while also making substantial investments in training quality teachers at all levels.

*Establishing world-class sports academy and training institutes. * Amending the Nigerian Constitution to ensure devolution of powers, duties, and responsibilities to states in order to entrench true Federalism.

*Establishing a strong business relationship with top emerging economies including Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRIC) and other strategic partners around the world. *Consolidation of INEC to reduce and if possible, eliminate electoral malpractices in the country’s political space. *Implementing a full erosion and shoreline protection across the country.*Protecting the rights of women as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution and *Boosting the Nigerian football league to make it as competitive as other national leagues.

The mantra also promised to *Balance the economy across the regions and the creation of six Regional Economic Development Agencies (REDAs) to drive competitiveness.

*Full implementation of the National Identification Scheme.

* Creation of a Commodity Board to ensure the best pricing for selected crops and facilitate storage of agricultural products. *Providing full disclosure to the media of government contracts over N100m, prior to award and during implementation at a regular interval. *Development of national sanitation plans to clean up the country. *Funding Nollywood to fully develop into world class movie industry so it can compete on good terms with Hollywood and Bollywood. *Amending the Constitution to remove immunity from prosecution for elected officers

in a criminal case. *Making policies to halt the pollution of coastal lines, rivers and waterways in the Niger Delta and other parts of the country. *Reforming and strengthening the justice system for efficient administration and dispensation of justice with the creation of special courts for accelerated hearing of corruption, drug trafficking, terrorism and ancillary cases and * Increasing national health expenditure per person per annum from less than N10, 000 to about N50,000.

Not left out are promises to *Reduce maternal mortality by more than 70 per cent within four years. *Abolish state of origin and replacing it with state of residence to ensure Nigerians are Nigerians first, before anything else. * Create a Crime Squad to combat terrorism, kidnapping, armed robbery, militancy, ethno-religious and communal clashes in the country. * Make Information Technology, Manufacturing, Agriculture and Entertainment key drivers of our economy. *Create a N300 billion Regional Growth Fund (average of N50bn in each geo-political zone) to be managed by the REDAs. *Amend the Constitution and the Land Use Act to create freehold/leasehold interests in land along with matching grants for states to create a nationwide electronic land title register on a state by state basis. *Build at least one functioning airport in each of the 36 states. *Ensure constitutional amendment to oblige local governments in the country to publish minutes of their meetings, service performance data, and spending over N10 million. *Construct an airport in Ekiti State. * Reduce HIV/AIDs infection rate by 50 per cent and other infectious diseases by 75 per cent. *Ensure political officer holders earn salaries and emoluments as determined and approved by the Revenue Mobilisation and Fiscal Commission (RMFAC) and * End gas flaring and ensure sales of at least half of gas produced within the country.

Finally, they promised the *Prompt passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) and addressing local content issues in the oil and gas sector. *Establishment of at least six new universities of science and technology with satellite campuses in states of the Federation. *Increase in number of doctors from 19 per 1000 population to 50 per 1000. *Strengthen operational and legal instruments to discipline members of the Armed Forces over confirmed cases of human rights violations. *Free maternal and child healthcare services. *Upgrading all Federal Government-owned hospitals to world-class facilities within five years and *Defeat Boko Haram and the rehabilitation and reintegration of repentant insurgents.

64,111 Gruesome Deaths

The NST documents and maps violence in Nigeria that is motivated by political, economic or social grievances. “Different groups in Nigeria resort to violence. The militant Islamist movement Boko Haram is

active in northern Nigeria. Violence among ethnic groups, farmers, and herdsmen sometimes acquires religious overtones. A new generation of Niger Delta militants threatens war against the state. Government soldiers kill civilians indiscriminately. Police are notorious for extra-judicial murder,” it said.

According to NST, the 63,111 death toll is even conservative given that they sourced their data from only the reported cases and did not cover the under-reported or not reported at all cases.

The breakdown of statistics stated that 5,556 persons died in 2015; 5,763 in 2016; 4,618 in 2017; 6,565 in 2018; 8,340 in 2019; 9,694 in 2020; 10,575 in 2021; 9079 in 2022; and 2,921 as at May 2023.

Beyond the deaths, not many of the promises made in the Change Mantra was achieved throughout the eight years of his administration. Therefore, below is an outlook of some of these failed promises.

Stop Medical Tourism for Government Officials

One of the focal promises of the past administration was to ban government officials from going abroad for medical treatment.

While he initially denied many forex to pay for their treatments abroad, President Buhari as of May 2018 had gone to the United Kingdom five times for the treatment of an undisclosed ailment. The number would increase over the course of the eight years of his presidency.

State and Community Policing

While the government had largely paid lip service to community policing, Buhari led the campaign against the realisation of state police in the country. He was of the opinion that he stands where the constitution stands. Recalling how often they would release money to states in the name of bailouts to enable them to pay salaries, he feared same would happen when state police kick off.

Public Declaration of Assets and Liabilities

Buhari had many times during the 2015 election campaign vowed to declare his assets and make the report public. However, he never did release the full report of his asset declaration.

Introduction of National Gender Policy and Offer of 35% Appointment to Women

Infamous for the “my wife belongs to the kitchen and other room” statement, erstwhile president also reneged on this promise early in the life of his administration by appointing only six out of the 36 ministers he used in forming his cabinet in November 2015. Even with the exit of Kemi Adeosun, after she was busted for using a fake NYSC discharge certificate and Amina Alhassan, who left to contest the election in Taraba State, Buhari did not deem it fit to replace the two ministers with women.

Creation of 3 Million Jobs Per Year

Instead of creating three million jobs per year which could have culminated in a total of 12 million jobs in four years, the unemployment rate under the Buhari administration has risen from 9.9 per cent in Q3 2015 to 40.6 per cent in 2023 according to a recent report by the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

Creation of Social Welfare Programme

The creation of the Social Weldare Programme was supposed to have a minimum of N5000 paid to 25 million poorest, most vulnerable citizens and even unemployed graduates. Some would argue that they partially executed this with the Trader Money scheme.

Building One of the Fastest Growing Emerging Economies

They pledged to build one of the fastest growing economy in the world with a real GDP growth averaging 10 per cent annually but instead, Nigerian economy slipped into

Infographics on President Mohammed Buhari's key campaign promises

With 63,111 Nigerians Killed in 8 Years, Buhari's 'Chaotic Change' Mantra and Other Unkept Promises

recession and has since been struggling amidst high inflation, high-interest rate and depleting foreign reserves.

As of the last quarter of January 2023, the World Bank said Nigeria's economic growth is projected to decelerate to 2.9 per cent in 2023 and remain at that pace in 2024.

Generation, Transmission and Distribution of Electricity

They pledged to generate, transmit and distribute at least 20,000 MW of electricity within four years and increase to 50,000 MW to achieve 24/7 uninterrupted power supply within 10 years but as of December 2014, the total installed capacity of the country’s power plants was 7, 445 MW, available capacity was 4,949 MW and the average generation was about 3,900 MW.

As at August 3, 2018, generation capacity was at 7000 MW while the distribution capacity stood at 5,222 megawatts, a situation that showed no improvement and far off the 4000 megawatts promised to be delivered yearly by the administration.

According to recent data in March 2023, power generation on the grid stood between 4,859.8MW and 4,962.7MW, while it was 4,753.9MW in February 2023, and similar generation figures were recorded in the preceding month.

Empowerment Scheme to Employ

740,000 Graduates

The empowerment scheme was supposed to be across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory yet there is no distinct clarity on how that happened. This promise should not be confused with the N-Power scheme targeted at building vocational and apprenticeship skills.

Allowances for Discharged but Unemployed Youth Corpers

For a duration 12 months, youth corp members in skills and entrepreneurial development programme were supposed to get allowances. Eight years after, there is no evidence of such payment.

Free Tuition and Scholarship Scheme for Exceptional Pupils

These set are those who have shown exceptional aptitude in science subjects at O/Levels to study ICT-related courses. Yet again, no clarity on how this was achieved.

Creation of 720,000 Jobs

Going by the 36 states in the federation per annum, it was supposed to be 20,000 per state but there is no evidence this promise has been fulfilled in any state of the Federation including those controlled by the APC.

Creating Additional 2 Middle-class New Homeowners

This target was supposed to be in their first year in government and 1 million annually thereafter. The reality rather is that more people slipped into poverty to an extent Nigeria overtook India in the poorest of the poor index and is now considered the world headquarters of poverty.

According to Statista, in 2023, nearly 12 per cent of the world population in extreme poverty lived in Nigeria, considering the poverty threshold at 1.90 U.S. dollars a day. Within the studied timeframe, the share mainly rose. Overall, the number of people living in extreme poverty in Africa was estimated to reach 422 million in 2025.

And according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), 63 per cent of persons living in Nigeria (133 million people) are multi-dimensionally poor.

Creating National Conflict Resolution Commission

This was supposed to to prevent, mitigate and resolve civil conflicts within the polity rather, there is no evidence to show the government has forwarded a bill for the creation of the commission to the National Assembly.

Building Six Centres of Excellence for Special Needs Education

For each zone, there was supposed to be a Special Needs Education Centre, but there is no evidence the government initiated any.

Raising Life Expectancy Level

Life expectancy was promised to be raised by an additional 10 years on average. The reality is that many Nigerians have committed suicide than ever before and many have died as a result of gruelling poverty, hunger and poor healthcare delivery system in the country.

In 2015, Nigeria’s Life Expectancy Level (LFL) stood at age 52.84 and currently stands at 55.75, far less than the 10 years increment promised by Buhari’s administration.

More Seats in the National Assembly for Women

Contrary to their claims, the APC gov-

ernment had the least number of female lawmakers in the national legislature so far.

Even this year, only 15 of the 423 legislative seats declared so far by the electoral body are women while 408 are men. In other words, women represent 3.5 per cent while men have 96.5 per cent of the 423 seats.

Free STEM Education

The free education cut across primary, secondary and tertiary levels for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education but there is no evidence this policy was implemented by the government.

Single ECOWAS Currency by 2020

Under Nigeria’s leadership, there was supposed to be a single ECOWAS Currency by 2020 but there are no deliberate existing mechanisms set up by the government to ensure the realisation of the policy within the time frame.

Stabilising Naira in Interna- tional Market

The naira had spiralled downward from N199 on May 29, 2015, when Buhari took over the office and was later ranked as one of the worst performing in 2016.

At one point, it exchanged for N870 per $1 but now stands at N460 per $1 at the parallel market but N740 per $1 at Black Market rate despite billions of dollars pumped out by the CBN to stabilise it.

20% of National Budget for Education Sector

They were also supposed to make substantial investments in training quality teachers at all levels but it was not until 2023 it allocated N2.05 trillion (10 per cent of the budget) for the education sector.

This has forced university lecturers to embark on long-term industrial strike actions longer than any other administration. Yet, the situation of the country’s education sector is still very far from improving.

Amending the Nigerian Constitution to Entrench True Federalism

The amendment was to ensure devolution of powers, duties, and responsibilities to states to entrench true Federalism. But they have since made a turn around and rebuffed any moves to restructure.

Implementing Full Erosion and Shoreline Protection

The government is yet to initiate any action to protect the country’s shoreline while many states are being taken over by erosion.

Protecting Rights of Women

Despite being enshrined in the 1999 Constitution, Buhari's government did not take any concrete action to protect and defend the rights of women in the country. Cases like Eunice Olawale, who was killed in Abuja while preaching, Bridget Agbahime killed by a mob in Kano for alleged blasphemy, and Deborah Samuel, who was gruesomely murdered in Sokoto for blasphemy, abound.

Boosting Nigerian Football League

The Nigerian Football League was supposed to be boosted to make it as competitive as other national leagues. But quality of sports have not improved.

Balancing Economy, Creating REDAs

Across the regions, they pledged to balance the economy and create six regional Economic Development Agencies (REDAs) to drive competitiveness.

Providing Full Disclosure of Government Contracts

For contracts over N100m, before award and during implementation at a regular interval, they pledged full disclosure to the media. But apart from publishing tender notices in the government-owned tender brochure, the government has not released details to the media.

Funding Nollywood

The plan was to fund Nollywood to fully develop into a world-class movie industry so it can compete on good terms with Hollywood and Bollywood. Apart from the meet and greet, it's not clear if that pledge was met and if they were able to access such funds if it was ever pooled together.

Amending the Constitution to Remove Immunity from Prosecution for Elected Officers

The government has not sent any bill to the National Assembly to remove immunity from criminal prosecution or any kind of immunity whatsoever.

Policies to Halt Pollution of Coastal Lines, Rivers and Waterways

No extra action has been taken by the government to protect the coastal lines or river lines in any part of the country including the Niger Delta region.

Reforming and Strengthening the Justice System

For efficient administration and dispensation of justice, they pledged to reform and sustain the judiciary with the creation of special courts for accelerated hearing of corruption, drug trafficking, terrorism and ancillary cases

Instead, they consistently disobeyed court orders and violated court rulings in many cases like that of Sambo Dasuki, El- Zakzaky, and Nnamdi Kanu.

Increasing National Health Expenditure

The National Health Expenditure was pegged at per person per annum from less than N10,000 to about N50,000. But the government has not taken any action to make good this promise.

Reducing Maternal Mortality

They pledged to reduce maternal mortality more than 70 per cent within four years. The latest figures from WHO shows Nigeria has a maternal mortality rate of 576 per 100,000 live births, the fourth highest on Earth. Each year approximately 262,000 babies die at birth, the world's second-highest national total.

Abolition of State of Origin

They promised to replace state of origin with state of residence to ensure Nigerians are Nigerians first, before anything else. No action has been taken to make the promise a reality.

Creating N300 billion Regional Growth Fund

With an average of N50billion in each geo-political zone, they pledged to create N300billion to be managed by the REDAs. No action has so far been taken to actualise

this electoral promise.

Build One Functioning Airport for Each State

The APC government pledged to build a single new airport in every part of the country. It has, however, completed the projects that were initiated by the Jonathan administration without building new ones in all states.

Constitutional Amendment for Local Governments

This was to oblige local governments in the country to publish minutes of their meetings, service performance data, and spending over N10 million.

There has been no constitutional amendment to address the above issues and even local government autonomy which was included in the last constitutional amendment was not passed as only 10 states voted in support of the policy.

Reduction of HIV/AIDs Infection Rate by 50 per cent

While the projection of HIV/AIDS was 50%, that of other infectious diseases was pegged at 75 per cent. There is no baseline data to show that the country has reduced HIV/AIDS infection rate by 50 per cent and or other infectious diseases by 75 per cent as promised.

According to UNAIDS “Nigeria has a generalised HIV epidemic with the highest HIV burden in the West and Central African sub-region.

“The country has an estimated 1.8 million people living with HIV (PLHIV) (2019 Spectrum estimate) and an estimated 107,112 new HIV infections which is about 38 per cent of new infections in the West and Central African region.”

RMFAC Approved Salary, Emoluments for Political Ofice Holders

They pledged to ensure political officer holders earn salaries and emoluments as determined and approved by the Revenue Mobilisation and Fiscal Commission

Till date, the National Assembly, CBN, NNPC, NDDC and other government agencies and parastatals still pay far higher perks than what is recommended by RMFAC.

Ending Gas Flaring

Beyond ending Gas flaring, they also pledged to ensure sales of at least half of gas produced within the country. But nothing serious has been done to stop gas flaring by oil companies operating in the Niger Delta. It was only in October 2018 that the government issued a directive to multinational oil firms to stop flaring by this year and increased the penalty by 600 per cent..

Increasing the Number of Doctors

The pledge was to increase the number of doctors from 19 per 1000 population to 50 per 1000. But instead of attracting more doctors, the country has witnessed a huge brain drain in the health sector than ever before. It has gone far worse as recent statistics show that Nigeria’s doctor to citizen rate now stands at 1 doctor to 10,000 persons.

Strengthening Operational and Legal Instruments

This was meant to discipline members of the Armed Forces over confirmed cases of human rights violations. Instead, the Presidency has always defended the Armed Forces anytime international bodies like Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch etc, released reports indicating military rights violations.

The October 20, 2020, Lekki Tollgate incident whereby several Nigerians were reported to have lost their lives following shootings by the Nigerian Army remains fresh in mind as no military personnel has been prosecuted till this moment.

Free

Maternal and child Healthcare Services

The Federal Government did not also initiate free maternal and child care services in any part of the country.

Upgrade

FG-owned Hospitals

Most importantly, they pledged to upgrade FG-owned hospitals to world-class facilities within five years but none happened.

Summarily, eight years after former President Muhammadu Buhari took over power, he left Nigerians poorer than where he met them as was evidenced by the quality of lives, sky rocketing cost of living and sinking economy he left behind.

Therefore, it is unsurprising that the Renewed Hope mantra of his successor, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his vice, Kashim Shettima, has been met with scepticism by Nigerians whose trying experience under Buhari was one for the books.

President Mohammed Buhari during campaign in 2015

This Week In Tech

Adegboye: Gender Parity in the Tech Industry is Possible

Can you provide an overview of Madica’s investment programs for pre-seed-stage technology companies?

Madica is a structured investment program for pre-seed-stage technology companies in Africa. It seeks to address the structural gaps undermining innovation, entrepreneurship, and wealth creation across the continent. The programme aims to empower mission-driven founders by broadening access to world-class companies building support available today to only a few well-networked entrepreneurs.

Madica also incorporates a structured programme that is focused on helping startups achieve their set objectives over a 12–18 month period and is put together in a convenient way to ensure the right balance is struck to ensure founders have ample time to focus on executing their day-to-day tasks.

Madica’s sector-agnostic approach invests in tech businesses across various industries. As a pre-seed investment program, Madica will be prioritising founders who will not be raising funds during the program and those with whom a US$200,000 investment will make a significant impact in achieving their goals within 12 to 18 months.

Our main focus is African companies led by local founders, women and those focused on frontier sectors to shore up gaps in funding on the continent.

What criteria do you consider when selecting companies to invest in at the pre-seed stage?

To be considered for the programme, we look for mission-driven tech startups that have a minimum viable product (MVP) with the traction of some paying customers, founders who are engaged full-time, received little or no institutional funding, and must have a base in Africa.

How do you evaluate the potential of a pre-seed-stage technology company? What factors are most important to you?

As a pre-seed stage investment programme, we invest very early in a startup’s life cycle. At such an early stage, we look to determine the potential of a startup: a mission-driven team, founder with a unique insight into their market and a strong desire to succeed. Although, at this stage, startups will usually have an unproven business model, we do a simple analysis of the model to determine how viable it is and whether the solution has a strong product-market fit solution. We also take into consideration the month-on-month momentum. So once a company has made an application on Madica, the first stage of our evaluations typically takes a week, bar any backlogs. If successful, the startup gets invited to a second stage where the Madica team would liaise with the founder(s) personally to learn more about the team, business, solution, and the space being operated in. Subsequently, Madica will undergo a thorough due diligence process, including a data room review and correspondence with customers and partners to thoroughly evaluate the company and make an investment decision.

How do you approach risk assessment and management when investing in pre-seed-stage companies? What strategies do you employ to mitigate risks?

The team is crucial in pre-seed stage investments. We assess the founders’ experience, expertise, and commitment to determine their ability to execute the business plan successfully. Additionally, we conduct extensive due diligence to evaluate the market potential, technology, team capabilities, and competitive landscape of the pre-seed company. We review the business plan, financial projections, and intellectual property rights to understand the potential risks and assess the company’s chances of success. Perhaps most importantly, we take an active role in supporting the pre-seed company beyond just providing capital. We also offer; Curriculum where training and support on products, go-tomarket strategy, building teams, fundraising, etc., by industry specialists, take place.

Additionally, we offer a chance to be part of a community with hands-on mentorship by exceptional founders and access to global experts.

Lastly, we have continuity in targeted interactions with prospective investors to ensure that the continuum of later-stage capital is available as companies grow.

How do you see the landscape of pre-seedstage investments in technology evolving in the coming years? Are there any trends or

developments that you anticipate?

The funding available for pre-seed-stage startups is expected to increase in the coming years. This is due to the increasing number of angel investors and the growing number of venture capital firms focusing on earlystage investments. A new milestone was set in 2022, with 1,149 unique investors investing in Africa, cementing the growing global interest in African startups.

Still on the topic of diversity, we can expect that investors will be increasingly looking to invest in startups with diverse teams and founders. This is due to several factors, including the growing recognition of the value of diversity in the workplace and the increasing number of studies that show that diverse teams are more successful. Based on the growing awareness of climate change and the increasing demand for sustainable products and services, we can anticipate an increase in the number of investors increasingly looking to invest in pre-seed-stage startups working to solve environmental and social problems. Also, considering the growing popularity of AI and Machine Learning, we can expect data-driven decision-making by Venture Capital.

What are the main challenges or barriers women face when pursuing careers in technology in Africa, and how can these be addressed?

There are several challenges faced by women when pursuing careers in technology in Africa and these are all contributing to the gender disparity in the African tech ecosystem. There are not enough female mentors and role models for women to look up to. The scarcity of female mentors and role models within the tech industry is presenting a significant barrier and deterring young women from pursuing careers in technology. The absence of visible representation has limited aspirations and perpetuated the notion that tech is a male-dominated field. Another factor is the limited access to tech education and resources for women. We can also point to the fact that there is insufficient encouragement for women to pursue engineering and technical fields in schools and at home. There is a need for more

effort that focuses on challenging stereotypes, promoting Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education among young girls, and highlighting the diverse career opportunities available within the tech sector.

Lastly, we can’t ignore the challenges women face in balancing work and family responsibilities, especially in African society still growing out of the historical patriarchal makeup. The absence of flexible working hours and inadequate parental leave policies presents a challenge for women in the tech industry who strive to balance work and family responsibilities.

To address these, there is the need to engage girls early on and provide mentorship programs that can foster their interest and confidence in pursuing tech-related studies and careers. Targeted intervention by governments, NGOs and the private sector is also required, such as providing scholarships, mentorship programs, and fostering partnerships to expand educational access and empower women. It is also important to highlight and celebrate successful women in tech, promoting their achievements as inspiration for the next generation.

How does the lack of gender diversity in Africa’s technology industry impact innovation and economic growth?

The lack of gender diversity impacts Africa’s technology industry in so many ways. For instance, the absence of gender diversity hampers the industry’s ability to leverage diverse perspectives, experiences, and insights. By excluding women from decision-making processes and innovation cycles, the technology sector misses out on valuable contributions that could lead to ground-breaking solutions. There have been so many reports which point to how genderdiverse teams bring different approaches, problem-solving techniques, and creative thinking, which foster a culture of innovation. Also, the underrepresentation of women in the technology industry limits the sector’s understanding and responsiveness to the needs and preferences of a diverse user base.

Women remain key drivers of consumer behaviour, and limited involvement from them in product development and decision-making roles affects a company’s potential to effectively tap into this critical market and efficiently cater to a broader customer base. By promoting inclusive policies, fostering diverse inclusive work environments, providing equal access to education and career advancement opportunities, the industry can unlock the full potential of women professionals who will contribute substantially to sustainable economic development.

As far as VCs go, the 2019 Moving Toward Gender Balance in Private Equity and Venture Capital study by the IFC showed that VC and PE portfolio firms with gender-balanced management teams receive higher valuations. Additionally, these teams demonstrate improved decision-making and governance, better risk management, higher employee retention rates, and a broader customer base. With such clear advantages, it is in a VCs’ best interest, whether African or otherwise, to actively seek out and invest in diverse startups for the prosperity of the larger ecosystem.

What initiatives or programmes are being implemented by Madica to encourage and support women in entering and advancing in the technology sector in Africa?

At Madica, we firmly believe that achieving gender parity in the tech industry is not only necessary but possible. While acknowledging the root causes of the current gender gap, we are fully committed to proactively addressing these issues. As a company, we are setting a positive example by actively seeking out and partnering with women entrepreneurs and leaders. We recognise and highly value the massive contributions they bring to the table and are enthusiastic about the significant positive impact they will undoubtedly have on our portfolio companies and the industry as a whole. By fostering an inclusive culture and providing opportunities for women to lead and succeed, we are not only supporting gender parity but also driving innovation and progress in the tech ecosystem. These partnerships and opportunities span across our portfolio investments and hiring processes where our interests are skewed towards bringing onboard the best female tech talents. Also, considering that the ecosystem can do with some more representation, Madica strategically incorporates a larger percentage of female mentors into the program to help provide female entrepreneurs with continuous hands-on guidance that goes beyond one-off advice. We also work with a wide array of accelerators on the continent to find the best female tech talent who needs support to steer their businesses to success.

How can companies and organisations foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in the technology industry in Africa?

I think that, rather importantly, companies need to embrace flexible work arrangements, implement supportive parental leave policies, and create inclusive workplace cultures that value work-life balance which will enable women thrive in their careers while maintaining fulfilling personal lives. Companies need to scrutinise their recruitment processes and ensure equal opportunities are provided to women.

What strategies or approaches can be employed to increase the number of women in leadership positions within African tech companies?

Primarily, we need to change the way we think about leadership. We need to move away from the traditional view of leadership as a male-dominated field and embrace a more inclusive view of leadership that recognises the value of diversity. Next, one of the simple and most important things that tech companies can do to increase the number of women in leadership positions is to create a more inclusive workplace.

This means creating a culture where women feel welcome, supported, and valued. It also means providing opportunities for women to develop their skills and advance their careers. It will be a welcome development for tech companies to start setting public targets and goals for increasing the number of women in leadership positions. This will help to create a sense of urgency and accountability for the course. Lastly, tech companies can do more in providing training and development opportunities for women to develop the skills and knowledge they need to advance their careers. This can include training in leadership, management, and technical skills.

In this interview with Nosa Alekhuogie , the head of Madica, Emmanuel Adegboye, speaks on pre-seed technology companies, the importance of including women in Africa’s technology space and the opportunities his programme offers women on the continent. Excerpts:

Adegboye

THE BEAUTY OF NIGERIA’S DEMOCRACY

WEALTH DICKSON

OMINABO argues that democracy should be explained through good governance, sustainable development, justice and equity

WATCHING BOLA TINUBU, WATCHING THE WORLD BANK

The vulture is a patient bird. So is the World Bank. As the debate whether to accept an IMF loan along with its punitive conditionalities raged among Nigerians in 1986, World Bank representatives in the country pretended to stay aloof. After ordinary Nigerians, led by the Left, had roundly rejected the loan, World with General Ibrahim Babangida, they designed an economic regimen faithful to the neoliberal policies which were at the time being promoted by the Reagan administration in Washington and imposed them on Nigerians.

See page 25

PITFALLS OF THE STUDENTS’ LOAN FUND

The loan scheme is not sustainable, argues CHEKWUBE NZOMIWU

What did these neoliberal policies consist of? First, General Babangida was asked to drastically devalue the Naira. Then he was asked to embark on a policy of privatizing public enterprises, liberalise trade and throw open the country’s borders for imports to come in, and remove subsidies on healthcare, education and other vital social services. Further, the practice of national development planning was thrown out of the window, the World private sector was capable of planning the economy through the free interplay of market forces.

Nearly 40 years after successive Nigerian leaders faithfully began to implement these neoliberal policies, the economic and social fortunes of the country have plunged to rock-bottom.

See page 25

EDITORIAL

TACKLING SICKLE CELL ANAEMIA

As I write, Nigeria has been declared the poverty capital of the world, with an estimated 140 million of its 200 million people living in multi-dimensional poverty. Unemployment is running at 40 percent and the manufacturing sector 1980s has collapsed. There is not one of the enterprises privatized since 1986 that is in business today. What the Structural Adjustment Programme - another term for these neoliberal policies - has done is to oversee the massive de-industrailisation and pauperization of Nigeria.

But it is not only Nigeria that swallowed the World Bank’s neoliberal pill and instantly developed stomach ache. All other African countries that implemented the Structural Adjustment Programme are in similar economic straits and exhibit similar symptoms –massive de-industrialisation, massive unemployment, worsening terms of trade, and a beleaguered social sector that has seen healthcare and education virtually collapse. The same is also true of the Latin American countries. If you want to gauge the social cost of neoliberalism, witness the hordes of migrants from Latin America crossing deadly jungles to escape to the United States, and traumatized young Africans braving the Meditterenean sea in

a life-and-death bid to reach Europe. countries like South Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand shunned the neoliberal medicine and are today in a better shape economically and indeed are on their way to joining the league of developed nations. The leaders of these countries saw what their African and Latin American counterparts did not see – that neoliberalism is not about disinterested economics but a move by the extreme right Cold War warriors surrounding Ronald Reagan to move the world even further into a capitalism where the rules of moderation and fair play are thrown out of the window. Neoliberalism is beggar-my-neighbour politics, simple.

One would have thought that given the abysmal failure of structural adjustment in Nigeria these past four decades World been chastened and take another look at their economic policies in the country. But that has not happened. Indeed, following the return of democratic rule in 1999, they have been emboldened to return to their old game of pressing Nigerian leaders to further embrace neoliberal policies. They have found a willing disciple in Bola Tinubu who was inaugurated President last May. In his inaugural speech Tinubu announced that he had removed subsidy on petrol, a move that the World Bank had been pressing on previous Nigerian leaders without success. President Tinubu also announced the ‘harmonisisation’ of the multiple exchange rate regime – another word for further devaluation of the Naira. He has also signed into law a bill making for student loans in tertiary institutions, preparatory to jacking up the cost of school fees.

All these are classic World Bank policies which the latter has been pushing since the early 1980s. Take petrol subsidy

for instance. Countries of the world, in the developed and developing axes, maintain subsidies as a matter of course. These are designed to lower costs and ensure that the ordinary citizen is not unduly tasked in the process of daily life. To cite just one example – when the price of petrol increased in the United States Joe Biden travelled to Saudi Arabia, a country whose de facto leader he had previously shunned for his abysmal human rights record, and made a case so that the price would fall. Biden was doing what he was elected for – look after the interests of American citizens.

The Tinubu government has not made an intelligent case for petrol subsidy removal. It claimed that 400 billion Naira was being spent monthly on the subsidy and that Nigeria was broke rich and not the poor. Even so, thinking Nigerians have been insisting that the put to work so that importation of petrol the amount of money being claimed as subsidy by the government, pointing out correctly that the NNPC, the Central Bank and the Federal Ministry

Nigeria’s daily consumption of petrol would be easily established and if there is need to further increase the price of petrol moderately, this would be clearly explained to ordinary Nigerians.

It must be remembered that there are more Nigerians that didn’t vote for Bola Tinubu than voted for him. Further, Tinubu has a drug case hanging around his neck in the United States going back to the early 1990s. There is a sense therefore in which he is a lame duck president, desperately looking for factors may account for his eagerness to accept the World Bank’s neoliberal policies, if for nothing else, to please the United States and ensure that it remains on his side in the next four years.

It is therefore important that Nigerians maintain vigilance and scrutinize Bola Tinubu’s policies before he further deepens his romance with the World Bank and the United States and sell Nigeria down the river.

Dr Okonta was until recently a Leverhulme Early career Fellow in the Department of Politics at the University of Oxford. He now lives in Abuja

The Tinubu government has not made a good case for petrol subsidy removal, contends IKE OKONTA

THE BEAUTY OF NIGERIA’S DEMOCRACY

Twenty-four years into the fourth republic, democracy has become a prevalent term in Nigeria’s socio-political discourse. It encompasses multiple meanings, interpretations, and diverse understandings, shaped by various factors such as social background, education, profession, and personal experiences.

For some individuals, democracy revolves around social and economic rights, the well-being of citizens, and the government’s ability to positively impact their lives and livelihoods. To them, democracy loses its meaning if it fails to address their needs, alleviate poverty, requirements.

democracy primarily concerns human rights and civic participation. They view any violation of human rights as a threat to democracy and the denial of citizens’ freedom to engage in civic activities as a political evil and an invitation to anarchy.

In recent times, electoral manipulation and other forms of electoral malpractice have been regarded as democratic sins that challenge the state’s sovereignty. Elections through which citizens exercise their sovereignty. Consequently, any attempt to manipulate the democratic process often leads to tensions and instability.

In Nigeria, elections have historically fueled national unrest, dividing the nation into winners and losers, traitors and patriots, enemies and friends, supporters and opponents. Twenty-four years into the fourth republic, many Nigerians still question whether democracy is truly being practiced or a makeshift arrangement established by the elite to foster national reconciliation and peace.

Unfortunately, democracy in Nigeria continues to face obstacles. Elections struggle to establish credibility, social justice remains a distant dream, and peace and security are elusive expectations.

Nigeria’s democracy possesses its own distinctiveness and peculiarities. It is a political enterprise, a source of both good and at times, a sepulcher where destinies, hopes, lives, and dreams are buried.

Nigeria’s democracy is like a movie, with men and women merely playing their roles, entering and exiting the stage; one individual assuming multiple parts throughout their lifetime. Today’s governor could become tomorrow’s president, yesterday’s journalist might turn into

PITFALLS OF THE STUDENTS’ LOAN FUND

tomorrow’s propagandist, and the patriot of the past could become an enemy in the future. These transformations are not necessarily due to changes in character but roles assigned to them at a particular time. The recent valedictory sessions of the Ninth National Assembly highlighted some of the challenges to Nigeria’s democracy. The assembly, often referred to as a rubber stamp, saw many lawmakers struggling to articulate their contributions to the nation. Some resorted to inanities, while others shed tears and accused the citizens and the rest of the country of being unfair to them. Senator Adamu Bulkachuwa, during his valedictory oration as the Senator representing Bauchi South in the Ninth National Assembly, even counted one of his contributions as persuading his wife, who served as the president of the court favor of his colleagues.

Bulkachuwa’s admission did not come as a surprise to many Nigerians, who were taken aback by the extent of his sincerity in openly revealing one of his political tactics. This incident highlights the deceptive nature of Nigeria’s democracy, where hidden agenda, waves of political maneuvering, and undercurrents exist.

Nigeria’s democracy has become a commodity where power can be acquired

The political landscape operates like a marketplace where trade and unusual business practices thrive. Whether it’s at party secretariats, rally grounds, party conventions, legislative houses, acceptance.

The beauty of democracy is often used as a national cliché by Nigerian democrats to describe the inherent virtues and positive aspects.

A beautiful democracy does not hide; it earns admiration from all. A beautiful democracy is fair, peaceful, just, and self-assertive. Its courts serve as temples of justice, where judgments are not miraculous or mysterious but based on sound principles.

In a beautiful democracy, the integrity of the ballot is protected, ensuring its safety and security. It remains impervious to threats or compromises by thugs and individuals driven by monetary interests. through endless concatenation and vain rhetoric. Instead, it should be simple and straightforward—a path that, once taken, brings about meaningful change.

The task facing the new governments at various levels is to enhance the beauty of Nigeria’s democracy. This involves making democracy less complex and ambiguous. through good governance, sustainable development, mutual prosperity, justice, equity, and a sense of hope that resonates throughout the nation. These are the qualities we aspire to witness from democracy and all those in positions of

Basking on the euphoria of his inauguration

Tinubu signed into law the Students Loan improve access to tertiary education in Nigeria.

Alake, the law will enable Nigerian students to access loans at interest-free rates. While assuring that it will boost the educational pursuit of the youths across the country, Alake made it clear however, that students must show evidence of being indigent to enjoy the facility from the Nigerian Education Bank/Fund.

In a swift reaction, both the Academic faulted the law, establishing the students’ loan argued that it would end up encumbering the children of the poor with debt after graduation.

dilapidated infrastructure, lack of basic amenities and poor learning environment.

The revitalization of the universities formed part of the series of unimplemented agreements that the federal government signed with ASUU. I expect the Tinubu direction, as it will ensure a comprehensive improvement of the quality of learning in Nigerian universities. Same should apply to the polytechnics and colleges of education.

In the past, Nigerian universities and polytechnics attracted foreign students. Today it is the opposite. Nigerians, who have the means, migrate in their thousands to seek quality education outside the shores of the country, travelling as far as the United Kingdom and other countries of Europe, Asia and North America. Sister African countries, such as South Africa, Ghana, Egypt and even war-torn Sudan have become attractive to Nigerian students. In April this year, the federal government spent 1.2 million dollars to hire buses to evacuate Nigerian students from Sudan. Last year approximately 1,200 Nigerian students were evacuated from Ukraine, following the Russian invasion.

Unless we learn from history, we are

Students Loan Board established in 1972. For the 18 years the board lasted, the federal government gave loans totaling undergraduate and postgraduate studies. The board encountered severe problems, including abysmally poor loan repayment, forcing the federal government to scrap it in 1991.

Ezeibe described the law as impracticable, whichever way one may look at it. Ezeibe wondered what will happen to someone who is not working after the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), but is expected to repay the loan two years after serving his country.

For now, I have not seen any satisfactory response to the concerns expressed by stakeholders about the proposed education loan. The claim by the Federal Ministry of Education that the federal government cannot foot universities bill any longer is a cliché that may not serve any useful purpose in the ongoing debate over the education loan. If the federal government invested 19 billion dollars litre of fuel was produced, footing the bills of for them.

The truth is that education in Nigeria available, but owing to the limited outlook of the policymakers who see investment in education only from the narrow prism of social climes where policymakers see education as an industry with boundless opportunities. Just like every other industry, what you invest in education is what you get back.

Hence, what education in Nigeria needs today is increased funding. Former freedom South Africa, Nelson Mandela (of blessed memory), once described education as the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. As populist as it may look, introducing education loan is a tangential measure. It does not make any sense for the Nigerian government to give students loan to are bogged down by incessant industrial unrest,

The latest bill to establish the loan fund was initiated by former Speaker of House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila who is It was titled ‘Students Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act, 2023.” The funding accruing to the federal government from oil and other minerals; taxes, levies and duties accruing to the federal government from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Nigerian Immigration Service, as well as education bonds, education endowment funds schemes, donations, gifts, grants and revenue accruing to the fund from any other source.”

As lofty as the idea is, I agree with the likely pitfalls in the new education fund. The problem with our policymakers is that they neither have foresight nor make use the proponents of the students’ loan bill should have foreseen the likelihood of poor loan recovery, sinking the new fund, like its precursor, the Students Loan Board.

The defunct board came into being in 1972 during the era of the oil boom under Gen. Yakubu Gowon administration when Nigeria had so much money but didn’t know what to do with it. At the time the federal government scrapped the board in 1991, the exchange rate of naira to the dollar was N10 to one dollar. Today, the exchange rate is in the neighbourhood of N700 to one dollar. Nzomiwu,

Ominabo

WEALTH DICKSON OMINABO argues that democracy should be explained through good governance, sustainable development, justice and equity

The loan scheme is not sustainable, argues CHEKWUBE NZOMIWU

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

EDITORIAL

TACKLING SICKLE CELL ANAEMIA

All critical stakeholders should work towards curtailing the disease

As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark the International Sickle Cell Awareness Day, the pain and distress from Sickle Cell disease come to the fore. We therefore call on government at all levels, the private sector, international organisations and other stakeholders to draw attention to this genetic disorder that causes blockages in blood vessels, leading to a variety of health complications and death for many. With Nigeria accounting for 33 per cent of the global burden, sickle cell disease is a major public health concern in our country.

The statistics are grim. Over 40 million Nigerians are carriers of the sickle cell gene, according to the chairman, Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria (SCFN), Tunde Afolabi. It is also estimated that over 150,000 children are born with sickle cell disease in Nigeria each year, making it the highest number of condition in any country. Sadly, according to data, two thirds of these children do not live to celebrate their 5th birthday. So, there is an urgent need for action, especially when prevention remains the only cure for majority of our people. Information is readily available on the cause of sickle cell disease/anaemia. That explains why intending couples are counselled to know their genotypes before marriage. But curiously, even when they know the danger ahead, some Nigerians still choose to go into marriage or make babies not minding the consequences. These lovers live either in denial or because they believe in ‘miracle’. Ignorance is also an issue, especially in rural communities as many have children with sickle cell because they do not know the status of their partners.

condition begins at birth. ‘The Power of Hope: Step Up for Sickle Cell,’ was the theme chosen by a coalition of sickle cell non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in

T H I S D AY EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU

DEPUTY EDITORS WALE OLALEYE, OBINNA CHIMA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

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Letters to the Editor

Nigeria for their sickle cell awareness ‘Red Umbrella Walk’ on Saturday. The annual event symbolises unity and protection for those who face the daily challenges of sickle cell disease. “Each step we take represents a step towards progress, hope, and empowerment”, said Toyin Adesola who coordinates the group. “Our united presence sends a powerful message to the world—that we are here, visible, and demand change.”

The vision of the coalition is to be an umbrella body of advocacy and awareness in Nigeria, so as to reduce the health burden encountered with sickle cell disorder. They also desire to amplify and raise strong voices within the sickle cell community, thereby these goals, the coalition outlined objectives that include identifying and collaborating with necessary stakeholders, providing requisite resources for better healthcare and support, engaging with the government and relevant stakeholders to advocate for inclusive policies, acting as a watchful watchdog for healthcare provisions, advocating for the rights of those living with sickle cell disorder, encouraging data sharing and communitybased research, and promoting capacity development among stakeholders.

The ‘Red Umbrella Walk’ is not just a symbolic gesture but a catalyst for tangible change. One of the things they advocate is voluntary blood donation in Nigeria. Blood saves lives generally, but especially for persons living with sickle cell disorder. We commend the ‘Red Umbrella Walk’ group for their and de-stigmatise the disease. But on a day such as this dedicated to the awareness of the disease, we also join them in appealing to authorities at all levels to recognise the urgency at hand by working towards implementing policies that prioritise the healthcare and well-being of those living with the disease.

Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-300 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (750- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the writer.

LETTERS

MEMO TO TINUBU ON INSECURITY IN THE NORTH

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has hit the ground running since he was inaugurated. Tinubu has proven he is fully prepared to take tough decisions in the interest of the country. The speed with which he removed petroleum subsidy, and important appointments all pointed to his readiness to take the country to the pedestal of growth and development.

But no nation can develop with ravaging insecurity in its territory. While the country has recorded remarkable progress since the restoration of democracy in 1999, the deteriorating security has resulted in wanton killings of defenceless Nigerians by non-state actors and other criminals. There is loss ofernments to tame the monster of insecurity bedevilling the country, particularly in northern Nigerian. While the immediate past administration was able to contain the dreaded Boko Haram insurgents, leaving remnants to attack soft targets, banditry in Zamfara, Katsina, Niger and Kaduna States and farmers/ herders’ clashes have escalated tension in the region.

Northern Nigeria, the food basket of Nigeria, has become a shadow of its former self. While the North East is struggling with Boko Haram, North central is battling with farmers/herd-

ers’ crisis. The once peaceful North-west has since turned into home of banditry. The intractable security challenges in the north have continued to pose threat to food security and education development. Many rural farmers have deserted their ancestral homes as bandits impose levies, abduct and kill defaulters at will. Schools are frequently being attacked and students forcefully kidnapped. The horrible situation has discouraged parents from sending their children or wards to school. The number of school dropout which is estimated at over 15 million children, coupled with activities of rapacious bandits paint a gloomy picture of education in the region.

passes without report of gory massacre of people in the villages, farms, markets or even on the roads. Though concerted -

the new governors in the troubled states, one foresees an end to the lingering insecurity in the region. Already, the Zamfara State governor, Dauda Lawal Dare, held a close-door meeting menace of banditry in his state. Also, Kaduna State governor,

Malam Uba Sani, in an interview with Channels Television, bared his mind on the need to create state police. He emphasised that only state police can address security challenges. In Benue State, Governor Alia has promised to review the anti-grazing laws implemented by his predecessor, Samuel Ortom. Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda, during his inauguration promised to exploit every avenue to confront insecurity in his state.

Interestingly, the governors have good ideas and passion for the protection of their people from the activities of crimliaise with federal government to achieve this feat. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should help the state governors through military and other logistics support. For a better policing, the president should invest heavily in intelligence gathering, scale up recruitment of security personnel, rejig our security architecture and above all work with neighbouring countries to eliminate insecurity in Nigeria.

Information is readily available on the cause of sickle cell disease/ anaemia. That explains why intending couples are counselled to know their genotypes before marriage. But curiously, some Nigerians still choose to go into marriage or make babies not minding the consequences

Ibrahim Mustapha , Pambegua, Kaduna State

RATES AS AT JUNE 16,2023

FX Convergence: MTN Overtakes Airtel Africa as Most Capitalised Stock on NGX

Stock market gained N1.67trn in four days Market cap now N32.12trn

Kayode Tokede

As high net worth and foreign investors rushed to take position in fundamental stocks following the unification of foreign exchange by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), MTN Nigeria Communication, last week surpassed Airtel Africa as most capitalised stock on the local bourse.

The telecommunication giant, according to THISDAY investigation surpassed Airtel Africa, Dangote Cement Plc, and Zenith Bank Plc as the most capitalised listed

companies on the bourse as of June 16, 2023.

Specifically, MTN Nigeria gained a total of N488.51 billion in valuation in just four trading days last week when its stock gained N24 per share or 9.6 per cent to close at N274 per share from N250 per share the stock opened for trading.

Consequently, MTN Nigeria market capitalisation closed June 16, 2023 at N5.577 trillion, contributing 17.36 per cent of the N32.126 trillion overall stock market capitalisation.

Notably, the market capitalization of Airtel Africa increased to N4.844 trillion as of the end of June 16, 2023. During the period, its stock price increased by N93.00 per share or 7.78 per cent to N1,289 per share from N1,196 per share it opened for trading.

This represents N349.51billion gain in market capitalisation by Airtel Africa in four trading days last week.

On its part, Dangote Cement maintained the third position as the most capitalised company. Its stock price added N1.00 per share

or 0.35 per cent to close at N284 per share from N283 per share it opened for trading, representing an increase of N17.04billion in market capitalisation.

BUIA Foods and Zenith Bank Plc made the top five list with N105billion and N94.19 billion, increase in market valuation, respectively.

Generally, analysis of trading activity last week revealed that the stock market reacted positively to the CBN new FX policy.

At the close of trades, 15 out of the over 160 listed companies

contributing about 95.58 per cent or N1.598 trillion market capitalisation in four active days of trading on the bourse last week.

The stock market last week gained N1.67 trillion in four days to close at N32.126 trillion from N30.455 trillion it opened for trading, spurred by positive investor sentiment.

The NGX All-Share Index appreciated by 5.49 per cent to close the week at 59,000.96 basis points from 55,930.97 basis points it opened for trading.

Consequently, it pushed

investors’ Month-to-Date and Year-to-Date returns to 5.79 per cent and 15.12 per cent, respectively.

Notably, investors took position in fundamental stocks, most especially the banking stocks in the period under review.

For instance, the NGX Banking Index appreciated by 12.59 per cent to 592.14 basis points, followed by NGX Oil/Gas Index gained 11.95 per cent to close at 720.52 basis points.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Obaseki: Nigeria Spends over $500m on Importation of Dairy Products Annually

Eromosele Abiodun

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said the nation spends about $500 billion (N300 billion) annually on the importation of dairy products, reiterating the need for the country to refocus on agriculture and production to drive economic growth and development.

The governor said this when he received a team from Heifer International, who were on a courtesy visit at the Government House, in Benin City.

He noted that his government is

prioritizing agricultural production, sustaining investment in the sector to boost the state’s economy, tackle food insecurity and create wealth for citizens.

According to him, “We have a small State of about five million people, 70 percent of the people are under the age of 35 years, and need to make them know and understand that we don’t have the dollars to import food anymore as Nigeria spends about half a billion US dollars importing dairy products.

“Food and food security is

very huge, particularly protein sufficiency for the mass of our people, especially children. We are a rich country with a rich and huge population and at some point in our history, we turned from agricultural production as we found crude oil and felt we have enough petrol, naira, and dollars to keep ourselves going forgetting that sometimes in our life we need to produce what we will eat.

“We became poor by exporting all we needed including food and food items. We spend billions of naira and dollars annually on the

foods we can produce on our own.”

He continued: “My administration thrives on partnership. As a government, we see our role as one that enables things to happen. As enablers, we see our role as being able to mobilize resources, particularly human capacity, and knowledge, and direct them into areas of priority as we see.

“Interestingly, we have partners and we try to start something in the area of agriculture but have some difficulties and are making efforts to tackle them. We have gotten a commitment from our

partners to make an investment in a modern farm from where we will propagate day-old chicks and get them into the market.

“It’s a long way to go and a lot of work but we are glad with the support and technology from the front end and understand that we need to go back the value chain and think of how to produce the grains, vitamins, feeds and all needed to grow the poultry business.”

Reeling from the gains of the government’s investment in agriculture, the governor said, “Last year, we put out 60,000

MARKET DATA AS AT FRIDAY, JUNE 16, 2023

hectares of new farmland for estate farmers in oil palm which is under cultivation. For us, the lessons out there are to work with our partners to build the institution to train human capacity, extension workers, and farmers to help us understand what is going on, support the farmers and monitor what they are doing to guarantee their yield and help them make money and sustain their business.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Gender-focused Initiatives

Opportunities for Women: SEC, IFC, Others Renew Call for

Kayode Tokede

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, have renewed the calls for more genderfocused initiatives that will create increased opportunities for women in leadership, employment, and entrepreneurship in the Nigerian private sector.

They made these call during the inaugural edition of the Gender Leader Awards (GLA) which was held in Lagos over the weekend.

Delivering his keynote address, Sanwo-Olu, while commending the IFC and NGX, said the programme is transforming the landscape for gender equality across the nation. He noted that no nation can achieve its full potential without harnessing the full opportunity women present.

According to him, “Gender equality is not only a normal imperative, but also an economic

necessity, as it is essential for sustainable development and the overall prosperity of our nation.”

Earlier in her opening remark, the Regional Director, Central Africa, Liberia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone, Dahlia Khalifa, citing a World Bank report, said the global economy suffers a staggering loss of $172 trillion and that is due to the disparities in lifetime earnings between women and men, a loss that all economies are suffering.

“When there is an ecosystem that provides equal opportunities for women and men, more women thrive and that can contribute more meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic growth. Increasing women’s participation in leadership positions can foster diversity”, Khalifa said.

Corroborating Khalifa, the Chief Executive Officer, NGX, Temi Popoola, said that as a leading multi-asset exchange catalysing Africa’s sustainable development, NGX’s commitment to business practices that support diversity and inclusion is resolute.

Popoola stated that all stakeholders in the market and society at large have a responsibility to drive change not only within organisations but in society at large.

The Group Chairman, NGX Group, Dr. Umaru Kwarainga in his remarks said, “The population of our country Nigeria is almost equally divided between the male and the female gender and we cannot afford to leave either gender behind if our country Nigeria is to move forward.

It is therefore very important that every organization puts in place policies or practices that encourages diversity and gender inclusiveness.”

In a goodwill message, the Director-General, SEC, Lamido Yuguda, who was represented by Deputy Director, Exchanges at SEC, Mahmud Mukthar, lauded NGX and IFC’s efforts and called on companies to engage in activities that promote gender equality and the creation of more opportunities for women to ensure a more inclusive capital market and the economy as a whole.

Obasanjo Knocks Govt, Financial Institutions, Researchers for Victimising Farmers

Gilbert

Ekugbe

Former President of Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo, has blamed the federal government, financial institutions and researchers for victimising Nigerian farmers, noting the urgent need to correct the injustice that has been done to the Nigerian farmers in the past.

According to him, the research products required to achieve great strides in agriculture are available, but bemoaned that not much of the research work reaches the hand of the farmers due to lack of funds to acquire these research tools needed to boost farmers’ productivity.

At an agribusiness investors network organised by the Innovative Youth in Agribusiness (I-Youth), Obasanjo also blamed the federal government’s inconsistent policies

over the years for hindering the nation’s agricultural development.

“The government is the major factor hindering the farmers growth and development, because they eat from both sides of the mouth. They say something today and another thing tomorrow so how then can you do a business sustainably,” he lamented.

In his words: “What you are trying to do here is to correct the injustice that has been done to the Nigerian farmers in the past and I hope that injustice will be corrected because researchers, financial institutions and the government have all victimised the farmers. Farmers have been victims from all of you.”

The Former President who also doubles as the Patron Democratic Republic of the Congo-Nigeria Business Council also pointed out

Imperative of Micro Pension Plan as Buffer against Old Age Poverty

the urgent need for loans given to farmers to be guaranteed in order to get commercial banks and other financial institutions to increase their lending to the agricultural sector, saying that agriculture is a serious business that requires commitment, reasonable funds, right and appropriate input to thrive.

Earlier, the Deputy Director General Partnership for Delivery, International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ken Dashiell, said IITA has been partnering with many institutions in Nigeria to develop agriculture technologies to increase food production in the country.

He said stakeholders must strengthen collaborations to provide research that would help the youth to be successful in agribusiness.

To Boost Health Insurance, AXA Mansard Invests N18.2bn

Ebere Nwoji

AXA Mansard Health, has said it has invested N18.2 billion in the newly established AXA OneHealth Medical Centre in a bid to improve on the level of health insurance acceptance in Nigeria.

The health insurance firm said it would continue to deliver quality and affordable healthcare to Nigerians and the growth of its service providers across the healthcare value chain in the country. This was disclosed at the

commissioning of the OneHealth Medical Centre established by the firm in Ikeja, Lagos recently.

Speaking at the unveiling of the new facility, the Chief Executive Officer, AXA Africa Health, Khaled El Shaarany,said the company was determined to reduce the health-related financial burden, especially for low- and middleclass individuals with a facility that would help to incentivise healthcare providers to offer high-quality care, as they would be reimbursed for their services.

He said AXA Mansard-funded

the OneHealth Medical Centre Facility to further uphold its HMO commitments in Nigeria.

El Shaarany, said the firm targeted to complete the project before the end of the next two years, to become the largest healthcare network in the country.

Shaarany also described the newly inaugurated medical centre as a one-stop healthcare solution. with two operating theatres, and several consultation rooms that provided most of needed healthcare needs, such as great cardiologists, laboratories and a pharmacy.

Youth Council Honours Williams With Sardaun’s Award

The Northern Youth Council has honoured Lagos businessman, Dr. Ikechukwu Williams with two awards, for his distinguished leadership role as a bridge builder and promoter of unity in Nigeria.

Dr Williams, the chairman of an oil and gas company, Greenmac Energy Limited, was conferred with the awards at a colourful ceremony in Lagos, on the symbolic Democracy Day, Monday, June 12,2023 by the President of the Council, Dr

Isah Ododo.

Apart from being inducted into the Council’s Hall of Fame, Williams was honoured with the Sir Ahmadu Bello, Sardauna of Sokoto Platinum Leadership award, and the Garkuwan Matassan Arewa / Icon and Cynosure of Societal Transformation Building.

In the citation, the Council leader said, Dr Williams, a silent achiever deserved these honours for his inspiring leadership roles as a youth leader and mentor.

One of the major objectives of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) is to assist improvident individuals by ensuring that they save in order to cater for their livelihood during old age. At the inception of the CPS, only the formal sector employees were covered whilst persons involved in the informal sector did not have access to any formal pension protection or coverage for old age. To address the situation the National Pension Commission (PenCom) conceptualised the Micro Pension Plan (MPP) with the objective of expanding pension coverage to the informal sector pursuant to the provisions of the Pension Reform Act 2014 (PRA 2014). The provision enables workers in private sector organisations with less than three employees as well as self-employed persons and people working in the informal sector to participate in the CPS under the MPP in accordance with the Guidelines issued by PenCom. The Micro Pension Plan (MPP) is a long term voluntary financial plan that would was initiated to provide financial stability to these workers in their old age.

An informal sector participant interested in joining the MPP is required to enrol with any PFA of their choice. The participant is required to complete the registration forms, and provide a valid means of identification, i.e International passport, Driver’s License or National ID card. Such individual should be at least 18 years of age and resident in Nigeria. Once the RSA is opened, the Micro Pension Contributor (MPC) is issued with a Personal Identification Number (PIN) by the PFA. It is important to note that upon securing employment in the formal sector with any organisation that has 3 or more employees, the MPC will be eligible to participate under the mandatory CPS. However, once the MPC joins the mandatory CPS, they cannot convert back to the MPP.

portion of the contribution 3 months after making the initial contribution. Subsequently, contingent withdrawals can be made once in a week. The retirement/fixed portion of the RSA balance, on the other hand, can only be accessed by the contributor upon retirement. PenCom’s Guidelines on MPP provides that the Micro Pension Contributor (MPC) is eligible to access his RSA for retirement upon attaining the age of 50 years and or on health grounds

The MPC can choose to convert the contingent portion of the RSA to the retirement benefits portion at the end of every year, and may also transfer their RSA from one PFA to another in line with the RSA transfer regulations. Also, upon retirement, the MPC has the option of transferring part or all of his/her outstanding balance in the contingent portion to their retirement benefits portion.

He noted that Dr Williams, a graduate of Accountancy from the University of Maiduguri and holder of a PhD in Economics from Covenant university, Ota, Ogun state, went about his business charitable activities quietly.

Responding, Dr Williams, who was with his wife, a medical doctor, the delectable Dr Ifeoma Williams, friends, his brother, Chinweoke Williams and other well wishers, thanked the Council for the awards.

The non-homogenous nature of the informal sector participants with respect to regularity of income was considered in the design of the MPP. Under the MPP, contributions have been made easy - there is no stipulated minimum amount of contribution and the MPC can make contributions on a daily, weekly or monthly basis, as may be convenient. These contributions can be made by cash deposit, or electronically, through any payment platform/ agent approved by the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Micro Pension Contributions are invested by the PFAs in safe investment outlets that are stipulated by PenCom. The savings are expected to increase over time due to yields from the investments, thereby affording contributors to build up savings from which to draw retirement benefits and pension MPP contributions are split into 40 percent for contingent withdrawal and 60 percent for pensions. The Contingent portion is available for withdrawal to ease financial pressures or needs of the contributor before their retirement.

The MPC is qualified to access the contingent

In the event of the death of an active or retiree MPC, the balance in the RSA shall be paid to the legal heirs of the deceased/ contributor as may be appointed by a Will or Letter of Administration granted by a Probate Registry or as may be directed by a court of competent jurisdiction in the State of residence of the deceased contributor, as the case may be. This means that the MPP also offers financial security to relatives of deceased informal sector workers.

The MPP has provided hope for millions of Nigerians operating in the informal sector. While they do not retire in the conventional sense, they however need to ensure their old age is lived-out in dignity. It is important that informal sector workers register for the MPP to secure their financial security at old age. It is never too early or too late to begin saving for retirement. The sooner, though, the better.

From inception to 31 March 2023, Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) have registered 93,225 participants with a total contribution of N416.12 million The MPP has provided hope for millions of Nigerians operating in the informal sector. As PenCom intensifies the implementation of the MPP, there is huge optimism about consistent growth in the number of participants and attendant accumulation in the MPP assets.

For more information on the Micro Pension Plan, please visit the National Pension Commission’s website: www.pencom.gov.ng.

PENCOM DG, Aisha Dahir-Umar

Vitafoam Sustains Revenue Growth, Dividend Payout

Kayode Tokede

Vitafoam Nigeria Plc in three years has sustained growth in revenue, cost-effectiveness, and total assets that have translated into profit growth and robust dividend payout to shareholders.

The leading manufacturer of quality foams and furniture accessories between 2022 and 2020 posted a profit before tax, gaining 28 per cent to N7.21billion in 2022 from N5.65 billion reported in 2020, while profit after tax stood at N4.52 billion in 2022 from N4.11billion reported in 2020.

The increase in profit before tax and profit after tax in the period under review was driven by the management’s intensified expansion in business lines, internal efficiency and introduction of new products acceptable to consumers.

In the period under review, dividend payout to shareholders increased by 117per cent to N1.52 per share in 2022 from N0.70 per share paid to shareholders in 2021.

Between 2022 and 2020, the management paid shareholders N4.65billion as dividend, about 35.2per cent of the N13.23 billion profit after

tax generated in the period, amid growing profit and expansion.

In the three years, Vitafoam Nigeria grew revenue to N46.3billion from N23.4billion reported in 2020, an increase of 98per cent.

Vitafoam Nigeria over the years has improved its revenue in polyurethane/ reconstituted foam (mattress, cushions, pillows, sheetings) and allied products that conforms with international standards, and applicable statutory.

The company attributed its steadily impressive performance to continuous investment in innovative products and services across its businesses.

Despite the inclement operating environment, Vitafoam has remained resilient with gross margin increasing to 33.2per cent in 2022 financial year as against 29.9per cent in 2018.

The company’s stock is one of the most sought-after on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) due to track record of consistent profitability as its stock price Year-Till-Date gained 2.2 per cent to close at N20.90 as at June 09, 2023 from N20.45 it opened for

TrustBanc Receives Shareholders’ Nod for Additional N1.5bn Capital Injection

TrustBanc Holdings Limited has announced that its shareholders have granted approval for an additional N1.5 billion capital injection into TrustBanc Microfinance Bank Limited.

Also, it said its rating has been upgraded by DataPro from A to A+ with a stable outlook.

According to the rating note,

the Long-Term Rating of A+ indicates Low Risk. In a statement, it said the approval reflects the group’s strong financial strength, excellent operating performance, and growing business profile.

The approval, it added, aims to further reinforce its position as a leading lender in the public

sector segment and facilitate its expansion into other retail lending segments.

Group Chief Executive Officer, TrustBanc Financial Group, Mr. Abu Jimoh stated: “We are once again delighted to honour our commitment and redeem the series 11 issue upon its maturity.

trading in 2023. The stock in 2021 was trading at N7.80 per share and it has reached 52-week high of about N23.6 per share this year.

The lasted audited result and accounts of Vitafoam Nigeria for the period ended September 30, 2022 reflected the management’s determination to overcome challenges with impressive performance.

The growth in revenue reflected an expansion in total assets in the period and eventually dividend payout to shareholders.

Vitafoam Nigeria recorded a significant increase in revenue amid consumers’ weak purchasing power.

The frontline foam-manufacturing company’s 2022 performance further highlighted the severe business operating environment, faced by companies in the country.

Despite the inclement operating environment, the Group’s topline position showed a 31 per cent increase in revenue to N46.31billion in 2022 from N35.4billion in 2021, driven by 30.77 per cent increase in sale of goods (Foams and other products)

and 31.62 per cent growth in rendering of services by delivering of goods at a point in time (Freight Income).

The management proposed dividend rose by seven per cent to N2.37billion in 2022 from N2.22billion dividend in 2021.

The company had attributed its steadily impressive performance to continuous investment in innovative products and services across its businesses.

Revenue “other than from contracts” with customers showed N45.48 billion within Nigeria in 2022 from N34.55billion in 2021, while outside Nigeria, it stood at N829.16million in 2022 from N853.9million reported in 2021.

From the profit and loss figures, Vitafoam Nigeria cost of sales rose by 42.3 per cent to N30.91billion in 2022 from N21.72billion in 2021.

The group reported N30.09billion raw materials and consumables cost of sales in 2022 from N21.17billion in 2021, key contributing factor to the overall cost in the year under review.

NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

ISPON: Nigeria Will Transcend Consumption to Software Producing Nation By 2025

Emma Okonji

The newly elected president of the Institute of Software Practitioners of Nigeria (ISPON), Mr. Bimbo Abioye has predicted that Nigeria will transcend from being a software consuming nation to becoming a software producing nation in the next two years.

Abioye who stated this during the inauguration of the newly elected National Executive Council (NEC) members of ISPON, shortly after its Emergency General Meeting (EGM) and election in Lagos last week, said although it looked like a daunting task to achieve, but assured Nigerians that through commitment to innovation, it would be achieved in the first two years tenure of the new NEC by 2025.

According to him, “The newly elected exco will uphold and protect the vision of the Institute of Software Practitio ners of Nigeria (ISPON), which was established to serve the interests of software practitioners, by ensuring that each member gets the

opportunity to grow locally and internationally. We will ensure that Nigeria transcends from software consuming nation to software producing nation in 2025. This is our promise to Nigeria and if we are able to achieve it in the next two years, it will provide digital job opportunities for Nigeria that will help drive her digital transformation dream. Achieving it is a daunting task no doubt, but we will get it done through dedication and commitment.”

Addressing the issue of local software patronage, Abioye said: “We will be actively involved in national advocacy, calling for active participation in the Nigerian software dream. We will encourage Ministries, Departments and Agencies of governments (MDAs), including the private sector to embrace software Nigeria, and patronise it in order to support its growth. We will also ensue that Nigeria produces quality software that will meet the needs of Nigerians as well as the needs of multinational companies operating in Nigeria. Today

we have local software that performs optimally better than most foreign software imported into the country. Software business is about trust, because the software codes are not tangible, but embedded into the computer system to perform certain operations via commands. It is for this reason that ISPON must ensure that software developed in Nigeria, must be tested and trusted for use.”

Presenting the keynote paper with the theme: “AI- National Software Challenges, Opportunities and Risks,” Dr. Evans Woherem, described Artificial Intelligence (AI) as the infusion of human intelligence in machines that are programmed to think and learn like humans. He said AI emerged as a technology that empowers machines to exhibit human-like intelligence, enabling the machines to perform tasks that typically require human cognitive abilities such as understanding language, recognising images, making decisions and learning from experience.

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (left), with the Americas Senior Director of Programmes, Americas Programmes, Heifer International, Adriana Garcia-DeVun (right) during a courtesy visit at the Government House, in Benin City… recently

CSR: Nigerian Breweries Partners Air Peace, Stanbic IBTC

Raheem Akingbolu

The Nigerian Breweries-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund has announced a partnership with Air Peace and Stanbic IBTC Bank as co-sponsors of the Maltina Teacher of the Year competition.

The Company Secretary, Uaboi Agbebaku, who represented the Managing Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc., Hans Essaadi, made the announcement at the flag-off ceremony for the ninth edition of the competition in Lagos.

Agbebaku, who said the competition was aimed at rewarding teachers’ efforts and inspiring them to continue making a positive impact, further stated that Air Peace and Stanbic IBTC Bank were brought on board as co-sponsor to deepen the initiative.

“This is the ninth edition of the competition, but unlike the previous editions where the Nigerian Breweries-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund was the sole sponsor, we are delighted to announce that this year, we have commenced opening up potential partnership with firms who share in our vision and mission for the initiatives,” he said.

Also, Corporate Affairs Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc., Sade Morgan, said all secondary teachers in both public and private schools are encouraged to participate in the competition.

Morgan said: “There is no doubt that this competition has done a lot to lift the spirit of Nigerian teachers. In the last eight years, we have succeeded in providing a new narrative for the teaching profession in

Nigeria. Our teachers are now proud to be associated with teaching, and we are encouraging the next generation of teachers to be passionate about the profession.”

Morgan disclosed that the overall winner would receive a cash prize of N6.5 million, a trophy and capacity development training opportunity, while the winner’s school would receive either a computer laboratory or a block of classrooms.Head of Corporate Communications, Air Peace, Stanley Olisa, said they were delighted to partner with Nigerian Breweries on the laudable initiative to reward and celebrate teachers to achieve better impact in the classrooms. He further pledged the commitment of Air Peace to continue to support the Maltina Teacher of the Year competition.

BASL, Nigeria Police Renew Collaboration to Improve Security at MMA2

Chinedu Eze

Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL) and the Nigeria Police, Airport Command, have renewed partnership aimed at improving safety and security at the Murtala Muhammad Airport Two, Terminal 2 (MMA2).

A statement from BASL disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, Airport Command, CP Ebong Ebibwa, and his team, including Deputy Commissioner of Police, DCP Kayode Sunday, during a meeting with the BASL team at the airport terminal renewed the Memorandum of Understanding that has been in place over 16 years between the

two terminal management and the Nigeria police.

The Senior Management Team of BASL, led by Acting Chief Operating Officer, Ms. Tosan Duncan, while receiving the law enforcement officials, said the renewed synergy was strategic and key to safe air travels and deepening of economic prosperity for the state and the country.

In her remarks, Duncan commended the police officials for their commitment to maintaining a high-level security within and around the terminal. She also recognized the support of the Nigeria Air Force in supporting police to strengthen security around the

terminal.

In response, CP Ebibwa affirmed that his visit aimed to address the concerns raised by BASL and assured the company of the police command’s unwavering support.

The Police Chief emphasized the importance of safety and security in the aviation business and expressed the police’s commitment to providing their professional expertise.

His said: “I am very happy to visit Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited, the Operator of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two today, one of Nigeria’s most important business investments.”

9PSB Commits to Providing Tailor-Made Financial Services

Nume Ekeghe

9Payment Service Bank (9PSB), has committed to providing innovative, tailor-made financial products and services so as to improve the lifestyle of the underserved, and thereby reduce drastically the gap in the country between the banked, the underbaked and the unbanked.

Speaking while delivering a keynote address at the 2023 Digital Pay Expo Conference and Exhibition on the topic: “Financial Inclusion and the New Customer Orientation,” the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of 9Payment Service Bank, Branka

Mracajac, emphasised the need for collaboration among all the players to better serve the unbanked, underbaked, and the banked. She said: “There are over one million agents across Nigeria and none of them delivers any other products but payment transactions, cash in, cash out. This means that partnership is crucial for financial inclusion to happen in Nigeria. I am hoping that all payment service banks, fintech and other players in the market will move the numbers when it comes to financial inclusion. The situation in 2020 as stated by EFInA proves that only one out of two Nigerians was using regulated financial services.

We see those 21.3 million adult women, representing 20 per cent of Nigeria’s adult population and 17 million men, were yet to be included in the financial system. “At 9PSB, we meet the unique needs of our customers at preferred touchpoints by serving the rural and underdeveloped communities with little or no access to traditional banking infrastructure, through our wide agent network. Providing fundamental financial services preceded by localized financial literacy efforts, to individuals and small businesses lies at the core of our offer ings,” she added.

Interswitch Partners Equity Bank Uganda to Provide Affordable Services

Nume Ekeghe

Interswitch, Africa’s leading integrated payments and digital commerce company, has partnered with Equity Bank, one of the top Banking Groups in East Africa, to provide the Bank’s customers with faster and more affordable banking services at over 650 Interswitchenabled ATMs belonging to 17 local banks in Uganda. This arrangement mirrors Interswitch’s operations in Nigeria and Kenya as it will also enable Equity Bank’s ATM machines to accept bank cards of other local participating banks and institutions on the Interswitch network. Equity Bank also becomes an acquirer for Verve cards, adding to its wide

portfolio of cards accepted by all Point-of-Sale (POS) machine locations and ATMs countrywide. There are approximately 250,000 Verve card holders in Uganda. Interswitch in a statement noted that this partnership was unveiled in Uganda recently.

In announcing the partnership at a press launch Country General Manager for Interswitch Uganda, Peter Kawumi, noted that the partnership is ideal and timely. He pointed out that for the past 20 years, Interswitch has provided technology solutions to businesses in Africa, to allow them to provide their customers with accessible, seamless, and affordable banking services.

“This partnership demonstrates

an interesting shift in the attainment of service quality and competitive advantage. By joining the Interswitch network, Equity Bank will now benefit from the entire ecosystem that includes all the other financial institutions and their consumers in Uganda and across the region. In this way, Equity Bank has achieved two key things,” said Kawumi.

Speaking about the latest partnership, Mitchell Elegbe, Founder/Group Managing Director, Interswitch Group said: “Once more, we reiterate our commitment to making payment more accessible, convenient and affordable for Africans. Our partnership with Equity Bank enhances the interoperability efforts of the Ugandan financial industry and banking sector.”

HOMES & DESIGN

VANTAGE BOURDILLON: The Redefinition of Upscale Apartments

Bourdillon Road Ikoyi, Lagos, can be regarded as the most sought-after real estate in Nigeria’s commercial capital. The whole stretch is fitted with choice buildings, and for anyone to stand out, it has to make a rare statement as Vantage Bourdillon does. Bennett Oghifo writes

One of the set pieces of Deluxe Residences Limited, a crack real estate firm, is called the Vantage Bourdillon, and it is a project right at a choice location on Bourdillon Road, Ikoyi, Lagos.

It is a 10-suspended floor project that comes with a lot of recreational facilities.

“Vantage Bourdillon is a project at the core of our heart, and that is why we gave it the name ‘Vantage’,” said the Chief Executive Officer of Deluxe Residences Limited, Emmanuel Odemayowa.

Now selling hot in the Lagos property market, Vantage Bourdillon has threebedroom apartments with two maids’ rooms for each apartment. “Anyone that

buys into this project will know they are occupying a vantage position in Bourdillon,” said Odemayowa.

The project has a rooftop gallery where people can relax. All these make it a top project in a top location, apart from Vantage Bourdillon.

“We are Deluxe Residences Limited, and as the name connotes, we are into luxury projects. We major in high-rise apartments, and we’ve also done some semi-detached and fully detached homes. We operate more in top locations in Lagos like Ikoyi, Victoria Island and Lekki axis. Actually, we do a lot of projects in Victoria Island,” added the Deluxe

Residences Limited honcho.

Deluxe Residences is a member of Cavalli Business & Investment Group, and within the group, “we try to address the whole spectrum of real estate,” Odemayowa explained. Within the group, the organisation is not limited to top locations.

“We do real estate from the lowest to the highest. We do projects as far as Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and Ibeju Lekki,” Odemayowa disclosed. “Again, we are planning about two massive project launches which are coming up soon.”

He also mentioned that another project called ‘The Knight’ is on

Ahmadu Bello Way beside Silverbird Galleria. It is a hotel apartment with a concierge, restaurants, swimming pools, and game arcades, with several “stuff people can use to relax” and the ambience “living in your home like you are living in a hotel.”

The Deluxe Residences Limited chief executive said further, “We also have other projects at different phases of completion. We have Amlad Place, which is on the way to Banana Island and The Empire Queens Apartments opposite Eko Hotel & Suites. We also have other projects that we have completed, such as The Grand Orchard, The Vogue Oniru and Pacific Heights.”

Shonubi, CBN and Market Reform

of

On June 9, President Bola Tinubu appointed Mr. Folashodun Adebisi Shonubi, as the acting Governor of Central Bank.

Prior to the appointment, Shonubi was Deputy Governor, Operations Directorate of the bank.

This followed the controversial suspension of the central bank, Governor Godwin Emefiele by the president, in a move largely described by analysts as more of a personal/political vendetta.

On his campaign trail, Tinubu had heavily criticised Emefiele over some of his monetary policies particularly the cashless and currency redesign programme which he claimed were aimed at him (Tinubu) - to put him at a disadvantage at the 2023 presidential polls which he eventually won. The allegation had been repeatedly refuted by Emefiele. Expectedly, Tinubu, during his inauguration address hinted at the need to introduce far-reaching reforms at the CBN especially the need for foreign exchange rate convergence.

MARKET BULLISH

Investors immediately received the news about the change of guard at the apex bank with a positive mindset as Nigeria’s Eurobonds became bullish as investors viewed the development as an opportunity to tweak economic policies under the new administration.

But the positive mood was quite understandable – foreign investors had for long pressured the CBN under Emefiele to float the Naira in order to allow it find its real value – a demand that could further harm the economy that is mainly import-dependent with weak domestic output.

However, until his elevation, Shonubi, described as a banking titan, had represented Emefiele as a member of the board of the Federal Inland Revenue Service – a role he held since December 2019.

The 61-year-old has had a stellar career in Nigerian banking with a combined experience of over three decades in the banking and engineering sectors and holds three degrees, including two master’s degrees – in business administration and mechanical engineering – from the University of Lagos.

Shonubi graduated from the University of Lagos from 1978 to 1983 after obtaining a BSc. and MSc. in Mechanical Engineering, an MSc in Business Administration specializing in Finance between 1988 and 1989.

His first working experience was at Mek-ind Associates where he worked as a consultant engineer from 1984 to 1989 then later as a marketing executive at Inlaks Computers Limited.

From 1990 to 1993, Shonubi was the Head of Treasury Operations of Citibank before proceeding to First City Monument Bank as vice president and Ecobank Nigeria Limited as executive director.

From 1999 to 2007, he worked at MBC International as the deputy general manager.

Shonubi

EARLY REFORMS

Shonubi, apparently acting Tinubu’s script – as he was part of the monetary policy committee of the apex bank under Emefiele that operated the multiple exchange regime - soon after his appointment, abolished the segmentation in the foreign exchange (FX) market and collapsed all rates into the Investors and Exporters (I&E) window – to the excitement of investors and analysts.

Among other immediate reforms, the CBN under Shonubi, also announced the cessation of the RT200 Rebate and Naira4Dollar Remittance Schemes, with effect from June 30.

Both initiatives, introduced by the suspended CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, were launched to boost non-oil exports and diaspora remittances to encourage foreign exchange inflows into the economy.

These initiatives had been highly commended and welcomed by analysts with early positive results since they were launched. The stoppage came as a huge surprise to many.

The central bank in a circular on the Operational Changes to the Foreign Exchange Market issued Wednesday and signed by CBN Director, Financial Markets Department, Angela SereEjembi, said further guidance on the policy change would be communicated in due course.

other alterations to the operations in the Fx market.

Essentially, the Race to $200 billion in FX Repatriation (RT200FX) initiative was established to stimulate non-oil exports with a $200 billion FX income target in the next three to five years.

The programme allowed for a rebate of N65 for every $1 of repatriated nonoil export proceeds is paid to exporters of semi-finished and finished goods, while exporters of unprocessed items enjoy a rebate of N25/$.

Similarly, the Naira 4 Dollar Scheme was introduced in March 2021 as an incentive for senders and recipients of international money transfers. The policy entailed the payment of N5 for every $1 received as a remittance inflow.

REFORM YIELDS

Following the reforms in the FX market, THISDAY finding indicated that the spot rate of the naira depreciated by 40.78 per cent to close at N664.04 to a dollar on the I & E FX window on the day of the announcement, as against the N472 to a dollar it closed the previous day.

The market also depreciated to a record low of N750 to a dollar during intra-day trading.

have welcomed the development, describing it as positive for the economy.

Wealth Management and Business Development Consultant, Mr. Ibrahim Shelleng, said the development will bolster the confidence of investors going forward.

They also said the new acting CBN governor faced an uphill task of addressing rising inflation and high Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) among other challenges confronting the economy.

He said, “The market reaction is a direct result of the unifying of the exchange rate. Investors now have more confidence investing in Nigeria and can take advantage of underpriced assets in the stock market without fear of Fx illiquidity upon exit.

“It remains to be seen if he (Shonubi) will be given the job full time but with regards to inflation and the MPR, he will certainly have to be bold in deciding whether to continue the hawkish policies, which have had limited impact on inflation or switch to more dovish policies to encourage growth.”

Shelleng said, “There is a delicate balance that needs to be considered. Low-interest rates will deter foreign investors, who are looking for real returns given the current inflation in Nigeria.

“However, maintaining high-interest rates also makes borrowing expensive for businesses to the detriment of growth.”

Managing Director/Chief Executive, Dignity Finance and Investment Limited, Dr. Chijioke Ekechukwu, remained optimistic that the new CBN acting governor will successfully implement the desired reforms needed to move the economy forward.

He told THISDAY, “I sat with Mr. Shonubi before he became Acting Governor, and I could see his drive, anger, and focus. He knew many things were not where they should have been, but he was limited.

“Now that he is in charge, he can exercise his knowledge and capabilities. The difference will be obvious. What he is simply doing is to correct the wrongs to get the rights in place.”

Ekechukwu, however, cautioned that Shonubi “should not think inflation rate will always be reduced with monetary policy decisions. Some other factors extraneous to CBN are also responsible.

“He should, therefore, not overstretch the MPR, especially so that the economy can resume its recovery trajectory and traction.”

On his part, Managing Director/Chief Executive, SD&D Capital Management Limited, Mr. Idakolo Gbolade, said the positive impacts currently being witnessed were primarily as a result of the ongoing policy reforms of the Tinubu government, adding that in the passage of time, these would impact positively on inflation.

Gbolade said, “The acting CBN Governor has been the deputy governor in charge of operations with a wide knowledge of the economy. However, every deputy governor takes instructions from the incumbent CBN governor.

[2]

From 2009 to 2012, he was employed by Union Bank of Nigeria Limited as an executive director, operations, technology and services.

From 2012 to his appointment as the deputy governor of CBN (Operations Directorate), he was the managing director and chief executive officer of the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System Plc.

The apex bank also alerted all authorized dealers and the public of immediate changes to operations in the Nigerian Foreign Exchange (FX) Market, of the re-introduction of the order-based two-way quotes, with bid-ask spread of N1, adding that all transactions shall be cleared by a Central Counter Party (CCP) among

However, on the parallel market, the naira which had been hovering around N770 to N760 to the dollar in the past week, appreciated by N5 to close yesterday at N755/$1.

ANALYSTS’ PERSPECTIVES/ CHALLENGES FOR SHONUBI

Meanwhile, analysts who spoke to THISDAY separately on the emergence of Shonubi as acting CBN governor

“The fuel subsidy removal and FX reforms will definitely increase inflation in the short run but with effective implementation of the right government policies, inflation would be brought under control.

“The actions of the acting CBN governor are in line with the policy direction of the new government and the reforms would definitely birth a vibrant economy for the country.”

In this piece, James Emejo spotlights the acting Governor of the Central Bank

Nigeria as markets rallied around his appointment followed by reforms in the foreign exchange segment

Onwards and Upwards: Celebrating Evolution of Social Sector

Osayi Alile

Like many other sectors and industries across the world, the social sector assesses its health and progress using a key indicator – the COVID19 pandemic. The pandemic forced social sector organizations to re-evaluate their work, and ask themselves a very important question – “Are we really as effective and impactful as we think we are?”

For some organisations, the answer to this was yes, for some others it was no, but for everyone, drastic changes needed to be made, for them to adapt.

While the pandemic was devastating, and its ripple effects will continue to be felt for a long time, it accelerated a domino effect of change that has not only been beneficial to the sector, but to the individuals and communities that it supports. Over the last few years, the sector has grown tremendously, including in the areas of:

INNOVATION AND CREATIVITY

I would compare the social sector pre COVID, to an old model car, with a functioning engine. It works well enough, performs its primary function of moving people from one place to another, and is probably serviced from time to time. What it does lack, however, is the upgrades that come from newer model cars – speed, sophisticated systems, smarter engines, aesthetics, and in some unique cases, self-driving technology. The social sector post COVID, has begun to adopt more innovative and creative approaches for achieving impact.

From the use of technology and digital transformation, to creating systems that provide both financial and social profit, the sector has been able to improve how it does its work, increase the scale of its impact, build the capacity of its personnel, and address social issues in a more systemic and sustainable way.

TECHNOLOGY

Social sector organisations are using technology to address social issues that have continuously affected communities, especially on the African Continent. From the creation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) based digital reading devices for visually impaired students, to using technology to combat food scarcity and wastage, and providing low-cost tech enabled solutions for rural farmers, non-profits and social enterprises

have embraced the digital transformation era, and this has only impacted positively on their work, and beneficiaries.

YOUTH PARTICIPATION

Young people who were already ‘riding the technology wave’ – found it much easier to adapt to the changes that COVID brought, especially during the lockdown. They leaned into their civic power (the ENDSARS protests in Nigeria being a good example), created financial opportunities for themselves using digital platforms like social media, and embraced opportunities in the tech industry. Considering that Africa is the youngest, and fastest growing continent in the world – by 2030, there will be 375 million young people in the job market –the youth population holds tremendous potential for growth, within, and beyond the social sector.

SOCIAL ENTERPRISE

The social sector, used to be primarily comprised of non-profit and charitable organizations only – groups addressing

social issues, by relying solely on financial support from funding organizations, and donations. Now, there’s a new wave of social impact organizations – the social enterprises. These are profit making organizations/ business driven by social missions and reinvesting their profits into creating positive social change. Their work has further expanded the social space and introduced another dimension of social impact work.

PARTNERSHIPS AND COLLABORATION

There is now more emphasis on collaboration and partnership – within and across sectors. Actors from the social, private, and public sectors, are working together, now more than ever, to collaboratively address recurring social challenges. The Coalition Against COVID19 (CACOVID), of which I served as co-administrator, is a great example. While it was private sector driven, especially as regards the financial support, it was technically supported by the public sector, and operationalized by

the social sector. These kinds of partnerships can only positively influence the growth of the sector, in the years to come.

I have been privileged to witness the various dimensions, and transformations that the social sector has been through over the years. From the era of ‘pure passion’, where there was less emphasis on structure and systems, but we did the work because we were passionate about it, to the early stages of the ‘formalized social sector’, and now to the present days of social impact innovation. I am truly excited for what the future holds for the sector and encourage actors to focus on strengthening their internal systems and processes, designing outcome and impact driven solutions, emphasizing locally led and driven solutions including in philanthropy and social work, and documenting their wins and successes.

As I add another year, I mentally flip the page to a new chapter, for myself, as well as for this sector I hold so dearly. We can only go onwards and upwards from here.

Report: Unified Exchange Rate Will Yield Positive Results, Enhance FDI

Dike Onwuamaeze

Sustenance of the implementation of the unification of the foreign exchange rate, which is one of the several policy announcements under the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, would have long-term positive effects in determining Nigeria’s foreign exchange rate and enhance free flow of investment capital into the country’s economy.

This view was expressed by the Utica Capital Limited (UCL) in its latest report dated June 2023, titled, “Assessing Nigeria’s Next Macroeconomic Direction Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

It stated: “The announcement of the policy to unify the currency should have a long-term positive effect on foreign exchange rate and free flow of capital in the country,” adding that the announcement by the new administration has started yielding “a positive impact on the equities and foreign exchange markets.” “Investors in the equities market experienced favourable returns, with all market indices showing gains. This was primarily due to increased confidence in the new government,” it added.

The report, however, noted that realising these positive effects would largely rely on the political will and determination of the new administration to execute its reform minded policies.

“It will require effective enactment and harmonisation to implement them, and legacy challenges would need to be eliminated completely.

“As Nigeria moves forward, eyes are on the new administration to deliver on its promises,” the report stated.

The UCL also commended Tinubu’s administration strategic economic focus on enhancing the capacity of the Nigerian manufacturing sector and bolstering entrepreneurship and startups in order to create job opportunities in the domestic economy.

It, however, advised the government to facilitate better access to credit facilities and tax incentives to businesses in the private sector in order to achieve these goals

It further identified as viable economic options the administration’s, “intention to initiate a significant public work program and implement a national industrial policy that focus on infrastructure

investment, value added manufacturing, and targeted agricultural development.”

The UCL added that the government would seek, “to enhance capacity building by providing ICT-enabled training programs for Nigerian youths. It also seeks to facilitate funding access for start-ups and technology manufacturing while improving transportation infrastructure to support e-commerce.”

It further observed that the administration was committed to implementing digital services and promoting the utilisation of blockchain technology by 2025.

The UCL noted: “Infrastructure development remains a prominent agenda for the administration, with a continued emphasis on strategic projects such as roads, bridges, water systems, seaports, and airports throughout the country.

“Additionally, the administration also pledges to close the housing gap by constructing over five million houses within the next four years. While we acknowledge the huge funds required to drive these projects, the president hinted the use of a Public Private Partnership

as a financing model.”

The report expressed confidence that the wealth of experience garnered by the Tinubu and his Vice President, Senator Shettima as former governors and legislators would equip them with enough political sagacity and enable them to see through their economic vision for Nigeria.

It added: “President Tinubu and his vice president previously served as governors of Lagos and Bornu States, respectively. They also previously served as members of the country’s National Assembly (The Senate).

“Before his regime as Governor of Lagos state in 1999, several challenges such as abysmal infrastructure, poor waste management and traffic congestions besotted the state. His administration pursued a 10-point agenda to tackle these challenges.”

It added: “Tinubu’s involvement in politics revolved around two significant aspects: his tenure as Lagos State Governor (1999 to 2007) and his subsequent engagement as the leader of the All Progressive Congress (APC) political party. Before this, he played a pivotal role in facilitating the merger of various political parties to form the APC party.”

Accelerating Grassroot Tech-support through Innovation

In fulfilment of one of his commitments to his constituency, the senator representing Lagos East Senatorial District, Senator Adetokunbo Abiru, recently built a SAIL Innovation Lab at Ebute Ipakodo axis of Ikorodu. Sunday Ehigiator reports that it offers a unique community innovation workspace for tech start-ups to inspire grassroots innovation and build partnerships to prosperity

The SAIL project, which is a private endowment initiated in 2021 by the lawmaker representing Lagos East senatorial District, Adetokunbo Abiru, and his wife, Feyisola, is being operated in partnership with Co-creation Hub (CcHUB), a leading innovation centre accelerating technology for economic prosperity.

The lab, built at Ebute Ipakodo axis of Ikorodu, offers a unique community innovation workspace for tech start-ups to inspire grassroots innovation and build partnerships to prosperity.

Its ambience provides a comfortable and safe environment for exploring innovative ideas and training cohorts in basic foundations of ICT and cross-functional programmes.

Distilling the SAIL Vision

In his address at the official commissioning of the lab, Senator Abiru said it is no longer enough to go to school and train to be a professional in a particular field such as law, accounting, broadcasting etc. without having to acquire innovative or technological skills.

“This is why the SAIL Innovation Lab has become necessary. It is not a project of the future. It is a project of today, one that needed to be done. Tech is the way and it was important to provide a platform for our ingenious youth in this district.

“My approach to my mandate is along three pillars of legislation and policy formulation, empowerment and facilitation, and endowment. The SAIL project is under my endowment pillar.

“The innovation lab facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and it’s managed 100 per cent by C0-creation Hub, which is arguably the biggest innovation hub in Africa and by highly trained facilitators who take on the wide range of programmes we offer.

“The programmes we offer in the innovation lab cost a significant sum, but it is offered free of charge to participants who come from different parts of Lagos East Senatorial District.

“Since its inception in 2021, the innovation lab has recorded some significant milestones. To date, over 490 participants have benefitted from the several programmes in-person, while over 2000 have participated in the online programmes.”

A Fulfilment of Promise

Also speaking about the innovation hub, Co-Founder, of SAIL Innovation Hub, and Wife of Senator Abiru, Mrs Feyisola Abiru said, the innovation lab isn’t just the birth of a legacy but, a “fulfilment of a promise to make a difference as a representative of the people.

According to her, “Having known Senator Abiru for over 30 years, I can categorically say that the SAIl innovation lab is not just another community project, but a passion, and believes in youth and the power of the right education.

“More importantly, Senator Abiru believes that excellence, hard work and the right experiences can deliver a great future for anyone who chooses to take the lessons. This is a first-of-its-kind in

our district, and so, we can revel in the fact that all of us here are making history together.”

Scaling-up Impact with PPP

Commending the effectiveness of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in scaling up the impacts of initiatives like the SAIL Innovation Lab, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-olu disclosed that his administration would ensure that Lagos State continues to set the pace in the tech space in Nigeria and the continent.

He said the lab would not only provide modern tech skills to cohorts being trained in the facility, but the innovative ideas that would be patented in the lab would enhance the profile of the State as a hub of technology in sub-Saharan Africa.

The Governor said such grassroots innovation workspace needed to be replicated across divisions in the State to create more access for ingenious youths willing to pursue careers in ICT and STEM.

According to him, “Africa missed the first Industrial Revolution, we also missed the second. We started with the Third Industrial Revolution at the tail end. We don’t have any excuse not to be

key stakeholders in the coming Fourth and Fifth Industrial Revolutions, because it is the technology that will give up the leapfrog and make a young person sitting in Ikorodu compete with his peers across innovation capitals of the world.

“Technology is the only tool that will allow us to create our unique solutions to problems we face and position our country as key players in the global technology market.

“I am excited that the SAIL Innovation Lab will be providing more opportunities for our young people to learn, relearn and grow their skills in the tech space and build a prosperous future for not only themselves but also our dear country.

I congratulate Sen. Abiru and his wife for this wonderful intervention.”

Sanwo-Olu added that his administration had been providing the required infrastructure for technology development in the State. He stressed that the intervention had been yielding benefits, noting that Lagos received 65 per cent of technology-driven foreign investments attracted by the country in 2022.

The Governor said Lagos now became the city of choice for six international tech giants, such as Flutterwave, CcHUB, Microsoft, Google, Facebook, and Kasi Cloud.

Lagos Fibre Cable Sanwo-Olu further revealed that the Lagos state through some partners is building a fibre duct

cable across the state, to improve the capability of the Internet, and make it cheaper.

According to him, “We have done over 2,000 kilometres of fibre duct laying in Lagos. We are doing what they call a metropolitan fibre mesh. They (ICT hubs) don’t need to incur that expenditure again.

“With this, the internet will become cheaper; it will become faster and smarter so that the likes of those that will be coming out of SAIL will be globally competitive.”

VP-Elect Goodwill Message

The Vice President-elect who had earlier visited before the arrival of Governor Sanwo-Olu, in his goodwill remarks, commended Senator Abiru and his wife, Mrs. Feyisola Abiru, for the initiative and expressed his confidence in the huge success stories that the innovation lab will birth in the coming days.

Shettima said, “I was overwhelmed with what I saw. It is a world-class facility, erected within the community for the betterment of the community people which is the hallmark of leadership, the epitome of trailblazing service to humanity. I want to commend Senator Abiru and his wife.”

Partners Message

In her goodwill message, Microsoft Country Manager, Ms Ola Williams was thrilled by the passion the Distinguished Senator has for young people.

She said, “He and his wife, through SAIL, have provided a platform for enduring and sustainable development.” She revealed that Microsoft was willing to synergize with SAIL for greater impact.

Also speaking, Meta (Facebook) Head of Public Policy in Nigeria, Adaora Oshodi-Ikenze, described the SAIL Innovation Lab facility as world-class. She said the facility and the quality of faculty can stand shoulder to shoulder with any Innovation Lab in the world.

Similarly, the Managing Director of Bank of Industries, Mr Olukayode Pitan said the SAIL Innovation Lab demonstrates Senator Abiru’s passion for youth development and capacity building. He added that the Innovation Lab will impact greatly on the people of Lagos East Senatorial District.

It is important to note that, the siting of the permanent location of the SAIL Innovation Lab was made possible by the support of the members of the Abiru family who agreed to dedicate their family home for this purpose.

This is in continuation of the legacy of their late patriarch, Senator (Honourable Justice) Mubasheeru Akanbi Abiru, a distinguished jurist and prominent son of Lagos state.

The SAIL Innovation Centre will continue to promote support for youths in the Lagos East Senatorial District, making a difference with the power that digital innovations give.

Interested applicants for training at the lab are therefore encouraged to visit https://www.sailab. ng to fill in their application and wait for other further directives from the facilitators.

The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, alongside Senator Representing Lagos East Senatorial District, Senator Adetokunbo Abiru, his wife, Feyisola, and other dignitaries at the official commissioning of the SAIL Innovation Lab recently held in Ikorodu

This is why the SAIL Innovation Lab has become necessary. It is not a project of the future. It is a project of today, one that needed to be done. Tech is the way and it was important to provide a platform for our ingenious youth in this district

A tour of the SAIL Innovation Lab by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu

A tour of the SAIL Innovation Lab by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu

Vbank, Artsplit Moves to Tap $400m African Art Industry with Loan Offering

Gilbert Ekwugbe

In a bid to tap into the African art industry estimated at $400 million, Nigeria’s leading digital bank managed by VFD Microfinance Bank, Vbank and Artsplit, an art trading technology company, have announced the launch of their new art based loan offering.

Speaking at a press conference to announce the offering, the Chief Executive Officer of Vbank, Gbenga Omolokun said the innovative financing initiative is intended to empower art collectors, galleries and

dealers by allowing them access capital for a variety of purposes by leveraging the value of their artwork.

The Vbank art based loan, he stated, is a unique opportunity for art enthusiasts and businesses to maximize the value of their art collections without having to sell valuable assets.

According to him, “We are thrilled to introduce our art based loan offering, which bridges the gap between art and finance. Our ground-breaking solution enables art collectors and businesses to maximize the

value of their assets while maintaining ownership and control. We are confident that with Artsplit and AAM’s expertise and customized financing options, we can help our clients thrive in the dynamic art market.

“Vbank will offer the loan facility at 30 per cent/a with loan limits of N12 million and N60 million for individuals and corporates respectively. Artsplit will validate provenance, value the artwork and guarantee the loan at 3 per cent fee, custodian fee of 0.5 per cent and additional 1 per cent insurance charge.”

to Discuss Nigeria’s Opportunities at World Chambers Congress

Oye, Iweala

The National President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Dele Oye Esq. and the Director-General of the World Trade Organization, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala are set to take to the world stage to discuss Nigeria’s business opportunities at the World Chambers Congress.

The congress, which is the world’s largest economic forum for chambers and businesses is scheduled to take place in Geneva, Switzerland between June 12 and 23, 2023.

With the theme, “Achieving

peace and prosperity through multilateralism,” the congress in its 13th edition, will bring together economic actors, business leaders, and policymakers from across the globe to exchange experiences and examine issues affecting international trade and businesses, among others with the aim of shaping the next economic era in service of peace and prosperity.

Other speakers expected at the global forum are the DirectorGeneral of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Gilbert Houngbo; Founder and Executive Chairman, World Economic Forum, Klaus

Schwab; President of the World Bank, Ajay Banga; Secretary General of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), John W.H Denton, and Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, among others.

During the World Chambers Congress, Oye, a highly accomplished lawyer with more than thirty-three years of experience in litigation and business transactions, will be sharing insights into the nation’s non-oil export sector, which holds immense potential for economic growth and diversification.

APM Terminals Receives Largest Containership in Apapa

APM Terminals Apapa, on Friday, received the largest containership to ever call at the Lagos Port Complex Apapa to date.

The Singapore-flagged Kota Cantik, operated and managed by Pacific International Lines (PIL), is a 6,606 TEU containership with a draught of 11.6 metres, length overall (LOA) of 300 metres and beam of 40 metres.

The historic berthing of the vessel was witnessed by officials of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), PIL and APM Terminals Apapa.

“We are excited at this historic achievement. We thank the Nigerian Ports Authority for maintaining the channels and for professionally piloting the vessel to the port. Without the effort, support and approval

of NPA, this would not have been possible,” Terminal Manager, APM Terminals Apapa, Steen Knudsen, said.

He said one of the advantages of bigger vessels is economies of scale through lower slot costs for consignees.

Speaking during a reception for the vessel and its crew, the Managing Director of PIL Nigeria, Kevin Taylor, said consignees and the Nigerian economy will benefit from the vessel call.

“The customers in Nigeria have more opportunities to get cargoes in Lagos and also for competitive exports,” Taylor said.

The Port Manager, Lagos Port Complex Apapa, Charles Okaga, said he was excited about the

berthing of the vessel, barely two weeks into his resumption at the port.

“The port is the major trade facilitation platform and when vessels of this type berth, it reduces cost of shipping and consumer goods because all of these costs are put to every shipment,” Okaga said.

The Harbour Master, Lagos Pilotage District, Captain Daniel Osiakagum, said, “This milestone has put Nigerian Ports Authority on the map to say that 300 meters and over will be handled subsequently and we are ready for 350 to 400-metre vessels in Lagos Pilotage District. This means that waiting time will be reduced outside and Nigerian Ports Authority will make more revenue for government.”

THT Organizes Voluntary Blood Donation Drive

In a remarkable display of compassion and solidarity, Total Health Trust Limited recently hosted a voluntary blood donor drive themed “500 pints of blood in a day, it is possible!” The event held on June 14 at the Lagos State Accident and Emergency Centre, Old Toll Gate, Alausa Ikeja saw an impressive turnout of the organization’s staff and that of its sister companies - Tangerine General Insurance, Tangerine Life Insurance, TangerineAPT Pensions, and demonstrating their unwavering commitment to saving lives through blood

donation.

With the support, dedication, and selflessness of its staff, clients, and the partnered facility, Tangerine Group created an atmosphere of hope and positivity that resonated throughout the drive to make a life-saving difference.

During the event, THT’s team of healthcare professionals alongside the Lagos State Accident and Emergency Centre staff ensured that the donation process was safe, efficient and comfortable for donors. Donors were provided with information about the benefits of voluntary

L-R: Managing Director, Pacific International Lines (PIL) Nigeria, Kevin Taylor; Harbour Master, Lagos Pilotage District, Captain Daniel Osiakagum; Commercial Manager, APM Terminals Apapa, Temilade Ogunniyi; the Master of Kota Cantik, Captain Wang Sugang; Port Manager, Lagos Port Complex Apapa, Charles Okaga; Head of Operations, APM Terminals Apapa, Karan Tariyal and Head of Operations, PIL Nigeria, Olawunmi Akinyemi, on Kota Cantik, the largest containership

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage)

blood donation, pre-screened for eligibility, and guided through the donation process with utmost care and expertise.

“We are thrilled and deeply grateful for the overwhelming response we received for our voluntary blood donor drive,” said Toyin Deinde, Chief Operating Officer, of Total Health Trust “The dedication and generosity shown by staff and other donors have reaffirmed our faith in collective resolve to make the society a better place. Together, we have made a significant impact on the lives of those in need.”

The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $84.37 a barrel on Tuesday, compared with $84.59 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT 8 MARCH, 2023

Four Tier-1 Banks’ UK Subsidiaries Declare N49.24bn PBT

Nume Ekeghe

Four Tier-1 Nigerian banks operating in the United Kingdom (UK) reported a sum of N49.24billion profit before tax in 2022 financial year, an increase of 89.63per cent from N25.97billion reported in 2021, THISDAY findings have revealed.

UBA UK, Access Bank UK, GTBank UK, and Zenith Bank

UK had declared N867.36 billion profit before tax in 2022, an increase of 4.3per cent from N831.52 billion reported in 2021.

This means the UK subsidiaries of these four banks contributed about 5.68 per cent of total profit before tax reported in 2022, whilst Nigeria subsidiaries contributed 89 per cent in 2022.

According to THISDAY

investigations from audited 2022 financial year result and accounts, GTBank UK is the only financial institution with loss before tax in the year under review, while UBA migrated from loss before tax, amid growth in its operating income.

The breakdown revealed that Zenith Bank UK reported N20.55billion profit before tax in 2022, an increase of 317.2 per cent from N4.93billion reported in 2021, while The

Access Bank UK declared N25.07billion profit before tax in 2022, an increase of 11 per cent from N22.6billionreported in 2021.

UBA UK migrated from N428million loss before tax in 2021 to N5.24billion in profit before tax in 2022 as GTBank UK posted N1.61billion loss before tax in 2022 from N1.16billion loss before tax reported in 2021.

GTBank UK saw its operat-

ing expenses spike in 2022 and regulatory sanctions, two major contributing factors to its loss in the year under review.

The Banking subsidiary of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc in UK over the years continued to report losses despite growing deposit and lending to customers.

In 2022FY, GTBank UK declared N10.33billion gross earnings, 117.1 per cent high from N4.76billion in 2021 but

closed the year with N1.61 billion loss in 2022 from N1.17billion loss reported in 2021.

Amid decline in loss, GTBank UK saw its Return on Average Equity (RoAE) at -9.4 per cent in 2022 from -6.3 per cent reported in 2021. GTBank UK in 2020 financial year had reported N1.62billion loss before tax and in 2019, it declared N985.48million profit before tax.

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF JUNE/16/23

MOST OUTSTANDING COMPANY LEADERSHIP GENDER DIVERSITY BANK…

Tinubu to Fathers: You Are Shapers of Nigeria's Future

Obaseki, Shaibu hail fathers

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has celebrated the role of Nigerian fathers saying they are the shapers of the nation's

future.

The President, in his Father's Day message to Nigerian men, posted yesterday on his verified Twitter handle, @officialABAT,

acknowledged the role of fathers, which has continued to make mark on the fabric of the society. According to him, through their unwavering support and guidance

towards their children, fathers have continued to instill the values of compassion, resilience, and integrity. Tinubu wrote on his twitter handle: "On this joyous occasion

Atiku, Sanwo-Olu Congratulate Anaba, Others, Hail NGE for Successful Conference

Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Segun

James in Lagos

Former Vice President of Nigeria and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2023 election, Atiku Abubakar and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu have congratulated the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) for a successful election of its executive officers.

Atiku, in a statement signed by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, yesterday, specifically felicitated the newly elected President of the NGE, Eze Anaba and other officials of the Guild.

Atiku noted that the theme of this year’s NGE conference titled: ‘Post 2023 Election: Promoting Professionalism for Enhancement of Democracy and Good Governance,” was a reflection of the mandate of the NGE as gatekeepers of the media, to ensure that democracy thrives in

the country.

“The theme of the National Biennial Convention was germane. The huge attendance, arguably the highest in the history of the conference, is an indication of the priority that the editors attach to the task of pulling Nigeria out from the brink.

“To this end, I am happy that the media in Nigeria is still a partner in progress as far as the fight for deepening democracy is concerned.

“I will urge the newly elected president and other executive members of the NGE to continue keeping focus on safeguarding democracy as a tool for rallying citizens to development,” Atiku said.

In a related development, SanwoOlu has congratulated Anaba, on his election as the NGE President.

Sanwo-Olu in a statement, yesterday, said the election of Anaba, as president of NGE was a testament

to the trust and belief his colleagues have in him and other executive members elected to steer the ship of the Nigeria Guild of Editors for the next two years.

Sanwo-Olu who commended the immediate past President, Mr. Mustapha Isah, for his leadership attributes and successful tenure, also congratulated the newly elected executive members of the NGE.

He said Anaba and other executives of the NGE over the years had proved their mettle in journalism and the media industry, adding that he had no doubt that they would continue with the tradition of excellence, nobility and professionalism that have been the hallmarks of the profession.

He said: "The election of Mr. Eze Anaba as President of Nigeria Guild of Editors is deserving, considering his experience, commitment, and long years of service in the media

industry and NGE in particular.

"He is a seasoned journalist and media manager with a proven track record of excellence in journalism. I believe his election as President of the NGE will contribute positively to the media industry.

“I want to urge the President and other executive members of the Nigeria Guild of Editors to bring their wealth of experience to bear in strengthening the media industry, particularly the journalism profession, working with other stakeholders to wage a war against fake news, which is threatening the social fabric of our society today.

"I also want to appeal to the new NGE executives to see their new leadership positions as a crucial assignment for the press to be more circumspect and developmental in its role as the watchdog of society," Sanwo-Olu advised NGE executives.

Abbas: 10th House Will Work for All Nigerians

Udora Orizu in Abuja

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen

Abbas, has assured the people that the 10th House of Representatives would work for all Nigerians.

He said the overwhelming mandate given to him by his colleagues would spur him to work assiduously with every member to achieve a Nigeria that every citizen desires.

Abbas spoke at the weekend in Abuja, when he led a delegation of members, alongside his deputy, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, to thank the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for the support given to them to emerge the Presiding Officers of the 10th House.

He said they did not take the First Lady's support for granted, and that the 10th House would give the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration all the support to succeed.

Abbas said the current administration would have a smooth sail as the President, the Vice President, the First Lady, the Chief of Staff to the President, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation were all members of the National Assembly, a development that would make them relate with the Parliament from the point of knowledge, saying it was the first time Nigeria would have this kind of arrangement and the 10th House would ensure that the government succeeds.

He said: "Today is a very historic day. We have come to thank you for your support. We were here before to seek your support and prayers. Here we are today; we have won. It was through your collective efforts – Mr. President, yourself, governors and all the other stakeholders.

“We have emerged in an unprecedented manner – 353 out of 359 voted for me. It has never happened in our history. Our leadership is a leadership for all Nigerians. This is your leadership. We'll collaborate and partner, particularly in one area that you requested last time, which is to carry the women along."

He added that the 10th House would ensure that gender-based bills being passed by the 9th Assembly but

not signed into law were reconsidered and passed by the 10th House.

The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, in her remark, congratulated the Speaker and his deputy on their victory, saying with the caliber of leadership and membership of the 10th Assembly, Nigeria would be great again.

"We didn't come out to play. We came out to build and unite the old path that generations will take. Nigeria deserves all that we can put to keep it back on its feet. We have a great Nation," she said.

Earlier, the Deputy Speaker, Kalu, said the visit was to thank the First Lady and assure the first family of their readiness to work with the Executive for the growth and development of Nigeria.

of Father's Day, we come together to honor the remarkable fathers who have left an indelible mark on the lives of their children and the fabric of our society.

"Your love, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication are a testament to the extraordinary role you play in shaping the future.

"To all the fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, and father figures who have embraced the responsibilities of fatherhood with open arms, we extend our deepest gratitude.

"Your presence in the lives of your children brings strength, stability, and endless possibilities. Through your unwavering support and guidance, you instill in them the values of compassion, resilience, and integrity. We celebrate you today and always. Happy Father’s Day."

Meanwhile, Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has hailed fathers for their sacrifices and roles in maintaining the unity of the family unit and contributing to the development of society.

He reassured that the government would continue to ensure reforms and programmes to open up more economic opportunities so that fathers can satisfactorily meet up to their responsibilities amid the current economic realities.

The governor, who said this in commemoration of Father’s Day, maintained that men play critical roles in homes, workplaces and society and deserve praise for their indispensable role in shaping families and society.

According to him, “Today, we celebrate the indispensable role fathers play in our families and their invaluable contributions to the development and progress of our society. Fathers are not only providers but also nurturers, mentors, and pillars of strength.

“They ensure a harmonious and loving atmosphere within the home, fostering unity, understanding, and mutual respect among family members. The guidance, love, and support of the father shape the character and future of our children, instilling in them values that will contribute to a progressive and prosperous society.”

He added, “In Edo State, we are blessed with fathers who have sired children and raised them up to effectively represent the state nationally and in the Diaspora.

Today, we can boast of Edolites who are doing well globally in all spheres of life.”

The governor further noted, “As a government, we are well aware of the economic challenges faced by families in recent times, particularly due to the increase in the prices of goods and services following the removal of fuel subsidy by the federal government. We understand the impact this has on your daily lives, knowing that providing for your families is a top priority for you, and are committed to easing the burden you face at this very challenging time.

“While we are intensifying efforts to mitigate the impact of this tough policy on families and ensure that your hard-earned income stretches further, we will sustain reforms and programmes to open up more economic opportunities so that you can satisfactorily meet up to your responsibilities amid the current economic realities.”

Relatedly, Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, yesterday, urged parents to teach their children the virtues of godliness and moral discipline, by putting them through the way of the Lord.

Speaking shortly after mass, in celebration of the annual event, at the St. Paul's Catholic Church, Benin City, the Deputy Governor noted in a statement that, "mothers should ensure their children understand what fathers are doing to keep the home running."

"As head of the family, every father should sustain that headship, but not to be autocratic.

"We must also love our wives, because God said so. Women must also be submissive to their husbands.

"I pray as we celebrate today, God will continue to grant all of us the grace, wisdom, knowledge and understanding to help our families grow.

“Growth in the society starts from the family and when families do the right thing, the society will be better for us.”

He added: “I pray God to grant all fathers and would-be fathers their heart desires and sustain us, so that we will be able to provide for our families as well as show our children the way of the Lord.

L – R: Deputy Managing Director, South, Access Bank Plc, Chizoma Okoli; Chairman, Nigerian Exchange Limited, Dr. Umaru Kwairanga; Group Managing Director, Access Bank Plc, Roosevelt Ogbonna; and Group Head, W initiative, Access Bank Plc, Abiodun Olubitan; at the Gender Leader Awards (GLA) where Access Bank was recognized as the most outstanding Company Leadership Gender Diversity Bank, Family-Friendly Workplace Excellence Organization, and as well as Gender Equality Champion Financial Organization of the year in Lagos on Friday SUNDAY ADIGUN

Lagos governor charges new executives to strengthen media industry

SIGNING CEREMONY AND LAUNCH OF NEW PRODUCT "VBANK'S ART BASED LOANS"...

Fresh Crisis Brews in PDP Over Minority House Leaders

NWC members unaware of Chinda’s emergence

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

A fresh Crisis is brewing within the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over the alleged emergence of Hon. Kingsley Chinda as the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives.

The media was awash with

the election of Chinda who is the House of Representatives member representing former governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, as the House leader. Two members of the PDP contacted over the issue told THISDAY yesterday that they were not aware of the emergence of Chinda, because the party has

not taken any position on the Minority offices of the National Assembly The NEC member told THISDAY that as far as the PDP was concerned, the issue of the election or nomination of minority officers in the National Assembly was yet to be discussed.

On June 12 , the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Debo Ologunagba issued a statement, stating that the party had not directed the appointment of the minority leaders of the Senate and House of Representatives yet.

the emergence of the Presiding Officers of the two chambers of the National Assembly on Tuesday, June 13, 2023 and will not allow any distractions at this moment.”

PSC

Approves New Policy Guidelines on Deployment of AIGs, CPs, Tactical Commanders

The Police Sevice Commission (PSC), weekend, approved new policy guidelines for deployment of management and tactical commanders in the Nigeria Police Force and the imperativeness for gender-sensitivity in the deployment of Assistant Inspectors-General of Police and Commissioners of Police to zonal and state command headquarters.

A statement signed by the spokesman of the commission, Ikechukwu Ani, said the commission considered and approved the policy guidelines at its 21st Plenary Meeting which held at its Corporate Headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, on Thursday, June 15th 2023 and presided over by its Chairman, Dr. Solomon Arase.

The commission said the Nigeria Police Force should be guided by the principle of federal character in both recruitment (at all levels) and deployment of its personnel at management and tactical levels to ensure balance, equity and fairness in the system.

It observed that the current deployment of commissioners of police to state commands left much to be desired in reflecting the principle of equity and fairness to all geo-political zones of the country, stressing that the current statistics of such deployments was against the North-east and South-east geopolitical zones. The commission further observed the disproportional distribution and lopsided deployment of command commissioners and noted that it has become extremely important that a fair representation of all geo-political zones was always reflected in these deployments to eschew and address the feeling and sense of

marginalisation and injustice by certain zones of the country in the Nigeria Police Force.

The commission at plenary and relying on Section 6(e) and (7) of the Police Service Commission Act, which empowers the commission to 'formulate and implement policies aimed at the efficiency and discipline in the Nigeria Police Force and perform such other functions, which in the opinion of the commission were required to ensure the optimal efficiency of the Nigeria Police Force considered and approved the new policy guidelines.

"Henceforth request for deployment of Commissioners of Police to State Commands must ensure that the disadvantaged zones are considered first in the proposals to the commission in order to redress the present imbalance and lopsided deployments skewed against the North-east and South-east regions of the country.

"All geo-political zones of the country must now have at least 15 percent representation in the deployment of Assistant Inspectors-General of Police to zones, Commissioners of Police to State Commands and posting of Commanding Officers of Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism CTU and Special Protection Unit (SPU).

"That all police deployments to zones and commands at both management (Deputy Commissioners of Police and Assistant Commissioners of Police and tactical levels (Commanding Officers of PMF/ SPU/CTU, must recognise our heterogeneity and reflect fairness and equity in terms of ethnicity and religion," it said.

"As far as we are concerned, our position remains the statement issued by the party on June 12 2023,” the NWC member said.

According to the party, "For clarity, the PDP is on the same page with our lawmakers-elect in focusing, for now, on maximizing our numerical strength with other opposition Parties to determine

But on Saturday morning, it was reported that Chinda had emerged as the Minority Leader of the 10th House of Representatives. This reportedly followed the withdrawal of Hon. Oluwole Oke (PDP-Osun), who was his main

contender from the race. Ali Isah (PDP-Gombe) was also reported to have emerged the Minority Whip of the 10th Assembly of the House. Another member of the NEC who did not want to be quoted told THISDAY that no official confirmation could be volunteered before Monday, adding that to appoint Chinda would mean rewarding Wike for his anti-party activities against the party.

NAHCON, Arik Air Set to Seal Deal to Airlifit 7,000 Pilgrims to Saudi Arabia

Hammed Shittu in Makkah

National Hajji Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), yesterday, said it has concluded arrangement to enter into agreement with the Arik Air that would see the airlifting of 7,000 pilgrims from the Private Tour Operators sector that paid to be airlifted to Saudi Arabia for this year’s hajji operations before the closure of Jeddah International Airport.

The Commission added that, it has so far injected resources to keep this contract alive as well as exploring other options of engaging more local and foreign airlines to conclude the airlift of

private tour operators’ pilgrims.

"The intending pilgrims at Lagos departure center that began some agitations are advised to calm down and await their airlift to Saudi Arabia soonest," it said.

A statement by its Assistant Director, Public Affairs, Hajia Fatima Sanda Usara, stated that, "the Commission is not unaware of the situation and had before now deployed all its resources to arrest the situation before it turns irredeemable. Information reaching the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, from the Private Tour Operators’ sector especially from the Lagos axis,

calls for concern.

"The Commission is not unaware of the situation and had before now deployed all its resources to arrest the situation before it turns irredeemable. NAHCON is about to seal a fresh deal that would see all pilgrims from the private sector that paid to be airlifted by Arik Air securely in Saudi Arabia as planned.

"Indeed, NAHCON entered agreement with Arik Air to transport about 7,000 pilgrims registered with the private travel agencies for the 2023 Hajj. Arik on its part signed the deal with a Saudi based airline to ferry

its allocation using two aircraft to be stationed in Lagos, Kano and Abuja.

"The said airline actually provided the agreed aircraft but having conveyed the first set of pilgrims to Saudi Arabia, it never returned to finish its job. This led to pilgrims feeling abandoned.

"In fairness to both Arik and its partner, funds that were supposed to be advanced for the engagement was yet to be released at the time of airlift due to certain financial restrictions, a development that crippled the agreement despite NAHCON’s assurances.”

I’ll Not Interfere in Selection of New Monarch, Oyebanji Tells Ikogosi Kingmakers

Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has cautioned kingmakers in his Ikogosi Ekiti hometown, not to involve him in the selection process for a new traditional ruler for the town, stressing that he would not be part of the process. Instead, he urged the kingmakers and the chiefs to allow God guide them to do the right thing and select for the town

a new monarch whose qualities would surpass that of the late Onikogosi of Ikogosi, HRM Oba Abiodun Olorunnisola.

Oyebanji stated this during his remarks at the burial service for the late Oba Olorunsola held at the First Baptist, Ikogosi-Ekiti on Saturday.

The service was attended by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye; President, Nigeria Baptist Convention, Rev’d (Dr)

Israel Akanji, traditional rulers and prominent citizens of the town.

Describing the late monarch as an exemplar whose main focus in life was the development of people around him and his community at large, the governor urged the kingmakers and Onikogosi-inCouncil to pray for the right choice who would continue the good work of development of the late Oba Olrunsola.

He expressed appreciation to the traditional council in the

state for their dedication to the service of their communities and ensuring peace and tranquility in their respective domains. He also thanked them for coming out in large numbers to give their last respect to one of them. He commended the children of the late monarch for giving their father a befitting burial and prayed God to grant them the grace to sustain his legacies of hard work, commitment to development and service to the people.

L-R: Chief Financial Officer, ARTSPLIT - Olaere Sarah Doumu; Executive Director Finance and Operations, ARTSPLIT - Rotimi Awofisibe; Managing Director, VBank - Gbenga Omolokun; Chairman, ARTSPLIT LLC - Billy Osemwengi; and Senior Wealth Advisor, Anchoria Asset Management - Esther Ugwu at the signing ceremony and launch of new product "VBank's Art Based Loans."

SERVING AT MASS TO COMMEMORATE FATHER'S DAY...

Wike: How PDP Members Poisoned Me in 2018

Says all evil plots against him failed Appreciates God for healing wife of cancer

Tinubu describes ex-Rivers gov as a dogged fighter

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Former Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike, yesterday, recalled how he was poisoned by members of his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2018, and thanked God for saving his life and family from all political gang-up while he was in office.

Wike, who spoke at a family thanksgiving service organised in his honour at St. Peter's Anglican Church, Rumuepirikom, Obio/ Akpor, also appreciated God for his wife, Justice Eberechi Suzzette Nyesom-Wike, for surviving cancer. The former governor, who said he could not talk about his triumph in office as governor without attributing the victories to God, explained that in 2018, he was poisoned at the campaign secretariat of the PDP, and experienced liver and kidney failure as diagnosed in a hospital in Beirut, Lebanon.

Also, President Bola Tinubu, has described Wike as a dogged fighter who stood for fairness, equity and justice.

Telling his story, Wike said, on a Sunday in December 2018, when he was due to attend the thanksgivings of his former Chief of Staff, Chief Emeka Woke, he was incapacitated to attend the event because he had been poisoned.

"From that Sunday, I never came down from my room. It was bad, but those who attended the January 1st, State banquet of 2019, will know that I never spoke that day. I just sat down there and I told my deputy governor to speak on my behalf.

"People didn't know what was going on. After that banquet, by 12 midnight, I was taken out of the country, because I thought it was over. When we got to Beirut, the doctors looked at me and I was looking at them. They were not telling me anything, they said we have to do many test."

Mutfwang Charges Security to Go After Bandits as Gunmen Kill Another Eight in Plateau

Seriki Adinoyi in Jos

No fewer than eight persons were at the weekend killed by gunmen in a fresh attack on Kak, Ranyam, Nging, Lohala, and Buka communities of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, forcing Governor Caleb Mutfwang of the state to charge security agents to immediately go after the bandits, and deploying more personnel to the rural areas.

A youth leader in Jos, Mr. Solomon Dalyop, who confirmed the killings said, “So far, we have confirmed that eight persons have been killed in the attack. What we don’t understand is that before the attack took place in the night, some soldiers had visited the communities in the afternoon.

“We are surprised that the assailants carried out the attacks successfully without being apprehended by the soldiers and the security agents, who

are within the community. I, therefore, call for an investigation into the activities of the personnel of the military taskforce deployed to maintain peace in Plateau communities.”

He lamented that a total of 276 persons had been killed in different communities in the past month following the persistent attacks with over 30,000 persons now being displaced.

But the governor, in a statement by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Mr. Gyang Bere, condemned the attacks, urging the security agencies to be more diligent in their responsibility of protecting the people.

He called for the redeployment of more personnel to the communities that are under attack to prevent further destruction of lives and properties and reassured the people of his commitment to addressing their plights, particularly the issues of insecurity.

Wike explained that the next morning the doctors returned and presented a gloomy report that his kidney and liver were no longer functioning.

"I never knew that I had been poisoned in our campaign secretariat. My intestinal were all black. The doctors did all they could do," adding that, through divine providence, what would have been a disastrous situation was miraculously turned around by God, who immediately began to restore his failed organs.

He said within one week, God healed him and he was able to return to Nigeria to continue with the 2019 campaign for his second term in office, adding also that in the days leading to the 2022 PDP presidential campaign, his wife, Eberechi, called him from London that she had been diagnosed of cancer.

The former governor said he was devastated by the news and even contemplated leaving the presidential race, but his wife urged him not to, and that to the glory of God , she was eventually healed of cancer and

her life preserved. According to him, God went further to grant him and the state a smooth political transition amidst gang-up that was staged by the same people, who promised to abide by the collective decision of Rivers elders over who becomes his successor.

Wike, however, said because the right successor was chosen, he was already enjoying peace. Speaking too, Tinubu, who described Wike as a dogged fighter, who stood for fairness, equity and justice, said Wike has since 1999 distinguished himself in public office as a worthy patriot, a detribalised and outstanding Nigerian, who truly deserves to be celebrated.

The president, who was represented by the Lagos State governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said the former governor Wike was not just a brother of his, but a worthy patriot, whom he respected.

“He is a worthy patriot. He is a man that is completely detribalised. He is an outstanding Nigerian. He is a pride to the

Niger Delta, he is a pride to Rivers State, he is worthy a Nigerian,” he said.

Tinubu explained that he admired Wike for standing for his conviction and also for distinguishing himself in past 24 years in public service first as a former local government chairman, then former chief of staff to a governor, a former minister and of course, two term governor of Rivers State “Nyesom Wike has served this state (Rivers) very well. Nyesom WIke has served this country very well and he deserves every recognition and every applause we are all giving to him today as a dogged fighter, as a man that believes in fairness, in equity and justice. He has continuously stood for what is right and proper and what is just.”

The incumbent governor, Siminalayi Fubara, said he was part of the political family of Wike, which was attacked by the political foes, but they failed to achieve their objectives, saying because of the culture of thanksgiving, Wike has continued to experience

political victories.

Bishop of Niger Delta North diocese of the Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev. Wisdom Ihunwo, admonished the congregation to always remember that without God, no man could attain any position.

Those who graced the thanksgiving were, President Bola Tinubu, who was represented by the governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio, his deputy, Senator, Jibrin Barau, Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Hope Uzodinma (Imo), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi), and Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau).

Others were former governors of Ebonyi State, Senator David Umahi, Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti), Ayo Fayose (Ekiti), James Ibori (Delta), Dr Peter Odili (Rivers), Samuel Ortom (Benue), Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu), Dr Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), Abdullahi Ganduje (Kano), Ibrahim Dankwambo (Gombe), Jonah Jang (Plateau), and Olusegun Mimiko (Ondo), among others.

Stop El-Rufai from Causing Religious War, MiddleBelt Leaders Tell DSS

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF), has urged the Department of State Service (DSS), to place former Kaduna State governor, Nasir el-Rufai, on its radar in order to prevent him from causing a religious war in Nigeria.

The MBF, which made the appeal in a statement yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Isuwa Dogo, said the exgovernor's recent statement was capable of setting adherents of both religions on war path.

The statement read: "The MBF calls on the Nigerian security agencies not only to place the former governor under its radar, but he should be invited by the secret police for a chat. Considering the comments he

made before the clerics, the man who suffers from an inferiority complex must be considered a dangerous politician riding on the wings of religion for relevance.

"We hereby denounce elRufai’s comments before the clerics as a shameless act of national hypocrisy steeped in the premeditated plot to set adherents of both religions on war path."

The former governor while addressing a select group of Islamic clerics after the conclusion of the presidential and governorship polls, hinted that he plotted the same-faith ticket in the state and replicated it at the federal level.

The former governor recalled that he, with others, were determined to ensure the

Muslim-Muslim ticket was sustained for another 20 years to ensure Christians come to terms with the indispensability of the same-faith ticket as a panacea for peace in both the state and the federal level.

The MBF, however, said, "What he never told his selected preachers was that the state he ruled and ruined for eight years was turned into Nigeria’s headquarters of kidnappings and human barbarities that led to the murder of tens of thousands of people and decimation of over 100 communities under his watch.

"The MBF, as the sociocultural organisation for ethnic nationalities that are mostly Christians of the Middle Belt Region, is outraged by the deceitful attempts by el-Rufai and his nebulous co-travellers

to push our nation down the slippery slope of religious tension and bigotry.

"The outrage over the el-Rufai video clip demonstrates the level of disappointment by Nigerians over the former governor’s outburst that was aimed at inflaming religious conflagration in order to destabilise the Nigerian State.

"The unfortunate comments by this bigot, who is erroneously thought of as a nationalist and public intellectual, portray him as a divisive leader, who not only thrives in creating chaos, but also reveal him as an irredeemable religious extremist, whose antecedents as governor showcase him as a treacherous enemy of Nigeria that must be barred from the corridor of power.”

Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu leads Rev Fr Edwin Omorogbe and other mass servers to commence service in commemoration of the 2023 Father's Day Celebration at St Paul's Catholic Church, Benin...yesterday

THANKSGIVING SERVICE IN HONOUR OF LATE OBONG...

L-R: Son in-law to the deceased, Managing Director, UTM Offshore Limited, UTMOL, Mr. Julius Rone; Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori: widow, Mrs. Beatrice Ukpong Umoh and daughter of the deceased, Yutee Rone during the funeral and thanksgiving service in honour of late Obong Ukpong Dan Umoh in Uyo…Saturday

How Buhari, Judge Cleared Former NIA Boss, Oke, of Corruption Charges

Before he left office on May 29, former President Muhammadu Buhari cleared the former Director General of the National Intelligence Agency, Ayodele Oke, of the allegations of corruption levelled against him.

Multiple sources revealed that the former president's action came after the NIA and the EFCC settled the misunderstanding between them, agreeing that in the interest of national security, and that the money had been forfeited to the government, it was okay to work towards terminating the case started six years ago.

In April 2017, EFCC operatives busted an apartment in Ikoyi, Lagos, and seized $43,449,947, £27,800 and N23,218,000 kept in bags.

"It's true that money was found in the apartment. But was a crime committed from an intelligence operations point of view? The answer is no. We make use of cash because we don't have to use receipts," an NIA source said of the recovered money.

"The money was meant for a project of national interest. As a result of that seizure, we could not carry out the project and

Nigeria did not benefit. It will take us another 4-5 years to get to where we were at that time."

Following the discovery of the money, the Nigerian government filed a suit against Oke and his wife before a federal high court in Lagos. In March 2019, Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke issued an arrest warrant for the couple.

The money was later forfeited to the government.

Another source at the agency insisted that the money was not hidden, as speculated in the media, but was kept in the apartment because the vault where it would have normally been kept was undergoing renovation.

"The money was eventually forfeited to the federal government but we have reapplied for it. After realising that no crime was committed, the [former] president gave his nod that the two agencies (EFCC and NIA) settle their differences," the source said.

Following the president's directive, the NIA wrote to the EFCC leadership soliciting the closure of the case because of its negative impact on the intelligence agency.

On June 9, Justice Aneke struck out the suit following an application to withdraw the charges against Oke and his wife from the prosecution.

"The wife was just a victim of the intelligence mix. She had no knowledge of what was going on," said the source.

It was also gathered that both

agencies confirmed that between what was appropriated to the NIA and what was paid back to the government, nothing was amiss. But intelligence sources said the unnecessary publicity generated by the seizure of the money impacted negatively on Nigeria's intelligence capacity.

"Nigeria is worse off because

in the last six years, the security situation has not improved. If this action had not taken place, maybe we'd be at a different place," said the source. The whole operation will now have to be restarted."

Another source who described Oke as, perhaps, the most stellar name Nigeria has produced in the intelligence space, said the

EFCC and NIA have agreed to work together in the national interest.

He said the matter was quietly struck out in court last week because the two agencies know that there is no gain in publicity. "Intelligence activities worldwide are not publicised," he added.

EU to Sponsor Young Fashion Designer to Madrid Fashion Week

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The European Union (EU) is sponsoring a young Nigerian fashion designer to this year’s Madrid Fashion week holding in September.

This was the prize for winning the 2023 Europe Day Afro-Euro Runway fashion show held in Abuja at the weekend.

The young Nigerian, Oyindamola Aleshinloye, with

the brand name “Kadiju” would be in Madrid being the winner of the maiden edition of the Fashion Show organised by EU. Aleshinloye, was declared winner from among the seven finalists who had emerged from 124 young Nigerian designers who sent in their entries.

According to the judges, the winner was picked using the five components of the theme of the competition, namely: Interpretation of Afro-Euro

fusion; Creativity; Execution; Cohesiveness and Presentation; and Story-telling.

Samira Mohammed a.k.a Sultana came second, Oluchi George a.k.a Malite was third, and Happiness Miwori a.k.a Jasmineafrik came fourth.

The first to third runner up went home with different prizes.

Speaking earlier, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and West Africa, Ms. Samuela Isopi, said that the Afro-Euro initiative

identified talents. According to her, fashion is the culture and innovation was needed in the fashion industry.

“2023 is the European year of skills. So this will bring about skills and innovation in the fashion industry for young people,” she said. She added that the fashion runway showcased both African and European designs which have promoted both continents’ cultural and fashion diversity.

AMCON Exonerates Arik Air Receivership Manager, Alleges Airline Founder Owes Agency N240bn

Shareholders: Airline valued at $3.7bn in 2014, request for statement of company’s

Chinedu Eze

The Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) has exonerated Arik Air’s Receiver Manager, Kamilu Omokide Alaba, insisting that the founder of the airline, Sir Arumemi Johnson owed AMCON N240 billion and described him as a bully borrower.

The airline made the allegation in a statement, which was in response to recent media reports concerning the Economic and Financial Crimes (EFCC) investigation into its affairs, signed by Simon Tumba of SY & T Communications Ltd, its PR Consultants.

The statement emphasised that the reports unjustifiably, and without verification of the facts, linked the Receiver Manager of Arik to financial fraud within Arik.

It explained that the investigation was based on a petition filed by Mr. Femi Falana (SAN) allegedly instigated by Sir Arumemi Johnson, the majority shareholder in Arik, who owed AMCON about N240 billion as at May 31, 2023.

It pointed out that Johnson guaranteed and by law remains an obligor in respect of the indebtedness and personally liable for them.

The statement noted that the wild allegations of the misappropriation of N120 billion in the petition were manifestly and patently false, adding that it amounted to no more than, “well-concocted lies as part of a deliberate campaign of calumny against the Receiver Manager to abort the ongoing receivership in Arik. Indeed, even on the face of the petition, the claims do not add up to N120 billion. It is made up

as a publicity stunt.”

“The petition intentionally presents a disingenuous and deceptive portrayal of actions which are the typical responsibilities and actions of a Receiver/Manager - falsely implying criminal intent.

“The reality is very different: it is instead that the Receiver Manager seeks only to recover for the Nigerian people, monies owed to them by this recalcitrant debtor.

“The Receiver Manager has been transparent in his dealings in Arik.

The petition as has been presented in the media, suggests underhand sales of assets, including a number of CRJ Aircraft. These Aircraft were never owned by Arik.

“They were simply leased by Arik. The planes were owned by JEM Leasing Limited and JEM Air Limited (both foreign companies)

and financed by Export Development Canada (a Crown entity of the Government of Canada) (EDC). These two foreign companies and EDC were the principal actors in the sale of the said Aircraft.

“The Receiver Manager has no influence in respect of the exercise of mortgage rights by a mortgagee. This has been clearly affirmed by EDC who have unequivocally confirmed, including through diplomatic channels, that it was it and the two foreign companies that sold these assets. The accusations against the Receiver Manager are therefore, cynical and unfounded,” the statement said.

It went further to explain that the petition suggested a criminal intent in respect of the JV financing of certain wet lease operations, stating that the JV financings were innovative ways

affairs

of raising capital due to restrictions on Arik borrowing powers– as it is a company that was technically insolvent and being kept alive only by the magnanimity of AMCON, and federal aviation agencies.

“Furthermore, the petition raises concerns about the teardown of a Boeing 737-700 Aircraft registered as 5N-MJI – which had been abandoned and cannibalised in Malta ever since 2013 by Arik under the then leadership of Sir Johnson, and years before the receivership commenced.

“This was a professionally taken decision on an aircraft that was Beyond Economic Repairs (BER) and stood the chance of being sent to the graveyard by authorities of the relevant airport in Malta.

“The pre-teardown valuation of the Aircraft by McLarens (a foremost Aircraft valuation company) valued

the Aircraft at USD1.5Million. This was however seized by Lufthansa Technik over Arik’s indebtedness incurred pre-receivership,” it added. It further stated, “All patriotic Nigerians should be deeply concerned by the influence peddling of a recalcitrant debtor to instigate security agencies against a ‘public-interest’ receivership. “The desperate resort by Sir Arumemi Johnson to all forms of bullying, ‘shake down attempts’ and other underhand tactics is pitiful. The tactics have been deployed, and are still being deployed, in contempt of existing court orders, and in respect of matters that are currently before various courts, and it is worrisome that the EFCC is being sought to be used to overreach the courts which are seized of these matters.

OR GO BLANK

Trade Organisation [WTO] that sprouted out of them, why is it silent these days?

Are we no longer trading?

Okay, Warsaw Pact was formally dissolved with the collapse of the Soviet Bloc in 1991. Why can’t they revive it, since NATO is still menacingly around? Maybe if Donald Trump had secured a second term as US President, he might have dissolved NATO too, chummy as he is with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Warsaw Pact used to have more tanks than NATO; it is a shame that the Russian army today is barely holding on to Bakhmut after 16 months of “special military operation.”

Along with Warsaw Pact also went COMECON, Council for Mutual Economic Assistance, the Eastern counterpart of EU. In the mid-1980s, my Polish teacher Professor Robert Miodonski complained to me that COMECON disallowed Poland from making tractors, and that it must buy them from Bulgaria or Romania while it is assigned to manufacture something else. I thought centralized planning on a regional scale was not a bad idea, though I did not tell Miodonski that, lest he failed me in the Advanced Physiology course. Afterall, Dr. Yusuf Bala Usman had been saying that West Africa must also engage in region-wide planning because “if Nigeria achieves prosperity, the Ghanaians will come. There is nothing you can do about it.”

Why should COMECON disappear when West Europeans have been steadily building on their own institutions, from European Coal and Steel Community in 1951 to European Economic Community in 1958 to European Union in 1993 to Euro Zone in 1999, with others to spare

such as OECD? I get the impression that East Europeans cannot sustain anything for long. Where is the Commonwealth of Independent States, CIS, that was formed by the 15 former Soviet Republics when Boris Yeltsin led them to dissolve the Soviet Union in 1990? Is it still there? If Russia and Ukraine were still together in CIS, would they be fighting today all the way from Kharkiv to Crimea?

Let’s be frank; we Africans are often no better than the East Europeans in sustaining regional institutions. Where is the East African Community [EAC] of Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, of which we heard so much when we were school kids? They even had a joint airline, railway and customs’ union. It was petty quarrel between Jomo Kenyatta, Julius Nyerere and Idi Amin that sank EAC in 1977, a big shame if you ask me. Where is SADCC, Southern African Development Coordination Conference that we once heard so much about? Is it that South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe and their neighbours are now so developed that they don’t need to coordinate matters? What of the Maghreb Union of Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Mauritania? If the East African Bantus could not sustain a union, you mean the North African Arabs and Berbers, of the former Barbary Coast, also cannot sustain one?

Organisation of American States [OAS] was once much more visible than it is today. Never mind the US effort to keep Cuba out of it, or to punish any member that veered to the Left, such as Venezuela under Hugo Chavez, Nicaragua under the Sandinistas or Grenada under Prime Minister Maurice Bishop. Ok, where is Arab Rejectionist Front that once included

ANATOMY OF PRESIDENTIAL ENGAGEMENT

their pulse, understand their views, dreams, and aspirations, and making decisions that will help actualise his vision for Nigeria and reflect the broader interests of the nation.

Second, engaging with citizens and multiple stakeholders fosters transparency and accountability in governance. By listening to the concerns and feedback of the people, the President can address their grievances, respond to their needs, and explain the rationale behind governmental actions. This helps build trust between the government and the citizens and enhances transparency in decision-making processes. We are a country with a rich cultural, ethnic, religious, and socioeconomic diversity.

Third, by listening to the concerns of different stakeholders, the President identifies potential conflicts early on and works towards peaceful resolutions. The way the President handled the labour negotiation that led to a quick resolution and how he listened and explained the issue of unification of the exchange rates give ample proof of the efficacy of his communication style . Open dialogue and inclusive decision-making can help prevent or mitigate social unrest and promote national unity. These engagements with multiple stakeholders bring diverse expertise, experiences, and knowledge to the table, which can contribute to the formulation of more effective and wellrounded policies. This can lead to better outcomes and solutions for the country's challenges.

We may wonder why President BAT's continuous engagement and communication with citizens, stakeholders and other special interests deserve close observation. Let us examine three significant reasons.

Undoubtedly, our multi-party general elections produced a president with just about 36% of the voters voting for him and the rest for the other parties. The president understands there was a need for building consensus quickly in his presidency to bring everybody together and lead Nigeria not as an APC president but as the President of Nigeria. This constant engagement is even more crucial at this stage because he does not have a cabinet yet, so it falls on him to make the engagements and decisions and communicate them. This level of engagement may reduce a bit when his full cabinet is in full swing.

The second reason is that the President uses the opportunity to familiarise himself with different issues and perspectives.

This allows the President to stay attuned to the evolving concerns and priorities of the people. By actively listening to citizens and stakeholders, the President can identify emerging challenges and respond effectively with policies that address current needs. It is an avenue for feedback on government policies and programmes. The President gains diverse insights and expertise by engaging with different stakeholders, including civil society organisations, community leaders, business leaders, and experts. This information helps him make well-informed decisions considering multiple viewpoints and potential impacts.

The next likely reason for BAT's engagement is that not only is he a natural engager , as seen in his style of politics and

Iraq, Libya, Algeria, Syria and the Palestine Liberation Organization, PLO? Under their dynamic leaders Muammar Gaddafi, Hafiz al-Assad, Hoari Boumediene and Yasir Arafat, they resolutely stood against moves by “moderate” Arab states, under American pressure, to make peace with Israel without a resolution of the Palestinian question. Why are they silent today? Its like all the radical and Arab nationalist leaders are now gone from Libya, Algeria, Syria, Iraq and South Yemen, while Palestinian Authority leader Mahmoud Abbas is nowhere as charismatic as Yasir Arafat. Africans and Arabs are not alone in allowing regional institutions to flounder and fade. Where is the Association of South East Asian Nations, ASEAN? Even as a primary school child, I wondered what USA and Britain were doing at ASEAN summits when they are located thousands of miles away from the region. Where is ANZUS, the Australian-New Zealand-US military pact? Up until World War Two, Australia and New Zealand regarded themselves as Britain’s babies and relied on it for protection. They however realized during World War Two that only the US, and in particular its powerful Pacific Naval Fleet, could protect them from Japan. Britain itself was then tottering under the weight of daily Luftwaffe bombings directed by Reich Marshall Herman Goering. Hence, they concluded a defence treaty with the US, but why is ANZUS silent today? Is it overtaken by the Asia-Pacific Conference, which brings together China, Japan, USA and all the minor east Asian powers as well as Australia and New Zealand into one group, mostly to discuss economic ties?

Who told them that China will not one day gobble up Taiwan, expand southwards the way Japan once did and retrieve the territories gobbled up by European settlers in the 17th and 18th centuries?

Whatever happened to the United Nations Convention on Law of the Sea? In the 1980s, proceedings of this conference dominated newspaper pages. Ok, now that they have succeeded in defining national coastal territories and Exclusive Economic Zones, what stops the UN from organising a Convention on Law of Forests, Deserts, Islands and Deltas? We sincerely need this law in Nigeria because without it, bandits are occupying our bushes, ISWAP is occupying our Lake Chad islands, IPOB is rampaging through our forests while oil thieves are marching up and down our creeks. We really need this conference. Pray, where are the International War Crimes Tribunals? Must we wait for World War Three before we convene another one, after Munich and the War Crimes Tribunal for the Far East in Tokyo? I can assist the prosecutors with a list of people who should be standing trial before this tribunal, once is it convened.

For God’s sake, where is International Whaling Commission? Does it intend to be sleeping while Chinese and Japanese fishing trawlers finish all the whales? Just one adult Great Blue Whale is 100 metres long and weighs up to 120 tones. Its heart alone weighs five tones; its tongue weighs four tones and its blubber, the fat in its body to protect it from cold seas, could weigh up to 15 tones. Should we allow Western and Asian gluttons to eat them all up and leave us to tell our grandchildren that we once had sea mammals that were much bigger than elephants and dinosaurs?

is an essential component of effective and inclusive governance that is people-oriented and focuses on policies and projects that serve the people's interests. Hence, the President's constant desire to listen, decide and communicate effectively. This has made BAT'S policy direction so evident to all.

Some significant milestones have been achieved in just 21 days: Oil subsidy is gone; major labour crisis averted; student loan bill signed into law; exchange rate harmonised; house cleaning is ongoing; new electricity bill signed into law; Data protection bill signed into law; building consensus and unifying Nigeria; and wooing foreign investors. These are early days so no objective assessment of his presidency can be done.

Building Nigeria is more than just a job for Mr President. All Nigerians must play their part. However, he has shown outstanding leadership in these early days that is worthy of emulation by leaders in the state and local governments. They must adopt the servant leader approach, build consensus, and engage with all stakeholders in their states and LGAs. Developing Nigeria requires growth at the grassroots.

Failure of the state governors and LGA chairpersons will mock the federal government's efforts, even with the best policy interventions in place. It is time that governors and LGA chairpersons stop being little emperors, come off their high horses, and serve their people. The difference between good governors and LGA chairpersons and bad ones is seen in the level of development, both infrastructural and human capital development, in these states and LGAs.

governance, but he also has a keen interest in giving citizens insight into how critical decisions were arrived at. This opportunity to explain these decisions and their likely impacts affords President BAT more reasons to engage and get the citizen's buy-in into his programmes, especially in preparing the citizens for the road ahead. Regular interaction allows the President to assess the impact of existing initiatives and make necessary adjustments or improvements. This feedback loop ensures that governance remains responsive and accountable to the people it serves. The last reason may be that the President wants to build trust, make informed decisions, mobilise resources, prevent conflicts, and promote social cohesion. This

There is no doubt that President BAT has hit the ground running as he promised. We commend his leadership and look forward to more achievements from his administration in the days ahead. We also implore other leaders at all levels to embrace stakeholder engagement and communication as practical tools for good leadership.

The quality of President BAT's cabinet, we hope, will reflect his deep conviction in quality leadership and the leaders he appoints will continue to build on the momentum he has created in these first few days. Quality leaders create quality leadership, which then creates development. We are full of optimism and hope for what lies ahead for Nigeria. We must all stand together, support his vision, and help build a great nation.

Tinubu

WE WELCOME YOU HOME…

L-R: Former Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola; Chairman, Oyo State Muslim Community, Alhaji Ishaq Kunle Sanni, and Sheikh Daud Tijani Igi-Ogun during the civic reception

Crisis as Imo PDP Working Committee Members Dump Party

Amby Uneze in Owerri and Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The influence of the former Governor of Imo State, Chief Emeka Ihedioha in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has played out in the State Working Committee (SWC) of the party as seven SWC members and their numerous followers have resigned from office and the party with immediate effect.

The SWC members who addressed newsmen in the party Secretariat in Owerri, the State capital yesterday announced their resignations from their positions as

well as membership of the party.

They, however, did not disclose their next line of action, but indicated that soonest they would make known their movement.

Spokesperson for the group and who was before then the State Publicity Secretary of the party, Collins Opurozor said that the candidate of the party for the November 11, 2023 governorship election in the state, Samuel Anyanwu, does have what it takes to govern the state.

According to him, I as the State Publicity Secretary of the party, the secretary of party Ray Emeana, the youth leader, Greg Nwadike,

Gunmen Kidnap Islamic Cleric in Ondo

Fidelis David in Akure

The Chief Imam of Uso Community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, Mr. Ibrahim Oyinlade, has been kidnapped by gunmen.

THISDAY gathered yesterday that the 67-year-old Islamic Cleric was abducted at his farm in Asolo Farm Camp, Uso, by 3:00 p.m. on Saturday.

A family member confirmed that the kidnappers have contacted the family but are yet to demand for ransom as at the time of filing in this report.

Reacting, the Spokesperson of the Ondo State Police Command,

Mrs. Funmi Odunlami, confirmed that the case had been reported at the Uso Divisional Police Station, adding that the divisional police officer and his men with local vigilantes are currently in the bush to search for the victim.

Odunlami said: “A report was made at Uso Divisional Headquarters, that the chief imam of Uso went to his farm in the morning (Saturday) and did not return, he was later traced to the farm by his people. They saw his phone and his vehicle intact but couldn’t find the man. The DPO and his men with local vigilantes are currently in the bush to trace and find his where about.”

Stallion Group Recommits to Clean Environment with Hyundai Kona Electric

Sohpia Adeyemi

Stallion Motors Nigeria has reaffirmed its leadership in the Nigerian automobile industry with the commendation of the company’s Hyundai Kona EV, Nigeria’s first locally produced electric vehicle, by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

Produced from its Lagos plant, the Hyundai Kona EV is projected to be the toast of Nigerian automobile enthusiasts and corporate organisations given the advantages it brings on energy costs, environmental friendliness and overall rest of mind.

The company showcased the first locally produced electric vehicle at the meeting of the National Economic Council (NEC) last Thursday with Vice President Kashim Shettima, saying that the prospects for electric vehicles in Nigeria as being bright.

Shettima test-drove the

vehicle with the company of the Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council, (NADDC), Jelani Aliyu.

The Hyundai Kona first introduced in Lagos, Nigeria in 2020 is sold with five years of battery warranty and five years of vehicle warranty.

The battery-pack on full charge allows the Hyundai Kona to drive 482 km (300 miles) approximating travel from Lagos to Awka, Anambra State or from Kano to Sokoto. The battery can be recharged at home or in the office.

Speaking following the endorsement of the NEC, the Managing Director of VON Automobiles, Stallion’s auto assembly unit, Harpreet Singh, said that the innovation from the company was a step towards an eco-friendly green Nigeria.

“The Stallion Group is in full support of the moves by the government of Nigeria towards a clean environment.

the deputy state chairman, Martin Ejiogu, the state woman leader, Maria Mbakwe, Josiah Eze, State Treasurer and Chibuisi Obido, State Vice Chairman, Orlu Zone, have

resigned from our positions and equally dumped the party.

All of them, who were present at the press conference, spoke separately and concurred with

Opurozor’s assertion.

Opurozor said: “Since 2020 when this working committee took over the administrative cockpit of the PDP in Imo State, we

have evolved a tradition of being upfront with you as members of the fourth estate of the realm about all issues that trouble our dear State.”

Police Seek PCRC’s Support in Fight against Criminality in Rivers

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Members of the Rivers State Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) have been called upon to intensify their support in the fight against crime and criminality in the state.

The state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Nwonyi Emeka

made the call when the PCRC met with him at the weekend, at the Police Officers Mess, Port Harcourt.

The state police boss also cautioned the group against fraternising with criminals in the name of providing assistance.

CP Emeka, however, commended the PCRC members for their consistent support in

ensuring peace and security in the state.

He also called on other relevant stakeholders to synergies with the police in the fight against crime and criminality in Rivers State.

“I want this synergy to continue to exist, especially at the local divisions of the Area Command, the state zone and national at large. Nigeria Police

Force, Rivers State command will always partner with you in Its fight against crime and criminality.

“I also encourage other highly responsible and respected people in the society that have the interest of security to serve with the police, to join the police community relations committee, we cannot do it all alone is enormous work.

Kano Motorists Abandon Vehicles as Subsidy Removal Bites Harder

Most vehicle owners in Kano city have been forced to abandon their vehicles due to their inability to purchase fuel that is now beyond their reach following the withdrawal of the subsidy on the commodity by the federal government. Investigations revealed that most vehicle parks and garages in the capital city are nearly filled to the brim with the cars and buses most of which carry empty tanks. It was found that the vehicle

owners abandoned them a few days after the pump price was hiked by the filling stations following the announcement of the withdrawal of the subsidy.

Checks revealed that even school buses are not spared by this development as drivers of such vehicles have parked them, leaving the children to find their way to schools. Some car owners lamented that they could no longer afford to

fuel vehicles as they have other pressing needs to attend to. Such basic needs, according to them, include feeding and medical care whose prices have equally skyrocketed.

One of the residents Alhaji Aminu Maigari, who parked his vehicle after the subsidy removal, lamented that the current situation has compelled him to resort to joining commercial Tricycles popularly known as Adaidaita

Sahu, whose operators have also increased their charges outrageously. He said: “In a situation where you used to pay an average of N50 per drop you now have to pay between N150 to N200 which is a serious drain on my resource. I have now decided that, instead of buying a N5,000 fuel that is less than 10 liters for my car, I should channel the money to the purchase of foodstuff and toiletries for my family.”

Review Buhari’s Last Minute Appointment of EDs, NTA Workers Urge Tinubu

Some members of staff of the largest television network in Nigeria, the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), have urged President Bola Tinubu to review the 11th hour appointment of new Executive Directors(EDs) by the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

An NTA source said members

of staff were treated to a rude shock, when they received a press statement announcing the appointment of the new EDs at the time the new president was being sworn in on May 29th, saying the development had begun to cause animosity among members of staff.

“Many NTA workers were

shocked that an outgoing government would still go ahead and appoint EDs when a new president is on board,” the source hinted, noting that they would be glad if President Tinubu review the circumstances surrounding the appointment and reverse it.

The source disclosed that

when the new EDs resumed work two weeks ago and in spite of the challenges the organisation was facing, which included bad signals, lack of adequate equipment, and poor staff welfare among others, the first thing on their agenda was to procure new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado as official cars.

Women Call on Tinubu to Be Fair in Appointive Positions

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

Nigerian women have called President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to revisit pending legislation that cover women and give nothing less that 35 per cent to women in appointive positions.

This is coming on the heels of the 10th National Assembly elections which produced only

males in key positions of speaker and deputy speaker despite the call for fairness and equity.

Gender advocate expert, Dr. Ene Ede, who made the call during a one-day gender sensitive reporting training for key media personnel to support women’s political participation in Abuja, said with another injury done to women, there’s

a need for harmonisation as the president prepares to announce his cabinet members.

She emphasised that the 35 per cent affirmative action for women should not just be symbolic, but functional in the representation of women.

“The political parties are the only vehicles through which we can get elective positions,

yet, these parties do not have structures that adequately include women. We need to work in the parties and this is a call for when in the political parties.

“Despite the ruling party’s zoning of key positions, a women would have still won the seat of at least the deputy speaker, but again, we lost out.

Lagos Demolishes 17 Plazas in Alaba International Market

Sunday Ehigiator

No fewer than 17 mega plazas at the popular Alaba International Market were demolished by the Lagos state government yesterday, after officials of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) stormed the

market located in the Ojo area of the state.

LASBCA officials escorted by heavily armed Task Force officials, stormed the market early in the early hours of yesterday to demolish the affected buildings which the agency said were marked as

distressed last Friday.

Among the shopping plazas demolished are, G80 Alaba Rago Road, Good Season Shopping Complex, the building on 840 Ojo Igbede and the structure behind Oba Oseni Plaza.

LASBCA’s General Manager, Gbolahan Oki had last Friday,

said the state government would demolish the buildings before Monday.

Addressing newsmen on Friday, Oki said LASBCA had been on top of the game telling owners of the affected properties to do the right thing.

in honour of Aregbesola organised by Concerned Muslim Scholars and Clerics in South Western Nigeria at Oyo, Oyo State…recently

DOMINICAN VARSITY FITNESS WALK…

L-R: Deputy Managing Director, Planet Bottling Company, Mr. Lokman Jouni; Head of Marketing , Grand Cereals Limited, Mr. Chinedu Anazodo; Director, Fundraising Committee, Dominican University Ibadan Fitness Walk, Rev. Father Augustine Ebido; Chairman, FundRaising Committee, Dr. ABC Orjiako; Executive Director, Polaris Bank Limited,Mrs. Chinwe Iloghalu, and Rev. Father Modestus Ngwu, at the Dominican University Ibadan Fitness Walk in Lekki, Lagos… recently ETOP UKUTT

IG Approves Posting of New DIGs Mba, Inuwa, Ciroma, 17 AIGs

Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, has approved the redeployment of DIG Hafiz M. Inuwa, to head the Department of Logistics and Supply, and the posting of the recently promoted Deputy Inspectors-General of Police, DIG Bala Ciroma, and DIG Emeka Frank Mba, to head the Department of Training and Development and the Department of Research and Planning respectively.

With the recent elevation, DIG Ciroma has become the supervising DIG for the North-east, while DIG Mba assumes a supervisory role over the South-east geo-political zone.

Similarly, the IGP has approved the posting/redeployment 17 Assistant Inspectors-General of Police to various commands and formations.

They include AIG Zone 10 Sokoto, Abubakar Lawal; AIG Zone 15 Maiduguri, Abdul Umar; AIG Zone 7 Abuja, Williams Adebowale; AIG Armament, FHQ Abuja, Shettima Zanna; AIG Zone 17 Akure, Ebong Eyibio Ebong and AIG Maritime Lagos; Adepoju Ayinde Ilori.

Others are AIG FCID Annex Kaduna, Okon Okon Effiong, AIG Zone 9 Umuahia, AIG Echeng Eworo Echeng, Commandant

NCC’s Wireless Internet Boosts Teaching, Research in Edo Poly, Says Rector

The Rector of Edo State Polytechnic Usen, Omoruyi Sylvester, has said that the roll-out of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), multi-million-naira Wireless Internet project in the Polytechnic has improved teaching and research in the institution.

Omoruyi, who disclosed this while addressing journalists, noted that expanding internet in the institution has increased its capacity to offer Open Distance Flexible Learning Programmes.

He said: “Edo State Polytechnic was among the six high institutions in the south-south geo-political zone that benefited from the Wireless Internet Cloud (WIC) project of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), under the Advance Digital Appreciation

Programme for Tertiary Institutions (ADAPTI).

The rector expressed appreciation to Governor Godwin Obaseki for his continuous effort in providing an enabling environment at the institution to attract grants and support from organisations and partners within and outside the state. NCC’s Wireless Internet Could project in Edo State Polytechnic includes the installation of Internet CPE 20/20Mbps bandwidth via Fibre or Point-to-Point ISP radio; dual-radio PRO Access Point/ Dual-Band MU-MIMO Wireless Access Point/Dual band Wi-Fi Gigabit Access point and provision of 5.5 KVA generator, and 5KVA network integrated UPS to sever as an alternative source of power supply.

NGO Wants Disparities in Land Ownership in Nigeria Addressed

Laleye Dipo in Minna

A non-governmental organisation (NGO) with headquarters in Abuja, #GreenMe Ireti, has said there is a serious disparity in the ownership of land in Nigeria with the gap being in favour of men.

The Coordinator of the group and the Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mrs. Ireti Kingibe, made the observation in a statement made available to journalist in Minna, The statement, which was released as part of activities by the organisation to mark the World Day to Combat Desertification and Draught, said it was time that Nigeria addressed the disparity, especially when more women are engaged in the land for farming.

She said: “Land rights

Staff College Jos, AIG Susan Ukpanukiema Horsefall. On the list too are AIG DFA FHQ Abuja, AIG Bankole Lanre

Sikiru; AIG Zone 11 Osogbo, AIG Oladimeji Yomi Olanrewaju; AIG FEDOPS FHQ Abuja, AIG Odama Paul Ojeka; AIG Forensic, AIG

Shehu Gwarzo; AIG R&P, FHQ Abuja, AIG Yekini Adio Ayoku.

Othe affected senior police officers are AIG FCID Alagbon Lagos, AIG

Firm Petitions AGF over Alleged N280m Sale of FG’s Property

Wale Igbintade

A construction company in the real estate industry, Periwinkle Residence Limited, has filed a petition against a firm, Randolph Centuria Limited, Kabiru Abdullahi Ahmed, a law firm, Gani Faniyi & Company and NETTOP Global Investment Limited over alleged N280 million fraud, being payment for sale of Federal Government

property at No. 5 Bank Road, Ikoyi, Lagos.

The company in a petition written through the law firm, Philip-Idiok and Associates , complained that it paid the money under false impression that the Government of Nigeria wanted to dispose the property at No. 5 Bank Road, Ikoyi, Lagos.

The Petitioner stated that the alleged activities were carried out by these purported agents

without any authorisation or any instrument of appointment from the federal government.

The petition read: “Our Client retained the services of Mr. Gani Faniyi, of GANI Faniyi & Company as its external solicitor for the purpose of providing legal advice and legal representation for its business. Hence, the relationship between our Client and Gani Faniyi & Company is that of a client and

attorney.

“Sometime in May, 2021 Mr. Gani Faniyi and NETTOP Global Investment Limited falsely sent an offer to our client in the name of Randolph Centuria Limited for whom Hon. Kabiru Abdullahi is a director and claimed the company is an appointed agent of the Federal Government of Nigeria for the purpose of disposal of Federal Government asset.

Lagos Poultry Farmers Want Compensation for 2021 Bird Flu Losses

Sunday Okobi

Not less than 700 poultry farmers in Aiyedoto Poultry Farm Estate in Lagos State at the weekend called on President Bola Tinubu-led administration to urgently intervene in the plight of farmers affected by the 2021 Avain influenza (bird flu). Speaking while receiving over 3,000 lay birds donated by the

Lagos State Government, the President of the farmers’ group, Mr. Saliu Rasheed, said some of their members have died while awaiting intervention from the government. He added that the compensation, if provided by the federal government to the affected farmers, would strengthen the industry and guarantee employment opportunities for

the population.

Rasheed called on the Federal Ministry of Finance and Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to hasten up the compensation process, just as he appealed to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to make more funds available to help grow the industry, and in turn, contribute to the gross domestic product (GDP) of the country.

Rasheed, however, appreciated the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the former state Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, for their support through the donation of over 3,000 lay birds. According to him, “This will go a long way in ensuring the beneficiaries return to business in earnest, as well as support the growth of their business.”

Soludo: Our Aim is to Make Anambra Farmers Employers of Labour

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has said his administration aims at making farmers in the state, employers of Labour.

Soludo said this would be achieved through purposeful support to farmers in the

state, both through loans and presentation of modern farm equipment that would aid their work and increase their yield. The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Dr. Onyeka Ibezim, stated this at the weekend, during the flag-off of 2023 farming season in Awka, the state capital.

Addressing farmers in the state, after the presentation of agricultural enhancement equipment estimated at N21million, which were made possible by Adani-Omor

Zonal Staple Crops Processing

Implementation Unit of the Agricultural Transformation Agenda Support Program

Phase-One (ATASP-1), the deputy governor called on them to make good use of the equipment.

“I have confidence that the equipment presented to you today will turn the beneficiaries to employers of labour and major contributors to food supply in the state and the country at large.

Community Seeks FG, Delta’s Intervention over Degradation, Pollution

constitute the basis for access to food, housing and development, and without access to land many people find themselves in a situation of great economic insecurity.

“Land ownership provides individuals with legal recognition and security over their land. It allows people to exercise control, make long-term investments, and access financial services.”

The senator decried the “unequal access, ownership, and control of land between men and women,” describing it as “a systemic issue rooted in social norms, discriminatory laws, and cultural practices that limit women’s rights to own, inherit, or use land,” thereby perpetuating gender inequalities and hindering women’s economic empowerment.

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

The leadership of PolobuboTsekelewu community in Warri North Local Government area of Delta State has urged the federal and Delta State Governments to come to their aid over degradation and pollution of their environment by the operations of the multinational oil companies.

They therefore sought for urgent remediation measures to solve the problems of pollution and degradation of their environment by oil companies operating in their community lamenting they were facing a lot of challenges resulting from the menace.

President General of PolobuboTsekelewu, Dr. Bright Abulu,

an Environmental Activist, Mrs. Ibiba Don Pedro and Mr. Henry Eferubo, made the appeal yesterday, while speaking on the plight of the people of the community ravaged by various communicable diseases and those displaced from their homes.

Abulu, recalled that during June 5th World Environment Day, which the community

participated actively, similar calls were made but up till now response was gotten from the relevant stakeholders over their plight.

He, therefore, pleaded again with relevant stakeholders for a collaborative effort in solving the problem of waste pollution and environmental degradation in the community.

Kogi Youth Ambassadors Seek Legislation Setting Aside June 18 as Youth Leadership Day

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

The House of Representatives member representing Ajaokuta federal constituency, Sanni Egidi Abdulraheem, has volunteered to join Kogi Youths to seek a legislation by the Kogi State Assembly to set aside June 18 as youth day to celebrate the

achievements of the youths in the state.

Abdulraheem disclosed this while speaking during the 48th birthday celebration of the state Governor, Yahaya Bello, organised by the Kogi Youth Ambassadors in collaboration with SEA Vanguard for Ododo Yibo 2023.

The lawmaker, who was the guest speaker at the occasion, explained that youths are catalysts to the economic to development of any nation.

He stated that Bello has demonstrated to the youths that the future lies in the hands of the youths, stressing that it requires integrity, focus and courage to

achieve a greater height.

“Yahaya Bello has made youths to believe that you can live your life, and you can be what you have chosen to in life,” he stressed.

The lawmaker argued that today indeed belongs to the youths, nothing that parents always want to see their children take over from them.

Yahaya S. Abubakar, AIG Zone 1 Kano, AIG Umar M. Sanda; AIG CTU FHQ Abuja, AIG Ede Ayuba.

Osimhen, Iheanacho Qualify S’Eagles for AFCON 2023

Femi Solaja

Super Eagles defeated Sierra Leone

3-2 last night to book their spot in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

The three-time African champions laboured to beat Sierra Leone at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex in Monrovia, Liberia. Napoli front man, Victor Osimhen scored a brace before the first half break and while Kelechi Iheanacho who came on as a late substitute got the winner after a 2-2 tie to qualify Nigeria for the AFCON to be hosted by Côte d’Ivoire next January.

In what looks like a repeat of the 4-4 scoreline three years ago in Benin City when the visiting Leone Stars came back from four goals down to tie the score 4-4 in a World Cup qualifier, Iheanacho’s late goal changed the dynamics and gave Nigeria a hard earn away win.

After Osimhen scored a first-half brace, Sierra Leone fought back through goals by Mustapha Bundu and Augustus Kargbo, with the

score being tied at 2-2.

It took a 95th minute effort by Iheanacho for Nigeria to bag maximum points in Paynesville.

Nigeria thus moved back to the top of Group A with 12 points from five matches, ahead of Guinea Bissau, who have recorded 10 points.

Both Sierra Leone on five points and Sao Tome and Principe on a point have therefore been eliminated from the qualifying tournament.

In September, the Eagles will welcome Sao Tome, while Guinea Bissau tackle Sierra Leone to determine the overall winners of this qualifying group.

Osimhen opened scoring for the Super Eagles after 19 minutes, when he outran his marker in a fast counter-attacking move before he fired past the stranded Sierra Leone goalkeeper.

He doubled Nigeria’s lead with his brace on 32 minutes after a cross by the misfiring Samuel Chukwueze evaded the Leone Stars defence.

The Napoli striker has now netted 17 goals in 25 appearances

Ebi Egbe Hails Elegbeleye over NPL Season

Chief Executive Officer of Monimichelle Group, Ebi Egbe, has given a pat on the back to the Chairman of Interim Management Committee (IMC) of the nation’s domestic league, Hon Gbenga Elegbeleye.

Egbe while x raying the just concluded season said the former Director General of the defunct National Sports Commission (NSC) and his team have done well.

Egbe noted that the IMC has succeeded in bringing back life and competitiveness to the domestic league a step which he said would rob off positively on Nigerian football.

“We have just seen a league season that is quite different. A season where clubs sweated for every point and played for something tangible. The league winners pocketing N100m is quite

commendable,” Egbe said.

The Bayelsa born FIFA agent, also gave a pat on the back to the IMC for taking the season ending Super 6 to the MJA Arena where clubs had the opportunity to be at their best playing in a hybrid synthetic pitch which is one of the best in the country.

“The MJA Arena has one of the best turfs in the country and it is one of the signature projects of Monimichelle Sports. Our vision is to eradicate bad pitches in the country and the MJA Arena pitch clearly shows what we can do,” Egbe said.

Egbe charged the NFF to retain the Gbenga Elegbeleye led IMC insisting that it is clear the NPFL would become a league to reckon with if the IMC is allowed to consolidate on the gains of the just ended season.

Diri Offers Scholarship, Job to Children, Wives of Late Supporters

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has granted scholarship up to university level to children of the four supporters of Bayelsa Queens Football Club who died in a road accident a week ago.

The governor also directed immediate employment for their wives while anyone that is not employable be empowered by the state government to set up a business.

He directed the Ministry of Trade and Industry to liaise with Office of the Secretary to the State Government to immediately effect the pronouncement.

Diri’s Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, quoted the governor as having given the directives on Saturday during the funeral service for the deceased at the Peace Park in Yenagoa.

Eze Igali 38, Kurotimi Igali 36, Clement Diripigi 34 and Philemon Ogidi 38 lost their lives in an auto crash last Sunday on their way to Asaba to support the state’s female team playing the final game of the Super Six playoff.

Diri said they were promising youths who died in active service to the state.

He said: “We join the Igali, Diripigi and Ogidi families to

for Nigeria at full international level to make him the country’s most prolific active player.

However, Sierra Leone captain Mustapha Bundu halved the lead in the 41st minute, when he drove through the Nigerian defence before he hit the target. Augustine Kargbo drew the

home team level 2-2 in the 84th minute with a long-range shot, before Iheanacho grabbed the winner in stoppage time with a simple tap-in off a through ball by Zaidu Sanusi.

It was the Leicester City striker’s 13th international goal. Samuel Chukwueze had several chances to get on the score sheet.

In the 19th minute, just before Osimhen opener, he blasted a clear chance wide of the target.

He was then denied by the Sierra Leone goalkeeper in the 27th minute, while his effort in the 36th minute was chalked off for offside.

In the dying minutes of the first half, both Moses Simon and Wilfred Ndidi had chances to increase the Super Eagles advantage, but they were not clinical in front of goal. In the second half, substitute Taiwo Awoniyi also came close to registering a goal as Adebayo pulled off a couple of saves to keep out the home team.

HOW THEY STAND

mourn these four young men of Eniwari and Fonibiri communities, all in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of our state.

“They gave their best to the state. They contributed their quota towards the development of Bayelsa and they died in active service.

“These young men embarked on that trip to bring victory to Bayelsa and to make the image of our state soar higher. Unfortunately, they lost their lives in the process.”

Speaking on behalf of the Igali family, Ambassador Boladei Igali said while they cannot question the will of God over the tragedy that befell the family, it will not deter them being one of the biggest sporting families in the country.

Dr. Igali thanked the governor and the state government for the support since the incident occurred.

Igali, who was a former Federal Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Bayelsa State Government, urged Bayelsans to continue to pray for the families at this dif- ficult time as well as for those still hospitalised as a result of the accident.

The remains of the four youths were on Saturday interred at the Azikoro cemetery in Yenagoa.

RESULTS

Italy Beat The Netherlands to Pile Pressure on Koeman

Italy beat the Netherlands in the Nations League play-off to pile pressure on Dutch boss Ronald Koeman.

Federico Dimarco and Davide Frattesi scored in the opening 20 minutes and, though Steven Bergwijn pulled a goal back, Federico Chiesa sealed the win.

Georginio Wijnaldum made it 2-3 late on, but the defeat means Koeman has lost three of the first four games of his second spell in charge.

Croatia face Spain in the Nations League final later on Sunday.

Italy took the lead in Enschede after just six minutes, left-back Dimarco starting the move with a deep cross before making a run into the area, being found by Giacomo Raspadori's backheel and firing a crisp shot into the top corner past Justin Bijlow

On 20 minutes, Frattesi slotted home after a Wilfried Gnonto shot deflected into his path. It was followed by a lengthy VAR check for offside and handball against Frattesi, but the goal stood.

The Netherlands, who were booed by an unimpressed home crowd, wasted their best chance late in the first half when Cody Gakpo chipped the ball wide from about 12 yards.

They pulled the score back to 2-1 midway through the second half, Bergwijn smartly taking down a

NATIONS LEAGUE PLAYOFFS

deep cross before firing left-footed past Gianluigi Donnarumma, however Chiesa restored Italy's two-goal lead with a cool finish across Bijlow following a quick counter-attack.

Wijnaldum fired into the roof of the net to ensure a grandstand finish with nine minutes of added time, however European champions Italy managed to hold on for third place.

Koeman returned as manager of the Netherlands after the 2022 World Cup but has endured a stuttering start to his second spell. This result follows a 4-0 Euro 2024 qualifying defeat by Franceand the 4-2 extra-time loss to Croatiain the Nations League semi-final on Wednesday.

NAIJA SUPER 8 PLAYOFFS

Remo Stars Vow to Maintain Bragging Rights over Shooting Stars

Remo Stars Head Coach, Daniel Ogunmodede, has said his team will fight to maintain their unbeaten record against Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), in their upcoming clash at the Naija Super 8 zonal play-offs.

The match will be one of the six Naija Super 8 qualifying games which will be held at the Eket Township Stadium from 23-25 June. The two teams will duel for the ticket to represent the South-West zone at the Naija Super 8 finals in Lagos from 7-16 July.

Shooting Stars and Remo Stars have met six times in the top division with Remo Stars winning two

games and four drawn games. The statistics put Remo Stars as the favourite against a historic side, Shooting Stars.

Speaking ahead of what is branded the “South-West Derby”, Ogunmodede said encounters between the two teams have always been tough and described the clash as “arguably the most interesting derby in the country”.

“It is always tough playing against them. A friendly game against Shooting Stars is like a competitive game. Both sets of fans do not joke with the game. With this prestigious tournament, it will be the most interesting derby game in the play-offs.

“We have been the better teams in the derby, historically, and we have not lost against them. But I know they will be willing to earn their first win against us. They have the pedigree and history, but we will fight for our pride,” Ogunmodede boasted.

Both teams have connections beyond on-field clashes. Shooting Stars coach, Gbenga Ogunbote, masterminded Remo Stars’ first qualification for continental competition, CAF Confederation Cup, in 2022. The Sky Blue Stars ended the just-concluded league season with a CAF Champions League ticket, the club's biggest achievement.

Two-goal hero, Victor Osimhen celebrating his brace against Leone Stars as Nigeria defeated Sierra Leone 3-2 to qualify for AFCON 2023 taking place next January in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire

MISSILE

Nigerian Navy to Asari Dokubo

“Thisisthesamesonghehasbeensingingforyears.It'snotanewnarrativefromhim. HeshouldnamenamesandalsointimateNigeriansofhislevelofinvolvement.Heisalso lookingforhisownpipelineprotectioncontract.IfAsariDokuboisseekingsomeformof relevanceandheallegesthattherearecabalsofmilitarypersonnelwhoareinvolvedincrude oiltheft,lethimbringthenames.Youcannotmakesuchseriousallegationsandthinkthat wejustsweepitdownthecarpet...”–NavalSpokesman,CommodoreAdedotunAyo-Vaughan, challengingDokubotonamethemilitarypersonnelheallegedwereinvolvedincrude oil theft.

MAHMUDJEGA

VIEW FROM THE GALLERY

Bow, Grimace or Go Blank

The statement issued by the Nigerian Petroleum Ministry at the weekend, congratulating Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries [OPEC] on the 63rd anniversary of its founding, reminded me of what the American journalist Theodore White once wrote about Chinese Communist leader Mao Zedong. White wrote, “If all humanity is assembled and Mao’s name is hurled at them, one quarter will bow in veneration, one quarter will grimace with hate, one quarter will receive the name with respect, and the last quarter, the most backward section of the human race, has never heard of him.”

I am wondering. If all humanity is assembled and OPEC’s name is hurled at it, citizens of OPEC member nations whose national treasuries are awash in petro-dollars will bow in veneration, most citizens of the world’s gas-guzzling rich nations will grimace with hate because OPEC made gasoline prices expensive since 1973, oil traders, refiners and chieftains of giant oil companies across the word will receive the name with respect while a portion of humanity, the ones that are so poor they have nothing to do with

Aduda

petrol but deal mostly in firewood and charcoal, have never heard of OPEC.

The statement signed by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum

Resources, Ambassador Gabriel Aduda, praised OPEC for making “significant strides in energy governance and the transformative impact of petroleum supply worldwide, over the past six decades.” How come that Aduda’s statement did not mention Sheikh Ahmad Zaki Yamani, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources for 25 years from 1962 to 1986, the world’s best-known face of oil, who orchestrated the 1973 Arab oil boycott of Western nations over the Middle East war and plunged their rich economies into a deep recession? Aduda also forgot to condole with OPEC for the most traumatic event of its life, the 1975 abduction of Yamani, several other oil ministers and dozens of other persons in a special terrorist operation in Vienna organized by PFLP leader Waddi Haddad and personally led by the Venezuelan left-wing terrorist Carlos the Jackal.

OPEC is 63. That set me thinking about the many international organisations whose names and activities dominated newspaper pages and airwaves for many decades while we were growing up. Many of them have since gone into oblivion; many others are almost unheard of these

DAKUKU PETERSIDE

GUEST COLUMNIST

days, while some others are shadows of their former selves. Is it oil alone that deserves congratulation? ECOWAS, for example, is 48 years old this year. I did not see a message from the Foreign or even the Trade and Investment ministries hailing it for the landmark birthday. Was any statement issued by Nigeria to congratulate African Union [AU], which is 60 years old this year, if you go all the way back to its earlier days as Organisation of African Unity, OAU? At least we ought to remember all its old Secretaries General Diallo Telli, Nzo Ekangaki, William Eteki Mbouma, Edem Kodjo, Peter Onu, Idi Oumarou and Salim Ahmed Salim, among the ones I remember. At least something is still heard of OPEC and AU these days, though not like before. But where is the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development [UNCTAD], of which we heard so much as youngsters? What about the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade [GATT], and in particular, the Doha Round and Montevideo Round of World Trade Talks, which once dominated the airwaves? World

Anatomy of Presidential Engagement

In the sphere of presidential engagement and communication, Nigeria has had different shades of Presidents, from the docile and absent, laidback, garrison-style communication, taciturn, to the pragmatic. Each shade created the mood and tone of the presidency and invariably impacted the quality of leadership the presidency exhibited. Although not ascribing to or recommending any shade of communication and engagement for the presidency, I understand the importance of effective communication and engagement of the President to all citizens and stakeholders of Project Nigeria.

In a republican democracy, the primary assumption is that the President is, first and foremost, a fellow citizen. Therefore, consistent engagement with citizens, interest groups and special interests is axiomatic. The challenge is that we are yet to accept that ability to engage effectively with our constituents is a critical function of leadership. Our Leaders are used to giving orders only and not listening to the people

or explaining why they must make some decisions. The implication is that we have had rulers and not necessarily leaders.

Arguably, the most critical skill needed by a leader is his ability to communicate effectively with citizens, sectoral groups and structured interest groups to pursue a specific agenda. In a short period, we have witnessed significant changes in presidential engagement. And this is bearing fruit in citizens' responses. International media and international community are taking note. On this score, the President is on firm ground and needs to be encouraged. This is where President Tinubu's early steps of continuous engagement with diverse stakeholders deserve interrogation.

In the first 21 days of the Bola Ahmed presidency, he has met with at least 50 citizens and 20 stakeholder groups. The citizens and groups are as diverse as Nigeria's divergent sectors and sections. Some of these engagements have led to the defusion of tension, such as with fuel subsidy removal, explaining contentious

issues as we had in the foreign exchange unification or giving insight into presidential actions like the student loan bill. The President has engaged with ex-militants and Niger Delta leaders like Asari Dokubo, Timi Alaibe, Former Emir of Kano and firstrate Economist Sanusi L Sanusi, Billionaire Aliko Dangote, opposition politician Rabiu Kwankwaso ,ex-presidents Goodluck

Jonathan and Abdulsalam Abubakar, G-5 "PDP" Governors, fiery lawyer Femi Falana, labour leaders Joe Ajaero and Festus Osifo, Sultan of Sokoto, Oni of Ife and other traditional rulers, among several others. The engagement with Asari Dokubo may have unsettled some presidency watchers . The argument they have against it is that legitimate state does not engage openly with non state actors who seize the platform to denigrate strategic state institutions like the armed and security forces no matter their deficits. However there is still value in that engagement .

President Tinubu’s style is a refreshing and decisive departure from the style and

disposition of his immediate predecessor. He has shown a remarkable ability to listen and consult widely .The account of Khalifa Sanusi Lamido Sanusi that he listens attentively, grasps the core issues communicated to him, tries to make sense of these issues, internalises the significant points raised and responds appropriately is relevant . Yours truly can confirm it as the truth.

For insight , Nigeria is a democratic country, and the principles of democracy emphasise the inclusion of citizens in decision-making processes. Listening to citizens and stakeholders ensures their voices are heard and considered when formulating policies and making important decisions. Outlining his presidential philosophy during his inauguration speech, the President was emphatic that he would be a servant leader and not a ruler, emphasising the importance of listening to and engaging with the citizens at various times to feel