FRIDAY 21TH JUNE 2024

APC to PDP: Fubara is Architect of Rivers Crisis

All Progressives Congress (APC), yesterday, told the Peoples

Democratic Party (PDP) that Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, was the supreme architect of the crisis in the state and needed to be thought basic democratic ethos. APC also said the allegation by

PDP that it planned to forcefully take over the PDP-governed state existed only in its warped imagination. The denunciations came as the Nigeria Police, yesterday, said the reason it barricaded local

government secretariats in Rivers State was to prevent a breakdown of law and order. The police said it would continue to do so until a court of competent jurisdiction decided otherwise.

But Fubara maintained Rivers State was not under siege, saying Rivers people are enjoying a peaceful environment under his administration. National Publicity Secretary of

Court Upholds Bayero’s Removal, Annuls Sanusi’s Appointment

Declares it’s serious matter for anyone to flout orders of court and go scot-free Says respondents would’ve achieved aim, avoided situation if they’d complied with order Govt orders police to remove Bayero from palace, to begin planned renovation of

Insists court ruling recognises Sanusi as Emir

(L)

(LIFC) Council Meeting to Strengthen Lagos as

Hub at

Adedayo Akinwale, Ikechukwu Aleke in Abuja and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

APC, Felix Morka, in a statement, described PDP’s claims about its planned forceful dislodgement from Rivers State as ridiculous

Lagos Government, EnterpriseNGR Announce Conclusion of LIFC

The Lagos State Government and EnterpriseNGR have announced the successful conclusion of the second meeting of the Lagos International Financial Centre (LIFC) Council, held at the Governor’s Office, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, on June 19.

The LIFC was established through an executive instrument issued by the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu on November 3, 2023.

The Council was inaugurated on November 3, 2023 and chaired by the Governor of Lagos State and co-chaired by Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of EnterpriseNGR. It was set up primarily to oversee the establishment of the LIFC.

A Federal High Court in Kano State, yesterday, stated that the Kano Emirates Council Law 2024, as passed by the state House of Assembly and signed into law by the governor, remained valid. But nullified all steps taken by the state government after the court’s earlier interim order which had effectively stopped the implementation of the Emirate Council Law 2024 pending the determination of a petition filed against the state government. But by insisting that the law remained valid, the court effectively endorsed the sacking of Aminu Ado Bayero and others as emirs.

The ruling also nullified the reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 16th Emir of Kano, as part of the consequences of actions by the state government which came after the fact, and were in disobedience of the interim order of the court.

The decision came barely 24 hours after the state House of Assembly alleged bias in the emirate legal battle.

But Kano State Government directed the Commissioner of Police to remove the deposed emir, Aminu Ado Bayero, from the government property, which he currently occupied. The government said it had concluded plans to begin a scheduled renovation of the property.

The state government also maintained that by the court’s pronouncement, it recognised Sanusi as the 16th Emir of Kano because his reinstatement had been done before a controversial interim order, which the court alleged the governor flouted in assenting to the Kano Emirates Council (Repeal) Bill 2024.

The presiding judge, Justice Abdullahi Liman, ordered the parties involved to maintain the status quo pending the determination of the case.

Liman held that the defendants were aware of the interim order granted by the court, but chose to ignore it and go ahead with implementation of the law.

The judge stated that every aspect of the process undertaken by the Assembly to refill the 2024 law was null and void, saying he would assume his coercive powers to enforce compliance with his order.

Liman pronounced, “I hereby order that every step taken by the government is hereby nullified and becomes null and invalid and that this does not affect the validity of the repealed Emirates Law but actions taken by the governor, which includes the assenting to the law and the reappointment (of Sanusi).

“I have listened to the audio of the governor both in Hausa and English after assenting to the law, and I am convinced that the respondents are aware of the order of maintaining status quo pending the hearing and determination of the motions on notice in the court.

“Having been satisfied that the respondents are aware of the court order, the court in exercise of its powers set aside an action, because it is in violation of the court’s order.

“I think it is a very serious matter for anyone to flout the orders of the court and go scot-free with it.”

The second meeting proposed recommendations for enhancing the Lagos State’s global financial connectivity, regulatory efficiency, infrastructure development and international reputation.

“The council reiterated the importance of the LIFC and affirmed its commitment to deliver on its mandate, which is to serve as a significant hub for a diverse range of financial activities and services at an international level.

“The council reviewed its participation at the Lord Mayor’s Show which held in London, UK last November as well as the stakeholder meetings with the international business community which culminated

According to the judge, the catastrophic situation could have been averted if the respondents followed due process by complying with the court order, which would still have allowed them to carry out their assignments.

Liman stated that the respondents decided to act according to their whims and caprices, a situation that landed them in a serious mess.

He, however, transferred the case to Justice Simon Amobeda for continuation in view of his elevation to the Court of Appeal.

Citing bias, the Assembly had on Tuesday asked the Court of Appeal to stay further proceedings at the Federal High Court pending the hearing of the appeal before the appellate court.

In the appeal no: CA/KN/ /26/2024 filed by its lawyer, Eyitayo Fatogun, the Assembly prayed for an order restraining the respondents, their privies, servants or any other person or authority, deriving power, authority, rights or privileges from any of the respondents particularly the first, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh respondents, from enforcing or attempting to further enforce the repealed Kano State Emirates Council Law, a law which was no longer extant, pending the hearing and determination of the appeal before the Court of Appeal.It also prayed the court to stay execution of all orders, particularly the ex-parte order granted on May 23, 2024 by the lower court pending the hearing and determination of the appeal presently before the court.

In its motion on notice brought pursuant to Sections 6 and 36 of the 1999 Constitution, Order 7 Rule 1 of the Court of Appeal Rules and under inherent jurisdiction of the court, the appellant prayed the court to take over the entire proceedings, alleging that there were conflicting orders of the Kano State High Court and the Federal High Court on the same subject matter.

In its application for an urgent date, the appellant stated that the Federal High Court in Kano on or about June 13, 2024, had delivered its ruling in a suit filed for the enforcement of the fundamental rights of a kingmaker as it related to the Kano State Emirate Council (Repeal) Law 2024 made by the House of Assembly of Kano State and duly assented by the executive governor of Kano State.

The respondents were Alhaji Aminu Babba Danagundi, Kano State Government, Attorney General of Kano State. Commissioner of Police, Inspector General of Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and Department of State Services.

Kano Govt Directs Police to Remove Bayero from Palace, Says Court Recognises Sanusi

Following yesterday’s ruling in the Kano emirate crisis, the state government directed the Commissioner of Police to remove the deposed emir, Aminu Ado Bayero, from the government property he currently occupied.

Addressing an emergency press conference in Kano, yesterday, Attorney

in the InvestLagos Reception.

“The InvestLagos reception is a high-profile event designed to promote the unique advantages and opportunities in Lagos to potential investors. In view of the positive outcomes of the InvestLagos reception, the xouncil agreed to establish the InvestLagos reception as an annual event, and to this end, InvestLagos 2024 will hold in November 2024.

“The Council also considered the importance of Licenced exchanges in the LIFC market infrastructure; and thereafter unanimously resolved that the LIFC council, led by the chairman and co-chairman, should engage with all exchanges hosted by Lagos state with a view to exploring

General of the state and Commissioner for Justice, Haruna Dederi, said the state government had already concluded arrangements for the general reconstruction and renovation of the Nasarawa Palace, including demolition and reconstruction of the dilapidated fence, with immediate effect.

Dederi stated, "The Kano State Government acknowledges the ruling by the Federal High Court regarding the Kano Emirates Council (Repeal) Law, 2024 and views same as upholding the rule of law.

"By the ruling of the court, it has

of growing investors' confidence in the economy and aligns with the recent Presidential Directives on Gas.

According to a statement, the project highlights a commitment of $550 million to extract 900 billion cubic feet of non-associated natural gas from OML 58, situated approximately 85 kilometres from Port Harcourt in Nigeria's Niger Delta Region.

Upon its completion, the Ubeta project would provide 350 million standard cubic feet per day of gas, primarily earmarked for Nigeria's domestic market and to augment the operational capacity of NLNG Train 7.

The project signifies a significant step in advancing energy security, a cornerstone of the federal government of Nigeria's plans to achieve sustained economic development through improved local gas utilisation.

In December 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, had endorsed three presidential initiatives to revitalise investment in Nigeria's oil and gas sector, resulting in the $550 million investment.

The directives included initiatives to promote fiscal incentives for gas utilisation projects, enhance the competitiveness of local content, and streamline contracting costs to global standards.

Commenting on the latest project, Special Adviser to the President on Energy (SAD-E), Olu Verheijen, said: “The Ubeta project is a prime example of the kind of investment that our recent reforms aim to attract. Seventy-six per cent of Nigeria’s gas reserves

and baseless.

Morka said PDP peddled falsehood about a non-existent plot to interfere with the government of Rivers State instead of giving a crash course to Fubara on the basic tenets of democratic and constitutional governance for the benefit of the Rivers people.

He added that PDP offered no justification for its bogus claim except to mischievously misrepresent and amplify the comments reportedly made by the chairman of the Rivers State APC Caretaker Committee, Chief Tony Okocha, while sweeping under the carpet the salient issues

how the government can support efforts at deepening the markets and opening them up to more local and international investors, ” the statement said.

The council affirmed that the objectives of the LIFC would be achieved through work streams and thereby agreed to establish some work streams for the purpose.

It listed them as: Legal and Governance, Strategy and Finance; Regulatory Framework and Incentives; Infrastructure and Operations and; Investment Promotion and Public Relations.

The work streams, it said, will be resourced with members of the LIFC Council as well as relevant

unequivocally reaffirmed the validity of the law passed by Kano State House of Assembly and assented to by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, on Thursday 23rd May, 2024 by 5:10pm.

"This part of the judgement is very fundamental to the entire matter.

Further implication of the ruling is that all actions done by the government before the emergence of the interim order of the honourable court are equally validated.

"This means that, the abolishing of the five emirates created in 2019 is

remains underdeveloped and 50 per cent of this is Non-Associated Gas (NAG).

“We recognised the urgency of closing this gap through our assessment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and the new directives, signed by President Bola Tinubu to strengthen the PIA.

“Our approach was to respond with data driven policies, with the aim to reclaim Nigeria’s position as a top destination for returns on investment and ease of doing business, as well as attract new investments, revive dormant ones, and safeguard the industry while creating value for sustained impact for Nigerians.”

She added: "The Ubeta FID also aligns with Nigeria’s overall energy policy which emphasises the development of the gas sector to diversify the country’s energy mix, reduce flaring and promote cleaner energy sources.

“The project also has a strong focus on supplying gas to the domestic market and NLNG train 7. Additionally, this project will bring sustainable prosperity through strategic and structured community economic empowerment.

“Overall, we are positive that projects like this will boost confidence and bring more investments to the Nigerian oil & gas sector."

In his remarks, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri said Tinubu has significantly rekindled investor confidence in the oil and gas Industry, assuring Nigerians that more investments were on the way.

underpinning the crisis in the state.

Morka stated, “Quite contrary to the PDP’s misplaced quibbles against Chief Okocha’s comments, Governor Siminalayi Fubara is the supreme architect of the horrific crisis rocking Rivers State.

“Since assuming office over a year ago, Governor Fubara has displayed reckless disdain for the rule of law and democratic institutions, and conducted his government in flagrant violation of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“In an unprecedented display of autocratic arrogance, Governor Fubara declared the democratically

professionals from the FPS sector in Nigeria and globally.

The council commended the efforts of the Nigerian diaspora community in engaging and giving back to the nation at large, especially in the areas of healthcare investment, medical aid/ missions, infrastructure investment and tourism.

Besides, it unanimously resolved to continue to promote diaspora investor confidence through the promulgation of an enabling and conducive business environment and articulated its plans to engage the diaspora community through a structured unit of the LIFC.

Furthermore, the council unanimously agreed to continue to foster collaborations with other

validated and the deposition of the five emirs is also sustained by the Federal High Court.”

Dederi also said, "By implication, this means that Muhammadu Sanusi II remains the emir of Kano. The judge also granted our application for the stay of proceedings until the Court of Appeal deals with the appeal before it on jurisdiction.

"Happily, the signing of the law and the reinstatement of His Highness, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, were done on 23rd May, 2024 before the emergence of the interim order which

Also speaking, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas) , Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, said the project was a testament to the effectiveness of government’s policies aimed at creating a conducive environment for investment in the gas sector.

Group CEO of NNPCL, Mele Kolo Kyari said the collaboration with Total Energies and the Nigerian government once again proved to be highly effective in bringing the Ubeta project to its current stage.

“As NNPCL and its subsidiaries continue to reposition operations in line with the PIA and the new presidential directives to strengthen it, projects like this will ensure a steady supply of gas for the domestic market as well as the NLNG Train 7, whilst driving economic activities across various sectors during and after its completion. NNPCL is proud to lead this impactful initiative with our partners,” he added.

As the project moves into the development phase, operations are expected to start as planned, significantly contributing to Nigeria's reemerging position as a critical player in the sustainable global energy landscape and President Bola Tinubu's commitment to creating a favourable environment for significant foreign and local investments in Nigeria's oil and gas sector.

For his part, the Senior Vice President of Africa, Exploration & Production, TotalEnergies, Mike Sangster, said, "Ubeta is the latest in a series of projects developed by TotalEnergies in Nigeria, most

elected Rivers State House of Assembly to be non-existent and, without lawful authority, constituted a bogus and illegal three-man sham Assembly in brazen violation of express provisions of the constitution on the threshold composition of the House of Assembly and in disregard of the separation of powers doctrine.”

APC alleged that the governor had continued to expend public funds without lawful appropriation by a duly constituted legislature, thereby undermining the will of the people of Rivers State and their right to effective and accountable democratic governance.

international financial centres, regulatory bodies and relevant organisations to further promote knowledge sharing, best practices and global integration.

The LIFC Council, under the able leadership of Sanwo-Olu and Aig-Imoukhuede reaffirmed its commitment to establishing Lagos as a premier global financial centre by enhancing its infrastructure, regulatory efficiency, and international reputation.

was served on us on Monday 27th May, 2024.

"Following this court's ruling, Kano State Government has directed the state Commissioner of Police to remove the deposed emir of the eight metropolitan local governments from the government property, where he is trespassing, as government has already concluded arrangements for the general reconstruction and renovation of the property, including the demolishing and reconstruction of the dilapidated wall fence, with immediate effect."

recently Ikike and Akpo West.

“I am pleased that we can launch this new gas project, which has been made possible by the Government's recent incentives for non-associated gas developments.”

According to Sangster, “Ubeta fits perfectly with our strategy of developing low-cost and lowemission projects and will contribute to the Nigerian economy through higher NLNG exports". Located in OML58, the Ubeta gas condensate field would be developed with a new 6-well cluster connected to the existing Obite facilities through an 11km buried pipeline. Production start-up is expected in 2027, with a plateau of 300 million cubic feet per day (about 70,000barrels of oil equivalent per day including condensates). Gas from Ubeta will be supplied to NLNG, a liquefaction plant located in Bonny Island with an on-going capacity expansion from 22 to 30 Mtpa, in which NNPC Limited holds a 49 per cent interest. Ubeta is a low-emission and low-cost development, leveraging on OML58 existing gas processing facilities. The carbon intensity of the project would be further reduced through a 5 MW solar plant currently under construction at the Obite site and the electrification of the drilling rig. TotalEnergies is working closely with NNPC Limited to enhance local content, with more than 90% of manhours which will be worked locally. The Ubeta project has a robust Nigerian Content plan and is poised to stimulate economic activities, create job opportunities, and create significant value for stakeholders.

Morka insisted that the current crisis in Rivers State was contrived and executed by Fubara, who had continued to usurp the legislative powers of the state legislature while contemptuously disregarding valid decisions and orders of courts of competent jurisdiction in critical matters. He said these were at the root of the crisis in the state.

IG: Police Barricaded Rivers LG Secretariats to Forestall Breakdown of Law and Order

Sanwo-Olu

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

SIGNING CEREMONY FOR OML 58 UBETA FIELD DEVELOPMENT PROJECT...

L-R: Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo; Managing Director of TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited, Matthieu Bouyer; Senior Vice President, Exploration and Production, Africa, of TotalEnergies, Mike Sangster; Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd., Mele Kolo Kyari and Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Mrs. Olu Verheijen during the signing ceremony for the OML 58 Ubeta Field Development project in Abuja...yesterday.

Report: Energy Transition Momentum

Slowing amid Rising

Global Volatility

Africa missing in top 60, Nigeria is 108th in ETI 2024 rankings Global investment in energy transition hit $1.8tn in 2023

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos

The global energy transition to a more equitable, secure and sustainable energy system is still progressing but has lost momentum in the face of increasing uncertainty worldwide, according to a new World Economic Forum (WEF) report.

While 107 of the 120 countries benchmarked in the report demonstrated progress on their energy transition journeys in the past decade, the overall pace of the transition has slowed and balancing its different facets remains a key challenge, the report said.

An Energy Transition Index (ETI) ranking some by WEF saw Africa missing from the top 60, with Nigeria appearing in the 108th position out of the 120 countries that were ranked by the organisation.

WEF quoted a separate report as having found that global investments in the energy transition hit a record $1.8 trillion in 2023, climbing 17 per cent from a year earlier.

Most of this investment was in electrified transport, with China as the largest market, accounting for over one-third of the total investment, followed by Europe and the US.

While global clean energy investment has surged by 40 per cent since 2020, this recent growth has primarily been concentrated in advanced economies and China.

In contrast, other emerging and developing economies received less than 15 per cent of the total investment despite accounting for 65 per cent of the world's population and generating about a third of global Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The disparity, the report said, highlighted a concerning trend in financing the energy transition in emerging and developing economies.

To align with efforts to limit global warming to 1.5°C, "clean energy investment in these economies outside China must increase more than sixfold, from $270 billion currently to $1.6 trillion by the

early 2030s," it added.

Economic volatility, heightened geopolitical tensions and technological shifts have all had an impact, complicating its speed and trajectory, the document stressed, adding however, that there’s some reason for optimism, with increasing global investments in renewables and significant growth in energy transition performance in sub-Saharan Africa over the past decade.

The 14th annual edition of the Forum’s report, “Fostering Effective Energy Transition” 2024, published in collaboration with Accenture, uses the ETI to benchmark 120 countries on the performance of their current energy systems.

The focus was on balancing equity, environmental sustainability and energy security, and on their transition-readiness.

“We must ensure that the energy transition is equitable, in and across emerging and developed economies,” said Roberto Bocca, Head of the Centre for Energy and

Materials, WEF.

“Transforming how we produce and consume energy is critical to success. We need to act on three key levers for the energy transition urgently: reforming the current energy system to reduce its emissions, deploying clean energy solutions at scale, and reducing energy intensity per unit of Gross Domestic Product (GDP),” Bocca added.

Europe continued to lead the ETI rankings, with the top 10 list for 2024 fully composed of countries from that region.

“Sweden (1) and Denmark (2) top the rankings, having both placed in the top three countries each year for the past decade. They are followed by Finland (3), Switzerland (4) and France (5). These countries benefit from high political commitment, strong investments in research and development, expanded clean energy adoption – accelerated by the regional geopolitical situation, energy-efficiency policies and carbon pricing.

NEITI Holds Consultation on Nigeria’s Progress Report in Extractive Sectors

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) yesterday held a stakeholder’s consultation/validation meeting on the 2023 Annual Progress Report (APR) of Nigeria’s Extractive Industries.

Speaking at the event, Executive Secretary of the organisation, Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji, stressed that the global Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) requirement 1.5 under its 2023 standard, mandates all implementing countries, including Nigeria, to document their review of impacts and outcomes of the EITI implementation.

The global body, he said, also requires that all stakeholders

– companies, government and civil society involved in the EITI process, should be able to participate in reviewing the impact of EITI implementation, provide feedbacks, and have their views reflected in the annual progress report.

“Therefore, this programme has been designed to consult with you, validate your inputs and have your views reflected in the 2023 Annual Progress Report of the Nigeria Extractive Industries in line with the requirements of the global EITI.

“The programme also provides us an opportunity to evaluate and celebrate progress, milestones and achievements recorded through our various organisation’s programmes and activities in the oil gas and mining sector within the period under review, through the

mechanism of EITI annual progress reporting,” he stated.

The objective, he said, was to deepen EITI implementation in Nigeria and report on its progress, outcomes and impacts.

“It is therefore important to state that annual progress reporting is not just a NEITI Secretariat business alone, it concerns all the stakeholders whose works in their various organizations have been contributing to achieving EITI objectives in Nigeria.

“Therefore, APR is about documenting, reporting, showcasing and celebrating the good work being done by various stakeholders - government agencies, civil society organizations and companies that have been contributing in one way or another, to deepening reforms

in Nigeria’s extractive industries,” he added.

Orji urged all stakeholders to share their works to enable NEITI report and celebrate them through the instrumentality of the global EITI.

“The APR reporting framework provides platform to celebrate your key achievements and contributions to reform the sectors.

“While we acknowledge that indeed, there are still many issues to be addressed in the sectors, we must document, report and celebrate those efforts and progress we are making in the process of addressing those issues so as to build trust, earn citizens/investors’ confidence and attract the desired investment into our extractive sectors and economy,” he noted.

“France is a new entrant in the top five, with recent energyefficiency measures reducing energy intensity in the past year.

“Among G20 economies, Germany (11), Brazil (12), the United Kingdom (13), China (17) and the United States (19) join France in the ETI top 20, along with new entrants Latvia (15) and Chile (20), which were buoyed by increases in renewable energy capacity,” it stressed.

China and Brazil have progressed significantly in recent years, primarily driven by long-term efforts to increase the share of clean energy and enhance their grid reliability.

Under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, Nigeria pledged to meet its NetZero goals by 2060. It’s unclear how the country plans to achieve this while searching for fresh investments in its fossil fuels.

Bagudu Seeks Funding Support for National Film Corporation

James Emejo in Abuja

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning Senator Abubakar Bagudu yesterday advocated support from international organisations and relevant stakeholders for the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) to boost the country's growth potential.

Speaking when when he received senior members of the corporation, led by the Managing Director/Chief Executive, Dr. Ali Nuhu, on a courtesy visit to the ministry in Abuja, the minister said noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was deliberate in the establishment of the Ministry of Culture and Creative Economy, recognising the fact that some organisations or fields of endeavuors contribute to economic growth of a nation.

Bagudu in a statement issued by Director Information, Julie OsaigeJacobs, said the creative industry remained the biggest employer of labour and the country's major asset rather than liability.

He called on the corporation to explore meaningful opportunities for youths to take advantage of the industry.

Bagudu also advised the corporation to seek collaboration with KOICA of South Korea, Japan and the French Embassy, to move the nation's creative industry forward.

The minister described Nuhu as a disruptor brought into government to use his creative ability to convey positive messages of Renewed Hope and project resilient Nigerians who daily toil to live meaningful lives.

Earlier, the NFC boss said the purpose of the courtesy call was to.canvass for an increase in the budgetary allocation of the corporation to enable it achieve its mandates.

He specifically noted that the increase in budgetary supplementation would enable the corporation maintain its liaison offices, develop the NFC permanent site, boost capacity building of existing staff as well as recruitment of its aging personnel.

In her remarks, Director, Economic Growth, Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Mrs. Elizabeth Egharevba said, "Our entertainment Industry is contributing to our economic growth and with your (Nuhu) appointment by the President, we are positive you will achieve more."

The NFC is one of the parastatals in the Federal Ministry of Culture and Creative Economy and has the mandate to foster a thriving and enduring film industry and cinema culture, in Nigeria.

Nuhu was appointed by Tinubu in January, 2024.

CBN DIALOGUE SESSION ORGANISED IN COLLABORATION WITH THE NESG...

To Enhance Safe Use of Electricity, NEMSA Inspects 21,681

Installations, Tests 2.65m Meters Nationwide

Agency calls for establishment of electricity offences tribunal

Emmanuel Addeh

The Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA), which enforces technical standards and regulations in the power sector, yesterday disclosed that to ensure safety in the industry, it had so far inspected 21,681 installations and tested as well as calibrated 2,655,488 meters nationwide.

Speaking during a meeting with journalists in Abuja, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NEMSA, Aliyu Tahir Tukur, explained that of the projects inspected and tested, 13,154 had been certified.

In addition, he explained that 16,624 electricity networks were monitored, while about 4,921 factories, hazardous installations and public places were inspected, tested and certified fit.

Stressing that 487 incidences were investigated, the Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation explained

At

that the work of the organisation is to ensure that the right quality, standards and specifications for electrical equipment are used in the country.

Among others, Tahir stated that NEMSA ensures the safety of lives and property within the grid and off-grid networks and electrical installations.

He explained that the agency ensures that electricity meters and instruments are of the right type, quality, class and accuracy for proper accountability of energy produced, delivered, supplied and utilised by the consumers.

Tahir added that NEMSA also carries out the processing of competency certificates to qualified electrical installation contractors and practitioners engaged in the practice of electrical installations works along the power value chain. In terms of asset development,

Private Parley with

he stated that NEMSA carried out remodelling of inherited assets from the defunct Power Holding Company or Nigeria (PHCN) and the Federal Ministry of Power.

He explained that to facilitate NEMSA’s processes, the organisation successfully obtained re-certification of its Quality Management System (QMS) ISO 9001:2015 standard, issued by the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) on March 4, 2020.

He said that this was a strategic achievement that was already enhancing the overall performance of the agency and providing operational thoroughness and a sound basis for sustainable development initiatives.

“The agency has successfully been recertified on QMS ISO 9001:2015 standard in March 2023. NEMSA is thus among the first government agencies to be ISO Certified,” he said, listing several others.

For effective coverage of the length and breadth of the country, he stated that enough engineers and technical personnel are needed, stressing however that the government was doing its bit in that direction.

“However, with the evolving global trend in electricity generation, transmission and distribution, especially as the world is tilting towards renewable energy, there is need for our engineers and technical staff to be trained and retrained. This training will provide the requisite knowledge our engineers need.

“Furthermore, the Electricity Act 2023 strengthened the enforcements powers and responsibilities of NEMSA...but this increased responsibility comes with challenges which requires more efforts and resources.

“And in tackling the challenges, we need the support of all the

Ramaphosa

in Jo’burg, Tinubu Seeks Potent Ties with SA

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, held a private meeting with his South African counterpart, Cyril Ramaphosa in Johannesburg, where they both canvassed stronger ties.

stakeholders including government at all levels- the executive, the legislature, the judiciary, electricity consumers and the media,” he stressed.

Tahir called for the establishment of an Electricity Offences Tribunal with an in-built appeal system for faster dispensation of electricity related offences as well as vesting NEMSA In-House Counsel with powers to prosecute electricity offences.

He stated that as a young agency

still grappling with a lean purse, the support of all and sundry, including the media was needed to reduce the many electricity accidents experienced from time to time.

The MD added that the organisation was determined as an enforcement agency to continue to carry out its statutory function of technical inspection, testing and certification of all electrical materials and equipment in the sector.

Olaopa: How Civil Servants Can Actualise Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC), Prof. Tunji Olaopa, yesterday outlined some measures civil servants could adopt to actualise the performance bonds they signed with President Bola Tinubu towards realising his Renewed Hope Agenda.

Olaopa spoke at the public lecture marking the 2024 Civil Service Week held in Abuja.

overall effectiveness as the engine room of governance?.

The professor of public administration noted that if civil servants get sufficiently innovative in resource-use efficiency, then they will be in a position to enter into significant productivity bargain-enabled enhanced pay and remuneration.

Before the closed meeting, which was held at Radisson Blu Hotel, Johannesburg, President Ramaphosa, according to a release, by presidential spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, thanked President Tinubu for honouring the invitation to attend his inauguration for a second term in office.

"Thank you so much for coming for the inauguration. I was very happy to see my brother at the ceremony," the South African President said.

On his part, President Tinubu noted that President Ramaphosa's inaugural speech captured most of the challenges faced by African countries and the need for more collaboration among leaders and citizens to provide solutions.

"I really enjoyed your speech at the ceremony. I was delighted listening to you. We have lots of issues in common, and we need to work more closely together. It was a good celebration," the president stated.

President Ramaphosa was re-elected into office for a second term on Friday, June 14, 2024, following an agreement for a Government of National Unity between the African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance.

Terrorism: Army Takes Delivery of Two New Helicopters, to Activate Aviation Wing

Ikechukwu Aleke in Abuja

The Nigerian Army (NA), yesterday, took delivery of two new helicopters, as part of the service determined effort to activate its aviation wing to strengthen the ongoing fight against Insurgency and terrorism.

A Former Commander Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army, Major Gen Victor Ezugwu (Rtd), in May 2024, said the war against terrorism would end if the planned establishment of

Army Aviation succeeded and night fighting capabilities of the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps were improved. Against this backdrop, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, in brief ceremony received the two helicopters Bell UH1-H, which, arrived Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja, NAF Wing at about 4:40pm.

The two new platforms were expected to operationalise the NA aviation to support troops in training,

casualty evacuation and reconnaissance, thereby boosting response time.

In his remarks, Lagbaja expressed delight that the NA Aviation conceptualised 10 years ago, has finally come to life with the delivery of the first two helicopters.

"The journey, as predicted by those that conceptualised the idea, has not been easy, but here we are today by the grace of God, realising our dream.

“I must sincerely appreciate the various administrations that have been

in government since 2014, from His Excellency Goodluck Jonathan to His Excellency Mohammadu Buhari, for their support in training our pilots and ground crews and putting in place necessary structures over these years.

“I must especially thank the President, C-in-C of the Armed Forces of Nigeria His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for fulfilling his promise to fund the acquisition of our platforms and providing the necessary funding to realise our dream."

In a goodwill message, Olaopa recalled that the African Union (AU), in designating the week as the Public Service Week in 1994 in Tangier, Morocco, provided platform to beam critical light on how the bar of professionalism and capability readiness of the civil service could be raised.

He congratulated Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, on her "commendable spirited and innovative reform initiatives through the implementation of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (2021-2025). According to Olaopa, to be in a position to build on current gains as the administrative reform progresses, "will require value-based leadership sophistication that draws from deep and nuanced out-of-the-box strategic thinking, and leadership by example."

Olaopa said: "Why is it that, in spite of the many spirited civil service reform initiatives since 1999, the federal bureaucracy, on balance, seems to be declining in some vital performance indicators and parameters that are key to its

He added: "We would have gained enhanced bargaining leverage for better condition of service as motivation and incentives (monetary and non-monetary) required to attract talents and scarce skills into the service; thereby raising the prestige of our profession, and restoring government as employer of choice in the national economy.

"This in turn raises another relevant question: What would be the contingent changes to personnel policies, pay level, and operational cost ratios that are most cost-effective and consistent to achieve optimal productivity level in the public service and, by extension, the national economy?

"And what change management and capability enhancement strategy are in place to redress situations that will arise when Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) are falling short in delivering on the performance bond that we signed with the FGN?"

According to Olaopa, from his vantage position as the service commission chair, he is fully available to collaborate in addressing the concerns "through sharing and learning and strategic partnership to take current reform programmes to the next level."

in Abuja

L-R Deputy Governor, Operations Directorate, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Ms. Emem Usoro; Governor, CBN, Mr Yemi Cardoso; Deputy Governor, Economic Policy Directorate, CBN, Mr Muhammad Sani Abdullahi and Chairman, Board of Directors, Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), Mr. Niyi Yusuf, at the CBN dialogue session organised in collaboration with the NESG and private sector business leaders in Lagos on Wednesday

COURTESY VISIT...

Keystone Bank

Food Security: Tinubu Urges 36 State Governors to Prioritise Agriculture

Abiodun allocates farmland to Assembly Members

President Bola Tinubu yesterday enjoined state governors across the federation to prioritise agriculture by investing in food crops in order to drive down the current high cost of food.

He equally tasked Nigerians in general to play their part by engaging in some form of subsistence farming.

The president made the call while speaking at the Global Integrity International Award on Good Governance and Economy in Lagos, where he was also an awardee, alongside the Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka; Pa Ayo Opadokun, and others.

He appealed "to our state governors and our people generally to take agriculture seriously and invest in our food crops in order to drive down the high cost."

Tinubu, represented by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Tunde Rahman,

bemoaned the high cost of food stuff in the country, but quickly noted that oftentimes, Nigerians appeared to be the architects of their own problems.

He reflected on two trending videos showing a certain quantity of pepper being sold for N500 "compared with what people from other ethnic groups also sell for the same amount within our own domain.

"There is another one, I am appealing to our state governors and our people generally to take agriculture seriously and invest in our food crops in order to drive down the high cost," he said.

At the event which took place at the Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja and organised by the Nigerian Human Rights Community (NHRC), the president insisted that he will continue to impress it on state governors who own the lands to invest in agriculture.

“We must take agriculture as a priority if we want to drive down the high price. The food situation

SEC Probes Fund Managers’ Exposure to Heritage Bank

Kayode Tokede

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has said it has commenced an investigation into fund managers' exposure in Heritage Bank Limited after the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN ) revoked the operating licence of the financial institution.

The Head, Monitoring Department, SEC, Mr. Tarfa Makyur in a signed circular to the President, Fund Managers Association of Nigeria (FMAN), dated June 14, 2024 stated that the commission is currently assessing the potential implications of the CBN’s decision to invoke the operating licence of Heritage Bank on the capital market.

Makyur on behalf of DirectorGeneral, SEC, Dr Emomotimi Agama in the circular requested that members of the FMAN provide detailed information on their level of exposure to Heritage Bank in request of proprietary funds and client funds.

He, however, urged them that the needed information must be submitted to the commission on later than June 30, 2024

“The commission appreciates your prompt cooperation and assistance in this matter,” the circular added.

The CBN early this month

disclosed that the board and management of the bank had not been able to improve the bank’s financial performance, a situation which constitutes a threat to financial stability.

“This follows a period during which the CBN engaged with the bank and prescribed various supervisory steps intended to stem the decline.

“Regrettably, the bank has continued to suffer and has no reasonable prospects of recovery, thereby making the revocation of the license the next necessary step,” the acting Director, Corporate Communications, CBN, Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali had explained in a statement.

The CBN had noted that the action taken was to strengthen public confidence in the banking system and ensure that the soundness of the financial system is not impaired, stressing that Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) was appointed as the liquidator of the bank in accordance with Section 12 (2) of BOFIA, 2020.

The Managing Director of NDIC, Mr. Hassan Bello had said preliminary investigations showed that the failed bank had about N650 billion total deposits which he said could be more because there could be other deposits that were not immediately ascertained.

is a challenge to all of us. The government has a responsibility to power agriculture, we also have to engage in some form of subsistence farming. We must play our parts as well.

"My appeal to our people is we must invest in our country, in our own success and in the success of this administration. Often times we appear to be the architects of our own problems, by making things difficult for ourselves.

"I came across two trending videos last week that I would like to comment on and close my remarks with. There is one that showed the quantity of pepper our people sell for instance for N500 compared with what people from other ethnic group also sell for the same amount within our own domain. This is bad! We are exploiting ourselves. We must change for better," he stated.

The president, however, promised that his administration would do all it takes for the average Nigerian to feel the impact of governance, reiterating that Nigeria was no longer bleeding but gradually turning the corner based on his administration's Renewed Hope Agenda.

On his one year in office, Tinubu said he had achieved a lot, pointing out that he had moved to reset the economy and the governance processes, and also reawaken the spirit of patriotism in the citizens

"by rekindling our national values," while also ensuring adequate power generation, increased Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), more infrastructural drive, improvement in oil industry, security, among others.

According to him, his administration had recorded some remarkable successes in the area of power, saying that 5000MW of power was achieved in May for the first time in three years, with additional 600MW projected to be generated by the end of the year.

He said it was worth mentioning the increasing flow of investments into the economy, like the $30 billion Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) commitments already secured during the year to grow the economy, among others.

He added: "With respect to the food situation in the country, and that's the elephant in the room, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development launched dry season farming involving 118, 651 hectares in 15 states, with Jigawa State alone getting 40,000 hectares.

"This intervention injected an estimated N309 billion into the economy. The ministry also supported a total of 107, 429 wheat farmers with inputs resulting in output of 474, 628 metric tonnes. More importantly, about 60,000 jobs were created across the agriculture value chain within the first year.

"All of these may appear like just speaking grammar to our people. I must say, however, that as the administration’s substantial investments in enhancing security across the country begin to post concrete yields, this will positively impact agricultural productivity going into the president’s second year in office.

"There are several other innovative programmes like the Consumer Credit designed to mobilise the manufacturing sector to produce again. This will happen when the people can fund their purchases. The sum of N100 billion has been earmarked for this.

“There is also a mortgage fund to support the creation of mortgages. There is the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative meant to transition our people to a cheaper form of energy than petroleum for our vehicles.

"This is designed to restore energy competitiveness so that our manufacturing sector, our transport sector, and our economy will benefit from a cheaper form of energy that will support the economic reform."

The president therefore assured that the pains being experienced at present would soon give way for the full realisation of the benefits of efforts of his administration, pointing out that gradual growth was being recorded based on National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) figure which stands

at 2.98 per cent growth in the first quarter of this year, and higher than 2.31 per cent recorded in the same period in 2023.

Also speaking in his opening remark, NHRC scribe, Taiwo Adeleye, recalled the struggle for June 12, 1993 poll won by the late Chief Moshood Abiola, but which was annulled by Gen. Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida. He said that those being honoured with various awarded, including Tinubu, played key roles in ensuring that Nigeria attained the democracy now place.

Meanwhile, the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, yesterday allocated farmlands to 25 members of the state House of Assembly as parts of efforts aimed at ensuring food security and in support of the agricultural resurgence initiative of the federal government.

Abiodun, who presented letters of allocation to the lawmakers to commemorate the first anniversary of the 10th legislature at the Governor's Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, said the gesture was to make them contribute towards making the state the food basket of the country.

He said: "I recall that I had promised to allocate agricultural land to all the Ogun State legislators as part of our food security and agricultural resurgence initiative, which is in line with the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

President to Lead VP, Ministers, Others to NECA’s Summit on Economic Reform

Dike Onwuamaeze

President Bola Tinubu is expected to lead a federal government team to the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) summit, meant to interrogate and assess the impact of his economic reforms and policies that have had serious impact on Nigeria’s economy.

The theme of the summit, which comes up on June 25 and 26, is “Economic Renaissance: Harnessing Government Reforms and Private Sector Agility.”

Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, who would be attending the summit as special guests of honour, would be joined by the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edu; Minister of Trade, Industry and Investment,

Dr. Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite; Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha and the Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, among others.

According to the Director General of NECA, Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, who addressed journalists yesterday in Lagos, the Tinubu’s administration commenced the implementation of the removal of subsidy and foreign exchange unification without any measures to cushion their immediate hardship on the economy and businesses.

Oyerinde noted that although the business community identified with the fuel subsidy removal and the forex unification policies, they frowned on the absence of post implementation plans to mitigate the severe effects of the policies.

He added that the NECA Employers’ Summit was created

as the highest private sectororiented advocacy platform for the deliberation and creation of solution paths for business challenges in the economy.

“The choice of the theme is a product of the need for broad discussion on the current government policy trajectory to ensure that they are businessescentric and have the veracity to catalyse national growth and development,” he said.

Some of the key objectives of the summit, he said, include the re-establishment of “the nexus between government reforms and private sector collaboration for rapid national growth and sustainable development.”

Others are exploring alternative mechanisms for a deepened publicprivate partnership in job creation, skills development and enterprise sustainability, fostering a high-

level participation of the private sector in reforms formulations, implementation and appraisal as a means to building national consensus and participation.

The summit, NECA said, would also provide the platform for the development of strategies for making reform benefits accessible to all and identifying inclusive growth pathways for equitable opportunities.

It would also generate and promote alternative policy frameworks for national development and reinforce the role of the private sector as engine of national development, NECA added.

The thematic areas of the summit are implementing economic policies without businesses’ resistance, job creation dynamics, advocacy for policy clarity, and strategic partnership for holistic transformation.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

MD/CEO,

Limited, Mr. Hassan Imam (middle); Group CEO, CPG Division Mr. Deepak Singhal (next to Imam); Executive Director, Keystone Bank Limited, Mrs. Nnenna Anyim Okoro, alongside a

cross section of other delegates from Keystone Bank Limited and Tolaram Group, during a working visit by the bank’s management to Tolaram Group at its headquarters in Lagos...recently

TOURISM AMBASSADOR, IKECHI UKO VISITS MBAH...

Court Scraps Ondo’s New 33 LCDAs

Ajayi kicks, says it's anti-people

Fidelis David in Akure

An Ondo State High Court, yesterday, declared the creation of 33 Local Government Development Areas (LCDAs) by the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, of the state, as unconstitutional and illegal.

The Presiding Judge, Justice A.O Adebusuoye, said the LCDAs were not lawfully

created and described them as inchoate and which did not comply with sections 7 and 8 of the 1999 constitution.

Leaders of the four local governments in Akokoland, had approached the court to challenge the creation of the LCDAs in the area, alleging marginalisation of the area.

The leaders of the Akokoland, which included Akoko

Southeast, Akoko Southwest, Akoko Northwest, and Akoko Northeast, through their lawyers, Mr Tolu Babaleye, took the state government to court, challenging the marginalisation in the creation of the LCDAs.

However, Justice Adebusoye, in his judgment, held that the creation of the LCDAS did not comply with sections 7 and 8 of the 1999 constitution.

He also agreed with the leaders of the four local government areas that there was no equitable distribution of the council areas among the existing local governments in the state.

Meanwhile, the Akokoland leaders under the umbrella of the Akoko Development Initiative (ADI), who filed the suit, hailed the judgment, noting

Eko Hotels and Suites Spearheads African Tourism Revolution

Sunday Ehigiator

In a bid to showcase the beauty and diversity of African tourism, Eko Hotels and Suites, recently hosted the Roundtable on Destination Africa.

The event brought together industry stakeholders and business leaders to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the African tourism sector.

Marketing Manager at Kenya Airways, Regina Shiko, emphasized Nigeria's crucial role in Africa's aviation sector, citing the country's multiple high-yield business opportunities and significant growth in leisure travel.

However, she also highlighted the need to address visa issuance and perception of safety and reliability as major challenges facing Nigerian

air travel.

According to her, "Simplifying the visa process could encourage more travel within the continent, or even doing away with it outrightly.

"Another challenge facing Nigerian air travel is the perception of safety and reliability.

"Kenya Airways is actively working with industry stakeholders to change these perceptions and promote a positive image of African cities.

"We are committed to ensuring the safety and comfort of our passengers.

"We are working hard to change the narrative and show that African cities are safe and welcoming."

Also speaking, Director of Sales and Marketing at Eko Hotels and Suites, Iyadunni Gbadebo, discussed the hotel's innovative approach to

enhancing the travel experience in Lagos, including its annual Tropical Christmas Wonderland event, which celebrates African culture and heritage.

According to her, "Launched in 2018, this event transforms the hotel into a wonderland for families and a grand venue for social gatherings.

"The event has taken a bold step away from traditional Western Christmas themes in recent years."

Gbadebo shared the evolution of this event, which has since embraced a distinctly African narrative.

Her words: "The conversation started two years ago during the Prideland edition, when we deliberately started choosing to tell African Christmas stories," Gbadebo recalled.

"Inspired by a child's suggestion, Eko Hotels has developed themes

that reflect African traditions and stories, merging universal Christmas themes with unique African elements.

"This year, the event will focus on the Africa of the future, continuing to build on the success of previous editions and offering visitors an immersive experience that celebrates African heritage and innovation.

"The Tropical Christmas Wonderland promises to be a grand celebration of African culture and hospitality, reinforcing Eko Hotels' commitment to promoting African tourism and creating unforgettable experiences for visitors."

As Africa continues to emerge as a global tourism destination, Eko Hotels and Suites is at the forefront of promoting African tourism and creating unforgettable experiences for visitors.

Alleged N17bn Debt: Afex Challenges Court's Jurisdiction, Stalls Contempt Proceedings

Wale Igbintade

Hearing in the contempt proceedings against Afex Commodity Exchange and some of its principal officers was stalled yesterday at the Federal High Court in Lagos, as the company challenged the jurisdiction of the Court to entertain the matter.

Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke had on May 31, 2024, granted a motion ex parte in Suit FHC/L/ CS/911/2024, and cited AFEX and its principal officers for contempt of court following their alleged disobedience to a court order authorising Guaranty

Trust (GTBank) to take over the funds and assets belonging to Afex Commodities Exchange following its inability to pay N17,808,452,467.107bn loan facilities granted by the bank.

At the resumed hearing of the matter yesterday, Ade Adedeji, SAN, appeared for the Plaintiff, while Prof. Wale Olawoyin, SAN, led a team of lawyers for the defendants.

Addressing the Court, Prof. Olawoyin, informed the court of a Notice of Preliminary Objection challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the contempt proceedings initiated against the Afex Commodity

Exchange and its directors for alleged non-compliance with the ex parte interim order of injunction dated 27th May 2024.

He stated that the Notice of Preliminary Objection was brought pursuant to section 36 of the constitution (As Amended) and under the inherent jurisdiction of the court.

Prof. Olawoyin informed the court that the Preliminary Objection has been served on the Plaintiff, and urged the court to give it priority in view of jurisdictional issues raised.

He submitted that when the jurisdiction of the court is being

challenged parties in alleged contempt need not be physically present in court until the issue of jurisdiction is resolved by the court.

Olawoyin stated that the defendants have filed an Affidavit of Fact before the court on the whereabouts of the directors of Afex Commodity Exchange, and why they were not in court.

However, in his reply, Plaintiff's counsel, Ade Adedeji, argued that contempt proceedings are quasicriminal, hence all the alleged contemnors must be physically present in court.

that the decision of the court represented the true position of law.

The ADI, in a statement by the claimants in the suit including former Speaker of State House of Assembly, Hon. Bakitta Bello, Matthew Ofosile, and Lawal Rogbitan, said the judgment represented the true position of law and the aspiration of the people of the four local governments of Akoko.

According to them, they noticed the lopsidedness in the recommendation from the Executive Council to the State House of Assembly for the creation of the 33 LCDAs, in July 2023, and made representation to the Government in letters addressed to the Governor and the Attorney General to correct the injustice meted to individual

Local Government Areas and the entire Akoko land. They said there was no adjustment made to the error pointed to the Executive Council before it forwarded its recommendation to the Ondo State House of Assembly for legislation.

“Given the protest at the House of Assembly by aggrieved citizens across the State, the House of Assembly adjusted her time-table which was designed to pass the bill in one sitting, to accommodate a hurriedly arranged public hearing on the bill.

“Representatives of Local Governments in Akoko presented memoranda at the hearing which was backed up with adequate records and data to assist the House arrive at equitable decisions."

Gender Rights: Minister Reads Riot Act to School Proprietors, Hotel Owners, Hospitals

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

In pursuance of gender rights and safety across the nation, the Minister of Women Affairs, Uju KennedyOhanenye, has read out a riot act to school proprietors, hotel owners and hospital managements over the incessant abuse of women, young girls and children.

The minister who bemoaned cases of constant underaged abuse, exposure to alcohol and even death in hotels, bullying and sexual molestation in schools as well as refusal to treat gunshot patients without police reports in many hospitals said with the enactment of mobile courts, such menace will be brought to the barest minimum.

The minister spoke, Thursday, in Abuja, during a meeting in partnership between the federal ministries of health, women affairs and education, medical facilities, hotel owners, private school owners, and nongovernmental organizations as well as civil society organizations.

She said going forward, there will be signs in schools, hotels and hospitals having captions such as "No lodging of underaged girls and children or serving of alcohol"; "Bullying is here by prohibited"; "No sex for grade or harassment: See something, say

something" and added that there will be numbers attached.

The minister added that related objectives will include increase in speed deployment and dispensation if justice, the enhancement of speed and efficiency in case trial reduction of child labour and out of school children as well as reduce child abuse and the use of babies to beg for alms, amongst several others.

Her words: "The implementation of the mobile court will usher in guidelines for new operational methods for all hotels, hospitals both private and public, private and public schools and NGOs.

"All hotels should display posters of no under aged girls or children allowed for lodging in hotels. All primary and secondary schools should display sign post and there must be a sitting teacher in every classroom for both primary and secondary.

"There must be four teachers on duty who will always be outside watching the children play during breaks. There must be a sitting cleaner at the entrance of the toilet corridors to monitor what goes on.

"No hospital should reject an emergency patient. At least immediate first aid should be administered for restoration or resuscitation of life."

L-R: Commissioner of Tourism Enugu State, Dame Ugochi Madueke; Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mba; Ambassador of Tourism / Tourism Consultant and Organiser Akwaaba African Travel Market, Ambassador Ikechi Uko; and former Miss Tourism United Nations and CEO WABIO Foundation, Mrs Ebele Enemchukwu, during Uko’s visit to the governor of Enugu State… yesterday.

CRC FINANCE AND CREDIT CONFERENCE...

L-R: Managing Director/CEO, Accion Microfinance Bank, Mr.Taiwo Joda; Group Chief Information Security Officer, United Bank for Africa (UBA), Mr. Romaric Sia; Group Managing Director/CEO, CRC Credit Bureau Limited, Dr. 'Tunde Popoola; Founder/Chief Executive Officer, Ethnos Cyber Limited, Mr. Peter Ejiofor; Managing Director/CEO, Digital Encode, Dr. Peter Obadare, and Founder/CEO, Digital Finance Solutions Limited, Mr. Niyi Ajao, during CRC Finance and Credit Conference 2024 in Lagos…yesterday

Police Arrest 35,496 Suspects, Recover 2,750 Firearms, Secure 16, 200 Convictions in One Year

Ikechukwu Aleke in Abuja

The High Command of the Nigerian Police Force (NPF), yesterday said that officers and men of the force arrested no fewer than 35,496 suspects, for their participation in various crimes, rescued 1,907 kidnapped victims, recovered 2,750 firearms, 22,569 ammunition, and 1,540 vehicles nationwide, in one year.

The police also noted that its legal and prosecutions section successfully prosecuted 29,052 criminal cases, and secured 16,200 convictions within the same period.

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, made this disclosure while addressing senior police officers during the IGP's Conference with Strategic Police Managers, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.

Noting that the police successes thus far is founded on teamwork, integrity, and a shared vision for a safer community, Egbetokun said that in the past year, the force has recorded significant crime statistics, including 814 cases of terrorism/ secessionist attacks, 2,308 cases of murder, 856 cases of armed robbery, 1,453 cases of kidnapping, and 1,429 other sundry cases.

Still dwelling on statistics, the IGP said that in terms of promotions, 33,867 officers were elevated to their next ranks on the basis of merit, competence, and available vacancies in the establishment of the force, stressing the commitment to fairness and excellence must continue.

The police boss also said that his Special Intervention Squad (SIS), achieved significant successes in dismantling criminal gangs involved in banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery.

Lamenting that non-state combatants have acquired sophisticated weaponry and digital capabilities, Egbetokun said: "Through various operations, we have arrested numerous suspects, recovered weapons, including GPMGs, seized large quantities of ammunition of various calibres, confiscated Radio Frequency jamming equipment and anti-drone devices being used by bandits.

“We have also rescued many kidnapped victims, foiled several bank robbery attempts. Prevented multiple kidnapping attempts, including attempts by bandits to abduct school students in FCT, Niger, Kaduna, and Ogun States.

Kogi Gov Assents to Six Bills, Says Laws are People's Legislations

Ibrahim

Oyewale in Lokoja

Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State has assented to six bills with a charge to the people of the state to embrace the new laws in order to move Kogi State forward.

The six bills now signed into law include: “A Law to repeal and Re-enact the Kogi State Local Government Service Commission Law 2014 and for other matters connected therewith, 2024;

“A Law to repeal and Re-enact the Kogi State Scholarship Board Edict, 1998 and other matters connected therewith, 2024;

“A Law to establish the Kogi State Electricity Market and the Kogi State Electricity Regulatory Commission to Regulate Electricity Generation, Transmission, System Operation Distribution, Supply and Promote Access to Electricity in the State through increased Private Sector Investments or Public Private Partnership in Grid, Multi-Grid and other Off-grid Electricity Option using Renewable and Non-renewable Fuel Sources in the State and other Purposes Connected Therewith, 2024;

“A Law to Establish the Kogi State

Anti-Corruption Agency and other matters connected therewith, 2024;

“Kogi State Commodity Exchange, Export Promotion and Market Development Agency Law, 2024 and the Kogi State Information Technology Development Agency Law, 2024.”

In his remarks, Governor Ododo described the laws as people's laws, stressing the assent to the bills are in line with his promise to lead with transparency, accountability and the fear of God.

The governor noted that the new set of laws will serve as catalyst for the rapid social and economic development of Kogi State as they deal directly with critical aspects of the lives of the people.

His words: “These laws combined together can be referred to as the people’s Acts. All the laws have direct bearing on the lives of our people and this the reason we are here.

“Let it be known that under my administration, nobody is above the law.

“This is in line with my promise to lead with the fear of God and to ensure that our resources work for the people of the state.”

"Also worthy of mentioning is recovery 1,100 registered SIM cards, from a notorious gang operating in FCT and neighbouring states (Niger, Kogi, Kaduna, and Nasarawa). All these were achieved through the resilience and unwavering commitment of our officers as well as enhanced Human and Technical Intelligence capabilities and in synergy with other sister agencies".

He said that in cases where police officers were killed or murdered, the force has ensured that the perpetrators are brought to justice, by tracking them down and holding them accountable.

He further said that the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC), also made strides, adding that as part of its efforts to combat cybercrime, the

police force has developed capabilities to secure the national cyber space.

According to him, "Our cybercrime unit has successfully conducted operations, including joint efforts with international partners such as the FBI, INTERPOL, EUROPOL, British NCA, South Korea Police, and other global law enforcement agencies.

“Recently, we responded to a report of systems in theft of billions of Naira. Our cybercrime unit swiftly took action, apprehending the perpetrators and recovering a substantial portion of the stolen funds. We have secured eight convictions in the prosecution of the suspects.

“Another significant achievement, worthy of mentioning is the recent arrest of one of the world's top 10 most sophisticated cybercriminals

arrested here in Nigeria. We are proud of the progress we are making in the fight against crime and criminality in Nigeria. The Legal/Prosecutions Section has successfully prosecuted 29,052 criminal cases, securing 16,200 convictions".

He noted that his Special Task Force on Petroleum and Illegal Bunkering (STFPIB) has arrested suspects and recovered significant quantities of adulterated AGO and stolen crude oil.

The Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD-CBRN) unit, he added had also rendered safe numerous IEDs, enabling the reintegration of communities.

Recalling that the police recently presented cheques, totaling 9.85 billion to families of deceased

officers under the Group Life Assurance Scheme and the IGP Family Welfare Scheme, Egbetokun announced plans to establish its own insurance company, the Nigeria Police Insurance Company. He said: "Our leadership has also advanced infrastructural development. We shall be commissioning in few days ahead, completed projects such as the Nigeria Police Resource Centre, the International Conference Centre located within the same premises with the Police Resource Centre, the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC), the Force Intelligence Building, the Force Public Relations School, the Police Intelligence School located in Share, Kwara State and Evidence/ Exhibits Storage facilities.

Peace Efforts by Delta Government Fail as Okoloba Declares Okuama Indigenes "Settlers"

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

Fresh Crisis is brewing in Delta State as the Okolaba Federated Community in the Bomadi Local Government Area has opposed moves by the state government to resettle the displaced Okuama indigenes of the Ughelli South Local Government Area in their devastated ancestral homes.

The Urhobo-dominated Okuama Community and its neighbouring Ijaw-owned Okoloba Community have engaged in lingering boundary disputes leading to the killing of 17 military officers and soldiers on March 24, this year.

The army, in response to the murder of its personnel, laid siege to the Okuama Community forcing the indigenes to flee for their lives.

Following the pullout by the military, the state government announced plans to rehabilitate the

community and set up an Internally Displaced Persons camp at Ewu Kingdom for the residents to settle down first.

Though the indigenous farmers in the community first resisted their relocation to the IDP camp, the assurance to rebuild their town by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori calmed the frayed nerves.

However, the Okolaba Community has opposed the plan by the state government to resettle the Okuama residents in their ancestral home.

The Okolaba Community, in a statement issued by chairman of the Okoloba Federated Community, Mr. Clement Koki, yesterday described the Okuama indigenes as strangers in the community noting that “they have no basis claiming any land in the first instance because they never owned one.”

The community asked the Okuama

residents to vacate the land which it alleged they “craftily and aggressively grabbed.”

In the statement made available to journalists in Warri, the Okoloba Community insisted that “Any hurried and haphazard approach to the dispute by the government will be like pouring water on top of the rock, which will not stand the test of time.”

The community claimed it maintained ancestral boundary directly with the Akugbene people, adding that, “Okuama farmers are from faraway upland Ewu-Urhobo kingdom and are strangers to Akugbene who gave them portions of land to farm and fish.

The statement further stated: “So, they do not have any basis claiming any land in the first instance, because they never owned one, and they should vacate all that land which they have craftily and aggressively

grabbed, as we shall not allow even a foot of our God-given land to be occupied by them for whatsoever reasons.

“We will do everything legitimately possible, acting within the ambit of the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to achieve just that, without taking laws into our hands.

“We are also very willing and ready to support the security agencies, the state and federal governments to effectively resolve the long-standing impasse but we add that the root cause of the dispute must be explored exhaustively because that is the only sure bet to a lasting peace.”

While maintaining that the Okoloba people are peace-loving, law-abiding, hospitable, benevolent and sociable, the community cautioned the Delta State government against any hurried arrangement to resettle the Okuama people.

NHRC Advocates Better Protection for Refugees

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called on the government to redouble its efforts in protecting and supporting refugees, migrants, asylum seekers, stateless persons and internally displaced persons in order for them to rebuild their lives in dignity.

The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, who stated this in Abuja on the commemoration of 2024 World Refugees Day, which is marked

every June and 20, noted that refugees and other persons living in similar conditions deserve to be protected bearing in mind that they are usually not the architects of their plights but victims of circumstances like insurgency, natural disasters, harsh economic conditions and human rights violations.

He noted that the 2024 theme of the celebration, “Solidity with Refugees”, is a reminder to the fact that everyone needs a home where basic needs for survival are met, not just a hostile environment which

exposes one to different forms of human rights violations.

According to him, it is imperative to celebrate the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their homes or country against their wish due to conflicts or persecution, adding that it is necessary to map out solutions to resettle and help them to have a better livelihood.

He further stated that Nigeria has its fair share of this population of concern arising from communal clashes, banditry, farmers and

herders’ clashes, Boko Haram, among others. He noted that these had affected their rights to health care, education, employment, dignity of the human person, right to housing, land and property, among others.

According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNCHR), World Refugee Day is a time to shine a light on the rights, dreams of refugees, helping to mobilize the political will and resources to enable the refugees to enjoy a new lease of life.

WHEN SPACE EXPLORERS VISITED UZODIMMA...

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State (R) with Astronaut, Mr. Victor Hespahai, when officials of the National Space Research Development Agency and Space Exploration and Research Agency, paid a working visit to the Governor at Government House Owerri... yesterday

ASUU Berates FG for Non-review of Workers Salary After 15 Years

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin-City

The Benin Zone of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), has decried the non-review of staff salary 15 years after the last Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the federal government in 2009, warning that the union was being pushed to embark on another industrial action.

The union expressed its displeasure while addressing journalists on what it tagged: The unresolved issues between federal government and ASUU: Government is begging ASUU to go on strike" in Benin City on Thursday.

Speaking on behalf of the union, the Zonal Coordinator, Benin Zone of ASUU, Professor Monday Igbafen, said that government at all levels were busy reviewing other workers salary while leaving the lecturers

salaries the same way it was when the value of naira to a dollar was N120.

"University teachers in Nigeria have been on the same salary regime since 2009, when the value of naira to a dollar was N120, and when salaries in other sectors have been reviewed twice or more.

"It is better imagined to note that what a professor at bar earns in today’s Nigeria is about $400 per month, which is scandalous under-valuation of scholars.

"To continue to remain on the same salary regime for 15 years without review is not only wicked and inhuman but also an invitation to resistance or industrial disharmony",

Igbafen said.

Professor Igbafen, while listing the union's demands, which the federal government had refused to meet,

Edo Govt Condemns Rape, Murder of 22-year-old UNIBEN Fresh Graduate

Obaseki gives Edo CP 7-days ultimatum to fish out perpetrators

The Edo state government has condemned, in the strongest terms, the alleged rape and gruesome murder in Iyowa Community, Benin City, of Adekolure Glory, a fresh graduate of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) . Glory, aged 22, was said to have been on her way home from processing her clearance when she was tortured and raped to death by yet-to-beidentified persons, and her remains dropped close to her mother’s house.

In a statement, the Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, who expressed shock and sadness over the incident, noted that the state Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has ordered the State Commissioner of Police to fish out the perpetrators of the dastardly and unconscionable act within the next seven days.

“The Edo State Government is shocked and deeply saddened by the gruesome murder of Adekolure Idowu Glory, a fresh graduate of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) who was allegedly raped and killed by yet-to-be-identified persons in Iyowa Community, within the Benin metropolis.

“It is most disheartening to hear of the sad incident and the state government condemns, in the strongest terms, the dastardly and unconscionable act.

“The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, expresses his deep-felt condolences to the family of the victim and has ordered the State Commissioner of Police, Funsho Adegboye to thoroughly investigate the circumstances that led to the death of Miss Adekolure Idowu Glory and fish out the perpetrators of the heinous and mindless act within the next 7 days,” the statement added.

said the union had been pushed to the wall, and might likely embark on industrial action.

His words: "Having been irked by the obvious lack of sincerity on the part of federal and state governments to address the issues which have worsened the living and working conditions of academic staff in the public universities, it is sad to note that barely a month after our engagement with the press in DELSU, there is refusal and or total neglect of our union’s demands and ultimatum by the government, i.e. the government completely turned deaf ears to the contending issues.

"This disposition of government is certainly not a good recipe to the impending paralysis in Nigeria’s public universities.

"It is imperative to point out that the nagging issues between the government and our union in reference revolves round the abysmal failure by the government to satisfactorily implement the 2009 FGN/ASUU agreement.

"The resulting issues have been the source of the seemingly unending confrontation between us as a union and the government.

"For the avoidance of doubt, the issues include the stalled renegotiation

of 2009 FGN/ASUU Agreement; funding for the revitalization of public universities based on the FGN-ASUU MoU of 2021, 2013, and the MoA of 2017; the illegal dissolution of Governing Councils in federal and state universities; withheld salaries in federal and state universities; unpaid salaries of staff on sabbatical, adjunct, etc. due to IPPIS; the non-release of thirdparty deductions; non-payment of Earned Academic Allowances (EAA); proliferation of public universities; non-implementation of the reports of Visitation Panels and the refusal to adopt UTAS in place of IPPIS.

SSANU, NASU Give FG 2-Week

"Gentlemen of the Press, it is not only sad but also provocative to note that the government as we speak is not moved by the several clarion calls and efforts by our union to get it to attend to these issues.

"By its action to ignore the union on these contending issues, the government is begging our union to proceed on strike", Igbafen added. He also condemned the illegal dissolution of the Governing Councils of public universities in the country, as well as the refusal or neglect by some state governments to constitute Governing Councils for their universities.

to Pay Four Months Withheld Salaries

Onyebuchi Ezigbo

The Joint Action Committee, JAC, of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions, NASU, and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, SSANU, have given the federal government two weeks ultimatum to pay the four months withheld salaries.

The JAC has also threatened to shutdown universities and inter- universities centres if the government failed to pay the withheld salaries at the expiration of the two weeks ultimatum

The two non-teaching

staff unions in a letter to the Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, accused the government of neglect and insincerity.

In the letter titled: "Re- Four (4) months Withheld Salaries: Demand for Immediate Payment," which was signed by the NASU General Secretary, Prince Peters Adeyemi and SSANU President, Comrade Mohammed Ibrahim, the two unions said that they can no longer guarantee industrial harmony in the universities.

The letter read: "The Honourable Minister would recall that the Joint Action

Committee of NASU and SSANU embarked on a oneweek warning strike between March 18th, 2024 and March 24th 2024 to protest the denial of the arrears of four (4) months salaries withheld between May and August 24th, 2022.

"Following series of letters and the assurances of the payment, we write to remind the Honourable Minister of our various letters, engagements, assurances towards the payment of the four (4) months withheld salaries of SSANU and NASU.

"We wish to express our regrets and dismay that up till date, the withheld salaries have not been paid to our members. "We view it as an act of insincerity and neglect on the part of government to the yearnings and aspirations of our members."

Accusing the government of negating the spirit of collective bargaining which has built distrust, the unions said, "The deafening silence of government and failure to pay the withheld salaries is creating high level of agitations and contentions among our members in the universities and inter-university centres such that we can no longer guarantee industrial peace and harmony on university campuses.

Uzodimma: Tinubu’ll Rescue Nigeria's Economy

Tony Icheku in Owerri

Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has assured the Nigerian people that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has the vision and capacity to rescue Nigeria's economy and make it the fastest growing one in Africa.

Uzodimma, speaking during an interactive session with journalists in Owerri, said he had no doubt that the current economic policies of the federal government under

the leadership of President Tinubu would lead Nigeria to prosperity.

He urged journalists to properly explain to Nigerians the benefits of the policies instead of trumpeting the side effects.

According to him, "Although the populace are experiencing economic hardship occasioned by the policies, they would eventually enjoy the benefits."

Uzodimma maintained that the removal of fuel subsidy and merging of official and parallel

exchange rates were courageous steps taken by Tinubu to strengthen the economy.

He, however, regretted that instead of some notable Nigerians acknowledging the efforts of Tinubu, they were busy demarketing the administration through the media.

He said whereas the three major presidential candidates promised to end the regime of fuel subsidy, the other two who didn't win were pretending otherwise.

He beckoned on the media to

buy into the vision of Tinubu in rebuilding the economy instead of allowing pessimists to take control of the media space.

"Every discerning Nigerian knows that President Tinubu's economic policies are sound and that they will salvage the country sooner than later", he said, urging Nigerians to be patient with the administration, even as he described the current hardship as a birth pang that would go away when the baby is born.

in Abuja

Nigeria has what it takes to attract visitors if we do things right, argues JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA

UNSTABLE NAIRA, OJUDE OBA AND VISITING NIGERIA

South Korea is an economic miracle. It is a phenomenon and a great example of what is possible when a country sets out to change its course. Its success reflects beyond the economy as Korea’s global cultural influence has proven telling elsewhere, especially through music and movies. K-drama, like it or not, is the favourite of someone you know. It is almost impossible to look at that country and imagine that as recent as 1987, they were in a military dictatorship. Beyond South Korea, examples abound of countries like Malaysia and Singapore that maintained the same leaders for decades, yet managed to prosper the average citizen.

These countries managed to thrive on account of many factors. Some, correlational, others you’d have to agree had causative effects, especially as they apply through all of them. Whether modern economic miracles or established ones, having adopted a market system, a country’s best bet for prosperity is stable money amidst low taxes. This is called The Magic Formula. It of course assumes a wide tax net, something Nigeria cannot boast of now. As the tax administration goes through reforms, one thing that needs to be kept under control is the state of the naira.

The naira’s yo-yo over the last year or so, irrespective of whether it trades low or high, is a bad signal for business. If your money is not stable, your market cannot be attractive. A weak currency that is stable will attract investors before a stronger one that only guarantees instability. Around certain low percentage points, one should be able to project the value of a currency over a short period of time, if not over the long term. We need to stem the naira’s dance; a currency doesn’t look well to anyone when it stays dancing, to and fro, up, and down. Enough of the uncertainty. This is urgent, because while the effects are insidious, they compound into unwholesome outcomes over time.

Dancing has looked great elsewhere. If you haven’t been under a rock during the week, you’d have seen visuals from the Ojude Oba Festival in Ijebu Ode. It signaled the pride and prosperity of the Ijebu people and the Yoruba generally. In a certain sense, it also reflected one of many opportunities for Nigeria to attract the attention of the rest of the world. It got me reflecting on what it’d take for a foreigner to experience Ojude Oba and other such festivals.

I had an experience at the airport recently that the average foreigner would have found shocking, if not nauseating.

After going through the first scanner, I handed an NDLEA officer my international passport at a point several of these officers from different agencies are lined up, looking to manually run through the same luggage that just got scanned. The officer then

asked me for my ID card. I asked her, what other personal identification document can be more important than the passport I just handed you? She was not pleased with the question, so she did the next thing that could express her powers; took her time to do a thorough hand search of my luggage. You’d wonder if someone who was carrying an illegal item would dare trigger such a row.

This incident aside, the idea of having several agencies line up after the first and the second scanner to interview travelers is uniquely Nigerian. Ours is the only country I know where this happens. Imagine entering a country for the first time and after collecting your luggage, about seven people are lined up in different uniforms ordering you to come over. What probably started as a random search — pick someone out for certain reasons — has become the protocol. Everyone goes through it. It costs zero naira to make some change. But some societies get so used to their anomalies, they can’t see a different way to live.

When our tourist survives the airport experience, there is then the threat of insecurity. We transited from a country under attack from terrorists to one, in the most unfortunate way, bedeviled by bandits and kidnappers. Over the last week or so, there have been high level incidents on the Lagos lagoon and at a night club in Abuja. One such news report is enough to discourage would be tourists, when they become the norm, you’d need a lot more than an impressive and elegant festival to attract foreigners.

The Nigerian economy needs wins, and it needs them from everywhere and urgently too. Efforts must be made to address these challenges. However, some of them only require a commitment to turn things around. How much do you need to have passengers engage only immigration officers at the airport, to involve other agencies like the DSS, Customs and NDLEA when the situation calls for it? Why should every passenger have to interact with all these agencies and more each time they travel? Why do we assume that just because we are used to being frustrated, our visitors will understand the anomaly? It’s madness to those who aren’t used to it.

CNN correspondent, Larry Madowo, wrote about having to pay $170 for biometrics on each of his visits to Nigeria over a three-week period. As a Nigerian, you probably have tales of the difficulty of applying for some visas. However, I assure you, when you hear what others go through to secure our visa, you’d be glad applying for a Nigerian visa isn’t something you have to go through. I have heard tales that suggest our country is desperate to keep visitors away. Why?

Omojuwa is chief strategist, Alpha Reach/BGX Publishing

PAT ONUKWULI pays tribute to Gordian Oranika, an administrator and philanthropist

OCHENDO'S FOOTSTEPS: A CALL TO SERVE

In a poignant conclusion to a life selflessly dedicated to the service of others, the world mourns the passing of esteemed philanthropist and celebrated benefactor Gordian Chukwuemeka Oranika (Ochendo Abatete). Ochendo's life demonstrates the transformative power of hard work and discipline, and his unwavering resilience in the face of numerous challenges truly inspires. Born into humble beginnings, he faced adversity head-on from the start. However, he didn't let his circumstances define him. Instead, he rose to dizzying heights with uncommon brilliance, relentless hard work, and steadfast personal discipline. He became a towering oak tree whose branches reached the aethers, providing succour and a lifeline and improving the lives of countless others.

In his extraordinary journey, Ochendo embodied the triumph of determination and persistence. Despite his challenges, he excelled at the prestigious Christ the King College, Onitsha, and St Andrews, one of the top universities in Scotland and the United Kingdom. These institutions, renowned for their academic rigour, were the crucibles and forges

that moulded and prepared him for his significant roles. They shaped him into a vessel of wisdom and strength, capable of bearing the weight of his future responsibilities, which he carried with dignity and forte.

Upon his return from St Andrews, he embarked on a distinguished career that would define his legacy. He first entered the esteemed foreign service, a path not chosen for its lure but for the opportunity it provided to serve. Representing Nigeria in various capacities, he showcased his untiring dedication to service and exceptional skills in fostering international cooperation. His commitment to public service, a testament to his character and the foundation of his illustrious career, left a lasting impact on those he served, making them feel the depth of his dedication.

Transitioning from the diplomatic stage to the administrative helm later, Ochendo navigated the tumultuous seas of civil service like a skilled captain steering a ship through turbulent waters. With the compass of industry guiding his path and the anchor of duty grounding his resolve, he charted a course to the pinnacle of public service. He became one of the pioneering permanent secretaries of the Ministry of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) following Abuja's formal declaration as the capital of Nigeria by the Babangida administration on December 12, 1991. His tenure as permanent secretary would mark a new chapter and era in the history of Nigeria's Capital City,

profound evidence of the transformative impact of his public service. His enduring leadership as the permanent secretary of FCT was a game changer. He played a pivotal and crucial role in shaping the nascent Capital's development and governance, a role that continues to shape the city's landscape today. He implemented some of the policies that would make Abuja attractive. People of a certain age will remember that Abuja was initially a hard sell, with many resisting the idea of relocating there. The transition to the new capital was met with scepticism and reluctance as individuals and institutions grappled with the challenges of uprooting from established bases, especially Lagos, and adapting to a fledgling city.

As permanent secretary, Ochendo did not disappoint. He laid the foundation for Nigeria's new capital city, shaping its early development with vision and dedication. Unknown to many, permanent secretaries are the invisible drivers of government machinery, steering the intricate workings of public administration. They are the unseen engines that power the vast government machinery, ensuring every cog and wheel turns smoothly to drive progress and stability. They often do not receive the recognition they deserve. However, they are invaluable and fundamentally drive national development efforts by translating government policies into tangible outcomes.

In the wake of Ochendo's passing, we must shift our focus from merely chronicling his life to extracting the invaluable lessons embedded within his legacy. His story is not just one of personal success but a profound testimony to the transformative power of humility and the enduring impact of selflessness. At its core, this life underscored the stark contrast between uncommon altruism and prevalent self-interest. In a world often overshadowed by self-interest and material pursuits, his life inspires hope, reminding us of the overwhelming fulfilment of serving others and prioritising the collective good over individual gain. His being was antithetical to Psalm 49:6, as he did not trust or boast of his wealth, which underscores that actual value and security do not lie in wealth or possessions. This virtue calls for a humble recognition that material gains are fleeting and cannot define worth or secure a legacy.

Accordingly, despite his immense success and influence, he remained grounded in humility, eschewing the trappings of ego and entitlement often accompanying positions of power. His humility was not a sign of weakness but rather a source of strength that enabled him to connect with people from all walks of life, fostering genuine empathy and understanding. In an era marked by divisiveness and polarisation, his selfeffacement is a powerful antidote, reminding us of the common humanity that unites us and the importance of approaching life with humility, grace, and compassion.

Ochendo's essence embodies the noble virtues of the Greek gods Sophrosyne and Prometheus, authenticating the power of humility and philanthropy. Like Sophrosyne, the personification of temperance and moderation, Ochendo epitomises a balanced and restrained approach to life, demonstrating remarkable willpower and moderation in all endeavours. His modesty shone through in his actions as he quietly worked to uplift others and positively impact society.

Onukwuli PhD writes from Bolton, UK. patonukwuli2003@yahoo.co.uk

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

DWINDLING ACCESS TO CLEAN WATER

The authorities should pay adequate attention to water supply

Arecent World Bank report on Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector paints a scary picture on the access to clean water in Nigeria and how this impacts negatively on the livelihoods of many Nigerians, in both urban and rural areas. It is a report that should be taken seriously by the relevant authorities with both short and longterm solutions. While the minimum acceptable range an individual needs is between 12 and 16 litres per day, the average amount of water each person receives in Nigeria is put at nine litres and the quality is not guaranteed.

Even though an estimated 1,239 number of waterworks are connected to urban water utilities across the 36 states and the FCT, less than 50 per cent of them are functional, according to another report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). As a result, about 150,000 children under the age of five die annually from Diarrhea-related diseases that are mostly traceable to unsafe drinking water. In many rural communities in the country today, the challenge is critical as women and children trek long distances to fetch water from streams and ponds that are contaminated. Yet water, sanitation and hygiene are essential to sustainable development. Even in the so-called modern cities like Lagos, and Abuja, the federal capital, a large proportion of people have no access to drinking water and, as a joint World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) recently observed, many often resort to using any available space for their convenience. For those who can afford it, boreholes are indiscriminately dug. But that too constitutes its own problems as it undermines the water table and threatens future supply of the commodity. In the absence of water from piped supplies and protected

If you map the country, you’ll find out that the places where there are outbreaks of cholera are underdeveloped areas where people fetch water from dirty places and drink

T H I S D AY

EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU

DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE T H I S

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI

DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Letters to the Editor

wells, millions of Nigerians living in both rural and urban areas consume what is available. While the United Nations General Assembly has recognised drinking water and sanitation as human rights, meaning that everyone must have access to them, the former remains a serious problem for majority of Nigerians. Incidentally, when the former president, Dr Goodluck Jonathan launched the water road map in January 2011, the administration announced some “quick measures to accelerate water coverage”, after releasing some intervention funds for some projects: drilling of motorised borehole in each of the 109 senatorial districts of the country, rehabilitation of 1000 hand pump boreholes in 18 states and installation of some special treatment plants and completing all abandoned water projects. Unfortunately, none of these short-term measures have been met. Potable water and improved sanitation services are verifiable measures for fighting poverty and diseases. Cholera, according to a former president of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Innocent Ujah, is a disease associated with poverty. “If you map the country, you’ll find out that the places where there are outbreaks of cholera are underdeveloped areas where people fetch water from dirty places and drink,” said Ujah. “Also, because of open defecation during rainy seasons, all those faeces will then be washed down into the stream and people drink from some of these streams.”

Since access to clean water remains a serious problem that must be tackled in Nigeria, we call on authorities in the 36 states to invest more in providing this precious national recourse for our citizens, especially for those that are in the rural areas. As the foundation upon which life is built, studies have shown that without clean water, it is impossible for any society to break out of poverty.

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.

CELEBRATING FATHERS BEYOND FATHER’S DAY

A father is neither an anchor to hold us back, nor a sail to take us there, but a guiding light whose love shows us the way. – Unknown Father's Day, celebrated annually on the third Sunday of June, is a special occasion dedicated to honoring and appreciating the conMother's Day often receives widespread attention and celebration, Father's Day sometimes seems to take a back seat. Yet, the role of a father is equally pivotal in shaping the lives of children and the the importance of fathers and recognize the profound impact they have on our lives.

Traditionally, fathers were seen primarily as providers and disover the years. Today, fathers are not just breadwinners but also nurturers, caregivers, and active participants in their children's family dynamics, where the emphasis is now on shared parenting responsibilities. Modern fathers are more involved in day-today child-rearing activities. From changing diapers and preparing meals to helping with homework and attending school events, fathers today play a hands-on role in their children's upbringing.

This active involvement helps build stronger bonds between fathers and their children and contributes to the overall well-being and development of the child.

involved and loving fathers. A father's presence and engagement achievement, and social-emotional well-being. Children with involved fathers are more likely to perform better in school, exhibit healthier self-esteem, and develop strong social skills. Fathers also serve as role models for their children, particularly in demonstrating how to navigate the world, manage relationships, and handle responsibilities. Sons often look to their fathers for examples of masculinity and fatherhood, while daughters frequently view their fathers as a standard for future relationships with men. The values, behaviors, and attitudes that fathers exhibit can leave lasting impressions on their children.

shown that children who grow up without a father are at a higher risk of developing behavioral problems, academic struggles, and emotional issues. Without a father’s guidance, children may lack the structure and discipline that are crucial during formative

years. This can lead to wayward behavior, as children without -

phasized when considering these outcomes. A father provides not mentorship, and a sense of security. This paternal presence helps

their children's lives, fathers help foster resilience, responsibility, and respect, which are essential traits for personal development and social interaction.

Despite the rewards and joys of fatherhood, it comes with its own set of challenges. Balancing work and family life is one of the excel in their careers while being present and active at home can be overwhelming. This balancing act requires constant adjustmentother. Moreover, societal expectations and stereotypes about masculinity can add to the pressures faced by fathers.

Kayode Ojewale, Enlightenment Department of LASTMA, Lagos

POLITICS

In Geneva, Onyejeocha Echoes Tinubu’s Commitment to Upholding Labour Standards

Emameh Gabriel writes about Nigeria’s take-home from the just concluded 112th Session of the International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland

Last week, the global community watched as Nigeria’s Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon Nkeiruka Onyejeocha demonstrated her outstanding diplomatic prowess and leadership abilities on the world stage, when she delivered a remarkable address to a gathering of world leaders at the 112th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva, Switzerland, showcasing her country’s commitment to upholding labour standards and promoting decent work for all.

Before she left the country for the conference, the stakes were high, and expectations were keenly focused on her report on the country’s adherence to international labour standards amid ongoing wage negotiations between the government and organised labour in Nigeria.

So, prior to her departure, the Minister was faced with a daunting task, juggling both domestic and international responsibilities. Back home, negotiations with organized labour were at its peak, and some quarters anticipated discord within the Nigerian delegation at the ILO conference. She was tasked with facilitating a dialogue between the government and labour unions to establish a fair and realistic wage structure for Nigerian workers. This assignment came with a tight deadline, adding to the pressure.

However, the Minister’s adept leadership and diplomatic prowess ensured a united front, as she effectively communicated Nigeria’s commitment to promoting social dialogue and enhancing favourable work conditions for employees in the country.

Under her able guidance, the Nigerian delegation presented a cohesive and compelling case, garnering international recognition for the country’s efforts in promoting decent work and fair labour practices, among others.

In a landmark address at the plenary, Onyejeocha reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes repositioning Nigeria as a prime global investment destination, aligning with the conference theme, “Towards a Renewed Social Contract.”

The Minister’s speech was a masterful articulation of Nigeria’s commitment to social cohesion, economic resilience, and political stability. She painted a vivid picture of a nation poised for transformation, driven by the “4-D Diplomacy Strategy” and eight Priority Areas. The agenda’s focus on economic prosperity, food security, poverty eradication, job creation, and access to capital is a testament to the government’s dedication to building a more just and equitable society.

Her emphasis on social dialogue, labour law reforms, and tripartite cooperation highlighted Nigeria’s progress in creating an enabling environment for workers’ rights and decent work. The establishment of Job Centres and Migration Resource Centres demonstrated the government’s proactive approach to addressing unemployment and labour migration.

The Minister noted: “.... the Nigerian government has provided enabling environment for social dialogue with the tripartite constituents to advance social justice and has solicited tripartite plus cooperation to align with government’s agenda in the labour sector to promote workers welfare and boost national productivity.

“The Federal Government has made giant strides in the following areas:

Implementation of the Decent Work Country Programme III; Ratification of the 10 ILO Fundamental Conventions and most recently ratified 4 additional Conventions, including Convention 190 on Violence and Harassment; Revival of the National Labour Advisory Council, Nigeria’s highest tripartite consultative structure; Tremendous progress in the review of our Labour Laws.

“Establishment of Job Centres across the country; Upgrading Skill Acquisitions Centres across the six geo-political zones; Establishment of Migration Resource Centres, as part of government’s commitment to providing good governance for Labour Migration; Reducing child labour to the barest minimum by promoting universal basic education and encouraging

school enrolment of minors, especially for the girl child; Granting direct loans to farmers in the agricultural sector geared towards food security; and

Provision of portable water, energy and massive road infrastructure, just to mention a few.

“Furthermore, the Federal Government is currently negotiating through its tripartite committee to review the National Minimum Wage as part of its efforts to promote decent work for workers in both the public and private sectors”.

Onyejeocha’s speech also underscored the importance of skill acquisition and youth empowerment. She noted that the recently launched Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP) is a clear expression of

the government’s commitment to equipping young Nigerians with entrepreneurship skills, revitalizing the economy, and reducing unemployment and insecurity.

The Minister’s address also resonated with the global audience on the need for international cooperation to address technological challenges and climate change. Her call for sustainable practices and green jobs echoed the urgent need for environmentally conscious policies in the world of work.

Nigeria’s commitment to social protection and establishing a comprehensive social security system is a significant step towards ensuring the well-being of its citizens. Onyejeocha’s acknowledgment of the challenges posed by

climate change and its impact on the world of work demonstrated Nigeria’s willingness to engage with global partners to find solutions.

“We must continue to work together to mitigate the challenges of technology and its related threats to the world of work, while charting a more productive, resilient, equitable and more inclusive society for future generations”, the Minister made the call in her closing remark.

On the margins of the International Labour Conference, the Minister seized the opportunity to pay a courtesy visit to the Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala in Geneva. The meeting was part of her effort to leverage Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s vast expertise and explore potential collaboration between WTO and Nigeria in the areas of economic policy development and technical assistance.

During their discussion, Onyejeocha sought to tap into Okonjo-Iweala’s wealth of knowledge and experience, recognizing the WTO’s critical role in shaping global trade policies and promoting economic growth.

By fostering closer ties with the WTO, Nigeria aims to enhance its economic development and strengthen its position in the global landscape. This meeting underscored the Minister’s commitment to exploring innovative partnerships and harnessing international expertise to drive Nigeria’s economic progress through the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and in line with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Seeking such a partnership is in line with the federal government’s commitment to exploring all avenues, both domestic and international, to address economic challenges and foster a more robust economy.

“The visit was a step in leveraging global expertise and partnerships to drive economic growth and development in Nigeria”, the Minister said in an interview with journalists after the meeting.

Onyejeocha’s success on the global stage has reinforced Nigeria’s position as a responsible and engaged member of the international community.

As the conference ended, it was evident that Nigeria is poised to embrace a brighter future, driven by its commitment to social cohesion, economic resilience, and political stability.

Onyejeocha’s speech was a powerful testament to the nation’s resolve to transform and become a prime global investment destination.

• Gabriel, media adviser to Minister of State for Labour and Employment, writes from Geneva.

Oborevwori: Delivering People-oriented Projects in Delta

Ifeanyi Osuoza writes that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is focused on the delivery of life impacting and people-oriented projects in Delta state

Delta State Commissioner for Information, Dr Ifeanyi Osuoza has celebrated Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for delivering people-oriented and life impacting projects in the state since he assumed office over a year ago.

In a tribute this week to mark the 61st birthday of Governor Oborevwori, the Information Commissioner wrote:

“We are indeed proud and privileged to work with you, Your Excellency, as you have continued to deliver amazing, life impacting and people-oriented projects with astute, strategic administrative leadership and pragmatic governance to Deltans and Delta State, by advancing the MORE Agenda through initiating, consolidating and completing Meaningful Infrastructural, social welfare and existential development; providing Opportunities For All, Ensuring Realistic and Impactful Reforms in Governance and service delivery and guaranteeing Enhanced Peace and Security which is now visibly creating the right atmosphere for social and economic

life to thrive.

“I thank God for giving Delta State a people-oriented leader and administrator like you, and pray the good Lord to continue

to guide, protect and give you the strength, wisdom and divine discernment to direct and navigate the affairs of our dear Delta State, with the outstanding and robust leadership which we all know you have the ability and capacity to deliver through the MORE Agenda.

“We wish you many happy returns, Your Excellency.

“His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Oborevwori, is doing amazing, breathtaking projects and delivering quality leadership and governance to Deltans and across Delta State.

“His focus, commitment, determination and dedication towards Advancing Delta, through Meaningful Infrastructural Development in all sectors, is unquestionable. His pragmatic, yet strategic initiatives to ensure Enhanced Peace and Security in Delta State are already yielding excellent results.

“Governor Oborevwori will do MORE for Deltans. He is working, and Deltans are seeing it”.

• Osuoza writes from Asaba.

Who is Afraid of a Shipping Regulatory Law?

Philip Agbese writes that contrary to apprehensions in some quarters, the proposed legislation seeking establishment of Nigeria Shipping and Port Economic Regulatory Agency will yield far-reaching economic and societal benefits

An the vast expanse of commerce and industry, the term regulation elicits a multifaceted response, precipitating a dichotomy of opinions. On one hand, regulation is perceived as a vital mechanism to ensure a level playing field, safeguard consumer interests, and maintain market integrity.

Conversely, it is often met with trepidation and apprehension, particularly by those who fear the potential consequences of increased costs, bureaucratic red tape, and interference with business operations.

This dichotomy is presently unfolding in Nigeria’s maritime industry, where the proposed Nigeria Shipping and Port Economic Regulatory Agency Bill has sparked a contentious debate among stakeholders. The maritime industry, aptly referred to as the lifeblood of global trade, is characterized by its intricate complexity, involving a diverse array of stakeholders, including shipping companies, port authorities, and regulatory bodies. As a critical component of Nigeria’s economy, it facilitates international trade and contributes substantially to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Notwithstanding its importance, the maritime industry operates in the absence of a dedicated regulator, raising concerns regarding the standardization of practices, safety protocols, and environmental sustainability. Moreover, the industry is not immune to challenges such as unfair pricing practices, arbitrary charges, and inefficiencies in port operations, underscoring the need for effective regulation.

However, the question remains: who is afraid of a maritime regulator, and why? Is it the fear of increased costs, the potential for bureaucratic interference, or the apprehension of change in a traditionally unregulated industry? As the debate rages on, it is essential to consider the benefits of regulation, including enhanced safety standards, improved efficiency, and a level playing field for all stakeholders. Only then can we address the concerns of those afraid of a maritime regulator and chart a course for a more robust and sustainable maritime industry.

To provide a comprehensive response to this query, it is essential to elucidate the role of a regulator. In its essence, a regulator serves as a vigilant watchdog, ensuring that industry participants conform to established rules and standards, thereby maintaining a level playing field and promoting a culture of compliance. This function is crucial in any industry, but it assumes even greater significance in sectors like maritime, where the stakes are exceedingly high and the potential for malpractice is substantial.

A maritime regulator can play a pivotal role in ensuring fair and transparent pricing practices, safeguarding shippers from arbitrary and exorbitant charges, and promoting efficiency and productivity in port operations. These outcomes can, in turn, lead to reduced shipping costs, stimulate trade, and ultimately drive economic growth and development.

The recent proposal for a bill to regulate

shipping in Nigeria has sparked anxieties and apprehensions among some stakeholders regarding the creation of a new agency and the potential for increased governance costs. While these concerns are understandable, they belie the significant economic benefits that a well-designed regulatory framework can bring to the maritime industry, including enhanced safety standards, improved efficiency, and increased investor confidence.

However, this fear is misplaced and stems from a lack of understanding of the critical role regulators play in fostering economic growth and development. By establishing clear rules and standards, regulators can promote competition, innovation, and investment, ultimately leading to a more robust and sustainable industry.

Regulators play a vital role in any industry, and their presence has been instrumental in promoting economic efficiency, safety, and innovation across various sectors. To fully appreciate the significance of a maritime regulator, it is essential to examine the economic benefits that regulatory oversight has yielded in other industries.

Across various sectors, the presence of regulators has proven instrumental in fostering transparency, enhancing consumer confidence, and mitigating systemic risks, thereby contributing to the overall stability and growth of industries.

By ensuring compliance with established standards and regulations, regulators have played a crucial role in attracting investments, stimulating economic development, and promoting market integrity. In the financial sector, for instance, regulatory authorities have been instrumental in upholding banking and investment standards, thereby bolstering market integrity and minimizing the occurrence of fraudulent activities. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), for example, has ensured stability and soundness in the financial system through its regulatory actions.

Similarly, in the telecommunications industry, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has played a pivotal role in regulating the sector, leading to increased competition, improved service delivery, and significant economic growth. The presence of regulators in these industries has not only enhanced consumer protection but also promoted innovation, efficiency, and competitiveness, ultimately contributing to the overall development of the economy.

Also, in the healthcare industry, regulatory bodies have played a vital role in ensuring the quality and safety of pharmaceutical products, thereby inspiring consumer trust and fostering innovation. The regulatory framework has created an environment where manufacturers are held to high standards, resulting in improved product reliability and effectiveness. This, in turn, has boosted consumer confidence and driven innovation, leading to the development of new and improved treatments.

EPISTLES of ANTHONY KILA

Towards a More Perfect Democracy (1)

Anthony Kila reflects on the one year in office of President Bola Tinubu as well as the celebration of the 25th anniversary of uninterrupted democratic rule in the country with a submission that a people’s constitution that respects the nation’s diversity is needed for Nigeria to grow democratically

Dear Readers,

IIn the last two weeks, we witnessed two significant and related Republican events in Nigeria. 29th May 2024 marked the one year in office of the present government led by President Bola Tinubu. Lest we become guilty of what we accuse others of, it is crucial to remind all that the same date also marked the one year in office of most state governors across the federation. So far, governors in Nigeria tend to enjoy so much power and so little scrutiny and accountability.

More than about celebration, my take is that the one year in office should be more about responsibility for the service of the government of the day than any other theme. If you are not a family member, friend or beneficiary of those elected into office, a year in office should be more about accountability and reflection than celebration for you as a citizen or a legal entity.

June 12th, 2024, marked twenty-five years of uninterrupted democratic rule in Nigeria.

For me, June 12 is a date truly worthy of Republican celebration and reflection for all, regardless of our proximity or stance to the government of the day.

Aptly described as “Democracy Day”, June 12 (1993) was the day an extraordinary majority of Nigerians with one voice and in clear terms expressed the way they wanted to be governed and thought they would get it, but alas, very few people annulled the legal and clear will of the very many.

Readers of these notes will know how critical we have been here of former President Muhammadu Buhari, but we must readily admit that it was his administration that recognised June 12 as Democracy Day.

As I have said elsewhere, June 12 is a memorable date and a symbol of national expression of desire and vision, a collective action of resistance and resolve, and a personal tragedy for many.

The story of June 12 is a personal tragedy for many who lost their lives in the battle to defend the democratic choice that Nigerians made on June 12 and for families who lost their loved ones.

It is also the day Nigerians, with one voice, regardless of their ethnic and religious divide, clearly expressed their desire and vision of the kind of Nigeria they wanted and who they wanted as the leader of such Nigeria. Sadly, a very few annulled that clear decision and vision of the very many.

June 12 then became the rallying point of those who decided to resist the imposition of the very few on behalf of the many. It is important to note here that not all resisted; some sat on the fence, and some even conspired with those who were against the people’s will. To each its own.

We celebrate today and forever all those who stood for something noble when it was challenging and risky to stand for the common good. Allow me to pay special homage to those who, since 1993, have not allowed time and the opportunities and challenges of life to blur their vision or corrupt their souls.

Twenty-five years later, we have an uninterrupted democratic process to celebrate because of those who resisted, dreamed of, and fought for a democratic system of government. Any capable and objective observer will agree that we still do not have the kind of democracy that was dreamed of and fought for 33 years ago.

Unluckily for the ego of those in power and, unfortunately, for the sanity of the rest of us, there is a general tendency to interchange democracy for good government.

The expression for good democratic government in Nigeria is “dividends of democracy”. In the context of the prevailing mindset that equates good government with democracy, it is easy to see why we cannot but

observe that we still have a lot of issues alien to democracy afflicting the people of Nigeria. I refer to issues of police brutality, dysfunctional bureaucracy, nepotism, corruption, distrust among ethnic groups, religious division, and a federation that is not genuinely federal, not to mention the dire economic condition of most Nigerians today.

Yes, it is safe to say that while some things have been done, much more needs to be done for our democracy to be a true democracy we can trust and be proud of.

To ensure that June 12’s essence and even magic are not wasted or regretted, those who care about democracy must remind themselves and educate others that democracy is a spirit-like process that needs to be continually nurtured and worshipped. Those with clarity of mind and courage of voice need to remember at all times that the minimum and the best they can do for all is to work towards a more perfect democracy by improving on what we have and making sure the good in democracy does not turn to evil. These will, of course, require sacrifice and vigilance.

An excellent place to start is to push for a people’s constitution that allows the people of Nigeria to democratically decide the kind of country they want to live in, the rules they want, and how much power they want to cede to the federal, state, and local governments. No amount of amendments will suffice; a people’s constitution is the answer.

This year, the Patriots, led by Chief Emeka Anyakou and the June 12 Movement, once again resolved to help create the atmosphere for the emergence of a people’s constitution. I want to call on people of goodwill to join us in working towards a people’s constitution that will create a Nigeria that respects our diversity and is designed for our peace, progress, and prosperity in dignity.

A true reflection on our 25-year democratic journey towards a more perfect democracy requires us to consider how some critical participants in the democratic journey have fared so far. If done honestly and deeply, such reflection will allow us to see what we must reconsider and pay attention to in our democratic process.

Let’s delve deeper into these political events and their implications.

Join me on Twitter @anthonykila to share your thoughts, ask questions, and continue these engaging conversations.

• Kila is an Institute Director at CIAPS. www.ciaps.org

Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe: Building Health, Environment System in the FCT through Renewed Hope Agenda

Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, an award-winning Public Health Physician, is the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) Mandate Secretary for Health Services and Environment Secretariat, a role she stepped into in September 2023 given the pivotal role she has continuously played in engaging state governments and non-governmental organisations towards improved healthcare service delivery, innovations and environmental initiatives across Nigeria either as a Commissioner designate in Lagos State or in Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, LASEPA, where she once held sway as general manager. Considered as one of the foremost experts in Nigeria on exploring the nexus between public health and environment for building resilient urban cities for the 21st Century, Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that Dr. Fasawe has brought that magic wand to the FCT where she recently keyed into the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to extend free medical outreach to more than 1000 residents of Kuje community while also championing cleaner energy with the 500 smart gases distributed

“Ihave been battling eye problems before and I went to a private clinic for treatment. The money I was charged to treat it and get the recommended glasses was too much so I left. I have been managing my eyesight since then.

“Imagine my joy at coming to the medical outreach today and I got consultation and treatment plus the recommended glasses without paying a dime. You don’t know what you did for me but I am grateful.”

Those were the teary words of Mr. Okon Sunday, one of the hundreds of beneficiaries of the Renewed Hope Free Medical Outreach at the Kuje Community, a sentiment that was re-echoed by several others.

RENEWED HOPE MEDICAL OUTREACH

The outreach, tagged Renewed Hope Free Medical Outreach, was initiated by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) Mandate Secretary (MS) for Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES), Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe.

Stressing that the federal government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was working to improve health and well-being of citizens, Dr. Fasawe said the outreach keyed into his Renewed Hope Agenda as this government does not care about your party affiliation, age, sex or religion.

Speaking for the FCT Minister of state, Mariya Mahmoud, the MS said the outreach was designed to provide free healthcare services to all residents of Kuje as a pilot area council, adding that service would be extended to other area councils and rural communities.

Also speaking, Permanent Secretary FCTA HSES, Babagana Adam, said there is an assurance of improved and sustained access to quality healthcare services not just for Kuje, adding that FCTA would continue to work with other relevant stakeholders to provide quality health services to more FCT residents, particularly the poor and vulnerable.

SERVICES RENDERED

At the medical outreach were different wings including antenatal care for pregnant women, general outpatients care, pediatrics, eye and dental care, nutrition services, HIV, hepatitis tests, follow-up care, surgery and even pharmacy. Also, the FCT revealed that there was health insurance for pregnant women in addition to the already ongoing insurance for FCT residents at a token of N1,000 only.

FCT MINISTER’S COMMITMENT TO IMPLEMENT LIFE CHANGING INITIATIVES

Known as Mr Projects, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has not just changed the trajectory of the capital city in terms of infrastructural development, but has also extended that commitment to social and medical welfare as he has not just constantly assured the residents of the commitment to implement Mr Tinubu’s life-changing programmes through the Renewed Hope Agenda, but has also walked the talk.

According to the MS, the immense support from the FCT Minister to the Health Services and Environment Secretariat has pushed them to achieve a very significant reduction in maternal and infant mortality in the FCT through measurable multifaceted approach such as community engagement, transparency, efficient service delivery, optimal health workers’ working environment, increased Health Insurance enrolment and sustainable

environment aimed at strengthening the six health building blocks.

IMPROVED ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE SERVICES FOR KUJE COMMUNITY

For the Kuje community, beyond their joy at the services rendered, the notion that such access to healthcare would further trickle down to their respective healthcare facilities was the icing on the cake.

Corroborating, Dr. Fasawe said the beauty of the outreach was not just the lives touched but that it has brought sustained healthcare access to Kuje and its hinterlands.

It was to an elated residents that the mandate secretary revealed that all the equipment, drugs and other medical accoutrements used for the medical outreach would be used to equip all public health facilities in Kuje and its hinterlands.

That way, she said Kuje would not be overburdened by patients who come from the hinterlands for treatments. Beyond that,

the Mandate Secretary backed by Wike has already started an upgrade in the 14 government-owned hospitals and several Primary Health Care facilities, including those in security high risk areas.

She said: “We are leaving behind essential medical equipment to support local healthcare facilities because our goal is to ensure that the services offered today will continue to be available in your nearest Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs).”

“This is the administration of renewed hope. We are committed to showing that the government is serious about your health and well-being, the services you receive here today are just the beginning.”

Describing the outreach as life changing, the Chairman of the Kuje Area Council, Abdullahi Sabo, who was represented by his chief of staff, said the council would continue to complement FCTA’s efforts to improve the health and nutrition well-being of the people.

Particularly thrilled by the move by the MS and the Minister, the Gomo of Kuje, Haruna Jibrin, said the medical outreach was the first of its kind in the council, adding that it was indeed a demonstration of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The Royal Father also expressed joy that the medical outreach has opened a new vista for more access to healthcare services for the community.

CHAMPIONING CLEANER ENVIRONMENT THROUGH SMART GASES

Extending to the FCT one of the initiatives she engineered in Lagos as General Manager of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Dr. Fasawe provided and distributed 500 cooking gas to encourage the residents to embrace cleaner air instead of reliance on charcoal.

According to her, promoting clean cooking to reduce health risks from smoke and pollution, as well as addressing environmental health, aligns with the HSES’ mission because the quality of their health is directly proportional to the quality of their environment, adding that “we’re providing gas cookers to reduce reliance on firewood, which contributes to respiratory issues and climate change”.

At the end of the outreach, it was a happy community that escorted the medical team and staff of the HSES’ to the gate. But beyond this, the heroes of the day were the medical team led by Dr. Fasawe, including the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria led by Professor Rosemary Ogu, who braved the hot weather to tirelessly cater to the teeming crowd from dawn to dusk.

Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe with FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, when she was appointed FCT Mandate Secretary for Health Services and Environment Secretariat

Dr. Fasawe flanked by Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria led by Professor Rosemary Ogu

The Gomo of Kuje, His Royal Highness Haruna Jubrin with Dr. Fasawe; the Permanent Secretary, HSES, Babagana Adam with one of the beneficiaries of the eye clinic

A NEW DAWN FOR OKRIKA LG...

Kaduna: Protesters Storm Government House, Want El-Rufai Arrested, Charged with Fraud

Allege

Ogun

Hundreds of protesters, under the umbrella of Kaduna Citizens Watch for Good Governance (KCWGG), yesterday, marched to Government House, Kaduna, demanding the investigation and prosecution of the immediate past governor, Nasir El-Rufai, for alleged corruption.

A report by an ad-hoc committee set up by the state House of Assembly to investigate loans, financial transactions, and contractual liabilities had indicted El-Rufai’s eight-year administration for allegedly siphoning N423 billion.

The report also alleged that most of the loans obtained under the El-Rufai government were not used for purposes for they were obtained, while in some cases due process was not followed in securing the loans.

The report recommended that the former governor and some other indicted members of his cabinet be investigated and prosecuted by the anti-corruption agencies for abuse of office.

El-Rufai had, however, dismissed the report, saying he served Kaduna with integrity

Nigeria Police, yesterday, insisted that it would continue to barricade the local government secretariats in Rivers State until a court of competent jurisdiction decided otherwise.

The police had on Wednesday barricaded all the local government secretariats in Rivers State following a violent impasse between the Fubara, his supporters, and those loyal to the outgone council chairmen, over alleged attempts to elongate their terms unconstitutionally.

Responding to questions on the crisis, during a conference with police managers at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, the Inspector General (IG) of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, said the force barricaded the local government secretariats to forestall breakdown of law and order in the state.

Egbetokun said, "The Rivers issue is in court, we are going to wait for the outcome of the court case. Whatever the court decides is what we are going to do.

“Yes, we have our men barricading

politician, Jimi Lawal, almost killed state same way he killed a bank years ago

and to the best of his capacity.

"This jaundiced probe should be disregarded as the politically motivated hatchet job it is," the former governor said, in a statement.

But protesters, who walked from UTC Bus, along Ali Akilu Road, to Government House, carried placards and sang solidarity songs in support of the incumbent governor, Uba Sani.

They condemned the alleged financial mismanagement, abuse of power, and huge debt burden left by the El-Rufai administration.

Some of the inscriptions on the banners carried by the protesters read, “We will occupy all MDAs

to chase out all indicted persons in the report”, “Stop servicing loans that did not follow due process before they were obtained”, “Jimi Lawal almost killed Kaduna State the way he killed a bank some years ago".

Addressing journalists at the Government House gate, chairman of KCWGG, Victor Duniya, said Kaduna had endured financial mismanagement, abuse of power, and a huge debt burden in the past eight years.

Quoting the report of the ad-hoc committee, Duniya said, “The most troubling finding was the diversion of N10.5 billion meant for pastoral nomadism

and the construction of the Milk Industry at Damau, Kubau LGA, for the construction of Galaxy Mall, Kaduna.

“Additionally, the report uncovered overpayments to contractors, payments to unregistered companies, and funds disbursed for work not completed, amounting to over N36.3 billion.

“The report also revealed large sums of money withdrawn from the state treasury without proper documentation of its usage. Furthermore, an expenditure of over 11 billion on a non-existent BRT transportation scheme was documented with no evidence to support it.”

He said rather than feeling

remorseful, “El-Rufai, in his characteristic manner, gathered members of his well-fed family to Sallah feast where he tacitly called on them in Hausa Language to bring down the government of Senator Uba Sani, which we believe, it is as a result of the sin of allowing the legislative arm of government to work for the first time in over eight years.

“As concerned citizens, we condemn in the strongest terms possible the outright and merciless looting of our state, which has widened the poverty gap in the state by the immediate past administration.”

The group commended Sani “for holding on to the ideals of the democracy he worked for by not interfering in the activities of the Kaduna State” House of Assembly. Duniya urged the governor to implement relevant sections of the report that fell under his purview. He said, "We call on the governor to officially forward the findings of the committee report to relevant anti-corruption agencies to enable them to swing into action and recover our resources.”

Duniya was later invited into Government House to represent the protesters at a closed door meeting with Hadiza Balarabe, the deputy governor, and some top government officials.

Obaseki Commiserates with Saraki over Mother’s Passing

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has commiserated with former Senate President, Senator Bukola Saraki, over the passing of his mother, Chief Florence Morenike Saraki.

In a statement, the governor extended his condolences to

the secretariats as at now, but we are doing that to prevent breakdown of law and order in that state.

“You are all aware of what happened two or three days ago, we lost a police inspector. We are very sad about that, we don't want to lose more men, more citizens of Rivers State, and more Nigerians.

“So, we have a duty to prevent breakdown of law and order and that is why we have our men taking over the secretariats, while we await the outcome of the case in court. Immediately the court makes a pronouncement, we would vacate the secretariats."

On the face-off between the police and the Police Service Commission, Egbetokun said, the police would not allow the commission to recruit the "deaf and dump" into the force.

He stated, "The wise men sitting at the Supreme Court, while ruling on the controversial and constitutional issue surrounding police recruitment, gave the final authority to recruit into the police to the Police Service Commission, there is no problem with that.

the Saraki family, noting that the family’s matriarch lived a fulfilled life.

“I commiserate with my dear friend, former Senate President and former Governor of Kwara State, Senator Bukola Saraki, over the passing of his mother, Chief

CRISIS

“The judgement of the Supreme Court is sound, clear, and unambiguous. The Supreme Court, in its wisdom, recognised that the police is a critical stakeholder, and did not exclude her from participating in the recruitment exercise. So, it is expected that while recruiting into the police force by the commission, the police should be carried along.

“The IGP leads the largest police force in Africa, over 300,000 officers and men look up to him for guidance and leadership. He cannot sit down, fold his arms and see recruitment into the police force done shabbily.

"He cannot afford to disappoint the officers and men that he is leading, he has a duty to ensure quality recruitment into the police and that includes quality personnel that are recruited during the exercise, and that is exactly what we are doing”

Egbetokun added, “We are doing everything possible to make sure that qualified and capable individuals are recruited into the police. The problem we are having with the police now starts with

Florence Morenike Saraki.

“She was a compassionate and kind woman, who made remarkable contributions to the development of society. Kind and accommodating, she maintained the Saraki family tradition, keeping strong family virtues and building

the recruitment. If we don't pay attention to recruitment, disaster is certainly awaiting us.

“We cannot sit here as the force management team, and allow that to happen and that is why we are raising issues when we see issues. The force spokesperson made an announcement earlier, and we have also written to the commission, expressing our concerns in the published list of successful candidates in the ongoing recruitment exercise.

“So, there is no fight between the police force and the Police Service Commission. The police will play its role and the Police Service Commission will play its role also.

"We recognise the powers of the commission to recruit for the police, we respect that power and what we are doing is without prejudice to the powers of the Police Service Commission to recruit for the police. But for us to sit down, and allow individuals with bad eye sights to be recruited is not the best.”

on a legacy of excellence, service and philanthropy.

“She raised strong-willed children and passed onto them her devotion to community service. Their successes today are testaments of her strict parenting style.

“Mama will be remembered for her dedication, life of service and unwavering commitment to societal development.

Fubara: Rivers is Peaceful, Not Under Siege

Rivers State Governor, Mr Siminalayi Fubara, said the state was not under siege, and the people were enjoying a peaceful environment under his administration.

Fubara said the recent negative narrative that portrayed the state as immersed in crisis, with disrupted peace, was untrue, misguided and was the handiwork of mischief makers.

He emphasised that the state and its people were enjoying an enduring atmosphere of peace to promote sustainable development, fast-paced investments and accelerated economic growth.

The governor made the clarification yesterday, when he spoke to journalists in Egbelu community, shortly after inspecting the progress of work on the 14.6 kilometre Omodu-Eberi Road project in Omuma Local Government Area.

“I commiserate with the Saraki family, friends and associates and pray that God will grant all the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” he added.

He emphasised that the people were going about their normal activities, while governance was thriving.

The governor said he wanted to make clear that Rivers State was not seiged, "And to also tell Nigerians that Rivers State is peaceful. You can see that we are moving about inspecting projects, as against what you see on the screens of your television sets that police are everywhere, that we don't move about anymore, and that Rivers State is under siege. "We are not under siege. Our state is free and peaceful. If at all there is any problem in any part of the state, I know quite well that Nigerians know where the problem is coming from, not from us.

"We are peace-loving people. It is already written all over us. Our actions and our deeds have confirmed that we are peace-loving people. We will continue to maintain the peace that we promised everyone, for the betterment of the good people of Rivers State."

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara in handshake with Princess Ibiene Ogan, the newly sworn in Caretaker Committee Chairman of Okrika Local Government Area, Rivers State …. recently

John Shiklam in Kaduna

BUSINESS WORLD

Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun

Sanusi: Ailing Economy Hampering Domestic Airlines’ Ability to Acquire New Fleet

The Managing Director and CEO of Aero Contractors, Captain Ado Sanusi, has stated that Nigerian airlines are struggling to break even because of their inability to acquire new fleet due to the country’s ailing economy.

Sanusi who made this known in a chat with newsmen in Lagos, said the lack of stability in Nigeria’s financial system as it relates to foreign exchange, is threatening the existence of the airlines, which are presently struggling to survive, insisting that if the current fiscal uncertainty continues, domestic airline operation will seriously be impaired.

He said the volatility of the economy and the blacklisting of Nigeria airlines by lessors have

led to a situation where airlines are losing their aircraft to AOG (Aircraft on Ground), adding that they cannot replenish with new fleet because of the economic challenge Nigeria is facing currently.

Sanusi explained that lessors have not published that they blacklisted Nigeria, but while other countries in Africa and other parts of the world lease aircraft at lower costs, Nigerian airlines lease at exorbitant rates, almost double what airlines in other countries pay.

Besides, he said that Nigerian carriers find it difficult to acquire aircraft on dry lease basis because lessors have stopped giving aircraft to Nigerian operators on the long term.

“A Nigerian passenger would like to have a seamless purchase of his ticket and go to a beautiful

airport with good lounges and then board an airplane that is on time and enter the cabin of the airplane that is clean, neat and safe and gets a smooth ride to his destination. But that is not what the passenger gets. There are so many factors affecting the reasons why we don’t get that. One, the infrastructure we have is deficient. Two, the airlines are struggling because of the economy, the roller coaster of the naira to dollar exchange rate which of course translates into lack of more airplanes in the airspace. The lack of getting newer airplanes to come into the country because of the economy of the country and the stigma of Nigeria being blacklisted, so to say, to lease airplanes from other parts of the world,” he said. Sanusi who was former

Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), revealed that flight delays in Nigeria’s airline domestic service is largely caused by paucity of aircraft, as the fleet of Nigerian airlines continues to deplete.

“We are blacklisted but it is not written that we are blacklisted but an airline going to lease an airplane from any of the lessors outside the country it becomes so difficult and then the prices become so exorbitantly high compared to other climes that are operating in the same system. So that makes it very difficult for the airlines. The airlines are not presenting to the customer the product that they should present to the customer, that is the passengers; then there will be delays because the airplanes are not as many as to cater for

the passengers and then when the passengerscomes to the lounge, I mean he feels the airports are not comfortable for him to stay for the delays two three hours delays and eventually probably cancel flights,” Sanusi explained.

According to him, what is happening is a reflection of a sick industry, which government and stakeholders have not looked at the actual cause; but rather engage in superficial solutions that cannot dig deeply into the challenges to resolve them.

“Now, this is a reflection of a sick industry that we have refused to look at the actual cause of why the industry is sick and we are trying to treat the symptoms. We always say, okay we have a roadmap okay we have a committee that is looking at that, the problems are known and

we have to address those problems if we don’t address the problem we will be here again in the next 15 years talking about how the aviation industry is sick,” Sanusi further said.

On the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Sanusi said the agency would continued to play a critical role to ensure that the industry maintain high safety standard, noting that if NCAA is being efficiently managed it will carry out its duties efficiently. Sanusi however noted that the agency was not well funded and the technical personnel not well remunerated, adding that NCAA ought to up its remuneration to be in tandem with the standard in the industry.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

UNVEILING AFRICA GLOBAL LOGISTICS…

Africa

SIFAX Shipping Company

Limited, a subsidiary of SIFAX Group, has sealed a partnership deal with ECU Worldwide, the world’s number one LCL player, to boost export activities from Nigeria.

Logistics

Lagos… recently

The other is Full-Container Load (FCL). LCL is optimal when you don’t fill up an entire container. LCL allows the transportation of small cargo volumes without paying for the whole container.

In a statement, it said the partnership will help business owners and exporters whose

Less-than-Container Load (LCL) is one of two main types of containerized transportation services.

consignments are less than container load to access the international market.

According to the Managing Director, SIFAX Logistics Company Limited, Paul Linden, the service was offered in response to inquiries from various customers who are desirous of exporting their products but do not have the required huge volume.

He said: “We know that many SMEs and business owners are desirous of accessing the international market, but are hampered by their lack of large volume. This service is designed particularly to address this concern. It will boost Nigeria’s export and be a game changer for our small and medium-scale businesses. We have put all facilities in

place to ensure the business runs smoothly in partnership with ECU Worldwide.”

AGM, SIFAX Shipping, Adekunle Owobamirin noted that all arrangements have been perfected to make the service a success.

“Our partners from ECU have inspected our warehouse and we have already assigned dedicated staff who would work on this service. ECU Worldwide and SIFAX Shipping is the first consolidator partnership to offer dedicated LCL export services from Nigeria to the world. Our partners have established 2,400 direct trade lines with a presence in over 180 countries. This will allow all our customers to export their goods anywhere in the world, ”he said.

Oluchi Chibuzor

L-R: Managing Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Bunmi Kuku; Chairman, Africa Global Logistics (AGL) Oil & Gas Nigeria, Kenneth Dan-Anyiam; Country Managing Director of AGL Nigeria, Etienne Rocher; Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperative, Trade and Investment, Folasade Ambrose who represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; CEO Maritime Services and Chief Investment Officer,

Global

(AGL), Stanislas de Saint Louvent and CEO, Africa Global Logistics & Transport Nigeria Ltd, Sade Akanni-Shelle at the official unveiling of Africa Global Logistics (AGL) Nigeria in Victoria Island,

Chinedu Eze

GIGM, Travelstart Partner to Revolutionise Air, Road Travel

Stories by Chinedu Eze

GIG Mobility (GIGM), the leading provider of tech-powered intercity mobility services in West Africa, and Travelstart Nigeria, Africa’s leading online travel agency, have joined forces to enable cross-platform bookings for consumers.

The two organisations have set a new record by incorporating air and road travel and making it easier for travelers to book for trips by air and by road and doing that with ease for the customers.

The two companies in a joint statement said the partnership commenced immediately, disclosing that customers can effortlessly book GIGM bus transport via its website

“This groundbreaking partnership marks the first of its kind between air and road transport companies in Nigeria. As the Nigerian transportation landscape continues

to adapt and evolve, Travelstart & GIGM are committed to delivering unparalleled convenience, ease, and affordability to customers. This cross-platform booking functionality empowers consumers to purchase both air and bus transport tickets in one centralised location, selecting the platform that best suits their needs,” the two companies said in a statement.

They disclosed that behind the innovation lies a sophisticated integration of technology, streamlining the booking process for travelers and also making it more convenient for anyone that wishes to travel either by road or by air.

Country Manager of Travelstart Nigeria, Bukky Akomolafe, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to bring Travelstart and GIGM’s large customer bases the opportunity to book their preference of air and

road transport. At Travelstart, our goal is to connect our customers from one place to another; road transport offers yet another way for customers to journey to their final destination.”

CEO of GIGM, Enahoro Okhae, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Travelstart and offer our customers an integrated booking experience. At GIGM, ensuring our guests’ comfort is paramount, and this partnership underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional service and convenience to our travelers. By leveraging our resources and technology, we are simplifying the travel planning process and enabling individuals to focus on enjoying their journeys.”

They stated that the joint support teams were poised to assist with any travel inquiries or booking issues, guaranteeing a seamless travel experience end-to-end.

Keyamo, NCAA Instrumental to Nigeria’s 71% Score in ICAO Se curity Audit

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Keyamo and the acting Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, made significant contributions to earn Nigeria a pass mark of 71.04 per cent in the audit exercise conducted by the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO) Universal Security Audit Programme-Continuous Monitoring Approach (USAP-CMA) in the country’s aviation industry.

This was disclosed by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NCAA, Michael Achimugu. Achimugu said that the industry was able to achieve that success because of leadership skills and dexterity in mobilizing manpower

and resources to ensure all open gaps were closed else; Nigeria would have failed in the final outcome.

The NCAA spokesman described as mischievous comments by commentators that both the Minister and DG, CAA were responsible for the allegedly poor ratings the country achieved insisting that both came into office barely months ago and went to work immediately to improve on the deteriorating airport infrastructure and poor remunerations of workers they met on ground.

Achimugu said: “Six months ago, we met a dilapidated industry with poor infrastructure. The security and safety issues did not start in the last six months. Had it not been for the tireless efforts of the Honourable Minister and the D,

NCAA, what we met on the ground would not have scored up to 30 per cent in the audit.

“Going by what was on the ground when Keyamo and Najomo assumed office, the current score is a substantially good showing, a miracle; if I must say. The narrative being pushed out is just part of the larger strategy to push out Keyamo and Najomo from office. It is the handwork of paid mercenaries who have just one task.”

He noted that the ICAO auditors praised the authority’s performance during their final briefing at the NCAA, adding that they even mentioned a scenario where they complained about absence of certain facilities but, to their surprise, it was made available the following day.

LASG Grants N1bn Seed Fund for Startups, Research, Innovation

The Lagos State Government has granted the sum of N1 billion as seed funding towards research and innovation in the state.

The state governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, made the presentation to the Lagos State Science Research and Innovation Council (LASRIC), an organ of the state’s Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, at the weekend.

The ceremony also doubles as the inauguration ceremony of a new LASRIC after the expiration of tenure of the first LASRIC with the Vice Chancellor, Lagos State University of Science and Technology, Prof. Olumuyiwa Odunsanya, emerging as Chairman.

This LASRIC will be the second

since the creation of the Council in Lagos state.

The newly inaugurated LASRIC is saddled with the responsibility of overseeing the innovation landscape of the state in line with the vision of the Lagos State government, selecting promising founders for funding and driving technological growth through talent discovery and mentoring.

Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Deputy Governor of Lagos state, Mr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, while giving his address stated that the fund would be used to actualise article E and M of the state THEMES agenda, an acronym for Traffic Management, Transportation, Health, environment, education and technology, making Lagos a 21st century economy, entertainment, tourism, security and governance.

Group Business Editor

Eromosele Abiodun

Deputy Business Editor

Chinedu Eze

Comms/e-Business Editor

Emma Okonji

Asst. Editor, Money Market

Nume Ekeghe

Senior Correspondent

Raheem Akingbolu

(Advertising)

Correspondents

Emmanuel Addeh (Energy)

KayodeTokede(CapitalMarkets)

James Emejo (Finance)

Ebere Nwoji (Insurance)

Reporters

Peter Uzoho (Energy)

Ugo Aliogo (Development)

He noted that as a state keen on harnessing the potential of the youth population by encouraging start-ups within the technology and innovation value chain, the ripple effect would culminate in job creation, technological advancement and foster youth inclusion within government programmes.

He added that as part of efforts towards strengthening technological advancement, partnerships as well as funding will be prioritised as a critical component of the government’s commitment to ensure that start-ups thrive.

He said: “As we reconstitute the Council, with a renewed commitment to build capacity for the value creation needed for this economy, it requires critical role of meeting our investment and research penetration.

Ethiopian Graduates Nearly 800 Aviation Professionals

Ethiopian Aviation University, Africa’s largest aviation centre of excellence, has graduated close to 800 aviation professionals including international trainees from eight African countries and one from Asia.

The graduation ceremony took place at the university’s facility on June 15, 2024. The day has been graced by Ambassadors and Officials from African countries including Ethiopian Airlines Group executives, families and friends of the graduates. The graduates were trainees in Ethiopian Aviation University’s Pilot, Aviation Maintenance, Cabin Crew, and Commercial Training programs.

Congratulating the aviation professionals, Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Executive Officer Mr. Mesfin Tasew, said: “We are delighted to witness the fruits of our effort

AIR WATCH

Airport Concession: More Promises, Less Action

Nigerians are inundated with several plans by the federal government to concession the country’s airports and bring the private sector to invest in infrastructural development of airport facilities.

This has been a sing-song for years but at the end of the day nothing is being achieved and the status quo remains.

The former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, in his maiden address to aviation industry stakeholders in 2016, shortly after his appointment, stated that airport concession was part of his development agenda for the industry, but ended up with a feeble, ineffectual attempt that was opaque and suspicious, hence his effort was not taken seriously.

Sirika’s predecessor, Senator Stella Oduah, made it clear when she became the Minister of Aviation that she was not interested in airport concession; rather, she would develop the airport infrastructure because they were government and the people’s assets. She insisted that no one would be allowed to take them as their patrimony.

Oduah went on with the airport renewal programme, which witnessed the rehabilitation of airport facilities in various states. By the time she was withdrawn as the Minister of Aviation, some airport terminal had been completed, while some remained as on-going project. However, the international terminals, which she started in Kano, Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt and Enugu and funded by China EXIM Bank, were completed under the Buhari’s administration. They were funded and completed under Sirika.

But Sirika, who made his plan clear that he would concession the airport terminals, waited until the dusk of the Buhari’s administration before he carried out ‘emergency’ concession, which industry stakeholders insisted was not transparent and did not follow due process.

By March 2022, almost one year to leave office, the former Minister of Aviation was still shifting the date for the concession of airport facilities. He promised that the airport concession would take place in the second quarter of 2022.

In his usual trite promises, Sirika said: “The transaction advisers for the concession have finished the Outline Business Case and had got the Requestfor-Qualification. We’ve pre-qualified the people and they’ve been issued Request-for-Proposal.

in realizing a self-sufficient Africa, in terms of aviation professionals supporting the industry within the continent. We believe in the potential of Africa’s youths to shape the continent’s aviation and continue to educate them at our center of excellence. Training globally competitive professionals, today, we graduate 308 aviation maintenance, 142 pilots, 297 cabin crew, 25 electromechanical professionals, and 15 ticket agents. I urge Africans to invest in training their youth for the future of aviation at Ethiopian Aviation University.”

Since its establishment in 1956, Ethiopian Aviation Academy, upgraded to a university level recently, has been offering various aviation courses to local and international trainees.

“They’ve turned the proposals in and we are analysing them to announce the successful bidders and this will be soon. Our timetable is for the first quarter of this year (2022).Well, I can see that it is still happening, let’s be very ambitious, but certainly it will end in second quarter and all the dentified airports will be concessioned.”

After the non-transparent attempt to concession the airports, industry critics said Sirika may not have genuine plan to concession the airports, but made attempts to covet government assets to himself and his cronies, an allegation that the Minister vehemently denied.

But recently the current Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, reiterated the need to concession the airports, saying, that is the only way the airport infrastructure can be expanded and modernised.

He acknowledged that public-private partnerships (PPP) are crucial in the sustainability and modernization of airport infrastructure.

“It is only by way of PPPs we can progress along that line, we can turn things around. So for those who complain that our infrastructure is decrepit, the airports are not as good as they should be, they don’t meet international standards, I’ve just been eight months in office; there’s nobody who can build big

infrastructure within even two years or three years; and that’s a fact. What you can do is to maintain what you have, make them a bit comfortable and serviceable and customer friendly while you work on the big issues,” Keyamu said. According to him, “We are looking at bringing in the private sector, which we have started doing already with the collaboration of the Minister of Interior, we both collaborated on that, we have changed the arrival wing, the D-wing of the International Airport(Lagos). Shell came in and did a lot for us there, I’m sure you have seen it. That’s a beautiful entrance now into Nigeria. The wing E, that’s the arrival, we are concentrating on D and E and we are talking to one or two people now, corporate bodies, they are just about to start their own but Shell has done their own for us.”

But aviation unions have always kicked against concession of airport facilities, saying that the workers would lose their jobs; even when the former Minister assured them that no job would be lost. Sirika had gone further to explain to them that if the airport facilities were expanded and modernised, in the long run, the airports would need more workers, even if some workers in the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) lost their jobs in the interim.

While resisting the concession plans, the Secretary General of the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Ocheme Abba, alleged that it was not only that the federal government was not following any due process, but it was not even concessioning the airport to genuine investors. He insisted that top government officials were giving the airports to themselves.

Abba also said that there was no protection of workers’ interest in the concession plan and reiterated that labour and workers do not support the concession plan.

Abba said the concession programme was done in a way to cripple and finally destroy FAAN and explained that already the federal government owed China about $1 billion as the cost of the four new terminals built at the aforementioned airports, which would be paid by FAAN. He added that money accruable to the agency would be used for debt servicing, maintenance of other 18 airports and other expenses leaving nothing for FAAN to survive on.

”The new Chinese terminals are going to be concessioned where the concessionaire will receive 60 per cent of the sharing formula while FAAN will retain 40 per cent and what will happen to the 40 per cent that FAAN will retain? From that 40 per cent, FAAN will pay the Chinese loan; FAAN will return 25 per cent to the federal government, according to the Fiscal Responsibility Act. Also from that 40 per cent FAAN will maintain the other 18 airports, including all of you who are workers of FAAN. So the whole programme about concession is that some people want to give this thing to themselves, and that is why they went and got Transaction Adviser who did not go through any process of selection,” Abba told the workers in a rally when they were protesting against concession during Buhari’s administration. What the Minister of Aviation and Aeronautical Development said recently, reinforces the fact that for the airports to be modernised to meet the standard of major airports in the world, the private sector must be involved. Many stakeholders and Nigerian airline operators had at different for a, indicated their support for concession of airports facilities, but they always stress that the process must be transparent and real investors vast in airport development must be involved, so that it will not be like the privatisation that took place in the electricity industry where inexperienced investors were given regions to manage and they evolved into inefficient monopolies.

Chinedu Eze

L-R: Chairperson, Study Group Three Legal Policy and Regulatory, Nigerian Gas Association (NGA), Uzo Uzoh; President, NGA, Aka chukwu Nwokedi; Chairperson, Study Group Six, Diversity Equality and Inclusion, NGA, Chichi Emenike ; and Chairman, Study Group One, Network Code and Infrastruct ure, NGA, James Odiase, during the media and stakeholders forum in Lagos… recently

Microsoft: Africa Can Influence Future of Work with AI Technology

A whitepaper on AI and the Future of Work in Africa, produced by Microsoft with inputs from industry experts across the African continent has revealed that Africa has a unique opportunity to influence what the future of work looks like

in these early days of technology evolution.

According to the report, nearly 1 billion people in Africa are currently under the age of 35 with the continent projected to be home to almost half of the world’s youth population by the turn of the century, in effect making up half

of the potential global workforce of the future.

Analysing the report, Chief Technology and Solutions Officer at Microsoft Africa, Ravi Bhat, said: “We see a significant role for generative AI to not only transform work environments, but also foster opportunities for

Sleengshort Seeks Market

Nigerian-based tech startup, Sleengshort has risen to become among the top players in the bulk SMS space within a space of three years.

After hitting N1.2 billion in bulk SMS sales in 2023, the company is pushing to become the Twilio of Africa communication and customer data space.

Twilio is a US-based company with a valuation of $7.23 billion that provides customer engagement functionality used by developers worldwide to build

unique communication features and capabilities like voice, text, chat, video, and email into their applications. While the market might differ, Sleengshort founded by Agbeyeke Ndubuisi and Oyelere Oluwabiyi, also has the same ambition.

Giving details of the business, CEO of Sleengshort, Agbeyeke Ndubuisi, said: “By the end of 2022, we had done about N50 million in bulk SMS sales. In 2023, our client list grew to include major Fintechs operators and some financial institutions and

closed the year with N1.2 billion in bulk SMS sales.

“The bulk SMS market in Nigeria is an important component of not only the telecom industry but also sectors like financial services that depend on the market to run smoothly. Companies across the sectors depend on bulk SMS companies for different types of One Time Password (OTPs), alerts, and sending different types of information to customers. In terms of size, it is estimated that between 5 to 15 billion bulk SMS are sent every

the youth to create jobs, innovate and help drive economic growth and stability across the continent.”

According to the whitepaper, many expect generative AI to drastically change knowledge worker jobs, especially in terms of the type of work done, the skills required, and the outputs

month in Nigeria.”

The Chief Technology Officer of the company, Oyelere Oluwabiyi, said what has kept the company attractive to corporate entities is the ability to manage its cost.

“The technology that powers the platform Sleengshort rides on, was built and is maintained locally. The larger practice by other players is to lease platforms from providers outside the country leaving them with a foreign exchange burden to acquire and maintain the platform in dollars.

produced. McKinsey research shows that generative AI (GenAI) could enable labour productivity growth of up to 0.6 per cent annually through 2040, depending on the rate of technology adoption and the redeployment of worker time into other activities.

Director at Microsoft Research Africa, Jacki O’Neill, said: “Generative AI has significant potential to advance human capabilities,” says “As more people across Africa get access to GenAI tools through their internet-enabled devices and more affordable data, the barriers to access are being reduced and opportunities for skilling can increase. But it is not only information workers that stand to benefit from GenAI.”

According to O’Neill, “The promise of GenAI to transform industries such as agriculture, healthcare, and services must be balanced by equipping the

youth with the skills needed for an AI-disrupted labour market to ensure that they are not left behind in this technological shift.

“It is therefore important to build skills across the spectrum, from how to deploy and use GenAI tools effectively at work, to how to build appropriate and innovative applications and technologies on top of these models, to the post-graduate skills of research and innovation in machine learning, natural language processing, human-computer interaction, cybersecurity, and systems to name a few.”

According to the whitepaper, ensuring a beneficial outcome with GenAI involves proactive governance, inclusive design, investment in education, and a commitment to regulatory and ethical standards. This is a collective responsibility, requiring engagement from policymakers, technologists, and citizens alike.

A recent Town Hall series organised by a Lagos based TV station in Plateau State, has addressed violence and conflict within and around the state.

For over 20 years, the conflict in Plateau State has claimed the lives of thousands across several local governments including Bokkos, Mangu, Riyom, Wase, Birkin Ladi, and more. The crisis has escalated over the past decade, leaving residents and indigenes in a heightened state of fear and state of emergency. The town hall brought

Mastercard has announced a groundbreaking $2.04 million investment in partnership with Wowzi, Africa’s premier influencer marketing platform, and Masria Digital Payments (MDP).

The collaboration aims to transform the financial management landscape for content creators through innovative digital card solutions.

The five-year initiative will provide Wowzi’s content creators access to a range of digital card benefits. Leveraging MDP’s expertise in digital payments, these cards are designed to offer content creators a seamless and

together community leaders, residents, members of various communities, representatives of security agencies and more to share their experiences, concerns, and solutions toward addressing the root causes of the violence and conflicts in the state.

The event was held in Jos, the state capital with the discussion moderated by News Central’s Bernard Akede, a seasoned journalist and expert in conflict reportage. Notable remarks from the town hall revealed the root of the strife across communities and the level of division that Plateau

secure user experience, simplifying both online and offline transactions.

Speaking about the initiative, Co-founder and President of Wowzi, Mike Otieno, said: “Our journey has always been driven by the belief that content creators are the heartbeat of the digital age. This strategic partnership with Mastercard and MDP represents a pivotal moment in our mission to empower these creators. Innovation is at the core of our values, and we recognize that the influencer and creator market is underserved when it comes to payment solutions. We are dedicated to being at the forefront of technology solutions

had experienced.

The Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, who was represented by the State Commissioner of Information, Musa Ashoms, commended News Central for its bravery in covering the events of the state.

In his remarks, the governor’s representative said:” “As a government, we have empowered a peace-building agency to dialogue, interface, interact, and heal wounds among communities on the Plateau who have been injured. It is a sad commentary that while many beautiful things are happening on

that cater to the unique needs of content creators. This collaboration allows us to not only address those needs but to set new standards in financial empowerment, security, and convenience for our valued community.”

Senior Vice President and Country Manager for East Africa and Indian Ocean Islands at Mastercard, Shehryar Ali, said: “Our decision to invest in the influencer and content creation space is a testament to our belief in the transformative power of the gig economy. As the world of work continues to evolve, we are inspired by the incredible impact content

the Plateau, some media outlets are not interested in promoting them. Once a life is taken, the headlines are exaggerated.”

However, there were heated accusations and counter-accusations from major stakeholders in the course of the town hall. One such accusation came from the representative of the Berom community, Gyang Chollom, who stated that “since March 2010, the Fulanis have single-handedly taken over the attacks. Many villages have been attacked and taken over since then. This is not community violence.”

creators have on global culture and the economy.”

Managing Director at MDP Africa, Frank Molla, said: “In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, it’s clear that the future of finance is intertwined with the influencer space. As pioneers in the issuing and processing industry, we understand the importance of security and innovation. This collaboration with Wowzi and Mastercard signifies our commitment to shaping the financial future for content creators, empowering them with more than just payments, it will be a secure and seamless experience.”

Airtel Telesonic, the wholesale arm of Airtel Africa, has announced the successful activation of the 2Africa submarine cable system, marking a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity across the African continent.

The initial phase of activation connects Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa, heralding a new era of high-speed, reliable internet access. The 2Africa cable system is one of the largest subsea projects globally, designed to interconnect Africa, Europe, and Asia. This activation is part of a broader initiative to deliver faster and more resilient internet services, supporting the digital transformation across Africa.

Airtel Telesonic achieved this milestone with their partnership with Alcatel Submarine Networks, which is an industry leader in optical submarine networks deployed worldwide, with the ability to offer turn-key solutions utilizing the latest technology, both in subsea infrastructure and transmission capacity.

Speaking on the partnership, CEO of Airtel Telesonic, PD Sarma, expressed his enthusiasm about this achievement. According to him, “The activation of the

2Africa submarine cable is a monumental step in our mission to bridge the digital divide in Africa. Airtel is proud to launch the first phase of 2Africa cable system powered by the latest SLTE equipment from our partner. This project not only underscores our commitment to investing in advanced infrastructure but also our dedication to empowering communities with the tools they need to thrive in the digital age. This is a significant milestone underscoring the power of collaboration and innovation to bring the world’s longest Submarine cable system to Africa.”

Speaking on the partnership, ASN’s Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, Paul Gabla, said: “ASN is very pleased to support Airtel with our cutting-edge SLTE equipment on the 2Africa cable system. This partnership underscores our dedication to continuing the fast delivery of world-class SLTE technological solutions. This important milestone highlights the strength of collaboration and innovation in bringing advanced connectivity solutions to Africa through our partnership with Airtel”.

PHOTO: KOLAWOLE ALLI

Stories by Emma Okonji

Stories by Agnes Ekebuike

Credit Bureau Boss: Nigeria’s Credit Penetration Rises to 14%

Oluchi Chibuzor

The Group Managing Director/CEO, CRC Credit Bureau Limited, Dr. Tunde Popoola has said that Credit penetration in Africa’s most populous nation has risen to 14 per cent.

He said the growth, driven largely by the activities of CRC Credit Bureau, is however, still a far cry from the expected level globally.

He stated this yesterday during the Company’s CRC Finance and Credit Conference 2024, in Lagos.

He noted that the country has achieved a significant improvement in credit penetration in the last 15 years of CRC’s existence.

The theme of the event, which also marked the Com-

pany’s 15 years anniversary is: “Sustainable Financing Options: Innovations in Credit Risk Management.”

Popoola disclosed that only 33 million Nigerians have their credit scores on the database of CRC Credit Bureau Limited, noting that a whole lot of effort is needed to bring onboard more Nigerians to access credit.

“Thirty three million Nigerians have credit scores and 29.4 million searches were conducted in 2023. More than 10 million searches have been conducted in Q1, 2024. CRC has moved from one product in 2010 to 18, cutting across all value chains of lending,” he noted.

Popoola also revealed that CRC Bureau Limited and the various regulators in the

country, especially the Central Bank of Nigeria, despite the daunting challenges to ease to access to credit, are making some reasonable progress.

He said: “Today so many millions of Nigerians get loans on their phones and lenders rely on CRC to lend. The Credit Reporting Act signed in 2017 by the Buhari regime to back credit reporting and the backing of the CBN have boosted credit penetration over the years.”

Speaking earlier, Chairman CRC Board of Directors, Mr. Joel Owoade, lamented that the prevailing economic fluctuations in the country have affected the profitability of companies in Nigeria, with so many of them reporting unprecedented loses up till Q1, 2024.

NAFC Organise Financial ManagementTraining for MOD Senior Staff

The Nigerian Army Finance Corps (NAFC) has said that the senior staff of the Ministry of Defence in the Nigerian Army establishments are now well-equipped with financial management and work ethic skills.

The Chief of Accounts and Budget (Army), Maj. Gen. Adetokunbo Fayemiwo, said this at the third edition of a three-day financial management training organised by the Nigerian Army School of Finance and Administration in Lagos State

In a bid to bequeath a Corps that is proactive and proficient in delivering financial services to support the Nigerian Army in accomplishing assigned missions in defence of Nigerian, Nigerian Army Finance Corps held the three day Financial Management Seminar/ Training

for Senior Ministry of Defence (MOD) staff in Nigerian Army Establishments organised by Nigerian Army School of Finance and (NASFA) Arakan barracks Lagos State.

Fayemiwo said the Financial Management Training which is the third edition is to further improve the synergy between military and civilian staff of the Ministry of Defence with an overriding commitment to optimising the vision of Chief of Army Staff and a better security architecture for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Represented by the Commander, Command Finance Office (CFO) Bigadier General Abubakar Sulaiman, he said the training is designed to enhance proficiency and to equip MOD Senior staffs with skills on financial management at the strategic level and neces-

sary expertise that would be critical in confronting challenges of financial management and office administration.

In his welcome remarks, the Commandant Nigerian Army School of Finance and Administration (NASFA), Major General Julius Osifo said the objective of the semminar is to appraise Senior MOD staffs with contemporary financial management policies of the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) and other work related thematic issues.

Osifo said NASFA which has produced 4,684 graduates of both the National Diploma and Higher National Diploma respectively is the training arm of the Nigerian Army Finance Corps with primary responsibilities of training of personnel in military pay duties, record and clerical duties.

Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, OPTS Partner to Empower

Federal Civil Service Directors

Nume Ekeghe

The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, a non-profit organisation has announced a new collaboration initiative with the Oil Producers Trade Section (OPTS), to equip Directors in the Federal Civil Service with essential leadership, project management, and communication skills through a targeted training program.

OPTS is an industry group of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) representing about 30-member oil and gas companies that are registered

in Nigeria and have an Oil Prospecting License or an Oil Mining License. In a statement, Director of Funding and Partnerships at the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, Bukky Akinsemoyin said: “We are delighted by the partnership and support from the OPTS on this critical initiative. Equipping directors in the Civil Service with the necessary skills will greatly enhance their ability to deliver essential services and drive national development. This initiative exemplifies the positive impact that can be achieved when the public and private sectors

come together.”

OPTS, recognising the importance of a well-equipped Civil Service, enthusiastically supports this training programme.

“We at OPTS are firm believers in supporting initiatives that strengthen the Nigerian public sector,” stated the Executive Director, OPTS, Mr Gwueke Ajaifia. He further emphasized that, “by investing in the capacity of Directors, we are investing in the future of Nigeria. OPTS is proud to partner with the AigImoukhuede Foundation on this impactful programme.”

AIICO Insurance Wins Blood Donation Award

Ebere Nwoji

AIICO Insurance Plc employees recently demonstrated their commitment towards supporting healthy community and saving lives through participation in a blood donation drive.

In commemorating this year’s World Blood Donor Day, the fourth in the series, 62 volunteer members of staff of the company successfully donated blood to the Lagos State Blood Bank.

AIICO partnered with the Lagos State Government through the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service for the initiative.

A press statement issued by the company quoted the

Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Manager, Mrs. Abimbola Shobanjo, as expressing the company’s commitment to the good health and wellbeing of Nigerians at all times.

Shobanjo explained that the employees who donated their blood were motivated by patriotism and love for humanity in order to save those in need of blood transfusion for survival.

“World Blood Donor Day serves as a powerful reminder of the life-saving impact a single blood donation can have. We are proud of our employees who stepped forward today to

MARKET INDICATORS

answer the call and contribute to this vital cause.” she said.

Meanwhile, AIICO Insurance has won the prestigious “Community Blood Drive Initiative” Award of the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service in recognition and appreciation of its significant contributions to the success and impact of the LSBTC mandate of ensuring adequate and high quality blood supply in Lagos State.

“This award recognises your partnership, generosity, and shared commitment to advancing blood transfusion services and improving health care outcomes in Lagos State,” Oshikomaya said.

The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $87.33 a barrel on Monday, compared with $86.00 the previous Thursday, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC

Saharan Blend (Algeria), 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).

L-R: Senior Vice-President, MEASA, ACI Worldwide, Santhosh Rao; GMD/CEO, Interswitch Group,

Mitchell Elegbe; and MD, Digital Infrastructure/Managed Services, Interswitch, Jonah Adams, at the Interswitch and ACI stakeholder engagement event in Lagos…recently

TotalEnergies’ Shareholders Okay N7.13bn Dividend Payout

Kayode Tokede

Shareholders of TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeria Plc have approved the management’s N7.13 billion (N25.00 per ordinary share) dividend payout for its 2023 financial year as against N6.18 billion paid to shareholders in the 2022 financial year.

The shareholders at the company’s 46th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held during the weekend in Lagos also approved the re-election of directors.

appointment of new directors, among other key resolutions to further strengthen the company’s trajectory performance this year.

The company’s revenue increased by 32 per cent from N482.47 billion in 2022 to N635.95 billion in 2023 as profit after tax dropped by 20 per cent to N12.91billion in 2023 from N16.12billion reported in the 2022 financial year.

The Chairman, TotalEnergies Marketing, Jean-Phillipe Torres said the dividend to shareholders

was paid despite a challenging year, adding that it is to enable shareholders to get their best value and good return.

“2023 was a very especially difficult and challenging year but we are paying a dividend of N25. The company places a high premium on its esteemed and valued shareholders and therefore ensures good returns on their investments each year.

“We also keep in mind that to continue to offer these returns, the business has to remain profitable,”

Torres said.

The shareholders also express delight in the N25 dividend by TotalEnergies, reassuring commitment to push the growth of the company. Speaking on various schemes which have been adopted by some elements to clone and adulterate lubricant products, the chairman said it has become more difficult for the lubricants to be counterfeited with the security measures which the company introduced in 2021.

“Now, we have new cans and

the cans of each of our lubricant lines are colour-specific; there are additional security seals on the caps and we have a barcode for each can. All of these undoubtedly provide extensive security for our lubricant.”

Meanwhile, the shareholders felicitate with TotalEnergies on numerous awards merited within the year. The chairman said the company is delighted to achieve the awards in collaboration with numerous stakeholders

“In validation of the Company’s efforts at its reporting which meets international standards as well as its transparency in its reporting process, TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeria Plc was awarded the “Best Company in Reporting & Transparency” at the 2023 Africa Social Enterprise and Sustainability Awards. TEMN Plc also emerged the ‘Company with the Most Sustainable Stakeholder Engagement Initiatives at the Social Impacts & Sustainability Awards 2023.

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF JUNE 20/24

Thisday Afrinvest Index Up 0.5%

Thisday Afrinvest 40 index rose 0.5% to print at GTCO (+4.4%), UBA (+0.7%), and LAFARGE YTD Return Remains at 33.5%

TRANSCOH (-10.0%) and FIDELITY (- GTCO (+4.4%) and TRANSCORP (+6.2%). Resultantly, the NGX99,842.82 index points,

6.0% to 1.3bn units while value traded rose 53.6% to 25.3bn.

Performance across our coverage sector was bullish index GTCO (+4.4%), UBA (+0.7%), MANSARD (+2.9%), and VERITASK (+9.9%) pushed the Banking and Insurance ing, the Consumer Goods index rose 0.3% following (+7.6%). Similarly, the and AFR-ICT in JBERGER (+3.0%), WAPCO (+0.6%), CWG (+7.6%), and CHAMS (+9.8%).

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 INDEX

7Dangote Cement PLC656.70

10Ecobank Transnational Inc21.35

Nigeria PLC925.10

16BUA Foods PLC379.90

Oil Palm PLC265.00

18Dangote Sugar Refinery PLC47.00

19Nigerian Breweries PLC29.00

ROTARY GOVERNOR’S DINNER…

L-R: Past Assistant Governor, Rotary Club of Benin,

of Rotary Club of Benin, in Edo State…recently

Four Persons Killed in Ekiti within 48 Hours

Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti

Less than 48 hours, four persons have been gunned down in AdoEkiti by unidentified assailants. A union executive of commercial motorcyclists was killed by gunmen at Okesha area of Ado Ekiti earlier on Monday in broad daylight.

On Thursday morning, a Point of Sale (POS) operator identified as Alfa was shot around specialist

Hospital, Ado Ekiti, while the assailants reportedly made away with undisclosed amount of money.

Few hours later another person was shot at Oja Bisi in Ado Ekiti. The deceased was a rice hawker who was shot on the head. Also, in the evening another POS operator was shot dead in Idemo.

Investigations by THISDAY revealed that the same pattern

PIND: Why We Trained Youths on Conflict Management in N’Delta

Blessing IbungeinPortHarcourt

The Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) has said that the reason for the intensive training for youths in the Niger Delta held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, was to tackle and ensure the reduction of criminality and other forms of violence across communities in the region.

The training was organised by PIND in collaboration with Stakeholders Democracy Network (SDN), Academic Associates Peace Works (AAPW), Search for Common

Ground, and support from the European Union.

Speaking with journalists at the venue of the training in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Dr. David Udofia, Peace Building programme manager of PIND, noted that the training was geared towards the reduction of criminality and conflict within the region.

Udofia explained that the essence of the capacity training was not just for knowledge retention alone, but for adoption and implementation of the acquired knowledge for peace in communities of the region.

Ado Bayero Mall Reopens after Fire Incident

Ado Bayero Mall has announced the complete restoration of its operations, with tenants resuming their business activities without interruption after a fire incident.

A sudden midday fire outbreak had on Wednesday ravaged a section of the Ado Bayero Mall, formally occupied by Game Stores, on Zoo Road in Kano.

the first bike fee collector was shot on Tuesday at Oke-Isa was same way the other three deceased were killed.

The perpetrators were said to be on motor bike with their faces

covered with black cloth.

The tragic incidents have caused fear and panic in Ado Ekiti as shop owners hurriedly closed their shops while bike men and motorists were rushing home

for safety.

Eyewitnesses account told our correspondent that the pattern of operation of the killers suggests a reprisal attacks by cult groups.

The Spokesperson for Ekiti State

Police Command, DSP Sunday Abutu, has confirmed the incident, adding that the command is seriously working to get the killers, while the corpses have been deposited at the morgue.

‘Nigerian Civil Service Need Digital, Media Literacy for 21st Century’

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Former Executive Secretary of National Universities Commission(NUC), Prof. Peter Okebulola, has urged the federal government to run programmes that will equip Nigerian civil servants with skills on digital literacy, team work, media literacy, curiosity and others needed for the 21st century.

Okebukola made the prescription yesterday at the public service lecture to mark the 2024 civil service week celebration in Abuja, where he was the guest lecturer.

“These skills include problemsolving, curiosity, teamwork, perseverance, ability to work with others, that relate to teamwork and about 21 other skills. So, the idea is for the federal civil service and other services to run programmes for civil servants on problem-solving, teamwork, digital literacy, media literacy, environmental literacy, to enable them to prepare for that work. So, that is a major recommendation,” Okebukola said.

He said a study showed that there were gaps in the civil service in the area of service delivery, efficiency and use of ICTs, saying civil servants’ capacity to perform will be boosted if they were trained, given the necessary tools and prepared for digital literacy by 2025.

Ebonyi Revitalises Pipe Production, Building Material Industries

Benjamin Nworie inAbakaliki

Ebonyi State Government yesterday said it has revitalised the Ezzamgbo pipe production and building materials industries, which have been moribund for over 24 years in the state.

The state Commissioner for

Commerce, Industry and Business Development, Chief Oguzor Offia Nwali, made this disclosure while addressing journalists on the achievements his ministry has recorded in the past one year.

The commissioner noted that one of the very first tasks he got from the state Governor, Chief Francis Nwifuru, was to resuscitate and revalidate the dilapidated pipe production industry and revive the building materials industries which been the pride and economic mainstay of the state.

He said his ministry has succeeded in procuring essential and basic machines needed for the industry such as the extrusion and other equipment that would make highly functional.

According to him, “When I came on board as the ministry leader, one of the very first task I got from my principal is to resuscitate and revalidate the dilapidated pipe production industry.

Benue Implements Security Initiative to Ensure Safety of Residents

George Okoh in Makurdi

“Currently, we are conducting a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire to prevent any future occurrences. We are also working closely with all tenants and relevant authorities to ensure the affected areas meet stringent safety standards,” the statement said. It added that the mall maintains a rigorous preventive disaster management protocol, including regular fire drills in collaboration with both the Federal and Kano State Fire Service Departments.

However, in a statement signed by Ike Okeke, on behalf of the mall’s management yesterday, it was clarified that the fire primarily affected the B wing of the mall, causing minimal damage that did not hinder the overall functioning of the mall.

Group Creates Awareness on Menstrual Hygiene

Ayodeji Ake

As part of its Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR), ClinaLancet Laboratories has taken a menstrual hygiene campaign to school to prevent the girl-child from infections and other healthrelated issues.

Speaking recently at the distribution of free sanitary pads to female students of Queens College, Lagos, tagged: ‘Pad Up A Girl’, the Managing Director of Clina-Lancet, Dr. Olayemi Dawodu, expressed concern on the need to teach the girl-child menstrual hygiene to stay

healthy during menstrual flow.

She said: “As part of our CSR as an organisation, we are interested in the good health and well-being of all the communities we serve and even beyond. One of the campaigns we have embarked on for the past two years is the Pad Up a Girl campaign which is to support the health and well-being of the girl-child specifically but focusing on menstrual hygiene which the World Health Organisation (WHO) has earmarked to be as an important aspect of the well-being of females.

Special Adviser to the Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, on External Security and Strategy, Col. Alexander Anshungu (rtd), has stated that strategic security measures have been initiated and implemented to ensure safety of lives in the state.

Anshungu, who stated this while speaking during the visit of the UN/IOM and North -East ambassadors to Benue State last in Makurdi, noted that the strategy has led to reduction of crime and internal security, which was a major challenge in the state.

He lamented that since 2010 till date, the incidence of herders’ attacks on the state farming population and their farmlands have increasingly become a recurrent decimal with serious consequences that have manifested in mass destruction of lives and property worth billions of naira.

According to him, “Add to that is the unfortunate reality that the herders’ attacks have led to severe displacements of farming population as well as occupational displacements in the state. 14 IDP camps is a testament to this sad development.

Experts to Explore Solutions for Universal Health Coverage at PSHAN Conference

Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN) has announced a two-day event for the 2024 PSHAN Annual Conference. The physical conference is scheduled for Tuesday, June 25, 2024, in Victoria Island, Lagos, and the virtual conference on Thursday, June 27, 2024.

PSHAN said in a statement that this year’s theme, “Harnessing Private Sector Solutions for Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria’s Evolving Health Insurance Landscape,” stems from the recent passage of the Nigeria Health Insurance Act (NHIA), a

groundbreaking development in the nation’s healthcare landscape.

The focus on the demand side aims to explore how individuals and organisations, particularly within the organised private sector, discuss, strategise, and drive forward the universal health coverage (UHC) agenda in Nigeria. This conference is expected to gather key stakeholders, business leaders, and policymakers in Nigeria. Its setting is expected to encourage impactful discussions and collaborations among Nigeria’s healthcare leaders.

Nasarawa Gov Directs Payment of Medical Allowance for Monarchs

Clamps down on illegal mining companies

The Nasarawa State Governor, Mr. Abdullahi Sule, yesterday directed for the immediate payment of the annual medical allowances for the Year 2024 to traditional rulers across the state.

This is just as state government has commenced a clampdown on illegal mining companies who are putting the safety of the state in danger. The governor gave the directive when he hosted members of the Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs, led by its Deputy Chairman and Emir of Keffi,

Dr. Shehu Chindo Yamusa lll, in the Government House, Lafia.

According to the governor, “though he will not be around to handle the matter but he directed that the Deputy Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, will work alongside the State AccountantGeneral, Mr. Musa Muhammad, to

immediately facilitate the payment of the medical allowances.

“I want you to work it and pay them today. Because we have no excuse whatsoever not to pay them. The deputy governor will work with the Accountant-General and pay that immediately.”

Obaseki to Begin Electronic Signing of C-of-Os

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said the Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) is the only document he still signs manually as the state’s chief executive, noting that plans have been concluded to begin electronic signing of the title document. Obaseki, who disclosed this when

he spoke with journalists in Benin City, the Edo State capital, reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring a completely paperless governance system. He said the State has embraced technology through the e-governance system and has transitioned into a

paperless government, leading to the archiving of seven million government documents. Obaseki noted that the new system has streamlined government operations and ensured accountability, transparency, effectiveness, efficiency, and quick service delivery to Edo people.

The governor, who stated that

the State has since commenced the issuance of computerised C-of-O to landed property owners in the state, said plans have been concluded to introduce electronic signing of C-of-Os as part of renewed efforts to enhance efficiency and transparency in land administration.

IgbawaseUkumbainLafia

Innocent Azeke; Rotarian Faith Osadolor; past Assistant Governor, Nosa Francis Edo-Osagie; President, Raphael Irorere; past Assistant Governor, Sunday Bello; Assistant Governor, Charles Otote, and Rotarian Dieta Odeh, at the dinner

Troops Nab Mastermind of Terrorist Attack on Villages in Taraba

Wole Ayodele in Jalingo

Troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have arrested the mastermind of the terrorist attack on Mararaban Azagawa village in which five people were killed and several others injured.

The terrorists had launched a deadly attack on Mararaban Azagawa village and the adjoining Allele village in Maihula area of Bali Local Government Area in the early

hours of June 16, 2024, which led to the death of five people, including a 92-year-old man.

In a swift response to the report of the attack, the troops of 20 Model Battalion, Sub sector 3A OPWS stationed at the Forward Operating Base in Bali LGA launched a special operation to apprehend the terrorists.

Acting on credible intelligence, according to the Commander, 6 Brigade, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, the troops were able to arrest the

ringleader and mastermind of the attack, Hassan Ibrahim, 39.

As at the time of his arrest, items such as Dane gun, cartridges and a motorcycle belonging to one of the victims, were recovered from Hassan, who is also known as Godu.

According to the commander, Hassan who is already in custody, has admitted his involvement in the heinous act and has provided valuable information to the Brigade, and he is cooperating to help capture his collaborators.

Ekiti APC Endorses Oyebanji for Second Term

Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti

The Ekiti State Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has passed a vote of confidence on the State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji with a resolution that the governor would be supported for a second term in office.

The resolution was unanimously taken during a meeting with the governor at the party’s Secretariat in Ajilosun, Ado- Ekiti yesterday. At the meeting the extended executive council, comprising the state working committee and leaders of the party across the 16 local government areas reviewed the governor’s performance and endorsed him for a second term.

At the meeting, which was also attended by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye and Special Adviser on Political and Inter-party Matters, Chief Jide Awe and other dignitaries, Mr. Mike Akinleye, Chairman, APC Ado Local Government, moved the motion for the endorsement of the governor for a second term in office and was seconded by the party’s state Secretary, Mr Sola Arogundade.

The acting State Chairman of the party, Mr. Sola Eleshin, said all the state executives have resolved that the governor should continue in office beyond 2026 based on his superlative performance across board.

He acknowledged the visits of the Governor at various ward meetings and his well formulated policies and programmes, which

he said had brought succour to Ekiti people. These, according to him, have made the governor to govern seamlessly with attendant socio-economic development of the state and better life for the people.

Expressing the party’s backing for Governor Oyebanji, the acting APC state chairman called on party members to brace up for the tasks

ahead by ensuring success in all future elections at both local, state and national levels.

Governor Oyebanji, who also thanked the leadership of the party, the state working committee and his two predecessors in office - Otunba Niyi Adebayo and Dr Kayode Fayemi, for their support in ensuring that his administration succeed.

Tinubu Rejoices with Bayo Onanuga on 67th Birthday

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, on his 67th birthday.

The president, in a release issued yesterday by his Media Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, commended the ace journalist over his bent for professional excellence and described him as a dependable and resourceful adviser.

President Tinubu wished Onanuga many more years in good health, as well as renewed strength in his service to the nation.

Onanuga is one of Nigeria’s finest journalists with a string of accomplishments in the media and beyond to show for his efforts.

He was a prominent figure in the pro-democracy struggles in Nigeria and, at various times, had to endure indignities over his

Mob Kills Man over Alleged Blasphemy in Bauchi

A middle aged man known as Yunusa was killed by an irate mob in Nasaru village of Ningi Local Government Area of Bauchi State for allegedly making blasphemous comments against Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

THISDAY checks revealed that the incident occurred on Wednesday in the village at about 3.00 p.m as narrated by a witness who pleaded

anonymity, saying that Yunusa made blasphemous comment during a heated argument between him and his friends.

The situation attracted the attention of many people who were around and following the line of argument among them.

“The victim was a member of Faira Islamic Sect. He was heard to have spoken words of insults on the Prophet. Some young men challenged Yunusa to withdraw his statement, but he insisted he would not. He even repeated it. That was when they started beating him,” he said

According to reports, Police personnel tried as much as possible to save Yunusa but they were overpowered by the mob which used stones, sticks and other dangerous things to hit him until he died.

Further reports have it that the mob tried to burn down the Police Station in the village when the Police tried to shield him there.

All efforts to get official confirmation and reactions from the State Police Command failed as the Command PPRO, SP Ahmed Wakili, did not response to the sms and WhatsApp message sent to his number, neither did he take calls pt across to him yesterday.

progressive beliefs and pursuits.

He co-founded TheNews Magazine and was the CEO and Editor-in-Chief of PM News. He also previously served as Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria.

Fintiri Charges New Board Members to Drive Progress

Daji Sani in Yola

The Adamawa State Governor, Mr. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has urged newly sworn-in chairmen and members of boards and commissions to work together and drive progress and development in the state.

Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony on yesterday, Fintiri congratulated the appointees on their well-deserved selections, which were based on their integrity, capacity, loyalty, and pedigree.

He emphasised the importance of inclusivity, transparency, and accountability in their leadership roles, stressing that corruption would not be tolerated. The governor charged the new board members to come up with innovative contributions to address economic challenges facing the state.

He encouraged them to embrace transparency, accountability, and innovation to drive progress, building on the progress made so far.

Fintiri expressed his commitment to leaving a legacy of hard work and determination for a better future.

He urged the new board members to work together to build a better Adamawa State, where everyone has a sense of belonging and the collective vision is achieved.

The governor also emphasised the importance of teamwork in making a difference and making Adamawa State a model for excellence.

The swearing-in ceremony marked a new chapter in the state’s history that is defined by progress, inclusivity, and good governance.

Edited by: MJO Mustapha Email deji.mustapha@thisdaylive.com

Hajj: The Conclusion WORLD OF ISLAM

Ali Shariati/IslamiCity

The time for staying in Mina is over and the ceremonies end near the border of Mecca. There is one more Tawaf and Sa’i that you can do anytime toward the end of Zul-Hijjah and if necessary, you can do it before leaving for Arafat. Hajj ceremonies are over, and this is all you are supposed to do.

Oh! Hajj who is leaving Mina, the last stage of Hajj - you accepted Ibrahim’s invitation. You escaped the vicious cycle of your individual life. You came on time to Miqat; you listened to the revelation; you took off your clothing and put on the white Kafan. You left your home and homeland and came as a guest to the house of God and the land of Jihad. You made a promise to God by shaking his right hand.

You entered the Tawaf circle and were lost amongst the people of Taef. You denied self- centeredness. You purified yourself. You tried your best to search for “water” on top of the mountains. Then you descended to Arafat from Mecca and from stage after stage (going to Mashar and Mina), you returned to Allah (returned to Mecca).

You gained “consciousness” in the sunshine of Arafat. You collected your arms in the darkness of Mashar. Simultaneously, with others you passed the border of Mina. Satan was defeated by your first attack. You became free and saved the land of faith and love. You held the position of Ibrahim and ascended to the peak of honor - the stage beyond Shahadat.

Finally, you sacrificed a sheep at the end of this effort!

Where do you arrive at the end of this greatest holy trip and highest degree of human ascension after going through the most dangerous and fearful passages of creation - Tawheed (unity), Ithar, Jihad (struggle), Shahadat (martyrdom), fighting with Eblis (Satan) and conquering the land of love? What do you do? Sacrifice a “lamb”! Why? What is its philosophy? What is the mystery? What does sacrificing a lamb at the end of Hajj mean? I cannot say! Let Allah himself answer this question: Eat thereof and feed the beggar and the suppliant. Quran 22:36

He repeats again: Then eat thereof and feed there with the unfortunate poor. Quran 22:28

(i.e. To fight with poverty. At the end of this trip, give a piece of what you eat to relieve a hungry man and help an oppressed person. That’s all!)

Oh Hajj - where are you going now? Back home to your life and to your world? Are you returning from Hajj the same way you came? Never! Never! You played the “role of Ibrahim” in this symbolic show! A good actor is he whose personality is fully impressed by the character of the individual who is playing his role. If he does well, the show will be over but his work is not done yet. There have been many actors who did not survive the act they played and died! You played the role of Ibrahim, not just to play but to worship and to love. Do not return to play your role after playing the role of Ibrahim! Do not leave the house of people. Do not isolate yourself. Do not replace your Ihram with your previous clothing. Leave Mina for Mecca and take your Ismail with you!

You are like Ibrahim who in the history of mankind was a great fighter against idolatry. He was the founder of unity in this world and had the responsibility of leading his people. He was a rebellious leader whose soul was suffering, whose heart was loving, whose thoughts were enlightening and ...

The axe was in his hand! Faith was raised in the hearts of the Kofr (unbelief) and monotheism flourished in the midst of polytheism. Ibrahim, the fighter of idolatry, came out of the house of “Azar”, the idolmaker of his tribe.

He broke the idols; he broke Nimrood. He fought against ignorance, oppression and passiveness. He rebelled against the tranquility of suffering and the security established by persecution. He was a guide for his tribe and the founder of his movement, life, direction, hope, goal and faith of unity.

You are like Ibrahim! Fight the fire, the

fire of oppression and ignorance so that you may save your people. The fire is in the fate of every responsible individual; it is your duty to guide and save. But ... Allah makes the fireplace of Nimrod and his followers a rose garden for Ibrahim and his followers. You will not burn or turn into ashes. This teaches you to be ready to jump into the fire for Jihad (Struggle)! And ... To teach, let yourself into the fire in order to prevent the people from burning. ... To the more painful stage of Shahadat. You are like Ibrahim! Sacrifice your Ismail. Put the knife to his throat with your hands ... Save the throat of the people from being cut - the people are always sacrificed at the doors of palaces of power, and temples of torture. PUT THE BLADE AT YOUR SON’S THROAT SO THAT YOU MAY TAKE THE BLADE FROM THE EXECUTIONER’S HAND! But ... Allah will pay the ransom of your Ismail. You do not kill and do not lose your Ismail. THIS IS TO TEACH YOU THAT YOU SHOULD BE READY TO SACRIFICE YOUR ISMAIL (LOVE) IN YOUR OWN HANDS FOR THE SAKE OF YOUR FAITH! ... “to the more painful stage of Shahadat”! And now, Oh Hajj who is returning from circumambulating love, you are in the position of Ibrahim. You have reached the point where he did.

Ibrahim’s life was filled with struggle when he reached this point - braking the idols, fighting with Nimrod, tolerating his fire, struggling with Eblis (Satan), sacrificing his Ismail, migration, homelessness, loneliness torture, passage from the stage of prophecy to the stage of leadership, going from “individuality” to “collectivity” and being from “the house of “Azar” to being “the builder of the house of unity” (Kaaba)! At the end of his life, gray-haired and old, Ibrahim built the house of Allah and laid down the black stone. His helper Ismail carried the rocks and handed them to his father. How wonderful! Ibrahim and Ismail built the Kaaba. Ibrahim and Ismail, one was saved from the fire and one saved from being sacrificed. Both were representatives of Allah and were responsible to the people. They were the architects of the oldest temple of “unity” on this earth, and the first house of the people.” The “free house,” the house of love and worship (Haram), is a symbol of “heavenly privacy”.

You are in “Ibrahim’s position” - right where he stood. The very last step of his ascension, in Miraj, is the shortest distance toward Allah.

You, the builder of Kaaba, the architect of the “house of freedom”, the founder of unity, the enemy of idolatry, the tribal leader, the fighter against oppression, ignorance and disbelief - now you build a house, not for yourself, not even a shelter for your son, not a house for “the people”. It is a shelter for those homeless people who are wounded, tortured or victims of oppression and have no place to go. Nimrod is following them everywhere ... The Harem becomes a torch in the middle of this dark night and a cry amidst this damn oppression! It is secure, clean and free for mankind, the family of God. Everywhere else is insecure and shameful. The earth has become a huge polluted house of prostitution.

It is a slaughterhouse where everything but aggression and discrimination are forbidden. Now that you are standing in Ibrahim’s position and are going to play his role, live like him, be the architect of the Kaaba of your faith. Rescue your people from the lagoon of their life. Re-breathe life into their bodies that are numb and dead from the suffering of oppression and the darkness of ignorance. Encourage them to stand on their feet and give them direction. Call upon them to come to Hajj, to Tawaf (circumambulating). After entering Tawaf, denying selfishness and purifying yourself to adopt the characteristics of Ibrahim, you have promised God to follow his path. Allah is your witness.

- Make your land a secure land, since you are in a safe area.

- Change your time to a respectful time, as if you are always in the state of Ihram.

- Make the earth a sacred mosque, since you are in the holy mosque. Since the earth is the “mosque of Allah”.

- And you see “that it is not”!

Segun Awofadeji inBauchi

Super Eagles Drop Eight Spots in Latest FIFA Ranking

Femi Solaja

Super Eagles have dropped eight places in the June FIFA ranking released by the World Football ruling body yesterday.

Nigeria's eight-step drop has pushed Eagles to 38th globally and fifth in the continent as Morocco and Senegal hold on tenaciously to the top two positions followed by Egypt and AFCON Champions, Côte d’Ivoire in that order.

England failed to guarantee their place in the knockout stages of Euro 2024 after Morten Hjulmand's spectacular strike earned Denmark a 1-1 draw on Thursday.

A point was the least the Danes deserved as England again flattered to deceive in Frankfurt after an underwhelming 1-0 win over Serbia to open their tournament.

Harry Kane had given the Three Lions an early lead as England pounced on a Danish defensive error. It ends all square between England and Denmark

Hjulmand's rocket from outside the box levelled before halftime and Denmark were left to rue missing late chances to secure a famous victory.

England remain on top of Group C, two points clear of Slovenia, who

The slip was expected after the senior national team flunked two 2026 World Cup qualifiers against SouthAfrica and Benin Republic that left the Super Eagles on miserable three points from four matches and fifth in Group C.

The new order is a far cry from what the nation obtained when the ranking system was introduced by FIFA in 1992 when Nigeria was ranked 13th best and moved further to the unit rank in 1994 when the Super Eagles won the AFCON tournament in Tunisia to hit the 5th position in the world and best on the continent.

On the global level, Argentina and other top nations in the first tenth position retained their respective status of last month’s rating.

According to the FIFA release, “the top three, however, remain unshakeable. Argentina (1st) retain their place at the summit, with France (2nd) and Belgium (3rd) hot on their heels. But there was

movement behind them, as Brazil (4th, up 1) and England (5th, down 1) swap places.

In Africa, Morocco, Egypt, and Cote d’Ivoire each improved one spot, while Senegal dropped one spot. The Atlas Lions are the highest-ranked African team at No. 12, followed by Senegal’s Teranga Lions at 18, Egypt’s Pharaohs at 36,

Abia Warriors and El-Kanemi Warriors will make history as the first two teams to play the final of Nigeria’s oldest Club competition in Abuja on Saturday next week, after both teams came out winners in tough semi-final duels on Thursday.

The Abia State giants sailed into the final after a 4-3 penalty shootout defeat of Kano Pillars at the Lafia City Stadium, with both teams locked at a scoreless situation after 90 minutes.

Former winners El-Kanemi Warriors also triumphed 5-4 after a penalty shootout over surprise semi-finalists Kebbi United at the

they face in Cologne on Tuesday, and Denmark.

Serbia's late equaliser in a 1-1 draw with Slovenia earlier on Thursday also keeps their destiny in their own hands.

THE MASKED ONE...

NFF/FIFA Goal Project in Abuja, with both teams also unable to find the net in the 90-minute regulation period.

In the shootouts, Pillars’ forward Ibrahim Mustapha vitiated the need for Abia Warriors to take their last kick after missing his team’s last kick. Pillars missed two of their five kicks while Abia Warriors converted all their four kicks.

In Abuja, hard-fighting Kebbi United fluffed their second kick in the shootout, while El-Kanemi Warriors converted all their five to make the progress to nearby MKO Abiola National Stadium for the grand finale on 29th June.

As the curtains will be drawn on the 2023/24 NPFL season this Sunday, Broadcast partners of the topflight league have promised live telecast of the matches live on StarTimes Beta Sports channel 244,. Champions Enugu Rangers are set to face Gombe United, who are at the bottom of the table, in a match that carries different weight for both teams.

For Enugu Rangers, it’s a celebration of their triumph, while for Gombe United It is farewell to the topflight with dignity.

It will be more ceremonial than competitive. The Enugu Rangers, having secured the title with a game to spare, will be crowned champions of 2023/24 season in Jos.

The match will be played on Sunday, June 23rd in Jos, a neutral ground, for both clubs and televised live on StarTimes Beta Sports Channel 244 at 3pm.

Enugu Rangers have had an outstanding season, clinching the league title on matchday 37 with a five-point lead. Their offensive strength has been a highlight, scoring the most goals in the NPFL this season.

Gombe United have faced a challenging season, ending at the bottom of the league standings. Their struggle has been evident, with the team accumulating only 25 points from 37 games and conceding the most goals in the NPFL this season.

Enugu Rangers, are expected to play with freedom and flair, giving their fans a show to remember as they lift the trophy.

Gombe United, despite the relegation, will look to prove their mettle against the champions and leave a lasting impression.

allow it

Lagos, Delta to Renew Rivalry in 24th Edition of MILO Basketball Championship

Hosts Lagos and Delta states will renew their rivalry in basketball when the male category of the 24th edition of the MILO Schools Basketball Championships finals dunk off on Saturday, June 22 in Lagos.

Defending champions, Topfield College, Ajegunle Lagos will take on Delta’s Dom Domigos College in what promises to be a perfect opening game of Group A.

Other mouthwatering pairings also emerged on Wednesday from the 12 schools in the finals paired into four groups for both the male and female categories at the draw ceremony which held inside the corporate headquarters of Nestle Nigeria Plc in Ilupeju, Lagos.

Speaking earlier before the draw, Managing Director/CEO of Nestle Nigeria, Wassim ElHusseini, expressed delight in Nestle providing a platform for young ones to showcase their talents.

El-Husseini who was represented by the country's Commercial Director, Boladale Odunlami, said: “We are proud to leave a legacy where people’s lives are not only transformed but they are set up for a future that changes everything for them. Since its inception, the MILO Basketball Championship has served as a powerful platform for helping children imbibe values that pave the way for success in life.”

He stressed that sports has contributed immensely to both academic excellence and mental alertness of students. “Through

sports, children learn grit, perseverance, and the qualities that lay a strong foundation for their futures. We are committed to shaping a better and healthier world for generations to come by fostering these values,” he further pledged.

National Coordinator of the MILO Basketball Schools Championships who also doubles as President of FIBA Africa Zone 3, Col. Sam Ahmedu(rtd), thanked Nestle for sustaining the sponsorship all these past 24 years. He noted that the MILO School Basketball Championship has

salvaged the sport from going into exiction in the country.

“Without MILO School Basketball Championship, technical speaking, there will be no basketball in Nigeria,” the NBBF board member further stressed.

The 12 schools who scaled through from the preliminaries to the finals in Lagos from both the Northern and Southern conferences include; Father O'Connell Science College(Niger), Bishop Dimieri Grammar School (Bayelsa), and Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria Secondary School (Cross

River) were paired in Group A for the The other male teams in Group B2 were Ijaiye Housing Estate Senior Grammar School (Lagos), Rumfa College (Kano) and Government Day Secondary School (Gombe). In the female category, Group A1 have Topfield College (Lagos), Dom Domigos College (Delta) and Queen Amina College (Kaduna), while Group B1 is made up of Government Secondary School (FCT Abuja), Onireke High School (Oyo) and Zarumai Model School (Niger).

The Chairman of Anambra Football Federation, Chikelue Iloenyosi has been unveiled as the brand ambassador for the second edition of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Correspondents' Chapel Football Tournament tagged "Football for Friendship and Peace" scheduled to begin in Abuja from July 11-13.

The former Super Eagles defender was presented as the face of the tournament by the Chairman of the Chapel Jide Oyekunle at the draw ceremony held at Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

Iloenyosi, promised his full support for the competition saying: "I am very, very honoured and happy in my heart

today, because of this great event that we are about to do. Not only because l am made the ambassador, I am going to support it massively.

"Somebody asked me a question 'Why is it that every time they are giving you award'? I have been in office for one and half years and l have received 17 awards because l am doing grassroots football and l am doing it with passion. That's why my Governor put his trust in me, in everything l am doing."

According to Oyekunle, 12 teams will take part in the three-day tournament at the Old Parade Ground, Area 10, Abuja.

The participating teams are NUJ Correspondent chapel, the Nigeria National Petroleum Company (NNPC

Ltd), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and Federal High Court (FHC). Others are the Nigeria

Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN). The tournament is sponsored by the Managing Director of AIBEN Group, Andy Elerewe. To be eligible all the players expected to be in employment and must be 35 years and above and must not have played for any pro-amateur league in the last two years.

the African champions Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire at 37, and the Super Eagles rounding out Africa’s top five at 38. Liberia are the best movers in the new release, climbing from 152nd place to 142 on the back of a draw away against Namibia and an away win over Sao Tome and Principe.

France Captain, Kylian Mbappe trained yesterday wearing his new protective mask. He’s likely to feature The Netherlands today in continuation of the Euro 2024 despite fears that his broken nose may need t

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Friday, June 21,

MISSILE

President Tinubu to Nigerians

“Yes, there is poverty; there is suffering in the land. We are not the only people facing such, but we must face our challenges. The need (for some citizens) to change the rentseeking mind-set and become more productive to the economy is a challenge. The need to stop smuggling and all economic sabotage” –President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, charges Nigerians to have a change of value system, for the country to make progress.

ADAMU SANI GUEST COLUMNIST

When Nigeria’s Chief Law Officer Obstructs Justice

Ahorrifying legal incident played out on Thursday, 20th June 2024, before Honourable Justice Peter Kekemeke of the FCT High Court, Abuja, wherein the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, in utter disobedience of a subsisting court order given on 14th June 2024 by Honourable Justice Ekwo of the Federal High Court Abuja in Suit No. FHC/ ABJ/CS/376/2024), withdrew and discontinued the prosecution of a certain Mr. Benjamin Joseph, the MD of Citadel Oracle Concepts Limited, whom the Inspector General of Police has been prosecuting since 2016 in Charge No. CR/216/2016 for giving false information to the Police. Interestingly, the said Mr. Benjamin Jospeh has refused to give evidence in various cases in court relating to the petition he filed both to the Police and the EFCC He has rather been approaching successive Attorneys General of the Federation to discontinue the criminal proceedings the Police brought against him for false information.

As a journalist, I have followed this case dispassionately with an objective interest for more than 8 years, following investigations that started in 2013. I am highly bewildered how a simple case of one-count charge would linger for such a long time with unnecessary interventions from the government establishment, especially the revered Office of the Honourable Attorney General and Minister of Justice of the Federation.

On Friday, 14 June 2024, a certain new case (Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/376/2024), came up before Honourable Justice Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja, sitting in Court 5. It was a case brought by a certain Chief Onny Igbokwe and Princess Kama (as Plaintiffs) against the Attorney General of the Federation and Inspector General of Police (as Defendants), boldly challenging the directive given by the Attorney General to the Police to withdraw and discontinue the criminal proceedings against one Mr. Benjamin Joseph pending before Honourable Justice Peter Kekemeke of the FCT High Court in Charge No. CR/216/2016.

From the papers filed in court which I have seen, the grouse of the said Plaintiffs can be summarized as follows:

(1) Sometime in November 2013, Mr. Benjamin Joseph and his company, Citadel Oracle Concepts Limited, lodged a petition at the Police Special Fraud Unit (SFU), Ikoyi, Lagos that the company’s papers and its board resolution were forged by the Plaintiffs and some officers of Technology Distributions Limited, and Access Bank to carry out a contract with the FIRS without their knowledge. They followed it up with another petition in early 2014 to the Nigeria Police Headquarters (Force CID) Abuja. However, both the SFU and Police Headquarters found the allegations to be false after due investigations and charged Mr. Benjamin Joseph to court in Charge No. CR/216/2016, before Honourable Justice Peter Kekemeke of the FCT High Court, Abuja.

(2) Mr. Bejamin Joseph is currently facing the said criminal proceedings since 2016 instituted by the Inspector General of Police against him for giving false information to them in 2013/2014. The Prosecution has since closed its case in 2018 but Benjamin Joseph has used all manner of reasons to delay the fair trial of the case. This is the case the Honourable AGF wants to stop at the instigation of the defendant – Benjamin Joseph, and whereupon the two Plaintiffs have brought the present suit to

stop him.

(3) The said Mr. Benjamin Joseph, in 2016, also wrote another petition (on the same set of facts) against the Plaintiffs and some officers of Technology Distributions Limited (now TD Africa Limited) to the then Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, who endorsed the case to the EFCC for investigation and prosecution. The EFCC subjected the duo of Chief Igbokwe and Princess Kama to trial in Charge No.CR/244/2018, that lasted for three years and at the end of which they were discharged and acquitted by Honourable Justice Senchi of the FCT High Court (as he then was).

(4) In the said judgment, Honourable Justice Senchi held that Benjamin Joseph, as the nominal complainant, gave false information to the Vice President and the EFCC and imposed a N20million damages against him for false petitioning and to serve as a deterrent to others. The EFCC did not appeal that judgment, which is still valid and subsisting. This corroborates and vindicates the Police in prosecuting Mr. Benjamin Jospeh in the said Charge No. CR/216/2016 before Justice Kekemeke. Indeed, the previous Attorneys General of the Federation in the past administrations had on three occasions, after reviewing the case file, written the Inspector General of Police and instructed him to prosecute Benjamin Joseph to a logical conclusion. These instructions are contained in letters dated 10th February 2017, 7th May 2018, and 6th June 2022.

(5) Upon the resumption into office by the new Attorney General, Lateef Fagbemi SAN, Mr. Benjamin Joseph approached his revered office to intervene, withdraw, and discontinue the criminal case filed by the Police against him. Whereupon, the Attorney General, relying on his powers under Section 174 of the Constitution, wrote to the Inspector General of Police to withdraw and discontinue the criminal case against Benjamin Joseph, so as to pave the way for the Attorney General to possibly grant a fiat to the lawyers of Benjamin Joseph for another round of prosecution of Chief Igbokwe, Princess Kama and other persons. The said two Plaintiffs averred that the Attorney General never heard from them or even from the

Police Prosecutor handling the case, Mr. Simon Lough SAN, before giving the instruction on a one-sided story from Mr. Benjamin Joseph.

(6) It was for the reasons above, that the two Plaintiffs, through their lawyer, Ishaka Dikko SAN, brought this suit by way of Originating Summons to seek interpretation of the exercise of the power of the Attorney General in the above circumstances; if that complies with the constitutional conditions for the exercise of that power by the AG especially in the light of the subsisting judgment of Honourable Justice Senchi that had already considered the facts and discharged and acquitted the two Plaintiffs and rather held that Mr. Benjamin Joseph gave false information and hung a damage of N20million on him.

(7) Having undergone an excruciating trial conducted by the EFCC that lasted for about three years at the instance of Mr. Benjamin Joseph, the duo of Chief Onny Igbokwe and Princess Kama are aghast as to why the current Attorney General would be shielding Benjamin Joseph from standing his own trial that began since 2016. They wonder if he is more Nigerian than themselves.

(8) The Plaintiff are of the view that for the Attorney General to stop the trial of Benjamin is akin to him sitting as an appellate court and overriding the judgment of Justice Senchi. This, they contend is beyond his powers under Section 174 of the Constitution. To override or set aside that judgment should be the prerogative of the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court.

(9) What is bewildering in the proceedings of all the cases is that in the said Charge No.CR/244/2018 filed by the EFCC at his instance against Chief Igbokwe and Princess Kama, before Honourable Justice Senchi, Mr. Benjamin Joseph, as the nominal complainant, refused to mount the witness box to prove his allegations, despite the fact that he was present in court and despite persuasions from the EFCC prosecutor. Also, in the pending criminal case against him by the Police before Honourable Justice Kekemeke (Charge No. CR/216/2016), he employed all delay tactics for the Prosecution not to cross-examine him, which accounts for why he asked the Attorney General to instruct the Police to stop the case. One would expect that a complainant would be glad to have his day in court and publicly express his case against his suspects.

(10) What is more bewildering in the whole scenario is that Mr. Benjamin Joseph, since 2014, intensified a media campaign that saw the name of the Chairman of Zinox Group, Leo Stan Ekeh, repeatedly included in a series of publications in the online media. The paradox is neither Zinox nor its Chairman was involved with the transaction. Indeed, in the course of all the investigations, reports, and judgments, there was nowhere Zinox was mentioned. Yet, all publications orchestrated by Mr. Benjamin Jospeh bear ‘Zinox’ as its title with the photograph of its chairman, Leo Stan Ekeh, prominently featured. I understand that Zinox and its Chairman have taken separate court actions against Mr. Benjamin Joseph and the publishers of the offending articles.

At the court proceedings of Friday, 14 June 2024, all lawyers to the parties were in court, including two lawyers from the Ministry of Justice led by Maimuna Shiru (Mrs.) on behalf of the Attorney General, and the lawyers representing

Mr. Bejamin Joseph and his company, Citadel Oracle Concepts Limited, who had applied to be joined in the case. In view of the fact that Charge No. CR/216/2016 before Honourable Justice Kekemeke, would be coming up shortly on 20th June 2024, before delivery of substantive judgment in the present case, Honourable Justice Ekpo was constrained into making an order for all parties to maintain the status quo and not to do anything to destroy the pending case before Honourable Justice Kekemeke, until judgment in the present case is given. The case was adjourned to 23rd July 2024. However, in utter disbelief of all lawyers involved in the cases, when the other Charge No. CR/216/2016, came up before Honourable Justice Peter Kekemeke on Thursday, 20 June 2024, a lawyer from the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Barrister F. N. Umorh, Assistant Chief State Counsel, announced appearance for the Prosecution and said she had the instruction of the Attorney General to withdraw and discontinue the case. This is despite the fact that the Order of the Honourable Justice Ekwo was made in the presence of the lawyers from the Office of the Attorney General, and it was brought to the attention of Honourable Justice Kekemeke in the course of the proceedings on 20 June 2024. In the circumstance, Honourable Justice Kekemeke was constrained into making a ruling striking out Charge No. CR/216/2016, discharging and acquitting Benjamin Joseph.

Yet, some questions hang in the air: why would the respected Attorney General, Lateef Fagbemi SAN, a seasoned and accomplished lawyer, choose to disobey the subsisting order of a competent court? What was the hurry to discontinue the case on 20 June 2014, and not wait to see the outcome of the case before Justice Ekwo that was adjourned to 23 July 2024? Why would he not allow the case (CR/216/2016) against Mr. Benjamon Joseph to proceed to a conclusion? Why wouldn’t he allow the court under Justice Peter Kekemeke to conclude the trial and give a judgment one way or the other in the said Charge No. CR/216/2016? If Benjamin Joseph is innocent or is being unjustly or maliciously prosecuted by the Police, is it not for the court to so hold and not for the Attorney General to decide from his office, with all due respect? Why override the judgment of Honourable Justice Senchi that found Bejamin Jospeh guilty of false petitioning and asked him to pay damages of N20million? Why would the current Attorney General override the previous positions of the past Attorneys General contained in 3 separate letters mandating the Inspector General of Police to prosecute Benjamin Joseph to a logical conclusion? The logical answer is that Mr, Benjamin Joseph knows that a fair trial of Charge No. CR/216/2016 would expose him and possibly land him in jail. Hence, his desperation for the current Attorney General to bail him out by withdrawing the charges against him, having failed with previous Attorneys General. Sadly, he succeeded this time.

This, to say the least, is the lowest point to which the justice system in Nigeria can sink when the Attorney General and Minister of Justice of the Federation, who is the chief legal officer of the Federation, would utterly and flagrantly disobey a subsisting court order of a competent court given in the presence of his lawyers, within one week of the order.

• Adamu Sani, Public Affairs commentator

Fagbemi