SATURDAY 22TH JUNE 2024

NERC Approves N21bn for Procurement of Electricity Meters at Zero Cost to Nigerians

Police Beef Up Security at

Palace, Vow Not to Evict Deposed Emir

Following the directive by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) that banks should beef up their capital base with a deadline of March 31, 2026, the financial institutions, especially those listed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) are positioning to attract both fresh investors and existing shareholders.

This emerged as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) yesterday, released its framework to support the recapitalisation exercise. The guidelines published on SEC website, was to ensure transparent and efficient capital-raising process for banks and holding companies.

The stock market segment of the NGX is currently witnessing an increase in activities as listed commercial banks give investors opportunity to own a

L-R: Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; Minister of State, Gas Resources, Mr. Ekperikpe Ekpo; Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe; Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris and Group Chief Executive Officer of the NNPC Limited, Mele Kyari, during a visit to the River Kaduna Crossing of the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano Gas Pipeline Project…yesterday

Kayode Tokede

NNPC: 614km AKK Pipeline Project Ready in Q1, 2025

Olawale Ajimotokan and Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) yesterday said the 614-kilometre AjaokutaKaduna-Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline Project would be completed by the first quarter of 2025.

Group Chief Executive Officer of the national oil company, Mr. Mele Kyari, made this known during the visit of three ministers to the project site where they inspected the River Kaduna crossing milestone of the project in Kaduna.

The Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the NNPC, Olufemi Soneye, in a statement in Abuja, quoted Kyari as stressing that major segments of the job had already been completed.

"Without promising too much, we assure you that this project will be delivered on schedule. Our mission is to work towards delivering it by December this year. But we are confident this project will be delivered by 1st quarter of 2025," Kyari informed the three visiting ministers.

The GCEO, who said the NNPC recognises the strategic importance and enormous value of the project to Nigeria's economy, stressed that the company was bankrolling the project from its own balance sheet.

The three ministers who visited the project site were: the Minister of Finance/Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; Minister of Information & National Orientation, Mr. Mohammed Idris and Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo.

NERC APPROVES N21BN FOR PROCUREMENT OF ELECTRICITY METERS AT ZERO COST TO NIGERIANS

Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF).

NERC stated that although other regulations provided several options for metering of customers, the interventions had not resulted in the closure of the national metering gap which currently stands in excess of 7 million customers.

It identified the inability of Distribution Companies (Discos) to raise financing in the form of debt or additional equity as the major constraint in the acquisition and deployment of end-use meters and other capital investments.

The MAF scheme, it said, was therefore developed and approved by the commission, primarily to address the challenge of Disco creditworthiness inhibiting the deployment of meters by creating a credible revenue stream from the market funds.

In addition, NERC stated that the presidential metering initiative has the overarching objective of closing the metering gap in the country within three years, leveraging on smart metering technologies for data analytics.

The deployment of funds under the MAF scheme, NERC explained, shall accelerate the deployment of meters and a closure of the current metering gap, thereby reducing commercial & collection losses to Discos, enhancing quality of service and improvement of customer satisfaction.

NERC pointed out that there was an imperative to accelerate a closure of the metering gap for all customers currently classified under tariff Band ‘A’ for the purpose of revenue protection and facilitating demand side management for the affected customers.

Out of the accrued available N21.86 billion under the MAF scheme as at the April 2024 market settlement cycle , NERC noted that it had made available the sum of N21 billion to be spent on the purchase of the metering devices.

The amount to be apportioned pro rata to contribution by the Discos as tranche ‘A’ of the MAF scheme, showed that Ikeja Disco will get the lion’s share of N4.35 billion, followed by Abuja Disco with N2.99 billion.

“All the meters to be procured and installed under the MAF framework shall be at no cost to the customers of the Discos,” the power sector regulatory agency stated.

Also, Eko Disco will get N2.92 billion, Ibadan Disco will have N2.51 billion of the first tranche, N1.72 billion will accrue to Enugu distribution company , Kano will get N1.58 billion, while Benin Disco will get N1.57 billion.

Besides, Port Harcourt Disco will get N1.36 billion, Kaduna gets N1.22 billion, while Jos Disco and Yola Electricity will get the least sum of N521 million and N243.3 million respectively.

The commission ordered that Discos shall utilise the first tranche of disbursement from the MAF scheme to procure and install meters for unmetered Band 'A' customers within their franchise areas.

“Discos shall, within 14 days from the effective date of this order, conduct a transparent and competitive procurement process, for meter price determination, selection and engagement...for the metering of end-use customer meters under the MAF scheme,” it added.

POLICE BEEF UP SECURITY AT BAYERO'S PALACE, VOW NOT TO EVICT DEPOSED EMIR

umbrella meant only for Emirs, escorted back to the Palace by well-armed security details after the Jumaat prayer attended by hundreds of supporters.

In his reply to the eviction order issued by the State Government, the State Commissioner of Police said the same government filed a case at the State High Court on the same subject matter.

He said the police would not evict the deposed Emir because the same government had filed a case at the State High Court on the same order, which would come up on Monday, 24th June 2024.

“The government is jumping the gun because the same government has filed a case on the eviction order, which is coming up on the 24th of June, 2024. So, if we carry out the order, it is like we are preempting the court because we don’t know what will happen at the court,” he added.

Following the Court's ruling on the Kano Emirate tussle, the State Government had directed the Commissioner of Police to evict Bayero, from the Government property where he currently occupies.

In an emergency press conference on Thursday night, the State

Speaking at the project site, Edun described the AKK gas pipeline as the pipeline of prosperity, which is very dear to President Bola Tinubu, because it will deliver the critical infrastructure needed to trigger the nation's economic

growth and industrialisation.

"The AKK gas pipeline is crucial for this administration and its delivery is in line with Mr. President's strategy of bringing prosperity to the people," Edun added.

In his remarks, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Idris said the AKK project was a testimony to the fact that the federal government's "Decade of Gas" had commenced in earnest.

"Nigerians should be proud of the AKK gas pipeline project. With the delivery of this project, the prosperity that Mr. President is always talking about is unravelling right here before our eyes," he said.

HIS ROYAL MAJESTY...

L-R: Delta State Deputy Governor, Monday Onyeme, congratulating His Royal Majesty, Kingsley Emakpo, Igbi 11, Ovie of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom, during the presentation of Staff of Office to the Monarch in Warri, Delta State…yesterday. SYLVESTER IDOWU

US Supreme Court Upholds Law Barring Domestic Abusers from Owning Guns

The United States Supreme Court yesterday, upheld a federal law that bars guns for domestic abusers, rejecting an argument pressed by gun rights groups that the prohibition violated the Second Amendment.

The 8-1 decision in one of the court’s most closely watched cases limited the scope of a blockbuster

Attorney General/Commissioner of Justice Haruna Dederi, had said the State Government had already concluded arrangements for the general reconstruction and renovation of the Nassarawa Palace.

He said arrangements had been concluded to conduct construction works in the property, including the demolishing and reconstruction of the dilapidated wall fence with immediate effect.

As at the time the Attorney General was addressing the conference, bulldozers were sighted in front of the government house waiting to carry out the state government's directives to bring down the facility.

In the wee hours of yesterday, a combined security operatives made up of the Nigerian Army, Police, Civil Defense, had cordoned off all access leading to the Palace, from Commissioner road, State road and Audu Bako way, to ensure the safety of the Bayero's palace.

Meanwhile, there were thousands of supporters including hunters and members of vigilante groups, at the Kano city central mosque as the 16th Emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi 11, led Friday prayers alongside some district and ward heads.

ruling the justices handed down just two years ago that prompted a flood of legal challenges to other gun laws across the nation, CNN reported.

The decision, which placed most of the court’s conservatives and liberals on the same side, could help shore up similar federal gun regulations that have been

challenged since the Supreme Court vastly expanded gun rights in 2022, at least in situations where a criminal defendant is considered dangerous. That court’s 2022 ruling caused substantial confusion for lower court judges reviewing Second Amendment lawsuits.

Chief Justice John Roberts, writing for the majority, said the court had “no trouble” coalescing around the idea that an individual who poses a threat can be denied access to weapons.

“Our tradition of firearm regulation allows the government to disarm individuals who present a credible threat to the physical safety of others,” Roberts wrote.

RECAPITALISATION: BANKS JOSTLE TO ATTRACT INVESTORS, SHAREHOLDERS IN FRESH CAPITAL RAISING

slice of the pie and for some to increase their stake.

With the recapitalisation guidelines, commercial banks are to have minimum capital thresholds of N500 billion for international authorisation and N200 billion for national authorisation. Also, non-interest banks with national and regional authorisations would need to increase their capital to N20 billion and N10 billion, respectively.

The directive which was contained in a CBN circular emphasised that all commercial banks were required to meet the minimum capital requirement within 24 months commencing from April 1, 2024.

Capital market analysts stressed that competition for investors’ interest would be keen as commercial banks would require about N4.7 trillion to meet the recapitalisation benchmark set by the central bank.

Fidelity Bank Plc. has commenced its Public Offer of 10,000,000,000 ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at N9.75 per share and Rights Issue of 3,200,000,000 ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at N9.25 per share.

Wema Bank Plc. set the pace as it successfully completed the first tranche of its recapitalisation exercise having secured all relevant regulatory approvals for the allotment of its N40 billion Rights Issue which was initiated in December 2023.

Guaranty Trust Holdings Company Plc. (GTCO) this month said the management has proposed offering for subscription of ordinary shares of 50 kobo each in its share capital (the Ordinary Shares) to raise gross proceeds of up to N500 billion.

The likes of FBN Holdings, FCMB Group have announced plans to raise N300 billion and N150 billion capital respectively as Access Holdings got shareholders’ approval to raise $1.5

billion.

In addition, United Bank for Africa (UBA), a Nigerian bank valued at over N1 trillion, plans to raise fresh capital by selling 10.8 billion new ordinary shares, as Zenith Bank Plc. also announced plans to raise fresh capital via the international market.

With the increasing activities, shareholders have expressed excitement as the banking sector capital raising exercise resumed at the market after over 20 years.

Speaking with THISDAY, Investment banker and stockbroker, Mr. Tajudeen Olayinka, stated that banks accessing the capital market to raise capital was a welcome development, stressing that the stock market was ready to support banks in their quest to meet CBN requirements.

“The truth is that most banks may not be able to raise as much as they require from the stock market at this time because of high interest rate, among other factors. Ordinarily, banks could have raised as much as they required at a lower cost of equity and as it is now, they may have to consider a higher cost of equity.

“For that reason, some will have to go by the way of right issues and public offer like what Fidelity Bank is doing right now. The exercise will attract foreign investors and local investors are ever ready but may not show much interest due to weaker purchasing power,” Olayinka explained.

Speaking from shareholders’ perspective, the National coordinator, Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria (PSAN), Mr. Boniface Okezie in a chat with THISDAY, welcomed commercial banks’ decision to access the Nigerian capital market to raise capital following the CBN’s directives.

“A bank like Fidelity Bank had made a move to raise fresh capital

before the announcement of CBN as the management aimed at opening new branches, improving on Information Communication Technology and enhancing customer services.

“The banking sector recapitalisation during Prof. Charles Soludo as CBN governor reformed the sector and it could have been difficult for our banks to expand beyond Africa, Europe and Asia if not for that exercise. The sector recapitalisation serves as a buffer and aid banks to support the real sector of the economy.”

He urged shareholders to take their rights by investing in the banking stocks.

The Chairperson of the Pragmatic Shareholders Association, Mrs. Bisi Bakare, said shareholders over the years had been waiting for banking sector recapitalisation, noting that it was coming at the time banks needed to be equipped to grant more loans to support Federal Government’s $1 trillion economy drive

“Banks accessing the stock market to raise fresh capital is a welcome development. However, we (shareholders) just hope the price of the offer is going to be friendly to existing shareholders.

“Of course, we are very happy Nigerian banks are accessing the capital market to raise funds for them to meet the new recapitalisation requirement of CBN,” he added.

Speaking from a different perspective, the former National Coordinator, Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria (ISAN), Dr. Anthony Omojola, commended moves by banks to raise capital from the stock market, emphasising on the timing and prices.

“Banks accessing the capital market to raise capital is based on the directive of CBN but the timing is my major concern. The CBN gave

banks 24 months and I think there is no need to rush since they have till 2026. Some banks will be thinking the earlier we access the market, the better for a successful capital raising exercise.

“Standard of living and purchasing power are severe and we are thinking the FG will slow down inflation rate and improve the foreign exchange for shareholders to partake in these offers by Nigeria banks.

The small banks are rushing to access the capital with the thinking that the big banks will affect shareholders buying into their capital raising exercise,” he explained.

Meanwhile, the framework released by SEC outlines guidelines and procedures banks are required to follow to raise capital through rights issuance, private placements, or other approved methods during the ecapitalisation period.

The capital market regulator explained: “Following prevailing macroeconomic challenges and headwinds occasioned by external and domestic shocks, the CBN has mandated a recapitalisation programme for banks to strengthen their asset base and support economic growth in line with the Federal Government’s target of achieving a $1 trillion economy by 2030.

“Capital market has a significant role to play in facilitating the recapitalisation programme as the Banks are expected to leverage the market to raise the needed funds and /or engage in various forms of business combinations.

As the regulatory institution mandated to regulate and develop the Nigerian capital market, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), has the responsibility to ensure a smooth, transparent, and efficient capital raise process by the banks.

ACCEPT OUR CONDOLENCES…

A'Court Fixes July 4 to Continue Hearing on Council Tenureship in Rivers State

Wabara, APC chieftain urge Tinubu to ignore calls for state of emergency in state

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

An Appeal Court sitting in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, has adjourned till July 4 this year to continue hearing on the matter brought before it by the outgone chairman of Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area on the elongation of the council leadership tenure.

This was as President Bola Tinubu

was yesterday, advised not to listen to the anti-democratic forces prodding him to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State following the ongoing political crisis.

Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT), of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Adolphus Wabara, gave the advice yesterday, in a phone chat with journalists in Umuahia. Equally, an erstwhile National

Kogi Guber: SDP's Ajaka Begs A'Court to Upturn Ododo’s Tribunal Victory

The candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the November 11, 2023 governorship election in Kogi State, Muritala Yakubu Ajaka, has appealed the judgement of a three-member tribunal that affirmed the election of Ahmed Usman Ododo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as governor of the state.

Ajaka and the SDP in the record of appeal compiled and transmitted to the appellate court through their lead lawyer, Pius Akubo (SAN), described the judgement of the Kogi State Election Petition Tribunal which affirmed Ododo’s election as a serious miscarriage of justice.

In the appeal filed on June 14, the appellants listed 31 grounds on which they argued that the tribunal erred in reaching their conclusions that the APC lawfully emerged as winner of the November 11, 2023 governorship poll. They are therefore urging the appellate court to set aside the tribunal’ s decision and return them as the lawful winner of the last governorship election in Kogi State. Besides, Ajaka and SDP are praying the appellate court to restore the testimony of their first witness (PW1) as well as the documents they tendered but were expunged from the records of the tribunal.

FG Puts Three Ageing Presidential Aircraft Up for Sale

The federal government has put three ageing presidential jets on sale in a move officials say will cut excessive spending on fleet maintenance

The House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence recently recommended that two aircraft should be purchased for use by the president and the vice-president. Selling off the three aircraft would cut by half the number of jets in the presidential air fleet, TheCable reported. The fleet currently consists of six airplanes and four helicopters.

The current fleet, maintained by the presidential air fleet (PAF), an arm of the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), include Boeing 737 Boeing Business Jet (BBJ), a Gulfstream G550, a Gulfstream GV, two Falcon 7x and one Challenger CL605.

Insiders, however, said at least half of the entire fleet is made up of unserviceable or failing aircraft, necessitating the need to dispose those considered to be of greater burden to the fleet.

The jets pencilled down for sale, TheCable understands, are a Boeing 737 Boeing Business Jet (BBJ), which is the president’s designated aircraft, one Gulfstream and a Falcon 7x.

The federal government has appointed a frontline US-based airline marketer, JetHQ, as the broker for the sale of the three aircraft.

An exclusive marketing agreement had been signed between the Nigerian government and the company giving the firm permission to value the three aircraft and subsequently market them.

Publicity Secretary of the defunct New People Democratic Party (nPDP) and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, stated that the call for emergency rule in the state was dead on arrival.

The outgone chairman of Opobo/ Nkoro, Enyiada Cookey-Gam and six others had filed the suit at the appellate court, seeking the court to quash the amendment on Local Government Law made by the Martin Amaewhule led Rivers State House of Assembly, which extended the tenure of the outgone chairmen of the 23 LGAs to six months.

Cookey-Gam and others in the matter registered in suit No: CA/ PH/145M/2024 against the governor of the state and others wants the court

to disregard the law which was solely consented by Amaewhule-led Assembly after they passed it into law following the political crisis in the state.

When the matter was mentioned yesterday on virtual sitting, the threeman panel of Justice Jimi Olukayode Bada, Justice Hama Akawu Barka and Justice Balkisu Bello Aliyu, adjourned till July 4 for continued hearing.

Meanwhile, Wabara also advised the President not allow himself to fall into the temptation of taking a regrettable political decision being orchestrated by "self-seeking antidemocratic forces stoking the embers of war in Rivers State".

"I have keenly watched the political developments in Rivers State, and want to place it on record that PDP

and the law-abiding citizens of this country will not tolerate any attempt to derail democracy in the state," he said.

The former Senate President insisted that "there is nothing happening in the state that warrants the call for state of emergency as being demanded by these fake apostles of peace,",adding that any rash action by the President could plunge Rivers into anarchy.

"I, therefore, call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, not to allow greedy and self-overrated power drunks to push him into taking steps that could portray him as a despot, and ultimately plunge the country into avoidable upheaval," he said.

Wabara specifically warned that any action to undermine democracy

or dismantle a democratically elected government of Governor Siminalayi Fubara could spark a chain reaction that won't augur well for the entire nation. He said: "We won't allow antidemocratic forces and insatiable elements hijack power through the back door in their desperation to hang on to power and hold the state to the jugular.

"Any attempt to scuttle the democratically elected PDP-led Government in Rivers is a recipe to a political unrest capable of consuming the entire country."

The political crisis in Rivers rose to frightening temperature when council chairmen defied the state governor and refused to leave office at the expiration of their tenure.

PSC Alleges Gross Violation of Public Service Rules by IGP

Ikechukwu Aleke in Abuja

The Police Service Commission (PSC), yesterday said the release of the confidential letter sent to the Chairman of the Commission by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, on alleged lapses in the recruitment exercise to the media was a gross violation of the Public Service Rules with grave consequences.

The Police Service Commission (PSC), and the Nigerian Police Force (NPF), had been on each other’s jugular

with unrestrained media war since the unveiling of the list of successful applicants in the ongoing 2023/2023 Constable Recruitment Exercise by the commission.

Earlier, the police authority had alleged corruption and irregularities in the ongoing exercise, while the commission had equally alleged an unholy attempt by the police to smuggle in anointed non applicants into the recruitment list.

Responding to the latest attack on the commission by the police authority,

the Head, Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, in a statement said the commission is disturbed at the flagrant abuse of ethics, the constitution and valid judgement of the apex court of the land by the IGP.

He, therefore, noted that the commission has watched with keen interest developments since it concluded and released the list of successful candidates for recruitment as Constables into the Nigeria Police Force.

To this end, the Commission stated that since 2019, when a former

Inspector General of Police hijacked the soft copy of an ongoing recruitment exercise and forcefully completed the exercise without the input of the commission - the statutory body solely charged with such responsibility, the commission has not been allowed to perform this constitutional duty. The commission, Ani said, has at every turn suffered several indignities in its attempt to perform functions provided to it by the constitution even after the Supreme Court decided the matter in its favour.

Onne Customs Seizes Goods Worth N3bn,

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Generates N43bn in June

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Area II Command, Onne Rivers State, said it seized goods with duty paid value worth N3,188,454,452 this month of June.

The items seized, according to the NCS include:4x20 feet containers laden with bales of clothing, lace and fabrics (96 jumbo size in total) with duty paid value of N911,520,011.00. Also seized were 2x40 feet

containers laden with 2,625 cartons of cough syrup codeine, 80 cartons of Sildenafil Citrate tablets and 40 cartons of deluxe chilly cutter with duty paid value of N2,250,654,000.00 (based on concealment, false declaration, contravention of revised import prohibition guideline and section 55 subsection (1) paragraphs (C) and (I) of NCS Act 2023).

The Customs Area Controller, Area II Command, Onne, Mohammed Babandede, revealed this yesterday during a briefing with journalists

where he displayed the seized goods at the Onne Port, Rivers State. Babandede also revealed that the Command generated the sum of N43,430,267,210.00 in the month of June 2024. According to Babandede, the Command generated the sum of N249,752,268,298.28 which translates to 50.4 per cent of the initial target of N494billion and 40.3 per cent of the current annual target N618 billion for this year. He noted that the amount is an

increase in revenue generation of N153,213,700,450.15, when compared with the previous year for the same period.

"The Command was initially given a target of N494 billion before it was reviewed two weeks ago to N618 billion as revenue target for year 2024. As at the end of May 2024, the Command had generated a total revenue of N249,752,268,298.28 which translated to 50.4 per cent of the initial target and 40.3 per cent of the current annual target.

L-R: Former Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel; Former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki; President, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; former PDP National Chairman, Alhaji Kawu Baraje, and Chief Executive Officer of Chapel Hill Denham, Mr..Bolaji Balogun, when they paid a condolence visit to Saraki over the demise of this mother, Mrs Morenike Florence Saraki in Abuja…yesterday

GOODBYE.…

L-R:

when Stolpe paid a farewell visit to the NDLEA national headquarters in Abuja…yesterday

DHQ: Troops Deny Oil Thieves Over N1bn, Deactivate 105 Illegal Refining Sites in One Week

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ), yesterday said troops deployed to Joint Task Force, South South, Operation Delta Safe, denied oil thieves an estimated sum of One Billion, Eight Hundred and Sixty Million, One Hundred and Fifty One Thousand Seven Hundred Naira, in the Niger Delta in one week.

The DHQ, also disclosed that troops recovered 1,099,860 litres of stolen crude oil, 1,101,700 litres of illegally refined AGO, 27350 litres of DPK and 150 litres of PMS.

A statement signed by Director Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen Edward Buba, stated that no fewer than 105 illegal refining sites were also discovered and deactivated within the period under scrutiny.

Noting that troops also arrested 55 perpetrators of oil theft, and rescued 202 kidnapped hostages, Buba said that troops deployed to Operations Hardin Kai, Hadarin Daji, and Safe Haven, killed no fewer than 220 terrorists and arrested 395 others.

"Furthermore, troops recovered 432 assorted weapons and 9,004 assorted ammunition. The

breakdown are as follows: three PKT guns, one G3 rifle, 83 AK47 rifles, 18 locally fabricated gun, 16 dane guns, two pump action guns, two double barrel guns, two single barrel guns, eight locally fabricated pistols, two revolver rifles, one hand grenades, 14 RPG bombs, one RPG launcher, two tear gas launchers, 234 smoke grenades and one bandolier. Others are: 5,893 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 2,064 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 401 rounds of 9mm ammo, 200 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm, 154 rounds of 7.62 x 51mm, 195 live cartridges,

17 magazines, three baofeng radios, eight vehicles, 32 motorcycles, 59 mobile phones and the sum of N813,550.00 only amongst other items," he said.

Troops in the Niger Delta area, he said, discovered and destroyed 51 dugout pits, 38 boats and 51 storage tanks.

Other items recovered, Buba said, include 215 cooking ovens, two speedboats, 44 drums, three tug boats, three barges, four wheelbarrows, one outboard engine, 15 vehicles, three motorcycles, six mobile phones and 105 illegal

FG insists Binance Executive Has Access to Quality Medical Care

US lawmakers visit Gambaryan in Kuje prison, seek his humanitarian release

Emmanuel Addeh and Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The federal government yesterday, picked holes in the insinuations that Binance Executive, Tigran Gambaryan, was being held in unsavory prison conditions in Nigeria, or that his health was deteriorating

The clarification by the Nigerian government came as two United States lawmakers urged the country’s embassy in Nigeria to seek the release of Gambaryan, on humanitarian grounds,

citing his ‘poor health’.

But the position of the US lawmakers was refuted by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in a statement. He waved aside the allegations, saying it should be ignored as it was false.

Idris emphatically said Gambaryan, who was facing trial for tax evasion and money laundering was being held in lawful detention and had access to quality medical care whenever required.

The minister also said the US citizen

had full access to consular services from his home government.

"The federal government will not do anything to jeopardise his fundamental rights to lawful trial, and to quality care, including healthcare, even as he undergoes trial by the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

"It is worth reiterating that his detention is a court-ordered one, and only the court can alter the terms or direct his release," Idris stated.

He assured that the federal government

would continue to follow due process in its quest to bring Binance to justice, saying the trial was a legitimate sovereign quest that was similarly being pursued in several other countries around the world.

"This adherence to legal and diplomatic standards underscores Nigeria's dedication to upholding justice and maintaining the integrity of its judicial processes.

The executive is being treated with the utmost fairness, and his legal and human rights are being protected throughout the judicial proceedings," Idris said.

200 Chinese Firms Show Interest in Nigeria

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

A China-Nigeria Business event in Beijing, China, brought together over 200 Chinese companies that indicated strong interest in investing in the Nigerian economy. The forum which was held yesterday, in the Chinese capital, was part of activities to welcome Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, to the Asian country on an official visit.

Tuggar's visit which commenced on Wednesday, was at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart, Mr. Wang Yi.

The Business Forum as part of the visit, was aimed to facilitate increased bilateral trade and investment, and foster business match-making to deepen economic ties between Nigeria and China, with over 200 Chinese companies participating, showcasing strong interest in Nigeria-China collaboration.

Key Nigerian dignitaries and

business leaders were in attendance including Aisha Rimi, Managing Director/CEO of Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), Khalil Suleiman Halilu, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Oluwaseun Fakuade, Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Digital Economy, represented the Governor of Ekiti State, Abiodun Abayomi Oyebanji.

Other participants included key

private sector leaders including Dr. Adegboyega Oluwarotimi AustenPeters, Chairman, Dorman Long Engineering Ltd, Bolanle Austen-Peters, Founder/Artistic Director, Terra Academy for The Arts (TAFTA), Bruce Ayonote, CEO, Suburban Fiber Company, Tunde Hassan-Odukale, Group CEO, Leadway Holdings, Olusegun Alebiosu, Managing Director/CEO, First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Jawad Saleh Mustapha, Renecon Energy Ltd.

Oborevwori: Delta Enjoys Robust Partnership with Traditional Institutions

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has said his administration enjoys robust partnership with the traditional institutions in the state.

The governor disclosed that through the partnership, the development goals of his administration through the MORE Agenda have witnessed positive results.

Oborevwori, who was represented by the Deputy Governor of the state, Monday Onyeme, said this yesterday during the presentation of staff of office to His Royal Majesty (HRM), Kingsley Emakpo Orereh, Igbi 11, the Ovie of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom.

He said that his administration holds the traditional institution in

high esteem owing to the important role it plays in governance, especially at the grassroots, and would continue to cultivate and nurture the existing partnership as it makes conscious effort to achieve its development goals.

"We are here to witness and be part of the joy of the good people of Agbara Warri Kingdom on

this momentous occasion of the presentation of Staff of Office to His Royal Majesty, Kingsley Emakpor Orereh, Igbi II, the Ovie of Agbara Warri kingdom.

"This administration holds the traditional institution in high esteem owing to the important role it plays in governance, especially at the grassroot," he said.

refining sites.

The Director also revealed that the military has adjusted its operational strategy to prioritize protection for farmers to ensure a successful rainy season farming.

He noted that the armed forces has intensified intelligence collection effort targeted at hunting terrorist and striking them where they maybe

hiding and hibernating. The aim, he said is to kill this terrorist and the infrastructure that supports them. Assuring that troops will continue to employ significant firepower to neutralize terrorists and disrupt their activities across the country, Buba asserted that winning the war against the terrorists is non negotiable.

Gombe Governor Flags-Off Sales, Distribution of Fertiliser for 2024 Wet Season at 50% Discount

Segun Awofadeji in Gombe

Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has flagged-off the sales and distribution of subsidised fertilisers to farmers for the 2024 wet season as part of sustained efforts to boost agriculture in the state.

Addressing a gathering of farmers, agricultural stakeholders, government officials and community leaders yesterday, Yahaya highlighted his administration's continued commitment to supporting the agricultural sector in the state with a pledge to keying into the federal government's Renewed Hope initiatives in the agricultural sector to ensure food security for the state and the nation.

"Over the past five years, our administration has consistently prioritised the agricultural sector, recognising its vital role in the livelihood of our people and the overall economic development of our state. Gombe State, being the

The Edo State Commissioner for Mines and Energy, Donatus Ojiefoh, has said reforms by the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration have repositioned the state as one of the most business-friendly states in Nigeria.

Ojiefoh, who spoke while briefing journalists in Benin City, the Edo State capital, said the government has leveraged technology among others to drive economic growth and improve service delivery to the people of the state.

He said the state’s e-governance system and transition to a paperless government has so far saved the state over N60 billion, which has been effectively deployed to other impactful projects to better the lives of more residents of the state.

While calling for continuous support to the government, the

heartbeat of the North-east subregion, is predominantly agrarian, with about 85 per cent of our population engaged in farming. Supporting and developing this sector is crucial to overcoming food security challenges and driving economic growth for the subregion and Nigeria at large," he said.

"For the 2024 farming season, 50 per cent of the total fertiliser in stock (2000 tons) will be sold directly to farmers, while the remaining 50 per cent will be sold through cooperative societies, who will be given the option to repay the government through their harvests. This will ensure equitable and fair access to fertiliser by all and sundry, thus guaranteeing an optimum price for farm produce and enhanced food security in Gombe State and Nigeria at large. Furthermore, a discount of 50 per cent has been granted to all farmers. That means, a 50kg bag of NPK will cost N22,000 naira delivered to all our 114 political wards," the governor added.

commissioner noted that sustaining the reforms and achievements of the Obaseki-led administration is important to building a sustainable economy and achieving a progressive and prosperous Edo State.

Noting the government’s milestones in the mineral and energy sector, Ojiefoh said that in harnessing the abundant mineral resources in Edo, the state government has registered the Edo State Mining and Investment Company and has obtained 40 mining licenses.

According to him, “If Obaseki was the governor before now, Edo State would have been one of the richest states in the federation. The next governor that is coming must be able to match Obaseki’s weight; somebody that understands the investment and development status of the state at the moment.

Ikechukwu Aleke in Abuja

Secretary to National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mr. Shadrach Haruna; outgoing Country Representative, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Dr. Oliver Stolpe; Chairman/ Chief Executive, NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd); incoming Country Representative, UNODC, Mr. Danilo Campisi and Special Adviser to the NDLEA Chairman/CEO, Col. Yakubu Bako (Rtd),

SPECIAL RECOGNITION AT OJUDE OBA FESTIVAL…

Edo, Ondo Polls: Don't Deny Opposition Access to Public Facilities, INEC Tells Ruling Parties

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has warned against the use of the power of incumbency to deny opposition parties and candidates access to public facilities for rallies and other campaign activities ahead of Ondo

and Edo governorship elections.

INEC's National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, in a statement issued yesterday said the issue has been a recurring problem over the years.

He said these actions often result in violent clashes among

party supporters and a breach of public peace.

Olumekun noted: “Over the years, a recurring problem in Nigeria's electioneering process has been the use of the power of incumbency to deny opposition parties and candidates access to public facilities for rallies and other

campaign activities.”

The National Commissioner stressed that these include public buildings such as; sports stadiums, open spaces in public places, total denial or restricted access to stateowned media (specifically radio and television stations).

The electoral body also decried

Guber Poll: Bayelsa Govt to Prosecute Sylva, Others Over Slain Youth in Brass

It's Diri's desperation to deploy diversionary tactics, says former governor

Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has said the state would institute legal action against former governor of the state, Chief Timipre Sylva, over the death of a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) agent during the November 11, 2023 governorship election. This was disclosed in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Daniel Alabrah, that was obtained yesterday.

But in reaction, the former Petroleum Minister, State, Chief Timipre Sylva, lambasted the Bayelsa State Governor, for ordering his prosecution over the death of one George Sibo in the last governorship election. Sylva said the directive, which Diri gave to his Attorney-General, showed the governor's desperation to deploy diversionary tactics and distractions against his case at the Appeal Court.

The statement alleged that the 31-year-old George Sibo was killed when some All Progressives Congress (APC) members and supporters invaded the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) collation centre in Brass Local Government Area and held officials hostage. At the burial of the deceased in TwonBrass on Thursday, Diri was quoted in the statement to have directed the state Attorney General to “commence legal action against Chief Sylva, a former governor of the state, and those

stormed the collation centre.”

The Bayelsa governor expressed sadness over the dastardly killing of the young man and promised that the state government will bring the culprits to book.

He stated that as chief security officer of the state, “he declined using his powers in the face of provocation against the main opposition party candidate in the election, who prevented the PDP from campaigning in his community,

Nembe-Bassambiri.”

Diri emphasised that as governor he deliberately did not challenge the excesses of the APC candidate as it would have resulted in the loss of innocent lives.

The governor described Sibo as a hero, who died defending democracy.

Diri was quoted to have said further: “There are a lot of questions to answer. What was the candidate of the APC, Chief Timipre Sylva, doing

at the collation centre in Twon-Brass a day after the election? Why did he go there with the large crowd that led to the killing of this young man?

“I am pained and that was why I directed that autopsy be carried out, which has been done. I have further directed the Attorney General to institute a case against Timipre Sylva and all those that invaded the collation centre that led to the killing of George Sibo.

BA Abandons London-bound Passengers in Lagos for Two Days

Chinedu Eze

Many Nigerians and others scheduled to travel to London on British Airways flight on Wednesday were abandoned at the Murtala Muhammed International Airports, Lagos when the operating aircraft developed technical problem.

The British Airline flight number BA 74 was scheduled to depart from Lagos to London at 10:50pm on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, but the aircraft scheduled to airlift the passengers developed technical problem and was grounded at the airport in Lagos.

The British mega carrier, THISDAY learnt, had processed the passengers for the flight, as they were admitted to the waiting lounge prior to departure through Gate E55. While the passengers were expecting

the announcement for boarding there was eerie silence followed by delays, which was unusual of the airline.

One of the passengers who confirmed the delay, stated, “The airline lacked the courtesy to inform the stranded passengers of the technical issues until after midnight. The flight was finally cancelled after 1:00am. Passengers were asked to cancel their immigration form and go back to baggage claims to collect their already checked in luggage.”

By then, some of the passengers who arrived the airport early on Wednesday to complete the immigration formalities had spent close to nine hours. It was about 3:00 am that the passengers left the airport; when they were eventually taken to different hotels in Lagos.

The British Airways informed the passengers that the flight had been rescheduled for midnight on Thursday after another aircraft from London would have brought the spare parts needed to repair the grounded aircraft had arrived, but later BA sent email to the passengers cancelling the flight again and apologized for their inability to travel by midnight; instead, the airline extended the stay of the passengers at the hotels for another day.

In the email to the passengers, British Airways explained, “Despite our best efforts, we’ve unfortunately had to make the difficult decision to delay your departure to London Heathrow until tomorrow, 21st June, due to the ongoing technical issue with the aircraft in Lagos.

the imposition of excessive levies and fees for outdoor and media advertising, and even the removal or vandalisation of billboards and posters.

It noted: “For the avoidance of doubt, the commission wishes to reiterate that Section 95(2) of the Electoral Act 2022 prohibits the use of State apparatus to "the advantage or disadvantage of any political party or candidate at any election".

"Furthermore, under Section 95(3-5), it is obligatory for public media houses to allot equal coverage and visibility to all parties and

candidates.

‘‘Section 95(6) provides sanctions against heads of public media organisations, their principal officers, and other officials for contravention.” Olumekun added that a publication containing the commission's guidelines for the conduct of political rallies, processions and campaigns is already uploaded to the Commission's website and on its social media platforms. The commission called the attention of stakeholders to the provisions of the law and the guidelines for strict compliance.

Otti Shakes up Media Team, Clears Unpaid Fees of Stranded Abia Scholars in India Varsity

Barely 22 days after the first anniversary of his administration, Abia Governor, Mr. Alex Otti, has reorganised his media team by appointing a new Chief Press Secretary(CPS), Mr. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, to replace Mr. Kazie Uko.

The change in the media team was announced by the state Commissioner for Information and Culture, Prince Okey Kanu, at a media briefing on the outcome of this week's meeting of the State Executive Council, chaired by the governor on Wednesday night.

He did not give reasons for the sudden removal of Uko, who was assigned the role of CPS at the onset of the Otti administration.

However, Kanu said that the change of the CPS was approved by Governor Otti "in a bid to rejig the media team of his administration".

The Information Commissioner said that the new CPS "is renowned for his experience in advocacy and media management and would bring his expertise and passion for writing to bear" in his new job.

He further disclosed that the pathetic situation of Abia students on government scholarship in an India university, SRI SAI, was discussed by SEC following reports that they were abandoned by the previous administration which failed to pay their fees. Kanu said that the governor has given succour to the stranded students as he "graciously approved that their fees be paid to enable them continue their education in the university in India". Neither the number of stranded students nor the amount involved in offsetting their unpaid school fees was made known.

But the commissioner noted that the interest shown by the Abia Governor in the affairs of the stranded students was in line with the "high premium he places on the state's education sector", adding that "a lot has been happening in that sector".

The state government spokesman further disclosed that the payment of bursary to 271 Abia students in various law schools in Nigeria has now been carried out as earlier approved by the governor in March.

CODISA: We Support Over 40 Care Facilities, Institutions

A non-profit organisation, Christ’s Outreach on Disabilities (CODISA), has said it now supports over 40 care facilities and institutions, providing essential services to people with disabilities and other marginalised groups. Originally affiliated with the Chapel

of the Healing Cross Idi-araba and the Lagos University Teaching Hospital/ CMUL, CODISA has become a leading voice for inclusion and empowerment. One of CODISA's most significant achievements is the establishment of the Spinal Cord Injury Association of Nigeria (SCIAN), which helps people with spinal cord injuries live more

independently.

Over its four decades, CODISA has undertaken more than 500 projects. These include building and renovation of hostels and classrooms, providing equipment, palliative care and lifesaving medical care all aimed at improving the lives of people with disabilities.

According to a statement signed by the Chief Executive Officer, CODISA, Mr. Ladi Sole, the body, which marked its 40th anniversary recently, was founded in 1984, and it initially focused on helping people with physical disabilities. It has since grown into a standalone non-profit organization (NGO) serving a wider range of needs.

“In Nigeria, an estimated 29 million people with disabilities navigate the world with diverse abilities. This diversity provides a unique opportunity of untapped potential, waiting to contribute to Nigeria's progress. At CODISA, we are championing a future where disability is not seen as a limitation, but a strength,” said Mr. Amos Adeyeye, Chairman of Board. The dedication of CODISA's staff and volunteers, along with support from donors, has been central to this success. The organization is committed to ongoing collaboration with local and international partners to create a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive.

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

Bennett Oghifo

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

who

L-R: Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun with Globacom’s Head of Sales Operations, Mr. Kazeem Kaka, presenting a cash prize to members of Egbe Arobayo Obirin Akile Ijebu age grade, runners-up in the Regberegbe female competition at the Globacom-sponsored Ojude Oba Festival held in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State…recently

Breeding grounds for Cholera

Ending Elder Abuse and Murder for Witchcraft

“

Offices were closed, and many people were not in the mood and position to offer support. As usual, advocates tried reaching the Commissioner of Police, the Police Public Relations Officer, the coordinator, the National Human Rights Commission in Akure, the FIDA office in the state, and other agencies, without success. Either they were not picking up calls, or numbers were switched off. Some responded that they had travelled for the Sallah holiday and could not help.

Following a random search of NGOs in Akure, we contacted Bukky. Her organization focuses on children. But on hearing the story, she readily agreed to visit and made sure Mama got some urgent help. We contacted her on Saturday. She promised to travel to Ondo West on Monday, and she did. Bukky went straight to Enu Owa police division, where they reported the matter.

The police were not cooperative at the beginning. But she did not give up. The police were not forthcoming with information about the woman. She later met a police officer who was aware of the case and who broke the sad news to her: “Mama ti ku” meaning “Mama has passed away”. The officer told her that Grandma died the previous day. Iya Sunday reportedly sustained serious injuries after the daughter, Abiodun, accused her of witchcraft and subsequently set her ablaze. Photos of the burns all over her body were heart-wrenching. At the Advocacy for Alleged Witches, we hoped she would pull through. That we would help her pull through. But she didn’t. Our help got there too little too late. The news of her passing devastated us. Much more painful was the fact that her daughter, who should have protected and defended her, killed her. Her daughter set her ablaze like a piece of rubbish.

When they interviewed the daughter, she said: “I went to my mother’s house around 4 a.m. and sat outside. When it was 5 a.m., I called out my mother from the house. Immediately after she came out, not knowing what was happening, I poured petrol on her body and set her on fire”.

The daughter noted that she killed the mother because the pastor said that the mother was responsible for her problems: “What started it is that I went to one pastor for prayer, and he told me that

my mother is behind what is happening to me. I did not believe it at first. My mother also took me somewhere to see a woman. After my mother left, the woman also said the same thing. I burnt my mother because of what I heard from the pastor and the woman, that I can only be free from bondage when my mother is dead”.

This story illustrates how pastors damage family relationships; how they exploit people’s gullibility. Pastors incite hate, murder, and violence in many families. They turn children against their parents. It is unfortunate that in the absence of something reasonable to tell those who consult them, pastors, diviners, mallams, and other religious actors make up things. They make people believe that other human beings can harm or kill them, that relatives cause illness, accidents, or death through magical or spiritual means. Unfortunately, many believe this irrational and superstitious nonsense. As in this case, they attack and kill other human beings, including relatives as a result of this irrational belief. Older persons are usually the target.

It is pertinent to note that the news of this incident reached us on June 15, a day set aside by the United Nations to encourage the world to pay greater attention to the well-being and adequate health care of older persons. Elder abuse and murder for witchcraft are rampant in Nigeria especially in poor families where children cannot afford to cater for their ageing parents. And in communities where homes for the elderly are non existent.

Leo Igwe directs Advocacy for Alleged Witches

THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

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EDO: Cultivate Cassava, not Cocoa

AIn some parts of the world, especially Malaysia where the government concentrated on the cultivation of palm oil, people became very hungry. That is because the cultivation of palm oil trees and other ‘cash crops’ took up much of the arable land that could have been used for the cultivation of crops for staple meals of Malaysians.

Gov Obaseki’s policy of focusing on these so-called cash crops appears noble and laudable but it is misplaced, unsustainable and therefore should be revised. As he prepares to leave as governor, let him set up a committee to prepare the ground for mass and large-scale cultivation of okra, pepper, yam, egusi, fish, corn, cassava, pumpkin leaves and the like. Edo has rich soil that can support these crops easily.

Bob MajiriOghene Etemiku, WADONOR, cultural Voice of Nigeria

JOB CREATION ON THEIR MINDS…

L-R: Minister of Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha and Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education, Madam Abiola Arogundade, during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education to collaborate on a new initiative tagged, the 'Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme' in Abuja…yesterday

Obi to Tinubu: Stop Downplaying Nigeria’s Worrisome Economic Situation

The Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, yesterday, reacted to President Bola Tinubu’s alleged downplaying of the hardship in the country with his declaration that it was not peculiar to Nigeria alone. Obi said rather than face the reality that the country was now the poverty capital of the world as well as the most insecure people and take decisive steps to stem the situation, the government was trying to play the ostrich even when the people were overwhelmed

by the situation. In a statement by his media aide, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, the former Anambra State governor stated: “The problems facing Nigeria are well-known to all Nigerians. We are the poverty capital of the world, among the most insecure people on earth, among the hungriest, have poor education quality and the highest number of out-of-school children, high infant mortality, corruption, unemployment, the highest income gap between the poor and the rich, high corruption perception index, infrastructure and healthcare challenges,

and more.

“It’s disheartening to hear those in charge, who were hired to address our problems, make statements like “we are not the only ones struggling with poverty and hunger.” Instead of merely acknowledging that other countries face similar challenges, we need to hear a thorough plan of action to tackle our unique struggles.”

According to Obi, the citizens required concrete solutions and clear vision to address the issues, not comparisons that downplay Nigeria’s circumstances.

"I urge those in leadership positions to offer tangible solutions, not mere reminders that others face similar challenges. We need a comprehensive approach to tackle our specific challenges, not generalisations that dismiss our experiences.

“A true leader provides direction, guidance, solutions, and reassurance in times of crisis. This is the hallmark of visionary leadership and a trait of nations that are making progress and advancing their development.

"They don’t simply state the obvious but offer a roadmap for overcoming

Nigeria, Others Collaborate with Recording Academy to Empower African Music Creators

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja and Agnes Ekebuike in Lagos

Nigeria has held a roundtable meeting with organisers of the Grammy Awards, Recording Academy, and four other countries to investigate modalities for a Global African Music upscale. The steering meeting which also had in attendance Kenya, Rwanda and a delegation from South Africa took place at the Convention Centre in Kigali, Rwanda aimed at elevating the vibrant music and culture of Africa

onto the global stage. It was a steering committee consisting of Ministers of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy of Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda and a delegation from South Africa representing the Ministry in South Africa, the CEO of the Latin Recording Academy and representatives of Afrexim Bank and the Recording Academy. They resolved to advance the creative industries across the continent and support the diverse artistic heritage.

In her remarks, Nigeria’s Minister of

Art, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, said that Africa was the future of the music industry boom.

In a statement by her Special Adviser on Media and Pubicity, Nneka Ikem Anibeze, Musawa said Nigeria is diversifying from oil to music, culture and entertainment which will fetch the country, $100 billion by 2030. She urged member countries to support one another and embrace the African music project which will not only serve as a platform for

global economic expansion but also as a tool for national reconciliation, unity and progress in Africa’s entertainment industry.

“I must salute our Afrobeat superstars as their globalization and emergence into global pop culture has brought the Grammies to Africa. I will first thank the legends of the Nigerian music industry that brought us here; Burna Boy, WIzkid, Don Jazzy, Dbanj, Davido, P-Square, 2Face, Asake, Tiwa Savage, and others too numerous to mention.

Fitch Reaffirms Afreximbank’s Rating at ‘BBB’, Stable Outlook

Fitch Ratings has affirmed the Long-Term Issuer Default Rating (IDR) of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) at ‘BBB’, with a stable outlook.

The agency also affirmed the bank’s Short-Term IDR at ‘F2’ and the long-term ratings on the Bank’s Global Medium Term Note Programme and Debt Issuances at ‘BBB’.

The ratings affirmation recognised Afreximbank’s strong profile and increasing systemic relevance to the African continent as evidenced

Nearly

The official death toll from this year’s Hajj pilgrimage has soared to almost 500 and the true toll could be more than double that as reports emerged that as many as 600 Egyptian worshipers perished on the route to Mecca amid extreme heat.

At least 14 Malaysians, 165 Indonesians, 68 Jordanians, 35 Pakistanis, 35 Tunisians, 11 Iranians and 98 Indians have died, according to authorities in each country.

by the increasing number of key mandates placed on the Bank by the African Union (AU), including the implementation of the health response to the COVID-19 pandemic and, recently, the support for access to grains and fertilisers in the context of the Russia-Ukraine war.

Fitch also acknowledged the Bank’s strong capitalisation and liquidity position evidenced by its ‘excellent’ internal capital generation where the Bank was benefiting from ongoing shareholder support through the AU-initiated General

A further 22 Jordanians were hospitalised and 16 are still missing, CNN quoted the Jordanian Foreign Ministry to have said. Dozens of Iranians have also been hospitalised due to heatstroke and other conditions, the Iranian Red Crescent said Wednesday, according to Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency. According to a CNN tally, this brings the latest official death toll for this year’s pilgrimage to at

Capital Increase (GCI) under the Bank’s current Strategic Plan (Plan VI), through which the Bank aims to raise US$2.6 billion in paid-in capital. Cumulatively, the Bank has mobilized a gross paid-in equity of US$2.1 billion since the GCI was launched in August 2021.

Consequently, Fitch noted that Afreximbank had a strong liquidity profile, with its share of quality treasury assets rated ‘AA’ to ‘AAA” (53 per cent in 2023) remaining substantially above the ‘strong’ threshold of 40 per cent. The

least 460.

The death tolls are expected to rise much further, as Saudi Arabia and Egypt have yet to release official figures. Additionally, the governments are only aware of pilgrims who have registered and traveled to Mecca as part of their country’s quota – more deaths are feared among unregistered pilgrims.

The pilgrims made this year’s journey in dangerously high temperatures of up to 49 degrees

liquidity profile is further enhanced by its access to capital markets and other alternative liquidity sources even during challenging times.

Afreximbank has continuously demonstrated its ability to de-risk its lending portfolio, with a low concentration risk and a high degree of loan collateralisation (85 per cent of total loans in 2023, including provisions), with cash collaterals covering 20 per cent of the loans, and 8 per cent covered by credit insurance from 'A' to 'AA'-rated insurers.

Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit).

According to the Egyptian presidency, the crisis unit will be headed by Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, and will “provide support for families of the deceased.”

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has also instructed the unit on “speedy coordination with Saudi Arabian authorities to facilitate the return of the bodies” of those who died, the statement added.

obstacles. Just like a pilot, who doesn’t just announce turbulence; they assure passengers that they will do everything possible to ensure a safe journey.

“Only then can we begin to trust that our country is in capable hands, working towards a brighter future for all Nigerians,” he added.

FG Signs MoU on Delivery of 2.5 Million Jobs Annually

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The federal government yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the creation of 2.5 million jobs annually.

The MoU which was between the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational, and Entrepreneurship Skills (TVEES), seeks to create sustainable job opportunities for all Nigerians, particularly the youths.

Speaking at the event, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, said the initiative was a collaborative venture under the Labour Employment and Empowerment Program (LEEP) aimed enhancing employment opportunities and skill development in Nigeria.

She explained: “The signing of this MoU between the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational, and Entrepreneurship Skills is a testament to

Fruit juice and value-added dairy manufacturer, Chivita|Hollandia (CHI Limited) recently celebrated this year's Children's Day with an exciting blend of fun-filled activities and the goodness of its brands.

A statement explained that with a commitment to the well-being of children, Chivita|Hollandia recognised the importance of this special day in honouring the future leaders of tomorrow.

The 2024 Children’s Day theme, 'Promote Inclusivity', resonates with the company’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for all, especially children.

“Given that its high-quality products cater to a wide range of age groups, inclusivity is paramount in ensuring that everyone can benefit from its fruit juice and Value-added dairy brands. In line with this, Chivita|Hollandia had the privilege of celebrating this year’s Children’s Day with students from Modupe Cole Memorial, Lagos State Special School, and Central Primary School in Lagos.

“The infectious excitement displayed by the children as they reveled in the activities served as a

our commitment to creating sustainable job opportunities for all Nigerians, particularly our youth.

"Our collaboration under the Labour Employment and Empowerment Program (LEEP) is not just a strategic alliance but a concerted effort to address the pressing challenges of unemployment and underemployment in our country. Through this MOU, we are laying a strong foundation for the creation of 2.5 million jobs annually, focusing on vocational, technical, and entrepreneurial skills that are critical for the economic development and growth of Nigeria." Under the initiative, Onyejeocha said the ministry would provide the necessary assets and infrastructure to support the training and certification of participants in this programme. "We recognise the importance of a skilled workforce in driving innovation, productivity, and competitiveness in the global market. With the support and expertise of the Office of the Senior Special Assistant, we are confident in our ability to achieve these ambitious goals.

powerful reminder of the importance of fostering a childlike sense of wonder and enthusiasm in them,” the statement added.

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Adesina: Our Partnership with Nigerian Govt to Empower Small Businesses, Farmers

The Co-founder and CEO of Sabi, Ademola Adesina, in this interview explains the new partnership between his company, the $1 billion GMV B2B e-commerce platform, and Nigerian agricultural companies - Nectar Fresh Limited and Meadow Foods. The partnership was established with the support of the Nigerian government to address supply chain and development challenges in Nigeria’s agricultural sector. Adesina notes that by empowering small farmers and providing them with necessary resources and market access, Sabi is fostering economic growth and community development in Oyo State. Bayo Akinloye provides the excerpts.

Despite the security challenges in Nigeria, Sabi is investing in an agricultural partnership project with the government. What’s driving this partnership?

At Sabi, we believe in the potential of our work to empower a continent of small businesses and farmers, many of whom are women. Our successes have been a result of ‘packaging’ our marketplace offering and augmenting it for the benefit of serving the broader African community. Sabi remains committed to the Oyo State project due to its transformative potential for local communities and agriculture in Oyo State, aiming to contribute positively to economic growth, sustainability, and community development and empowerment. Africa faces many challenges related to supply chains, including infrastructure, regulatory issues, cultural and language barriers, and limited access to resources. As a result, we need Africa’s informal sector and unique market knowledge and commodities more than ever. Sabi offers innovative solutions that can address many of these challenges and pave the way for a more connected, resilient, and sustainable Nigeria. By pursuing this partnership, we are bringing the best of our experience and knowledge to bear, with the hope that it will make a difference to people and communities. We believe that as demand for Africa’s resources grows, the world needs an open, predictable, sustainable, and secure solution delivering the digital commercial experience. At Sabi, we blend that global reach with local insights to transform supply chains — transparently, ethically, and sustainably.

Why Nigeria and why the choice of Oyo state? Sabi is headquartered in Nigeria, with operations

in South Africa and commodities purchasers around the world. Our platform of nearly 300,000 merchants grew in only three years following the ongoing global supply chain issues stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. As the world moved from ‘just-in-time’ to ‘just-in-case’ sourcing models, Sabi was ideally positioned to help address the worldwide supply chain gaps. Oyo State was an obvious solution due to its agricultural potential and the opportunity to address ongoing supply chain challenges. Oyo State’s Opara Forest Reserve offers fertile ground for sustainable agricultural development. The Nigeria Ministry of Environment and Water recently approved

our license to operate there with our partners, Nectar Fresh and Meadow Foods. Sabi’s journey began as a B2B e-commerce marketplace that revolutionized how Nigeria’s fast-moving consumer distributors achieve their goals. This partnership will ultimately support the informal sector of Oyo State, lending them the capacity building, investment, infrastructure, and operational help to create a streamlined agricultural production capability in the region. This is very important because in Nigeria, as much as 60 per cent of the economy is informal, and Sabi bridges the gap between the informal economy and their potential purchasers, facilitating meaningful connections that can contribute to the world’s food supply.

Tell us about the new partnership between Sabi and Nigerian agricultural companies Nectar Fresh Limited and Meadow Foods?

SabihaspartneredNectarFreshLimitedandMeadow Foods to launch the Oyo State Aggregation Project. This initiative aims to establish a reliable supply chain for premium crops in Oyo State by developing small farming communities and providing the technology and infrastructure they require to thrive. The project has many benefits, including the creation of jobs and investment that will improve food supply outcomes for Nigeria and its international trade partners. Sabi is proud to lead the consortium that will bring economic development and agricultural supply solutions to Oyo state.

Are there other organisations Sabi has worked with or works with in Nigeria?

The Ministry of Environment and Water was instrumental in providing the licensing agreement. We work with many partners, from aggregators to

merchants, wholesalers, last-mile retailers, logistics partners and financiers. We have begun working with investors, government, and international organizations to raise awareness about the potential of the informal economy to bring solutions to significant global challenges, such as food insecurity, climate change and sustainability, and women’s empowerment. We represented Sabi at the World Economic Forum earlier this year to begin building more awareness about this topic on the global stage.

Sabi is a $1 billion GMV B2B e-commerce platform, what is it bringing to this partnership?

Sabi brings its expertise in e-commerce and technology to enhance the project’s efficiency. This includes financial, operational, and infrastructural support to ensure sustainable agricultural practices and market access for small farmers. We also lend our customer-centricity and ability to align incentives for our partners across the value chain.

In the world of B2B e-commerce, many actors have attempted to organize the informal market, streamline the value chain, and extract value. At Sabi, our approach was different in that we never aimed to duplicate existing models but rather to understand the intrinsic needs of our market. This is why we spend significant time analyzing the needs of retailers, wholesalers, distributors and finished and input product sectors. Our interventions are strategic and targeted, where we can make a real difference and achieve scale. Because of this, we are a trusted ally to our users, merchants, and partners – we stand behind them, ensuring they receive the support and resources necessary to thrive.

Fovie: Prior to Oil Boom, Nigeria Had Thriving Mining Sector

Patrick Fovie, a young owner of an indigenous mining company, in this interview speaks on how the federal government can assist local miners reap the benefits in the mining sector. Chuks Okocha brings the excerpts

What is Riverland Engineering Services Limited all about?

Riverland Engineering Services Limited is an indigenous mining company and one of the leading mining companies that has keyed into the lofty strides of the President Bola Tinubu’s government push to deepen the solid minerals sector of Nigeria.

The Minister for Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, has gone over and beyond to sell the idea and gains of solid mineral mining to Nigerians and the world. As a developing sector, the return on investment is more than 300 per cent. There is no other sector that gives as much payback as mining. The demand for resources has been pushing up the price of minerals and as such, prices have been rising steadily for the past five years. Increasing world population and improved standard of living has brought about massive demand side push in the minerals and commodities market. For instance, copper, which is a massively used metal sells for about $8,000/ton presently, but has been projected to sell for 40,000/ton by 2030. The international price for Gold has been above $2300/ounce (28.35 grams) and climbing up through the year, with a processing cost of less than $800/ ounce, the rest is profit. Lithium ore goes for between $200 -$700/ton depending on the grade encountered, discoveries of 10,000 tons and above have been recorded. Less precious materials like Quartz and Feldspar are also money spinners, the demand is perennial and quantity required runs into 100 of thousands of tons, and the extraction and processing is marginal.

So, how is your company involved in the mining of these precious stones?

Riverland Engineering Services Limited has its operations in Kogi West, located in the prolific MopaMuro and Kabba-Bunu area of Kogi State, Nigeria. Our

flagship operation is named the Goldstone Project, where we operate an overpit gold mine and we are concurrently exploring our satellite mines and have met huge prospects for Lithium, and Marble. We have acquired and focused on long-life, low-cost gold assets as a first step, with plans to evolve into a multi-mining establishment in the near future. We pursue value-creating opportunities involving other minerals, where we can leverage our existing assets, skills and experience to maximise value. The geology and age of rocks in central Nigeria are not only encouraging, the area is a virgin territory that has not been explored nor mined with modern equipment. It has been an interesting journey from conception. There were challenges, but they were all surmountable. Challenges like language barrier with some workers, opacity of modern mining and its practices to the host communities, infrastructure, funds, getting experienced staff etc. Establishing a mine comes with its environmental, infrastructural, economic and social challenges. To operate responsibly, we weigh potential development risks against the profitability of production, and the local wealth and employment it creates. Throughout the mine lifecycle – from the earliest exploration activity through closure – we engage and consult with communities and governments that host our operations as well as other stakeholders with respect and transparency. Once a target area has been identified, and geological, geophysical and geochemical data indicate a high probability of a deposit, drilling is conducted. Drilling helps us evaluate the type and grade of minerals in the ore. With drilling, we decide how many samples are needed, in what direction the drill holes will go, how far apart they will be, how deep they will go. Because per-foot drilling costs are expensive, these decisions must be made carefully.

Another way we sample is through trenching, this is carried out by excavators. Trenching shows the different layers that will be encountered as we

go down the depth and opens these layers up for analysis. Sustainability is fundamental to the way we do business in the GoldStone Mines. We are committed to responsible mining, managing our impact and contributing to our host communities and society through infrastructural development and sponsorships. We invest in our communities and align our focus with community identified need and priorities. Our strategy recognises that we operate in a complex environment and our ability to achieve sustainable outcomes is intertwined with people, politics, the government and the economy. In response, our strategy is dynamic and adaptive, considering developments in the areas in which we operate.

So, what are the prospects of mining contributing to national revenue like crude oil?

As we seek to create value, we recognise that this cannot be achieved in isolation, and a collaborative approach is a prerequisite to success. In all, Nigeria has one of the best mining laws in the world. Mining in Nigeria is operated under the Nigeria Minerals and Mining act of 2007 and the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Regulations of 2011. Prior to the oil boom of the 70s, Nigeria had a thriving mining sector with tin, lead, gold, coal, zinc and columbite being well traded. Factors such as the civil war led to the exodus of many foreign mining companies. Also, the indigenisation decree of 1972 limited the shares ownership of foreigners to 40 per cent in companies they funded, and this led to massive withdrawal of foreign mining companies, a void we never filled. The oil boom saw the nation focus on oil, thus, the dearth of mining companies. As mentioned earlier, Nigeria has one of the best investor-friendly Mining Acts in the world. Nigeria does not operate a Free Carried Interest policy (The government does not automatically own a stake/interest in your mine as obtains in many African countries), tax exemptions on foreign currency remittances. Exemption from Import and Customs duties on mining machinery and equipment; three years tax holiday, loss relief until full recovery, accelerated capital allowance, among others. Nigeria has not been well explored with modern techniques and technology. The geology is very rich and promising, consisting of rock formations from the Precambian era. These are pegmatite rich rocks loaded with precious stones. Nigeria is also host to the Birimian Greenstone Belt. This is a gold bearing geological structure that runs through parts of West Africa.

Ademola Adesina

Fovie

Adaramodu: National Assembly Will Ensure All Employers Adhere to Minimum Wage Law

Chairman, Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Adeyemi Ada-

ramodu, who is representing Ekiti

Senatorial

sembly,

South

District in the National As-

speaks on various national issues.

Sunday Aborisade provides the excerpts

What is your assessment of 25 years of uninterrupted democracy in Nigeria?

This is the first time in the history of this very most popular black African country, Nigeria, that we are having 25 years of uninterrupted democratic experience, though we still say that it’s growing. Democracy is not a revolution; it is an evolution. So a revolution is where you expect the result immediately. This is because in an evolution, you grow, you evolve. You have where you fall, you have where you grow, you have where you goof, you have where you get it right. But so far, we are getting it right because we have been having party to another party handing over. There are times we have a complaint about the conduct of elections. At times we do not want to go by the results of the elections. But because our democracy is just evolving, like I said, surely whoever goes into an election wants to win. And if he doesn’t win or she doesn’t win, he will likely point the blame on one factor or the other. We have always been aggrieved among ourselves, especially the politicians. Even after elections, we go to courts, we go to tribunals, we always settle at the end of the day. So, democracy is growing in Nigeria.

How well have Nigerians enjoyed the dividends of democracy?

The dividends of democracy are trickling in to various constituencies of Nigeria although people are still complaining. We believe that the political leadership too, they have heard and they are hearing always and every day from Nigerians what they want, what they need, how they want their lives to be shaped and reshaped. Those of us who are in the leadership, we are taking the message of instructions and advices and at times complaints to the executive.

The 10th National Assembly has marked its first year in office. Do you think the 10th Senate lived up to the expectations of Nigerians?

We always brand ourselves as the uncommon 10th Senate of the National Assembly under an uncommon leadership of Senator Godswill Akpabio. We have been doing well and we have been representing our constituents very well. You know that we have threepronged faceted roles to play. One, is to make laws; second is to do oversight over the judiciary and the executive arms of government and thirdly, we advocate on behalf of our constituents. We also go back to them, get feedback from them, and take it back to the central, which is the National Assembly. It is either we bring it up as a form of petition, a form of motion, or in form of bill which can be passed into law. There are areas where we think we can still do better and where we can still do better is our oversight.

In terms of oversight, are you satisfied with the performance of the 2024 budget performance so far what are you doing to ensure its effective implementation?

We know that 2024 budget was the first budget that the 10th Senate or the 10th National Assembly will fully participate in and know that the appropriation process was done by us. Definitely, the lifespan of the 2023 budget was extended to June this year. So, the full implementation of the 2024 budget, which started in January, the full implementation will start running as from June. I can assure you that the 10th Senate, by extension the 10th National Assembly will not be found wanting to ensure that every kobo that is appropriated in the 2024 budget is spent according to what is budgeted for within the budget. We are going to make sure that we put the feet of the other arms

of government on that front burner, let me call it fire, and make sure that we get results. If it is for the executive to get water out of stone, so be it, because Nigerians and we too cannot wait any longer to get things done and get the dividends of democracy. We will make sure that all the promises of government are fulfilled to the citizenry of Nigeria.

In terms of lawmaking, Nigerians seems not to be feeling your impacts yet. What are your constraints?

When we talk of lawmaking, we have not been found wanting. So, within the time that we have been there, 365 calendar days. It’s not every day that we are in the chamber for the plenary. We should have time for oversight functions. During the period that we are in the plenary, we have been able to work on 470 bills. We have been able to put 45 of them into bills that have become laws. We have been able to do not less than 120 resolutions, through motions, moved by senators at the plenary. We have been able to even commit for second reading to various committees, not less than 45 bills that we are expecting results.Then we have not less than 237 other bills that had been read for first reading, which will go for second reading when we resume after Sallah break. So, we have been able to do all those things and we have been able to intervene at times, even when it was very pertinent that we have to come down on various sectors of the polity. Even liberal issue, we have been able to intervene. When the petroleum resources matter came up after the removal of subsidy, we have been able to come out to intervene and various other aspects of what we can do to make life very, very convenient for Nigerians.

Then not only that one, from the Senate’s view, we have been able to screen, to confirm, nothing less than 241 nominees from the executive.

So we have been able to move in order to ensure that the security of citizens of Nigeria are safeguarded by intervening, advocating with the security shifts of Nigeria and today we will see that.

Nigerians’ lives, property and even means of livelihood are still under threat of bandits and other criminals. What has the Senate done about that in the last one year?

We are having a better deal from the security forces of Nigeria because, yes, we still have this situation of banditry terrorism, Boko Haram, and so on, but it is not as very escalating as it was before we came in to the National Assembly. We have been able to assist the executive to put this under check to a certain extent and we have just started. We have spent only one quarter of the time that we are supposed to have at the 10th Senate and the 10th National Assembly. I know that by the time we are 50 per cent there will be massive improvement. If we had done not less than 475 bills, it means that by the time, we would be two years in office we will know how many bills we would have done. The bills that we are even dealing with in the National Assembly, they are life-saving bills. They are not just legal bills, they are not personal bills, they are not bills that are for only our consultancy. They are bills that can make life more abundant for Nigerian citizens.

Nigerians believe that the parliament, in the last 25 years has not been able to assert

its independence. What is responsible for this?

We always elect our presiding officers the first day that we are inaugurated. The Senate President and the Speaker of the House of Representatives. Whoever that wants to preside over us will show up and then we evaluate that person. We will look at that person. If it is that, the villa will determine, definitely nobody needs to have interest; nobody needs to lobby colleagues. Nobody needs to move around to anywhere, to houses, to offices, to constituencies of colleagues if the villa has that power. So definitely the villa has got nothing to do. The villa has no hand in whoever becomes the leader of either the senate president, the deputy senate president, the leader and all other principal officers of the National Assembly. In fact, when we are even talking about leader, the position of leader or minority leader, political parties decide it.

Will the Minimum Wage Bill enjoy accelerated consideration whenever the proposed legislation is submitted to the National Assembly?

Yes, we are going to pass it because it is for the benefit of Nigerian workers.

In 48 hours or 24, any timeline?

Even if it is possible within 30 minutes, we will do that. So it depends on the content of the bill. Because the bill will go through the crucibles of passage of a bill. So, we are not going to sit down and just say, oh, the bill has been passed. It will go through the crucibles within the time, if there are no oppositions from outside, if there are no oppositions from within, there can never be opposition from within, because it’s going to be a kind of agreement between labour, government and the organised private sector. So, once that one is there, and it comes to us, we will definitely go through the processes without delay and make sure that Nigerian workers get their deal.

Is the Senate going to consider the capacity of some state governments to pay before legislating on the minimum wage bill?

Since they are all meeting, we know that at the end of the day, they will all agree on the figure. When it is an executive bill, it means that the state executive and federal executive, even local executive have inputs. Definitely, there has got to be an agreement. Once there is an agreement, the bill will come and I don’t think any of the components of the negotiating bodies will oppose it.

Any possible sanction against defaulting state governments?

When the bill comes, with our own experience and even our own concern that made the National Assembly to intervene, we are going to do a watertight bill that we are proposing that the President will sign into law to ensure that it is strictly adhered to as a law. Once it becomes law, we are going to make it watertight. Don’t let us just speculate what are going to be the ingredients that the federal government will be putting into the executive bill to be submitted to the National Assembly but when it comes whatever is there and whatever is not there we are going to ensure that it’s going to be watertight that it’s going to be obeyed by all. The National Assembly is going to make this law seriously watertight that either the State, national or organised private sector that is not compliant will be sanctioned. The National Assembly is to make laws for Nigeria.

What kind of sanction is that?

When the bill comes, when the executive bill comes, we sit down in the chamber, and we are going to invite not only legislators to talk about it, the organised labour too, before making the law. When that time comes, then definitely we will all decide what is going to be the sanction for whoever is not complying with the law. This is because we believe that at the end of the day, the committee that is meeting over it will arrive at a very acceptable minimum wage for Nigerian workers.

Will the Senate support the ongoing agitations for a six-year single term for the president and return to regionalism in Nigeria?

The Senate has no opinion. The Senate is just a centre to aggregate the opinions of Nigerians. So, when they come from towns, villages, hamlets, metropolitan, regions, and the states and say that this is what they want, we will aggregate it, that’s where we go. The Senate has no opinion about it. Senate is just a center to aggregate the opinions of Nigerians. So that’s the way it is. If anything will come into the constitution or into the law of the land, it must come to the National Assembly. So let them find the means of bringing it to the National Assembly so that we can make it a national debate whereby everybody will talk, everybody will contribute, then we can now aggregate. It is going to be very obvious, media will be there, it’s going to be very obvious that this is where Nigerians want Nigeria to go. Definitely, by that time, Senate will not be able to say no because Senate will not have its own opinion because we are there to represent the people. I am not representing Abuja. I have not just come to Abuja on my own volition.

Adaramodu

It was real celebration of life when the daughters, sons and friends of Chief Ebenezer Oyeleye Israel Olufidipe bade him farewell at Christ Church of Anglican , Elere, Agege, Lagos, recently. The photograghs below show some of the personalities that attended the burial service and reception in Lagos PHOTOS: ABAYOMI AKINYELE

L-R Otunba (Dr) Kunle Okegbemi, High Chief Segun Famuwagun, HRH Segun Oguneye

Mrs Mary Fajemisin

L-R: Chief Kayode Akinola, Mr Ayo Olatunji and Mr Akin Jolaosho

Pastor Ben Akabueze

L-R Asiwaju Femi Ajakaiye, Mr Deji Aminu, Mrs Omotoke Aminu and Mr. Ayo Aluko-Olo

Mr Akingbogun and Mr Femi Adelaja

L-R: MrsTemitope Oriola and Oyebimtan Olufidipe

Mr Oyedeji Olufidipe, Mrs Toluwalase Akingbogun and Mrs Temitope Oriola

Mr Akingbogun and Mr Femi Adelaja

Oyetola Olufidipe and Mr Oyeyemi Olufidipe

L-R Mrs Oluwaranti Olufidipe and Mrs Olufidipe

Mrs Mary Fajemisin and Ven Dr Sunday Fajemisin

Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394

Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

Maka: I Have No Regrets Quitting Law Practice for Music

Maka Sam-Ejehu, simply known as Maka, is renowned for her eclectic music genre, comprising of soul, hip-pop and jazz. Memorable moments have followed Maka since the release of her lat- est body of work, ‘Moments in Motion,’ a 10-track album she enlisted her long-time producer and friend, Teckzilla. Her sixth album and one that projects Maka’s unwavering dedication to her craft, captured in each song. The afro soul artiste speaks to Ferdinand Ekechukwu on why she makes music, her view as an independent artiste and more

Can you share with us the theme and some of the songsonthealbum?

more carefree when it came to the theme, rhythm and is one of the songs that people hear and they just laugh- which is exactly what I expected. I also wanted to be blunt regarding some issues i am passionate about, like Cyber Bullying. I

Whichofthesongsdoyouquiteconnect with the most?

about wanting nothing more than just peace, and blocking out all the noise. Throughout my career- especially as an independent female musician, there have been a lot of opinions and sometimes, all I want is to do what I want and block out the noise. That’s why I wrote the song.

Howdoyoucomeupwithyoursongs?

I don’t necessarily have a structured way, but most times I compose on my keyboard and my me a couple of beats to peruse through and I write to the ones that speak to me. Sometimes, the beats have a sound that already tells me what the song should be about.

Whydoyoumakemusicandforwho?

I make my music for anyone who likes stories and maybe wants to hear their stories being told through song, so they know they are not alone. This also doubles as an answer to why I make my music.

Howlonghaveyoubeendoingmusicand

It’s been almost a decade of releasing music and performing, and although I am grateful for how far I have come. I would certainly say that I have learnt a lot. One of the most important lessons which I am applying right now is to build a team. Learning to delegate and let people in. I can’t build a successful career alone. I doubt anyone can. I used to have the mind-set of a lone wolf, and sometimes, I can’t help but carry the “world on my shoulder”.

Howhaveyouevolvedseeingchangesin themusicindustry?

since I started, and I guess that is what is constant about life. Social media for one is my ultimate nightmare, but I know that it is an integral part of the music business or any business in fact. So, I have to wear my big girl pants and do what needs to be done. The world is a digital place, and I can’t be left behind. I’m learning not to take myself too seriously and just go

comes; enjoy them as much as possible just like everyone else.

Howdoyoudrawinspirationforyoursongs?

I am inspired by everything I come in contact with. I want to do better, be better. All I want is the opportunity to keep singing. I am grateful for all I have accomplished, little victories and notable ones as well. I want to keep being authentic, make my mark in my niche, so that long after I am gone, my impact would still be felt.

What are your perspective on one’s music career as an independent artist?

I think collaboration is key. Independent artists need to collaborate more so that they build each other up as opposed to always looking for established artists to work with. Most of the established artists really don’t care unless a bug check is involved. However, when independent artists collaborate, it becomes a passion project, the project. I also need independent artists to understand that diversifying income is important especially with the economy we have now. It should not be a thing of shame to have another job or side hustle that brings steady income as it eases the pressure. I quit my job as a lawyer to pursue music full time, and looking back, I don’t think I would advise anyone else to do so. I don’t have any regrets though.

Stage Set for 2024 Voiceover Conference

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

For young people daring to make a living with their voices, the pioneers of the biggest voiceover event in Africa have concluded workshop with speakers coming from eight African countries, USA, Canada, and Portugal.

The two-day event would ensure young people learn how to use their voice to create more jobs for themselves with the advent of social media and how to tell original African stories using modern technologies.

The conference which is set to hold from 25th to 26th June, 2024, is expected to have panel sessions on content economy, animation, leveraging technology and learning the business side of the voiceover content economy.

Speaking ahead of the conference in Lagos, founder of Voiceover Workshop and Convener Voiceover Conference, King Afemikhe, explained

that the workshop aims to open up the industry to help younger people see potential in the emerging voiceover industry.

According to him, “the purpose of the the history of voice over, and also grow the industry to help younger people become relevant using their voices.”

The conference project manager, Damilola Oshifowora, stated that, “We are positioning the voice over industry in the country so that people will see the impact we have across the sector and when we start amplifying our value people will impact our economy.”

Other personality present at the event include Nollywood actor Seun Ajayi, voiceover talents Oma Okoye, Eniola Keshinro, Christianne Lamba, Voiceover coach, Eric Ekwueme, and the CEO, Shutterhouse Africa, Abraham Aderonmu expressed commitment to support the forthcoming conference.

House of Ga’a, Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, Other Titles in July

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

The highly anticipated House of Ga’a would premiere on 26th with other exciting drama and action-packed movies in multiple titles coming on the streaming platform July. The epic Bashorun Gaa recounts the rise and fall of a ruthless kingmaker who wielded deceit and voodoo to reign, only to be undone by his own blood.

House of Ga’a, directed by Bolanle AustenPeters, stars Femi Branch, Mike Afolarin, Funke Akindele, Abraham, Ibrahim Chatta, Dele Odule, Bimbo Manuel, Lateef Adedimeji, Gabriel Afolayan, Yemi Blaq, Kunle Coker and a host of other fantastic actors.

of God’, was nominated for Best Costume Designer and Best Director as well as winning

elite sprinters navigate training, media scrutiny following their race to become the world’s fastest humans.

crimes and cause chaos. On the 10th riveting sports series, Receiver follows the 2023 season of NFL receivers Deebo Samuel, George Kittle, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Davante Adams and on the 11th. In this season, seven years have passed and Harald aspires to become King of Norway, Leif searches for the Golden Land while Freydis seeks a happy life for her people. It is all about Lobola Man on the 12th. In this Series, Ace Ngubeni, a slick lobola negotiator, faces his toughest deal yet for a shy client — Comedy comes up as fans can expect a

Patrol agent, continuing his extraordinary rescue missions through space-time while mentoring his new assistant, Yumiko. Find Me Falling would also be available for

life complicated by unwanted visitors — and The eighth season of Elite would be available for viewing. In this season, Omar and Nadia reunite just as graduation nears for students at Las Encinas and one last mystery pushes friendships — and enemies — to the brink. the platform same day as well, with many more local titles currently streaming on the platform including Shina, Kesari, Postcards, to excite viewers.

Funke Akindele in House of Ga’a Best Actress at the 2023 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards. House of Ga’a is expected to surpass it in many more ways. Sprint would be showing on the 2nd. Here,

Maka

Stars and Voiceover Talents

SHOWBIZFLAIR

How Farooq Oreagba Stole Show at 2024 Ojude Oba Festival

Ojude Oba (The King’s Fore- court) is an ancient festival celebrated by the Yoruba people of IjebuOde, a major town in Ogun State, Southwestern Nigeria.

This annual festival usually takes place on the third day after Eid El-Kabir (Ileya), to pay homage and show respect to the Royal Majesty, the Awujale of Ijebuland. It is one of the most spiritual and glamorous festivals celebrated in Ijebuland and generally in Ogun State as a whole.

During the course of the festivities, different cultural age groups known as regberegbe composed of indigenes, their friends, and associates far and near parade at the front courtyard of the king’s palace on the “Ileya”.

Oba Adetona was the one that brought back the age groups in the 18th century into the general acceptable phenomenon that is found among today’s Ijebus, and this has become an integral part of the yearly Ojude Oba festival in Ijebu. The reason for the age groups was to bring development and progress to the community.

At the 2023 edition of the festival, filmmaker and photographer, Niyi Fagbemi shot a one of a kind clip which showcased a bright and colourful array of attendees. This more or less reintroduced the Yoruba culture to a wider audience who complimented and praised the works of the filmmaker. As expected, the 2024 edition was one many looked out for and just like last year, this year’s highlight was released few days ago.

But what was intriguing was the very one man who became the center of attraction at the ceremony.

Right before taking the shot, Sulaiman Adebayo, known as Pooja was just in the middle, doing his work scanning with his artistic eyes for who would be worthy of offering a good content. Just as he continued, Farooq Oreagba

appeared and right at that mo- ment a shot was taken. This shot embodying every detail of class, steezw, composure, elegance and of the festival as the most talked about content.

Oreagba’s facial looks were engag- ing, his tattoos showcased a daring personality, his tasteful traditional green and yellow agbada with a blend of modern style stood him out to be of class and elegance. The curiosity of who he was made him one of the trend topics on X a few days ago as many went out seeking out who he was and how distinct.

Without doubt the event always had the who is who showcase their mastery in fashion but this year, one man seemed to take all the spotlight. As we know the festival to be, each group always come out dashing, clothed with the very best of textiles, topping it up with locally made beads, accessories, but how this one man was able to give the perfect pose and serve the best looks is still a mystery that has earned him a toast of many who have come to show numerous encomiums.

In September 2023, Oreagba was appointed as the Managing Direc- tor and Chief Executive Officer of NG Clearing Limited. Since taking on this role, he has been pivotal in solidifying NG Clearing’s position as West Africa’s premier Central Counterparty (CCP), significantly contributing to the financial market infrastructure of Nigeria. He is known for his ability to drive innovation within the financial services industry. His leadership has been instrumental in fostering a customer-centric culture and achieving sustainable growth for NGWithClearing. this pace set, the 2025 edition is out to give us a show like never before. Gradually, the Ojude Oba festival is becoming one event everyone would be looking out for and an avenue to show their taste in fashion, class and culture.

Renowned DJ and actress, Dorcas Shola Fapson known in the industry as Ms DSF is thrilled at the commencement of “The Vibe Curator” tour. This exciting 3-month tour would take her from the United Kingdom this June to Europe as well as North America in July and August then back to the UK for a grand finale. Since breaking into the scene as a DJ in 2020, Ms DSF has made a significant mark as a reputable disc jockey, captivating audiences with her electrifying sets around the

world. Known for her unique blend of genres and infectious energy, she has quickly become a global sensation in the music industry. She has also without doubts earned a very successful rating as an actor with several films and productions which she has featured on over the years and placed her as an epitome of beauty and brains. Now with a passion for music that knows no bounds, she continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide as she journeys on this path of entertainment. One of the hallmarks of Ms DSF’s performances is her ability to surprise and delight

her audience. Whether it’s through unexpected track selections, live remixes, or spontaneous interactions with the crowd, she keeps the energy high and the experience fresh. Set to be an unforgettable journey, bringing her signature sound and vibrant performances to fans across multiple continents. The tour promises an eclectic mix of beats, creating a musical experience that transcends borders and unites music lovers everywhere and also serves as an opportunity to witness a DJ at the top of her game, pushing the boundaries of what a live DJ set can be.

Farooq Oreagba

Photo Taken by Sulaiman Adebayo ( Pooja Media )

Umo Eno: Story of Promises, Controversies, Reforms

Ibanga Isine

At the height of the gubernatorial campaign in Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Umo Eno, the then People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, made a strikingly unconventional promise on March 15, 2023. Addressing a massive crowd of supporters, he vowed to introduce a “Happy Hour” if elected governor, offering free drinks and perhaps food to the public. This pledge quickly became one of the most bizarre and audacious campaign promises in the history of elections, not just in the state but across Nigeria.

The public’s reaction was swift and severe. Major television stations and newspapers seized upon the story, analysing, criticisng, and even ridiculing Eno for proposing a celebratory giveaway amid an economy grappling with uncountable challenges. Analysts and commentators questioned the wisdom of such a promise, especially given the economic reality of the state, which painted a bleak picture of fiscal health.

However, the real issue went beyond the “Happy Hour” promise. As an investigative journalist, I delved deeper into Eno’s background and found a few things which were disturbing. Conversations with his serving and past employees revealed a starkly different picture of the businessmanturned-politician. Descriptions of Eno portrayed him as anti-labour, vindictive, and highly reactionary, with none of his staff willing to speak positively about him. I reached out to him by telephone and a chat on the micro-blogging platform, WhatsApp. In a response that was terse and straight to the point, he denied the allegations and challenged his accusers to come forward and state their cases. Although I wasn’t convinced, I, however, let go after we published a report detailing everything we found.

Not long after we ran the initial story, I received a call from a close friend and confidant in Uyo. He urged me to cut Mr. Eno some slack, suggesting that, behind closed doors, there were signs the man might prove better than the negative press he had been receiving. Weeks later, this same friend contacted me again with a surprising update.

“Da, I learned that Umo Eno had a closed-door meeting with labor leaders in Uyo. He was visibly disappointed by how workers have been treated and assured them he would address the issues of pensioners and the backlog of promotion arrears as soon as he takes office,” my friend said. “Mbok (please), don’t write another story about him. Let’s give him the benefit of the doubt,” he pleaded.

On March 19, 2023, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Mr. Eno the winner of the Akwa Ibom gubernatorial election, naming him governorelect. Many Akwa Ibomites, including myself, were skeptical that Mr. Eno would not deviate from the usual political script we’ve seen in the state. However, keeping my promise, I refrained from writing anything about the new governor until recently.

It was only a few days ago, I decided it was time to break the silence with an investigative report titled, “How Governor Umo Eno Spent over N18bn on ‘Happy Hour.’” The piece delves into the intricacies of his controversial campaign promise and examines whether his administration has started on a path to genuine reform or if it is simply a continuation of political theatrics. To know what we found, you can search for and read the story online. But it seems the governor came prepared for the job although many have insisted that he is slow and should put on the raiment of an evangelist who is in a hurry to win souls for the Lord. Of course, the governor is a pastor and knows that time is of essence and that was why not long after he was sworn into office on May 29, 2023, he approved the first tranche of money for defray the backlog of gratuities, promotion arrears, and leave grants for civil servants in the state. That to me was a fast move and a step in the right direction. At the same time, a viral video caught my attention. It showed the governor walking down the Government House lawn, where he encountered some children playing on the other side of the fence. He stopped and beckoned the kids to come closer. As they approached, he shook hands with some of them, asked their names, and shared a bit of his personal story.

“I am a police child too…and I grew up in the barracks like you,” Governor Eno told the children in his light baritone voice. “I want you to take your studies very seriously so that one day you will also become a governor, a senator, a president, a doctor, a lawyer. Ok?”

As the children responded excitedly, he continued, “Don’t let anyone deceive you that a police child cannot do well. You are what God says you will be.” In a gesture reminiscent of the Godswill Akpabio era, he handed a white envelope to the children, waved goodbye, and watched as they hurried back to the barracks where they live with their parents. That to me was a masterstroke.

By September 2023, as the government was preparing to celebrate the anniversary of Akwa Ibom’s creation, a source inside the Hilltop Mansion informed me that a budget slightly over N1 billion had been presented to the governor for approval. Given the lavish spending of previous administrations on similar programmes, no one anticipated what Governor Eno would do next.

“O’boy, the governor don run dem street,” my source told me, meaning the governor had disappointed them. “He cut down the money drastically and insisted that he would not allow such an amount to be deployed for the celebration.”

I found it surprising that a man who had promised to orga-

nise a “Happy Hour” with subsidised booze and culinary pleasures every Friday across the state was now taking a different direction. I knew that people from neighboring states like Abia, Rivers, and Cross River were eagerly awaiting the announcement of the “Happy Hour” so they could flock to Akwa Ibom to enjoy subsidised food and drinks. After all, who doesn’t like better things?

This unexpected shift in Governor Eno’s approach made many wonder about his true intentions and the path his administration would ultimately take. It was later learnt that the funds saved from that budget cut was used in a most “profligate” manner. As part of the programmes to mark the state’s creation, a Made-In-Akwa Ibom Trade Fair was launched at the Ibom E-Library on September 23, 2023. Hundreds of small-scale manufacturers flocked to the E-Library grounds to showcase their products and services.

The governor’s instructions were clear and direct: “I want people to exhibit what we have done in our state—fashion, shoes, and not much of agricultural products because you can go and buy things from anywhere and say it is from your local governments.” Providing more context, he added, “We want to see entrepreneurs come out. If you are an entrepreneur in Akwa Ibom and want to be counted, this fair is for you. That’s where we are going to draw a pool of people that are truly small and medium-scale business entrepreneurs, and we will then begin to work with them.”

And he followed through. A register was opened at the venue of the trade fair, where entrepreneurs registered their companies and were assigned stands to display their products. According to some participants, no one was asked which political party they supported during the last election. No one was questioned about their church or religious beliefs. The only criteria was being Akwa Ibom and having locally manufactured products.

Immediately 400 participants were registered, the management of Ibom Leadership and Entrepreneurial Development Center (IbomLED) organisers of the trade fair closed the register.

The fair was a genuine celebration of local enterprise, bringing together a diverse array of talent and innovation from across the state, united by a common goal of showcasing Akwa Ibom’s entrepreneurial spirit. But that was not all there was to the programme. The government provided a N250 million grant to Ibom-LED for the training and mobilisation of the registered entrepreneurs.

After the first batch of 400 entrepreneurs completed their threemonth training and graduated, the Ibom-LED programme admitted another batch of 400 indigenous entrepreneurs and put them through the same rigorous training for another three months.

The graduation event was a dazzling affair, filled with glitz and glamour. Governor Eno awarded each of the 800 entrepreneurs a grant of N500,000, encouraging them to grow, scale, and create wealth. This initiative, apart from former Governor Victor Attah’s fully-funded scholarships for youths to study abroad in key professional areas, stands out as one of the well-conceived projects in the state’s history. The Ibom-LED capacity-building programme promises not only to transform the landscape of business and entrepreneurship in Akwa Ibom but also to spur manufacturing and improve service delivery.

The excitement and optimism among the graduates were palpable, as they embarked on their entrepreneurial journeys with newfound skills and financial support. The initiative represents a significant step towards fostering a vibrant local economy and empowering the next generation of business leaders in Akwa Ibom. But Governor Eno did something spectacular during the grant award ceremony. Jones Akpan, an entrepreneur with special ability and chief executive officer of Jones Manufacturing, received more than just a handshake from the governor. Mr. Akpan, a bespoke shoe manufacturer, was invited to present one of his products to Governor Eno.

As Mr. Akpan made his way to the front of the Banquet Hall, where the event took place and prepared to hand over the shoes, Governor Eno did the unthinkable. He went down on his knees to be at eye level with Mr. Akpan, gave him a hearty handshake, and accepted the shoes. Then, standing up, he pulled the shoes from their packaging and excitedly showed them to the crowd. He immediately ordered the relevant commissioner to provide Mr. Akpan with a means of mobility and additional funds for his business.

To me, that gesture was a profound display of humility and respect, something that is very rare among leaders in our clime. It underscored the governor’s commitment to inclusivity and support for entrepreneurs, regardless of their physical challenges. However, in a very degrading portrayal of the gesture, many writers chose to underscore Mr. Akpan’s physical disability rather

than highlighting his ingenuity and resilience. One such story was titled “When Pastor Umo Eno Empowered Crawling Jones.” The writer sensationalised Mr. Akpan’s condition in a manner that was clearly humiliating, very disrespectful, and highly insensitive.

By framing the story in a way that demeaned Mr. Akpan, the writer completely missed the essence of the governor’s persona, which embodies empathy, respect, and humility. The act of stooping down to eye level to accept the shoes from Mr. Jones was meant to highlight mutual respect and recognition of talent, irrespective of physical challenges. Unfortunately, the reportage not only undermined this message but also violated the core principles of journalistic ethics, which call for fairness and non-discrimination.

The story should have celebrated Mr. Akpan’s accomplishments and the governor’s sincere support, reflecting the positive impact of their encounter. As journalists, we are bound by the ethics of our profession, which forbid us from discriminating against people. The Code of Ethics of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) clearly states, “A journalist should refrain from making derogatory reference to a person’s ethnic group, religion, sex, or to any physical or mental illness or handicap.”

This principle is further supported by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, to which Nigeria is a signatory.

While the governor is rightly commended for his act of humility and empathy, the writer of the story should acknowledge their mistake and apologise to Mr. Akpan. However, this commentary is not merely about seeking an apology. It is about highlighting the need for responsible journalism that respects the dignity of individuals and upholds ethical standards. Governor Eno’s gesture was a moment to celebrate inclusivity and respect, and it should have been reported as such.

Away from the dent that was brought to the governor’s sincere action by a sensational reporter, a particularly inspiring initiative stands out: the one project per local government area. This initiative embodies a bottom-up development approach that aligns seamlessly with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). What makes this initiative so compelling is the power it gives to the people—the people themselves decide on the project to be undertaken in their area.

By allowing communities to select projects based on their specific needs, the government is fostering sustainable development and ensures active community participation. This method not only meets immediate needs but also strengthens the bond between the government and the people it serves.

In many parts of the state, some of these community-chosen projects have already been inaugurated and are actively benefiting the people. Currently, the government continues to collaborate with local leaders and stakeholders to identify and initiate projects in other council areas, ensuring no community is left behind.

This approach marks a significant departure from the practices of two previous governors, who prioritised the development of their own local government areas before addressing the needs of others—a misapplied concept of “Charity begins at home.” When the resources of an entire state are at stake, charity must encompass the whole state. The one project per local government area initiative is a testament to a more equitable and inclusive approach to governance. It highlights the importance of listening to the people and addressing their needs directly, ensuring that development is not only sustainable but also genuinely beneficial to all.

Curiously, the governor had for a long time been opting for Ibom Air rather than the state-owned private aircraft. This decision puzzled many until the Secretary to the State Government, Enobong Uwa, revealed plans to lease the state-owned jet. The announcement underscored the governor’s commitment to cutting costs and reallocating funds for the state’s development.

During my recent visit to Akwa Ibom State, I had the distinct opportunity to attend a briefing by Governor Umo Eno. It was my first time back at the Government House since 2012, when I was there with a team from Al Jazeera TV English for a documentary. This visit, facilitated by the Daily Trust Foundation, was for a training program for investigative journalists in the South-South region.

At the briefing, I made a strong and urgent appeal to the governor on behalf of the people of seven villages in Ibesikpo Clan. I urged him to reconsider the planned acquisition of 313 hectares of land from our villages. I explained the critical nature of the issue to our community, and the need for immediate and thoughtful attention.

I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the governor for his prompt and considerate response. It is the hallmark of genuine leadership—listening to the people and thoughtfully considering their perspectives. Additionally, I want to thank the Honorable Commissioner for Lands, Captain Iniobong Ekong (Rtd), for his dedicated efforts to resolve the issue amicably.

Over the past year, Akwa Ibom State has experienced significant transformation, inclusive governance, and improved respect for the rule of law. For these and many other reasons, Pastor Eno deserves high commendation. His leadership is not only shaping the future of our state but also ensuring that the voices of its people are heard and respected. This is the kind of governance that builds trust and fosters sustainable development for all.

For those who have never seen me lavish praise on a politician, let me assure you that this is not a case of blind admiration or “praise and worship.” If tomorrow, the governor falters and fails in his duties to the people, he should be ready to receive a stern “love letter,” not just from me but also from many of his admirers who wish him nothing but the best.

Isine is a journalist and public affairs analyst

Eno

Otti’s Redemptive Trajectory

Ebere Wabara

Just one year into his credible administration, Governor Alex Chioma Otti is on the verge of reinventing Abia State after 24 years of fatalistic ruination by three back-to-back (to use a popular football terminology) governors. The profundity of the national and global acclaim for him has an ecology of unprecedented magnitude in Nigeria’s political history amid resounding leadership exemplifications exceeding 85 decibels!

Of especial interest to this writer is the fact that even the opposition are already celebrating this emancipator of our generation fondly called “Chioma Nde Abia”! The former Senate President, Dedem Adolphus Wabara (chairman of the PDP BoT), who I share cousinship with, has astonishingly endorsed Otti for a second term because of his gargantuan accomplishments even before marking one year in office! This is summative of Otti’s redemption profile in Abia.

On the heels of this public acclamation, if it were constitutionally possible, I tell you, Otti would get a third term without asking for it! The well-deserved and overflowing encomia trailing Otti from all parts of the country (and the world) are overwhelming such that multifariously diverse people now believe there had been no semblance of governorship or trace of leadership in the state in the past 24 years preceding May 29, 2023!

The moment Otti, a first-class economist, left Diamond Bank Plc as its third Group Managing Director/CEO to go into governance and public policy, there began a predictable reversal of his superlative accomplishments in the financial institution because of the paternal succession arising from its ownership! From there thence, the bank lost its bearing and was consequently hurriedly acquired by Access Bank Plc thus making it the bank with the largest customer-base in Nigeria simply because of the unsurprising acquisition.

In fact, Otti so transformed Diamond Bank that some people hardly remember the two gentlemen that were there before him—and, of course, the boyish fellow after him! It was such that after the ownership, the next name that supersonically comes to your mind is the multiple award-winning Alex Otti! His bullish scholastic dominance in the academic sphere that made him collect all the awards and prizes on graduation in his UNIPORT days will be a subject for another day! This is why he subscribes to the immutable fact that the key determinants in existentialism are distinctive intellect, professional quintessence and overall diligence—not mechanistic physicality or muscularity—all subsumed in God’s grace!

In 2015, when Otti attempted to liberate Abia State from the forces of darkness, official (state) instrumentalities were recklessly deployed to ensure he did not achieve his long-cherished goal. The moppets succeeded fleetingly in that season of unbridled political rascality. As should be expected, Otti—a long-distance runner--did not give up! Rather, he re-strategised ahead of the 2019 titanic polls in Abia. Again, the political papooses deployed known and unknown apparatuses to put on hold—for the last time—the people’s mandate still held on trust by Otti.

As I had declared before the last election, if Otti did not win, Abia would have been doomed forever. The rest, as they say, is now history. I have the conviction that Otti’s messianic intervention in God’s Own State must have been ordained by the Almighty father to extricate the state from its backwardness engineered by its three successive governors who in the last 24 years before Otti’s emergence callously and irresponsibly ruined the state beyond recognition. The scars are still there for all to see.

Between 1999 and May 2023, Abia was mindlessly subjected to 24 years of massive degradation and totalistic non-development (not underdevelopment) due to poverty of leadership by the three back-to-back governors who were clueless and bereft of what governance and accountability entailed. Not just that, they saw leadership as a public ladder for the acquisition of wealth. Service or transformative ethos was not near their facultative shallowness throughout the 24 locust years such that the state became the least developed in

the country, if not the hemisphere, by all parameters! It must be put on record that while Orji Uzor Kalu tangentially laid the foundation for what was supposed to be one of the leading states in Nigeria, his stooge and successor, Theodore Ahamefule Orji, brazenly uprooted the foundation his political godfather put in place, while the immediate-past governor—yet another crony of Theodore Orji just as he was to Orji Kalu—despicably desecrated whatever marginal and negligible structures his two unimpressive predecessors in office had established. Otti’s candidacy and prospects right from 2015 to 2023, were never doubtful to those who know him deeply on grounds of his scholastic-cum-career excellence and most of the electorate who already knew his profuse and profound pedigree. What was particularly worrisome to me—much later in subsequent campaigns which I shared with him before the last election—was the ghastly and divisive “Ngwa factor” in Abia politics. Before the outcome of the elections, this inexplicable and deleterious element was seemingly a present and clear danger going by electoral antecedents before the emergence of our subject! Astonishingly, Otti declared that it was a mirage! In other words, it did (and does) not really exist except for blackmail essentially. His epochal success last year debunked and demystified the suffocative concept. By his electoral triumphalism, Otti has ended sub-ethno inanities and clannishness in the politics of Abia. Henceforth, there is the assurance that elections in this state will be fair, free, transparent and credible based on Otti’s irreversible 2023 template that should be properly documented officially.

Otti’s interventionist turnaround in the fortunes of Abia is easily appreciated by one and all because of the 24-year degeneracy in the state. There was nothing to applaud or hold on to before the glorious advent of this liberator who almost the entirety of Abians—excluding the vanishing clan of disgruntled nippers—are taking off their hats to the economist reengineering my state in appreciation of his assiduity and manifest attainments within the short time-frame. In the days ahead, there will be more and more accolades coming his way for revolutionizing Abia and restoring it to its numero uno status shortly. In the next three years, Abia, by virtue of Otti’s strides, will flourishingly go atop other states not just in line with its alphabetical supremacy but holistic developmental sovereignty!

At times I wonder why it took almost three decades for a man not driven by official roguishness and kleptomaniac thievishness like Otti to be in the saddle. Here, as we shall read in the next paragraph, is a servant-leader who from the outset understood

the challenges he was going to face and evolved a professorial blueprint on how to grapple with the enormous and daunting tasks ahead long before assuming office after a distinguished career at the apogee of first-tier banking. This is very critical and indispensable to successful and meaningful governance in any polity. In contradistinction, most of our so-called leaders (rulers, most appropriately) grab power at all costs, get to office and suddenly discover that they are empty like bunkums and nods!

Let us extrapolate this presentation with the governor’s justificatory declaration which aptly underscores the preceding submission while giving his inaugural speech: “We have a poorly motivated workforce, extreme youth unemployment, collapsed physical infrastructure, a terribly frail primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare delivery system. These are in addition to a broken educational system, urban waste disposal crisis and a large army of citizens, especially teachers, health workers, including medical doctors and nurses, lecturers in tertiary institutions, local government authority workers and, most painfully, our senior citizens, who feel blatantly betrayed by successive administrations that wilfully and unconscionably abandoned them to live in wretched sub-human conditions.”

It is obvious from the foregoing that the governor understood the challenges ahead and prepared himself to confront the seemingly overwhelming issues of governance that questioned the profile of the state. What are the things that the governor has done so far that have attracted universal commendations which his forerunners in office regrettably never did—all of them put together!

Otti’s superintendence over the state and his concomitant stewardship have hallmarked his commitment to road infrastructure, security, education, health, waste management, commerce and industry, ease of doing business, media engagements and the digitalization of the economy. Where are all those who asininely and mischievously called him “Facebook Governor” during electioneering? I hope they are still alive to see his good works and hear the illimitable applause for him nationwide and globally!

Because of space constraint, let me just briefly encapsulate in nugget-form a few strides of Otti in the past one year beginning with the rehabilitation of 79 roads using direct labour, inauguration of 10 roads with more than 23 others under reconstruction including Port Harcourt road in Aba being handled by Julius Berger Plc.

On security, there is a multi-agency patrol team known as “Operation Crush” that has restored peace ad safety to the state. The hub of kidnapping and other criminalities in Leru-Lomara-Lokpanta-Umunneochi LGA has been uprooted by this anti-crime outfit to the relief and delight of residents and passersby. There are equally the Abia State Security Advisory Council and the Abia State Security Trust Fund to rev the security machinery.

As regards industrialisation, the government in partnership with the private sector has established the Abia Innovation Industrial Park at Owaza envisaged to comprise a modular refinery, a manufacturing plant, an incubation centre and other industrial set-ups to be funded 90 per cent by the private investors. Otti has also provided infrastructural support for Geometrics which guarantees steady power supply in Aba.

Concerning education, the administration is remodeling 13 schools (10 primary and three secondary) per LGA. Teachers’ retirement age has been upped from 60 to 65 years.

On the issue of healthcare, three general hospitals in the three senatorial zones have been up-scaled. In the same breath, plans are afoot to redirect medical tourism traffic from overseas to Abia State via a planned state-of-the-art medical village that will house sophisticated gadgetry.

Wabara (ewabara@yahoo.com/08055001948) writes from Surulere, Lagos.

Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

Mbah Promises Mobile Network for Ugbene Community

in Abuja

Enugu State Governor, Mr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has promised to set up a mobile telecommunication base station in Ugbene Ajima community in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area to save the rural dwellers from dearth of mobile network and address the challenge of insecurity in the area.

The governor gave the assurance during an interactive session with the people of the state on the social media channel, X, to mark his one year in office.

A native of Ugbene Ajima community, Ebuka Michael, had expressed concern over the security of lives and property in rural communities.

He noted that the present efforts

of the state government to improve agriculture and security would be futile if rural communities were left in the lurch, with no access to mobile network.

According to him, since the creation of the community located few co mmunities from Nimbo, it has never had mobile network.

He expressed concern that with the recent attack in Nimbo community by suspected herdsmen, border communities like Ugbene were at risk, a situation worsened by lack of mobile network to coordinate local security efforts.

Michael, explained that lack of mobile network made it difficult to communicate with security agencies to respond to emerging security threats in the area.

He stressed that reported cases of

farmers killed in their farmlands met with no response from security agencies because there was no access to mobile network to alert them of the unfortunate incidents.

He said the community had written series of letters to telecoms providers but they turned deaf ears to the people’s plight.

Mbah, while responding said a base station would be installed in the area to enhance access to mobile network. The governor said, “I have taken note of that. I am going to ensure that action is taken to install a base station around that area, so that there will be network for communities living around that area. I have just taken note of that. I will action that. Thank you for bringing that up.”

In a statement, Chairman, Concerned People of Ugbene Ajima, Tony Eze, told

journalists that the governor had raised the hopes of Ugbene Ajima people, with his promise to install a mobile telecommunications base station in the area.

He described the governor’s intervention as timely, noting that despite the huge agricultural produce of Ugbene community, the area has been robbed of development by unavailable mobile network.

He said the installation of the base station by the Governor would definitely open up the communities for development, jump-start small businesses and as well enhance swift response to emerging local security challenges.

Ugbene Ajima, an agrarian community located 15 kilometers from Nsukka township shares borders with Eziani, Nkpologu, Abbi, Nrobo and Nimbo communities.

Otti

FEATURES

As FX Headwinds, Subscription Fee Issues Take Toll on Multichoice Results

The latest performance report of Multichoice, where it posted losses for the second time may be an eye opener that the company at the centre of a storm in Nigeria over the controversial review of subscription fees is indeed under serious pressure caused by the crisis in the foreign exchange market and other operating challenges, writes Festus Akanbi

For Multichoice, Africa’s leading entertainment company, this is certainly not a time to cheer. This is because its latest financial results have shown that contrary to popular belief, the company is not making enormous profits from its DStv satellite television service. The performance result which was in red confirmed that while the satellite television service contributes significantly to Multichoice’s revenue, the truth is that the company is not solely reliant on it.

MultiChoice reported loss-making for the year ended 31 March 2024 after incurring a net loss of 4.1 billion rand ($225.8 million at current exchange rate). The company recorded a loss for the second year running, its audited accounts released on Wednesday showed.

According to the company, the substantial net foreign exchange translation losses resulted from losses on, “USDdenominated non-quasi equity loans between MultiChoice Africa Holdings B.V. and MultiChoice Nigeria Limited.”

This, it added, “follows the depreciation of the Naira against the Dollar from a closing rate of N464.50 in FY23 to N1 308.00 in FY24.” According to the income statement, revenue dropped 5.9 per cent to 55 billion rands due to a slide in subscription fees.

“The combination of foreign exchange headwinds and a lower subscriber base resulted in a net decline in group revenues of five per cent to ZAR56.0 billion,” MultiChoice said.

Counting the Gains of Diversification

The report showed that general and administrative expenses jumped to 18.4 billion rands from 16.6 billion rands a year earlier after surges in employee costs and software license expenses, weakening operating profit.

The report showed however that Multichoice’s diversification strategy has led to significant growth in other segments, such as Showmax, SuperSportBet, and Moment. These new revenue streams have contributed to the company’s overall performance, offsetting some of the challenges faced by DStv.

According to the financial results, several of the company’s other products and services also performed well. Showmax, in particular, has shown impressive growth, with a successful relaunch across 44 markets in sub-Saharan Africa and a significant increase in active users.

Highlighting the company’s achievements in the face of adversity, Multichoice Group Chief Executive Officer, CEO,

Calvo Mawela, said despite a tough year, the company delivered a trading profit margin of 26 per cent in South Africa and a 48 per cent increase in trading profit in Africa.

“We’ve just published our results for the past financial year, which ended in March 2024. The year has been like no other in terms of economic turmoil, but we showed resilience and navigated significant headwinds – managing our business with focus, dedication, and tenacity,” said Mawela.

Emphasis on Efficiency

He added that the company’s financial results were a testament to its ability to adapt and innovate in a rapidly changing market, noting that the emphasis on efficiency has positioned the company for future growth, despite the challenges faced by its satellite television service.

“KingMakers delivered strong growth in the online business in Nigeria by growing monthly active online users

by 37 per cent and online gross gaming revenues by 26 per cent, year-on-year in constant currency. The business launched BetKing Casino and a virtual football sportsbook service, BetKing FootballGO, in Nigeria and SuperSportBet in South Africa”, the CEO stated.

He continued: “SuperSport continues to bring fans the best of sports from across the globe. In the past year, we broadcast over 34,000 action-packed sports events, more live sports than any other broadcaster in the world. Highlights of the year were the Rugby World Cup, Cricket World Cup, Netball World Cup, FIFA Women’s World Cup, and AFCON.

“Also, SuperSport Schools continues to grow strongly and more than doubled its registered user base during the year. Showcasing South Africa’s talent of the future, the platform displayed 49,000 hours of live programming across 43 different sports, covering 1,100 schools and 14,500 teams.”

Mawela emphasised the company’s commitment to creating authentic African stories. “We are the largest producer of original content on the African continent and remain committed to creating and growing authentic African stories. We produced over 6,500 hours of local content, to bring our local content library to 84,000 hours of content. More than half of our general entertainment budget is spent on local content.”

Commitment to Innovation

With a cost savings target of ZAR2 billion (108.9 million) set for the upcoming year, the company is poised to continue its trajectory of growth and innovation.

“We know that nobody else has the content we have for the customers we serve. This puts us in a great position to prosper – by better understanding our customers’ entertainment choices, identifying their needs, and tapping into the growth opportunities that arise along the way.

“In the year ahead, our focus will be to drive scale in Showmax, Moment, and SuperSportBet and to grow DStv Insurance, DStv Internet, and DStv Stream. We are purposefully pursuing our vision of becoming Africa’s entertainment platform of choice with determination and vigour. Significant progress has been made towards achieving this strategic objective. Our combined efforts will put our business in a strong position to prosper once the macro-economic environment stabilises,” the Multichoice boss assured.

Raw Materials Research and Development Council: Agenda for New DG

Prof. Nnanyelugo Martin Ike-Muonso, a renowned economist and technologist, has assumed office as Director General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) at a time that is, arguably, the most crucial in Nigeria’s history. It is a time the country must move away from the perennial mouthing of economic diversification and the mono-economy it has regrettably relished for decades, and transit from consumption and import-dependency to production and export.

This transition will entail promoting raw material beneficiation and value addition by ensuring that all raw materials intended for export from Nigeria undergo primary processing carried out within Nigeria by facilities approved by RMRDC, and implementation of an import substitution strategy that significantly reduces the country’s dependence on imported raw materials in the manufacturing process.

Ike-Muonso’s appointment, seen in many quarters as being in line with President Bola Tinubu’s effort to fit round pegs into round holes, which is evident in his key appointments into Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to drive his Renewed Hope Agenda, could therefore not have come at a more auspicious time.

With a rock-solid background in social science and technology, specialisation and experience in raw materials marketing, research commercialisation and marketing of industrial chemicals spanning over three decades, Ike-Muonso has come into office fully equipped and aware of the pivotal role RMRDC could play in enhancing the development and optimal utilization of Nigeria’s numerous raw materials for industrial growth, for the purpose of achieving sustainable growth and development for the country.

There can be no quick-fix solutions to Nigeria’s stunted industrial growth. Therefore, Ike-Muonso must begin with strategic goal-setting for the agency by clearly defining the objectives and targets to be achieved, with timelines. The objectives should include, very importantly, achieving global competitiveness in raw materials

development. There are no local standards when it comes to raw materials development and, by extension, products, since the world is a global village.

RMRDC under Ike-Muonso should invest in the level of research and development (R&D) that would enable it to churn out results that are marketable to investors within and outside the country. This would involve research that is aimed at identifying and harnessing raw materials for effective use.

The ability to commercialize the research results of the agency would require synergy between it and the industrial sector by way of collaboration with relevant stakeholders to create actionable plans for raw materials acquisition, exploitation and development. As an economist of international repute, the director general understands this.

The emphasis on a push for commercialisation of research findings should be viewed against the background of the numerous setbacks Nigeria has suffered trying to get on the path of industrialisation, despite being endowed with more mineral and agricultural raw materials than many of the industrialised countries of the world.

One of the reasons Nigerian products are not competitive in the international market is poor quality, apart from issues like packaging and expiration, the latter often attributed to long delays associated with logistical problems and cumbersome processes at the country’s ports. The mandates of RMRDC include development of strategies for value addition to Nigeria’s raw materials and products to attract competitive prices in the global arena. The right research results would lead to higher prices not only for the country’s products, but also in export of raw materials, if not more, especially in areas such as agriculture and mineral resources. It goes without saying that increase in export earnings from products and raw materials would enhance the country’s revenue drive, boost national income and make more money available for developmental purposes in critical areas such as infrastructure, healthcare and education.

Nigeria is the world’s largest producer of cassava. But due to factors that are not unconnected with poor research, the country imports most of its cassava derivatives that are used in the pharmaceutical and confectionary industries. The country’s

failure (or inability, if you like) to add value to its raw materials has resulted in a situation whereby from production of 40 per cent of the world’s palm oil in the 1960s, it accounts for a paltry two per cent today, while Malaysia and Indonesia jointly produce over 80 per cent. It is worthy of mention that Malaysia was one of the countries (the other is Singapore) that took palm fruits from Nigeria in the 1950s to experiment on their growth, on their soil.

There is need for RMRDC to encourage the use of machinery and processes for efficient exploitation and utilization of raw materials. This, it would do, by paying greater attention to, and encouraging R&D that would bring about technological advancement and innovation in the country. This would, in turn, improve the quality of Nigerian products and enhance their competitiveness in the international market. Ike-Muonso’s rich background as a data scientist and analyst in business environment and economic evaluation should be an advantage in this regard.

One of the pitfalls in the country’s quest for industrial growth has been poor policy formulation and implementation. Where you have a well-formulated policy, the challenge may lie in implementation, which is often characterised by inconsistency and policy summersaults. With the commitment and zeal of the Tinubu administration towards economic diversification and industrial growth, RMRDC should strive at all times to come up with potent policies that would compel their implementation.

Ike-Muonso

FEATURES

As Kenya’s Wildlife, Beaches Entice Tourists to Unforgettable Experience

A

team of travel agents from different countries in West

on

a tour

of Kenya,

carrier.

KAfrica recently embarked

courtesy of Asky Airlines and Jambo Jet, Kenya’s low cost

Chinedu Eze who was part of the group writes on his experience

enya is a country in East Africa known for its wild life and endearing beaches. The country is like the Sirens whose enchantment and song you may not resist. It showcases nature. It has in abundance alluring natural endowments and modernity. No wonder it is referred to as Magical Kenya.

It has a population of 47.6 million people, according to the 2019 census. It is a country of friendship and love where visitors are pampered by the hospitality of the citizens whose verve is inimitable.

The trip to Kenya was sponsored by Asky Airlines, a dominant carrier in West and Central Africa in collaboration with Jambo Jet of Kenya, a low cost airline and subsidiary of Kenya Airways. The teams assembled in Lome, the operational hub of Asky Airlines and from there headed to Kenya and landed at the Jomo Kenya International, Nairobi, the country’s capital, after about five hours flight.

The protocol at the airport was top notch as delegation went through Immigration with ease.

The checks were very brief and as we collected our hand luggage from the X-ray machine, we headed outside where Satguru Travels, a travel management company took us to Eka Hotel, a great place with attendants who welcomed us with smiles and friendliness.

After check-in protocol we had our dinner which was very good food made up of intercontinental dishes and some local offerings.

I have to point out that the good manners, the smiles and efficiency exhibited by the hotel were remarkable. That friendliness started at the airport and one could say that workers at the airport and the hotel must have been tutored on etiquette, good conduct and professionalism. Maybe it is because there is tourism culture imbibed by Kenyans, where people come from all over the world to visit and leave with good memories and positivity.

The following morning, we headed to Nairobi National Park for game drives, where we stayed in protected vehicle to watch animals in their natural habitat. The park is located just south of the city. Nairobi National Park is Kenya’s first game reserve and the only protected area in the world that sits so close to a nation’s capital. Visitors to the vast wildlife park are likely to spot black rhinos, lions, giraffe, and zebra, as well as some 400 bird species and we saw many of the animals whose curiosity about the invasion of humans in their domain has ebbed. Our guide acknowledged the story that sometimes lions stray

into the city with its menacing looks and dignifying mane. But concerned authorities have curbed that, admitting that hunger drove them to town as certain period of the season. We saw many giraffes combing acacia trees; whose leaves are their favourite food. Because of their height, they chew the leaves from the top and give them good shapes like florist. The trees look as if they visited a barber. The giraffes sauntered languidly with aura and calm mien unperturbed about the vehicles driving past.

We also saw many ostriches pecking food. When they stretch their long necks, they can see a long distance. Ostriches are the largest and heaviest living birds. They are reputed to have three stomachs and unlike other birds; ostriches secrete urine separately from feces. They are also fast runners, capable of sprinting at over 70kilometer per hour and covering up to five meters in a single stride. Ostrich egg is the largest single cell found on earth. We saw baboons, gazelles, rhinoceros, different birds, monkey and others.

Later our team went to the giraffe centre, where we fed giraffes, as they draw out their long tongues to grab the chalk-shaped substance made, maybe, from acacia leaves. They were calm, unperturbed by our presence. Obviously they are used to humans coming to stare and marvel at their presence.

On the third day we headed to Mombasa, the home of the late Prof. Ali Mazrui, globally known Kenyan academic. We boarded Jambo Jet beautiful Bombardier Dash 8-400 and after about 45 minutes’ flight we arrived at Mombasa airport and we were taken to our hotel, Prideinn Flamingo. The site of the hotel was breath-taking. We became excited and overwhelmed when

we saw the swimming pool, which seemingly kissed the Indian Ocean, safe from some meters away from the Ocean. The hotel was built along the coastline of the Ocean and showcased magnificent ambience with tall cocoanut trees, which seemed like embroidery to the swimming pool and other areas of the hotel.

On the fourth day we headed to the Indian Ocean and boarded a boat that took us to a small island. At a time, Dolphins swam along our boat and created a convivial atmosphere. Mombasa seems to be the gateway to the Indian Ocean that can be accessed from north and south of Mombasa. The city has some of the finest beaches in Africa; endless crescents of silver sand bordered by waving palms and vibrant coastal resorts. Mombasa’s location on the Indian Ocean made it a historical trading centre, and it has been controlled by many countries in the past because of its strategic location.

On the fifth day we went to Bamburi Haller Park, Mombasa where we saw many different animals. It was there we beheld one of the largest tortoise in the world. And this was over 160 years old! It was calm, as all tortoise are. It allowed us to touch the shell and some of us went further to caress the neck, which it responded positively to, as it stretched out the neck fully out of the shell. We also fed giraffe at the park; another exciting experience.

Kenya has 50 national parks and reserves. There are over 43 languages and dialects spoken in Kenya. Kenya is home to some of the world’s best long-distance runners. It also has a part of the Lake Victoria, the world’s second largest freshwater lake that flows through Kenya. Kenya is named after Mountain Kenya, the tallest mountain in the country and the second-highest in Africa, after Kilimanjaro. Between 1920 and 1963, Kenya was a colony of the United Kingdom.

As icing on the cake, we travelled back to Nairobi and had lunch at Mama Ashanti who gave us nostalgic home cuisine. They offer all Nigerian and Ghanaian dishes and more. We enjoyed the sumptuous meals, which reminded us of home, as we set off to return home the following day. That trip confirmed that Africa is a unique continent. Every country in the region has something distinct to offer the world. Why travel to other parts for the world when Africa has so much to showcase, from country to country and above all; whenever you travel to any part of Africa south of Sahara, you feel you are home.

Kenya is a beautiful country, which has cultivated tourism culture. They have so much to offer the world. And so is Nigeria; whenever we wake to take advantage of our unlimited tourism sites both natural and man-made attractions.

Citing Cultural Differences, Economic Exploitation, Others, Ohoba Rejects Inclusion in Proposed Orlu State

The people of Ohoba, an oil producing community in the Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State have decried the purported plan to include the community in the proposed Orlu State, insisting that they would remain in the present Imo State.

The community specifically rejected their inclusion into the so-called Orlu State due to the cultural and linguistic differences between them and Orlu, saying the plan to force the community into Orlu was an attempt to further neglect, marginalise and exploit them economically.

The community expressed their rejection in a statement jointly signed by its leaders which include co-administrator, Ohoba Parliament, a community think-tank made of indigenes at home and in the diaspora, Nwakaego Obed; President General of Ohoba Autonomous Community, Mr. Emeka Ochasi and Ohoba Youth President, Mr. Nnamdi Odikanwa.

They explained that their refusal to be part of the proposed Orlu State aligned with the position of their neighbouring communities -Awarra, Ochia, Assa, and Obile, which have also refused being included in the proposed state.

They people further argued that being included in the Orlu State would worsen the

current lack of representation and marginalisation of Ohoba in terms of political representation and decision-making processes.

The statement reads, “We hereby write to you on behalf of the youth of Ohoba Autonomous Community, a vibrant and ancient community located in the heart of Imo State. We have read with great concern the justifiable sentiments expressed by our neighbouring communities, Awarra, Ochia, Assa, and Obile, regarding their refusal to be included in the proposed Orlu State.

“We stand in solidarity with them and wish to echo their sentiments, as we too have our own reasons why Ohoba Autonomous Community cannot and will never be a part of the proposed Orlu State.

“Cultural and Linguistic Differences:

Ohoba Autonomous Community, like our neighbouring communities, has a rich cultural heritage and a unique language that sets us apart from the people of Orlu. Our traditions, customs, and way of life are deeply rooted in our history and identity, and we cannot imagine being forced into a marriage with a group of people who do not understand or appreciate our culture.”

The people posited that just like Awarra, Ochia, Assa, and Obile, Ohoba Autonomous Community has also suffered from neglect

and marginalisation at the hands of the current political leadership in Imo State.

They noted that despite being a small community, they have valuable resources that have been exploited for the benefit of others while they continue to live in poverty and underdevelopment.

They added that they have not witnessed any meaningful developmental projects in the community, insisting on their refusal to be further marginalised by being included in a state that does not have their best interests at heart.

In the area of representation as seen in their neighbouring communities, the concerned community leaders lamented their marginalisation in terms of political representation and decision-making processes.

They pointed out that Ohoba has not been given a voice in the affairs of Imo State, which according to them, raised the fear that being included in the proposed Orlu State would only serve to further silence their voices and disenfranchise their people.

The statement further reads, “We demand to be heard and represented in a State that values and respects our unique identity and interests.

“Economic Exploitation

Just like Awarra, Ochia, Assa, and Obile, Ohoba Autonomous Community has been exploited for its resources without receiving any benefits or compensation in return. Our community has been home to various industries and companies that have profited from our land, while our people continue to suffer from lack of basic infrastructure and services.

“We refuse to be further exploited and will not stand for our resources being used to enrich others at the expense of our well-being.”

In conclusion, the youth of Ohoba Autonomous Community expressed their resolve to stand united with their neighbouring communities in rejecting the proposed inclusion in the Orlu State.

“We demand to be heard, respected, and given the opportunity to determine our own future and destiny. We refuse to be forced into a marriage that goes against our values, identity, and interests. We urge the Federal House of Representatives to respect our decision and exclude Ohoba Autonomous Community from the proposed Orlu State”, they added.

Peter Uzoho

Makinde and Oyo State’s Changing Fortune

Kemi Olaitan writes that Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has continued in the drive to enhance infrastructural development in the pace setter state

That Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has continued to be the poster boy of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South West region by endearing himself to the people of the pacesetter state due to the massive development that the state has witnessed since he assumed office in May 29, 2019, can only be an understatement.

Makinde at his inauguration had assured the citizen that he was going to move the state from the level that it had found itself as a result of misrule by past administrations, to one that would be respected among the comity of states in the country in terms of provisions of necessary infrastructure.

To many skeptics this can only be realisable in the realm of dreams. However, five years into the life of his administration, Makinde who was elected for second term last year has continued to fulfil his promises not only in Ibadan, the state capital, but also in virtually all the major cities in the state such as Iseyin and Saki in Oke Ogun area of the state, Ogbomoso and Oyo.

While the governor has always insisted on being remembered for institution building and quality human capital development, what is not in doubt is that since his assumption of office, his administration has decided to confront the challenges of infrastructure frontally by summoning the courage to do what the past governments failed to achieve, thereby changing the fortune of the state for the better.

Indeed, five years down the line the Makinde’s administration can be termed to be on auto pilot drive from road infrastructure, agribusiness, human capital development, provision of conducive environment for businesses to thrive, provision of power, and to improvement in technology to drive industrialisation.

Some of the legacy projects so far constructed by the administration include the Moniya/Iseyin 65 km road, which though is in its fourth year, is devoid of potholes; the massive Ring Road aimed to save travellers’ travel time has been receiving accolades from the people of Oke Ogun area of the state.

There is also the Oyo/Iseyin road, which leads directly to the Fasola Farm, which was inaugurated by the former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo.

Then there is the 76.67km Iseyin-Fapote-Ogbomoso Road named Adebayo Alao-Akala Memorial Highway in honour of a former governor of the state, Otunba Adebayo AlaoAkala and inaugurated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the ceremony, while speaking on the project, said posterity would be kind to the governor for building such a huge legacy project that connects communities in Oyo State, opens the state to economic opportunities and also links the state to a major geopolitical zone of the country.

He added, “In governance, we must know that it is the convergence of many parts that forms a cohesive whole. A nation can only thrive when each state builds essential infrastructure to facilitate our daily lives. So, I want to appreciate Governor Makinde, on behalf of the President, for not only being a collaborative partner but for also erecting such a capital project. “Today, we gather to celebrate a tradition of excellence for which Oyo State is known. Governor Makinde has exemplified that well-constructed networks of road serve as the gateway to the economy of the nation.

“The 76.67km Alao Akala Memorial Highway, which we are here to commission, connects communities within the state and also serves as a vital link to another geo-political zone in our nation. This project will activate the economy of the surroundings by linking producers to markets, workers to job opportunities and students to schools.

“I salute the governor for his dedication to leaving behind a legacy project. My brother, posterity will be kind to you.”

The inauguration of the road infrastructure that Makinde is putting in place is the 110 km Ibadan Circular Road which consists carriageways, eight lanes, seven bridges, five interchanges and 29 box culverts.

The project was started by the administration of late Alhaji Lam Adesina when he was Governor of the State, between 2005 and 2008, and was further re-designed by Governor Rasheed Ladoja. Similarly, other governors – Adebayo AlaoAkala and Senator Abiola Ajimobi - both of whom are late, also tinkered with the road.

The plan is to encircle Ibadan city around four sections –South East (32.2km), North East (20km) North West (33 km), and South West (24 km), and thus link the road to the Ibadan Ife Expressway, the Moniya Train Station, the Oluyole Free Trade Zone, and connect motorists to Ile Ife without passing through the notorious Iwo Road, reduce travel time thereby and make it easier to and from Lagos, by easing age-long traffic jam.

Makinde, while speaking on the road which 32.2 km stretch has been completed by his administration by March, 2024, had said, “I didn’t start this road as I met the design, but as an engineer, I am determined to deliver it. My administration may

not be able to take it all the way down to the entire stretch of 110 kilometres, but we will do at least about 75 kms of it and whoever succeeds me, can complete the remaining 35 to 40 kms.”

What is common to the road projects is that they were constructed to opened up the State and also linked major towns.

One other area that political observers in the pace setter state could say that Makinde has deliberately decided to give special attention is agriculture.

The flagship of this interest in agriculture is the expansive farm called Fasola Agribusiness Hub, Oyo, located along the Oyo/ Iseyin road, which the administration constructed.

According to the Executive Adviser to the Governor on Agribusiness, Dr. Debo Akande, no single kobo of the state government was in the project but that the government only made available the enabling environment and infrastructure.

Inside the Farm Settlement established by the late sage and Premier of the Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo in the 1950s covering over 1,000 hectares of land and with about 10 agri-investor companies planting all kinds of agricultural produce are all kinds of activities from tomato nursery down to a ranch where there are fat cows feeding on lush green grass.

L-R: President of the International Basketball Federation, Africa Zone3, Col. Sam Amedu; President, Ni-ladele Odunlami;Category Manager, Beverages Nestle Milo, Ifeanyichukwu Orabuche;Executive Secretary, National Collegiate Sports Fouundation (NCSF), Mr. Lanre Balogun; and Head of Special Education Unit, SUBEB,Twins Hilda, at a press conference to announce the 24th edition of Milo School Basketball Championship Final in Lagos recently ETOP UKUTT

Cross section of members of West Africa Tourism Organisation (WATO) during a FAM trip to Benin Republic recently.

L-R: President ARSO, professor. Alexander Don; Representative of minister of Trade and investment, permanent secretary, Mr. Nura Rimi; Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke; secretary general of ARSO, Dr. Hermoghene Nsengimana; during the African Standard Organisations (ARSO) 30th general assembly conference in Abuja.. Yesterday KINGSLEY ADEBOYE

L-R: Project Manager, Cavalli Group, Pierro Mjally; Group Managing Director, Cavalli Group, Emmanuel Odemayowa; Managing Director, Expert Bridge, Segun Lawal; and Chief Operations Officer, Global Property Partners (a member of Cavalli Group) Laolu Oluwarinde,, during the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of The Bellagio Lagos, a luxurious high-rise residential facility on Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos….. recently.

Makinde

POLITY

When Nwobodo, Chime, Enugu Elders Unveiled Mbah’s One-year Scorecard

After one year in office, Enugu elders and stakeholders rated Governor Peter Mbah high on his campaign promises writes Gideon Arinze

Apart from Governor Peter Mbah’s inauguration on 29th May 2023, the May 29th 2024 luncheon at the Old Government Lodge was no doubt the biggest gathering of Enugu fathers, elders and stakeholders in the last year.

Under Mbah’s leadership, ceremonies, if any, are very few and far between as the governor has focused on the arduous task of reinventing the state and actualising the ambitious vision and targets he set for himself: grow Enugu State’s economy from $4.4bn to $30bn; achieve zero per cent poverty headcount index; build 10,000km of road in four to eight years; restore potable water to Enugu city in 180 days; and make Enugu the premier destination for business, investment, tourism, and living, among others.

The 29th May celebration was lowkey as the governor simply delivered a 48-minute first-anniversary broadcast where he rendered an account of his stewardship in his first 365 days in office.

The account covered various sectors from security to water, education, roads, health, agriculture, power, judiciary, transportation, and important issues like waste management, human capital development, workers’ welfare, climate change, revival of moribund assets, and assets recovery, among others.

However, before he went around the city to inaugurate some of the 71 urban roads constructed or reconstructed by his administration, Mbah hosted Enugu elders, political leaders, traditional institutions, the civil society, the women, youth, etc. to a luncheon, which became an opportunity for them to x-ray the one year of his leadership.

At the event were the former governor of old Anambra State, Senator Jim Nwobodo; governor of Enugu State, Sullivan Chime; former governor, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; Speaker of Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Ugwu; incumbent and former Principal officers and Members of the National Assembly and State Assembly, and various notable political leaders.

Chime said Mbah has turned Enugu into a construction site, while water was no longer a source of high blood pressure for him and most residents.

“I am thanking the governor and his team for what they have been able to do so far. Personally, in my house, I have a tanker that I use to buy water. My tanker was using 400 litres of diesel. My blood pressure used to rise each time they wanted to buy diesel that they would use to bring water. But we now have water.

“So, all these things that are impactful in the lives of the people. The problem we have as a people is that we always forget where we are coming from. But I assure you that by 2027, His Excellency will not need to campaign for his second term. It happened during our time. In 2011, the people we didn’t even know were campaigning for us and it will happen again for Mbah,” he stated.

Citing personal experience, Chime, however, reminded the governor that criticisms would always come from both genuine naysayers and political mischief makers, but assured him that the same people would still turn around to sing his praise at the end of the day.

“You all would remember when we were in government, the criticisms, and the shouts. Anytime we wanted to embark on

development, they would start negative talks.“When we entered Polo Park Mall to develop it, there was no kind of abuse I didn’t get. A reverend priest used my name for a mass sermon. There was nothing he didn’t call me. He said I was collecting a source of survival from the poor. Nobody knew what the government was about to do. But when it came up, the whole mouths that said bad things started saying good things about me.

“About the same time when we wanted to develop Coal City Garden, an elder statesman from this state addressed a world press conference castigating me and my government. There was nothing they didn’t call me. But when the estate came up, all those people who said bad things about me started saying good things.

“When we also wanted to build the new state secretariat, we had to bring down the old structures that were not functional. We were lucky social media was not as powerful as it is now. But the words going around was that I started the project to move out with billions of Naira from the state coffers. But when we finished it, the same naysayers started saying good things again.

“I am not in government, but we are interested in what is happening. Each time we see what they are pushing on social media about demolitions, we ask questions and they tell us what’s happening. I tell them that I don’t think this government has gone astray yet. They are doing as expected.

“When I started seeing and hearing about demolitions, I told myself that it seems like the government is back; a government that wants to work is back because overseas when we went to South Korea in 2011, the government was destroying old structures and rebuilding them into something new and presentable.

“So, I am pleading with everyone to continue to support this administration. Let’s give them time so they will be able to achieve all the great things they have started. It’s not even easy to achieve this great one they achieved in just one year. Mbah is working. I can’t go through all the projects they have embarked on or are embarking on. But as somebody rightly pointed out, what is visible to all is that Enugu is now a huge construction site,” Chime added.

Corroborating Chime, Nwobodo, said Mbah has exceeded expectations, given successes recorded in just one year despite a cash crunch in the country.

Nwobodo, who frowned at endless opposition in the state and attempts to twist Mbah’s good intentions and works, however, urged the governor to get useful feedback from those unrepentantly opposed to him, while also remaining focused on his vision. He said the governor’s works speak for him.

“Someone came to my house to complain to me that they have finished demolishing Gariki Motor Park; and that I should speak to him (Mbah). I asked him why would I speak to him. If it is the governor then he means well. It means he is building something more modern, viable, and befitting.

“I am urging you to be patient and remain focused. Good things don’t come easy. Anything good takes time to manifest. No matter what you do, people will talk.

“I know what he can do. With what he has done in just one year, I am sure that by this time next year, everyone will be asking when he is going back for a second term,” the elder statesman said.

Nwobodo urged the people of the state to keep supporting the governor as he pilots the state to greater heights.

Education for All: Addressing Africa’s Urgent Educational Challenges

Africa, home to over 1.3 billion people is a continent rich in diversity, culture and potential. Yet, it faces significant challenges particularly in the education sector.

According to UNESCO, globally 16 per cent of children and youth (covering primary to upper secondary) are not attending schools.

Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for close to 30 per cent of all out-of-school children globally. Although huge progress has been made in the last 20 years on access to school, the region unfortunately remains the worst performing globally on learning, with nine out of ten 10 children unable to read with understanding and do basic Mathematics by age 10 (World Bank, 2022). Furthermore, the continent’s education system is marked by severe disparities: girls are 1.5 times more likely to be excluded from primary education compared to boys, and children in rural areas are twice as likely to be out of school as those in urban areas.

This educational crisis has far-reaching implications. Limited access to quality education

perpetuates cycles of poverty, restricts economic growth, and undermines social stability. The consequences are particularly unfavourable for vulnerable populations, including girls, children with disabilities, and those living in conflict zones. With the continent’s youth population expected to constitute 42 per cent of global youth, the urgency to address these educational gaps has never been greater.

Every year, on June 16th, the world observes the international day of the African Child, a reminder of the 1976 Soweto Uprising, where thousands of black school children in South Africa protested against the inferior quality of their education and demanded their right to be taught in their own language. This day not only commemorates those who lost their lives but also serves as a call to action for advancing the rights of African children.

In 2024, the theme, ‘Education for all children in Africa: the time is now’, and declaration as the African Union ‘Year of Education’, underscores an urgent imperative to address the systemic barriers that continue to impede universal access to quality educa-

On his part, the Member representing Nkanu East/Nkanu West Federal Constituency, Hon. Nnoli Nnaji, said Mbah had made the state proud by setting the pace in many respects.

“He said he would restore water in Enugu city in 180 days, but very few people believed him,”. “Those of us who were familiar with what he did in the oil and gas sector with Pinnacle had no reason to doubt it. He delivered more than enough water. He got the 9th Mile 24/7 Water Scheme and about 4.4-megawatt gas plant done in less than 180 days. I don’t know any other place where water production has been raised from 2 million to 120 million litres per day in just six months. We can see how he is tackling the issues of reticulation and expansion, changing asbestos pipes laid by colonial masters and Michael Okpara to ductile iron pipes,”.

“Mbah was not governor at the time the 2023 constitution amendment was signed into law by the former President to devolve power from the Exclusive to the Concurrent List to enable the states to participate in the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity. However, once he came on board, he initiated the Enugu State Electricity Law and set up the Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission to position the state to benefit from investments in the power sector. Enugu became the first state in Nigeria’s history to be handed the regulatory and oversight power of its electricity sector by the National Electricity Commission, NERC.

“The redundant assets are also coming back to life – the Hotel Presidential, the Nigergas Company, the International Conference Centre, and only recently, he got investors to invest in the United Palm Products Limited. It was a whooping N100bn deal.

tion across the continent which would require collaborative interventions from government and private stakeholders.

Oando Foundation, an independent charity established to support the Nigerian government in achieving its Universal Basic Education goal, through its earlier AdoptA-School strategy has increased access and improved quality of basic education delivery in 88 adopted schools across 23 states in Nigeria, deploying a multifaceted approach that targeted education infrastructure, scholarships, in-depth teacher support and learning innovation, which transformed learning outcomes for pupils and delivered basic education dividends at community level.

Over a decade, the Foundation educated over one million indigent and vulnerable children across economically marginalised communities, implementing 172 education-focused projects in 93 communities.

Now saddled with the prevailing magnitude of learning crisis in Sub-Saharan African, including Nigeria, that requires urgent action at scale to ensure children achieve foundational

learning skills. Also reckoning that Africa’s ability to capitalise on the prosperity embedded in its people and potential to build resilience to new threats like climate change, is deeply dependent on its ability to harness its youth dividend through focused investments in human capital, starting at the early years as a critical foundation; Oando Foundation launched its new strategy, LEARNOVATE. The new strategy prioritises innovation and investments in foundational learning that creates better life opportunities for children and youth through equitable, quality, and climate-sensitive education. With a specific focus on foundational literacy and numeracy skills mastery, green skills development, and sector thought leadership, the program objectives align closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for quality education, affordable and clean energy, climate action, as well as industry innovation and infrastructure.

UNESCO has defined literacy as the capacity to recognise, understand, interpret, produce, communicate, compute, and use printed materials related to various contexts. (UNESCO, 2006), and numeracy includes the capacity to apply mathematical knowledge and abilities to resolve issues and fulfill daily needs in challenging social contexts.

Mbah

Tonia Uduimoh

R.T. Briscoe Motors to Open CNG Autogas Vehicle Conversion Centres Nationwide

RT. Briscoe Plc, Motors Division has set up conversion centres that will make it possible for vehicles using petrol to switch to Compressed Natural Gas, (CNG).

The CNG conversion kits are manufactured in Europe and with one of the best global rating standards while RT. Briscoe Plc, automotive division has a well trained technical and professional team that can handle the installation.

This is a strategic move to align with the ongoing Presidential initiative on Compressed Natural Gas programme (Pi-CNG), lower the cost of both instiincluding individual vehicle buyers,

The Group Managing Director of RT Briscoe, Seyi Onajide, who stated this during an interactive session with journalists in Lagos, said the automo- tive division of the conglomerate has decided to set up a Compressed Natural Gas (LPG) conversion facility in line with the Federal Government’s CNG initiative (Pi-CNG).

“We started the conversion of petrol or diesel engine cars into CNG and LPG without government funding. and we believe it is the future. We have successfully done that on some

Pick-up vehicles.”

He said the company has submitted a proposal to the Presidential CNG committee, stating, “They invited us to participate in the CNG initiative. We believe that the average vehicle owner in Nigeria and even commuters can

for the motoring public.”

However, Onajide said the initiative could be impeded by the non-availability there are about three in Lagos, which is why the need for an hybrid model.

To kick-start the project, he said, RT Briscoe Plc has approached some

in their premises.

stations are readily available, CNG would be limited to big organisations that can house and store their gas. Highpoint of the event was the inspection and vehicle already running on petrol, but also converted to run on compressed natural gas.

RT Briscoe Plc is engaged in the sales and servicing of Toyota vehicles, technical services, material handling and property development and management.

media briefing in Lagos… recently

(Pi-CNG) is a component of the pal- liative intervention of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration directed at providing succor to the masses occasioned by the transitive hardships of the fuel subsidy removal policy of the Federal Government of Nigeria.

With a projected $2.5 billion invest- ment by 2027, the Presidential CNG towards a sustainable and prosperous future, where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive. “This journey towards a sustainable and prosperous future, collaboration is key.

Carloha Delights Car Lovers With Display of Chery’s Latest Models at Circle Mall, Lagos

Chery’s latest models, the Tiggo 8 Pro, Tiggo 4 Pro, and Tiggo 2 Pro were on display, in all their elegance, at the Circle Mall, Lekki, Lagos from June 15 to 18, 2024.

This special display was conceived by Carloha Nigeria, the sole importer and assembler of Chery vehicles in Nigeria, to celebrate Guardian to appreciating the love, care, and support parents provide their children.

for its blend of cutting-edge technology, sleek design, and unparalleled performance, promising to captivate the Nigerian market.

As part of the celebration, Carloha Nigeria

Throughout June, customers can make a down payment of just N5 million on any Chery vehicle and enjoy a special 5% discount. This initiative is part of Carloha Nigeria’s commitment to making luxury and quality vehicles more accessible to the Nigerian public.

To further enhance the customer experience,

warranty or 200,000 kilometers, whichever

knowing their investment is well-protected. Tiggo 4, and Tiggo 2, will exceed expectations

and set new standards in the Nigerian automotive market,” said the Sales and Marketing Director for Carloha Nigeria, Mr. Joseph Omokhapue. He further stated that “Guardian Day is a wonderful opportunity to honour the

values of care and support, which resonate deeply with Chery’s commitment to our customers.

service packages, visitors to the Chery display at Circle Mall were delighted with luxurious Chery-branded gift items, adding an extra layer of elegance, appreciation, and engagement for attendees.

The showcased models – the Tiggo 8 Pro, innovative design, advanced technology, and superior performance. These vehicles are tailored to meet the diverse needs of Nigerian and durability.

Carloha Nigeria’s presence at Circle Mall not only highlighted the brand’s impressive lineup but also reinforced its commitment to fostering strong relationships with customers through value-added services and customercentric promotions.

The event at Circle Mall was a resounding success, drawing large crowds and generating dedicated to providing exceptional value and service, continuing to drive forward the standard of automotive excellence in Nigeria,

TNL to Host Toyota Motor

Toyota (Nigeria) Limited (TNL) has concluded plans to host a special Motor Show in Lagos in a bid to provide an enabling environment where customers and prospects can interact closely with their vehicles and also be more informed about the company’s after sales services/products vis body and paints and allied products, vehicle service and spare parts.

The Motor Show, it said, would feature test as well as a full complement of after-sales services on the ground for customers to take advantage of.

be on the ground to meet with customers and prospective customers.

Holding from Thursday, June 27 to Saturday, June 29, 2024, at The Podium in Lekki, Lagos, the event is scheduled to be held from 10 am to 7pm daily.

According to the company, the event will

Show

customers and “provide an enabling environment for our customers to touch and feel our array of wonders on wheels.

“We want our customers to take advantage of the interior of your vehicle and the body to look good as new. Body and paint products and spare parts will also be on sale. Special service package opportunity is part of the deal.”

The company advised motorists to visit the Motor Show and take advantage of the huge discounts on vehicle purchase and servicing of their vehicles, which would be applied immediately or locked in to be redeemed later.

Some of the Toyota models being distributed by Toyota (Nigeria) Limited and would also be on display at the Show are Belta, Starlet, Rumion, Corolla, Camry, Corolla Cross, Hiace bus, Hiace Ambulance, Coaster, Hilux ( Prerunner), Hilux with canopy, other Hilux options, Prado TX and LC 300 VX Turbo.

Chery latest models on display at Circle Mall in Lekki, Lagos… recently

R-L: GMD/CEO, R.T.Briscoe Plc, Seyi Onajide; ED Operations, Dr Olorunfemi Eguaikhide; Group Finance Director, Jubril Shittu; and Head of Business, Briscoe Material Handling and Equipment, Titilola Sodipo during a

GLOBAL SOCCER

Evelyn Ijeh From Falcons Hopeful to Scandinavian Queen?

When in 2021,Evelyn,daughter of former Nigeria international,Peter Ijeh,and her sister, Josephine joined the Super Falcons’training camp inAustria,ahead of theAisha Buhari Cup,it was seen as a quality addition to the senior female national team of 11-timeAfrican champions.However,three years down the line,theAC Milan attacker has joined the Swedish team in preparation for the summer Olympic Games

Ahead of the Aisha Buhari Cup in 2021, Super Falcons coach, Randy Waldrum handed an invitation to then 19-year-old Evelyn Ijeh, in which she expressed her delight at having a chance to represent Nigeria, insisting that it was “always nice” to be around people with similarities.

Ijeh trained with the 11-time African Champions in their eight-day training camp in Vienna, Austria, after she was handed, a surprise call up alongside her younger sibling Josephine.

The former BK Hacken forward said then that there was this special aura of feeling welcomed when you are among people of same ideologies.

“It’s always nice to be with your own kind of people sometimes,” Ijeh had said.

“The Swedish national team is where you meet people that you speak the same language but I think Nigeria is more like you actually have some similarities due to the fact that both of my parents are from Africa.

“So, it is more like you come to the Nigerian national team and everybody is the same and are similar to you.

“It’s been nice coming to an environment where everybody talks and there are so much positive energy like everyone is into this and gives 100%,” she had added.

Evelyn had described the invitation to the Super Falcons as an exciting feeling which was unbelievable at first, when she was hinted.

“It was actually really fun to see the

invitation because my dad told us we might get invited and when we got the ticket and everything was set, we were like, oh, we’re actually going to the national team so it was really an exciting feeling.”

Now 22, Evelyn has received her first-ever call-up to Sweden’s national team ahead of 2025 European Championship qualifying matches against France and England.

Evelyn Ijeh is one of the two new faces manager Peter Gerhardsson has picked in his squad list announced on Wednesday, the other being Häcken’s Felicia Schröder.

Gerhardsson highlighted that the SwedishNigerian forward has earned her first senior call-up on the back of her impressive performances for the U23 national team and AC Milan.

In the past season, she scored three goals in 12 appearances in the Serie A Women. is already provisionally cap-tied to Sweden after playing competitive matches for their U17 and U19 national teams.

Playing in the matches against France on July 12 or England on July 16 will make the 22-year-old Malmo native cap-tied to her country of birth, Sweden.

Her father and former Super Eagles striker, elated Peter made this known on his Facebook page. The post reads, “Evelyn Ijeh invited to the Swedish Senior National Team to camp in Portugal . What Jehovah Cannot Do does nott exist @Coach Peter Ijeh. Meanwhile, Peter had earlier expressed his satisfaction when his two daughters Evelyn and Josephine were invited to the Super Falcons in 2021.

“I never anticipated that my two daughters will get invited into the Super Falcons squad at the same time. I was thinking it’s going to be one at a time. It is good it happened at the same time because they have been together right from childhood. They can look after each other. It’s a welcome development as both of them were invited at the same time,” he had said.

The retired striker, known as the Scandinavian King during his playing days, added that his daughters shared similar potential with him.

He said, “Both had my similarities because I am both footed. I can use my left and right foot very well. They can also do the same thing. I can shoot and score from any distance and they also possess that as well. They have their future around them because they possess the potential that can be groomed into something great.”

Ijeh started playing at the age of nine in IFK Gothenburg until she clocked 17 years old and moved to Kopparberg Gothenburg FC.

“At 17 I was already in the Swedish National Team and played the Women’s Champions League at 18 years old”.

She said her dad played a major role in her career.

“My dad has had a big influence on my career, merely watching him play when I was a kid motivated me to play football, and as time flew he guided me through everything from playing as a goalie to playing as a striker now.

I can boldly say that I have inherited some of his skills such as scoring goals, dribbling,

and using both feet.”

“My first encounter with football was when I was six years old. My father used to bundle us to stadium at Norway when he played for Viking. Whenever he scored and everyone screamed his name, I felt it in my spine and since then I wanted to experience that too,” recounts Evelyn.

On why she opted to play for Sweden as against wearing the green-white-green colours of Nigeria, she has this to say,

“My father came to Sweden as a young man and I was born and bred here. We are conscious of our Nigerian root because my dad is always talking about it. The opportunity here is good and my family think I should take it and see how it goes. I still have a long way to go and a lot of hard work to put into my games.

We had a long discussion about this and we all feel it is the best for me now to take the opportunity. I am conversant with the style of play in Sweden and there is still so much to learn

She howe ver advise would be female footballer to believe in themselves, set up goals and give 100 per cent in games and training.

Evelyn Ijeh in action for AC Milan against Juventus

Evelyn Ijeh and sister, Josephine

NPFL

Super Eagles Invitation, an Incentive for Home-based Players, Says Taju Disu

Kunle Adewale

Defunct Abiola Babes FC of Abeokuta former captain, Tajudeen Disu has stated that the invitation of three players from the Nigerian Premier Football League, NPFL for the double header World Cup qualifier matches against South Africa and Benin Republic is a great incentive for players in the local league.

According to the former Nigeria International, “when these home-based players know that if they play well in the league there is a chance for them in the national team they will always put in their best, which invariably will improve the standard of the league.

“Playing for the national team is always the dream of every player and the Super Eagles should never be the exclusivity of foreign-based players. The moment a local

player realises that if he plays well there is room for him to play for the national team, then he brings his A-game on a weekly basis,” Disu noted.

Meanwhile, new Super Eagles invitee, Sodiq Ismail, has expressed his gratitude for his first call-up to the Nigerian senior football team.

Ismail, capable of playing at right-back and right wing-back, recorded 18 assists in the NPFL last year, and this season, has

Enugu Rangers NPFL Title Presentation to Air Live on StarTimes

In a momentous turn of events for Nigerian football enthusiasts, StarTimes has announced that they will broadcast the NPFL title presentation live on their Beta Sports channel 244.

This marks a significant milestone, as it’s the first time in several years that the trophy ceremony will be beamed directly into living rooms across the nation.

On Sunday, June 23rd, all eyes will be in Jos, where the newly crowned champions, Enugu Rangers, will take center stage. The match against Gombe United serves as a fitting backdrop for the grand celebration.

Kickoff is scheduled for 3:00 pm, and fans can expect an electrifying atmosphere as Enugu Rangers officially claim their championship trophy.

GLOBAL SOCCER

ASSISTANT EDITOR

KUNLE ADEWALE

THISDAY ON SATURDAY EDITOR

OBINNA CHIMA

DEPUTY EDITOR

AHAMIEFULA OGBU

THISDAY NEWSPAPERS

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN

NDUKA OBAIGBENA

MANAGING DIRECTOR

ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR

ISRAEL IWEGBU

Enugu Rangers have been nothing short of exceptional this season. Their journey to the top of the NPFL table has been marked by flair, determination, and a relentless pursuit of victory. With the most goals scored in the league, they’ve dazzled fans with their attacking prowess. Now, as they prepare to lift the coveted trophy, their achievement resonates throughout Nigerian football history.

“StarTimes’ commitment to broadcasting NPFL matches has breathed new life into the league. After a hiatus, our live coverage has reconnected fans with the excitement of Nigerian football. Beta Sports channel 244 has become the go-to destination for passionate supporters, allowing them to follow every twist and turn of the NPFL season,” Lazarus Ibeabuchi, PR Manager, StarTimes Nigeria said.

Will Elegbeleye Borrow a Leaf from Premier League?

Kunle Adewale

Two weeks after the conclusion of the 2023-2024 League season, the organisers announced the date for the release of the 2024-2024 season, which was fixed for June 18. True to type, the fixtures for the new season were announced in the morning of the date promised and come August 17, the world will start enjoying the Premier League and its unpredictability.

Unlike the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, that is always characterised by several postponements. The kick start of the just concluded 2023-2024 NPFL season was postponed three times before it got started.

If that was not bad enough, the league was put on hold for one month to allow Rivers United catch up with the number of games other teams have played because they were involved in continental engagement as if this is the first time a team is representing Nigeria in the continent.

Maybe, the NPFL Management Committee Board headed by Gbenga Elegbeleye should try and meet with the Premier League Chief Executive and Director, Richard Masters on why the English league always start on schedule.

Maybe somebody should remind Elegbeleye and his cohorts how many teams represented England in Europe and how far some of the clubs went, yet the Premier League was not put on hold.

In releasing the Premier League fixtures, all details were addressed-the kick off date, how many weekends and mid-week round of matches to be played, Bank Holiday Matchweek and even date for the last matches of the season.

God forbid, except for natural occurrence like earthquake, volcanic eruption and the likes in England, the Premier League will start and end as scheduled.

Elegbeleye and his board should please take a cue from the Premier League. It’s not rocket science.

registered 13, the most in the league so far.

In Ola Aina’s absence, Sadiq was called up to the national team by Finidi George, to be a part of the 23-man squad to face South Africa and Benin Republic in the Super Eagles’ World Cup qualifiers.

Speaking with the NFF, the right-back shared his thoughts of his first invite to train with the national team, alongside how his club performances impacted the decision.

“It’s a privilege to be with senior, top players. I hope to learn a few things from them. Well, I can’t say much about my club performance because I didn’t expect a call-up to the national team. So I have to do my best and make the best of my stay here,” the defender said.

Sodiq, alongside Enyimba of Aba’s Olorunleke Ojo and Obinna Kenneth Igboke of Enugu Rang ers, were the trio of home-based players selected by Finidi for the qualifiers. The Remo Stars shared his thoughts on how they intend to perform if they’re needed.

Capacity crowd at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, last Sunday when Rangers hosted Enyimba reenacted the glory days of the Ni

Action during StarTimes /NPFL. match between Bayelsa United and Sporting Lagos at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa

Denzel Dumfries (22) was ruled to be interfering with the

Controversial Offside Call Deny Netherlands Victory against France

Xavi Simons thought he had given the Netherlands the lead late in the game only for the flag to go up on the grounds that Denzel Dumfries had impacted on the play. Anthony Taylor ruled it out with video assistant referee Stuart Attwell confirming the decision.

The call was highly debatable as the ball arrowed into the bottom corner with goalkeeper Mike Maignan seemingly unprepared to dive. But the English officials ruled it out as this much-anticipated game ended in the first goalless draw of the tournament.

Didier Deschamps’ side had been on top in a game that otherwise failed to ignite without Mbappe, who remained on the bench following his broken nose.

Antoine Griezmann had the best chances but could not find the finish.

EURO 2024

The draw means that the Netherlands remain top of Group D, ahead of France on goal difference. Meanwhile, Poland, who were beaten 3-1 by Austria earlier in the day, become the first nation to be eliminated from Euro 2024 . Late goals by Christoph Baumgartner and Marko Arnautovic gave Austria a hardfought win over Poland and boosted their hopes of reaching the last 16 at Euro 2024. With both teams losing their opening matches in Group D, to France and the Netherlands, they came to Berlin knowing that another defeat would put them on the brink of elimination. The high

stakes gave the encounter the feel of a knockout tie, with both sets of fans creating a noisy atmosphere at the Olympiastadion, matched by a frenetic tempo on the pitch. Poland, meanwhile, has become the first team to be knocked out of Euro 2024 after the Netherlands fail to beat France when they meet in Leipzig later yesterday.

RESULTS

Poland 1-3 Austria

Nertherlands 0-0 France

Slovakia 1-2 Ukraine

TODAY’S FIXTURES

Georgia v Czekia

Turkey v Portugal

Belgium v Romania

2025 AFCON Gets December 21 Kickoff Date

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will take place from December 21, 2025, to January 18. This decision was made by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) during a virtual executive meeting yesterday.

Initially scheduled for the summer of 2025, the tournament was moved to avoid clashing with the expanded FIFA Club World Cup.

The draw for the 2025 AFCON will be held next month in Johannesburg, South Africa, with qualifying matches

running from September to October 2024.

Morocco has been selected as the host nation for the competition.

Nigeria finished second at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, losing 2-1 to the hosts in the final.

Despite the loss, Nigeria’s captain, William Troost-Ekong, was named the Most Valuable Player of the Tournament. Troost-Ekong, a centre-back with Greece champions PAOK, scored three crucial goals, helping Nigeria reach

the AFCON final for the first time in 11 years.

Nigeria’s immediate goal will be to qualify for the 2025 AFCON, after which the Super Eagles Super Eagles will turn their attention towards winning the tournament in Morocco.

The Super Eagles have not won the continental title since 2013 when coach Stephen Keshi led them to victory in South Africa. Nigeria have won the AFCON three times before, with victories in 1980, 1994, and 2013.

NFF Congratulates Falcons’ Captain, Ajibade on Club Honour

The Nigeria Football Federation has congratulated the captain of the Senior Women National Team, Super Falcons, Rasheedat Ajibade on her emergence as the Player of the Season for her Spanish top division club, Atlético Madrid do Femenino.

The elegant midfielder practically qualified her club to next season’s UEFA Champions League, when she scored the only goal that condemned Villarreal ladies to defeat in the last game of the season. She netted 10 goals and eight assists in the just-ended season.

NFF General Secretary, Dr.

Mohammed Sanusi, said the football-governing body was not surprised as Ajibade has always been an epitome of discipline, dedication, diligence and total commitment to the cause for Club and Country.

“Rasheedat has always been that role model who examplifies what you expect of a star actor in any field. She has been an epitome of discipline and dedication, and has carried the Super Falcons on her lean shoulders with a sense of patriotism and ambition.

“We congratulate and commend her for the rare

honour and we believe that the diadem will spur her even further to lead the Super Falcons to glory at the forthcoming Women’s Olympic Football Tournament in France.”

Ajibade was one of the key actors as the Super Falcons reached the Round of 16 at the last year’s FIFA World Cup finals in Down Under, unbeaten in regulation time before exiting after a penalty shootout defeat by England. She became team captain afterwards, and has led the team to qualify for the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament for the first time

Despite Losing, Fury Says Fight with Usyk ‘Too Easy’

Tyson Fury is adamant he won his fight with Oleksandr Usyk and claims his downfall was a result of the undisputed world heavyweight clash being “too easy”.

Fury suffered the first defeat of his professional career when he was on the wrong end of a split decision in Riyadh last month, paving the way for a rematch on December 21.

The ‘Gypsy King’ was saved

by the bell in the ninth round having survived a standing eight count forced by a furious assault from Usyk, who added the WBC belt to his WBA, IBF and WBO titles.

Fury broke his silence for the first time since his defeat to Oleksandr Usyk and vows that he is ready to win back his title

Prior to that Fury was in control of a classic at the

Ex-international, Peter Ijeh Faults NFF’s Treatment of Finidi

Former Malmo FC forward, Peter Ijeh has criticised the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for its treatment of Finidi George, which led to his resignation as head coach of the Super Eagles, Soccernet.ng reports.

Ijeh’s comments came after the NFF demoted Finidi to assistant coach just six weeks into his tenure following poor results against South Africa and Benin Republic earlier in June.

The NFF then announced plans to hire a foreign Technical Adviser to oversee the team, prompting Finidi to resign immediately.

Ijeh, Nigeria’s all-time top scorer in the Swedish Allsvenskan with 59 goals, expressed his disappointment with the NFF’s decision.

He referenced the tenure of Portuguese coach Jose Peseiro, who had a poor start with the Super Eagles, winning two and

losing six of his first eight games, and suggested that a foreign coach would not have been treated as harshly as Finidi.

Speaking on Brila FM’s “No Holds Barred” with Ifeanyi Udeze, Ijeh argued that hiring a foreign coach does not ensure success in the next FIFA World Cup.

He believes Finidi George deserved more time to prove his capabilities, stressing that success in football heavily relies on the support provided to both players and coaches.

“From the beginning, I believe the NFF vetted who they wanted. Two foreign coaches before Finidi lost their first five matches. They should have handled the situation better,” Ijeh said.

He highlighted the importance of understanding contractual agreements and implied that foreign coaches might receive more favourable

treatment.

Ijeh noted, “Writing a contract is one thing; the clauses of the contract are another. Who knows what he signed or what the agreement was?

“Everything that happened, they can’t try it with a white man.”

Ijeh also emphasised the potential of Nigerian coaches, both domestically and abroad, who have modern certifications and are capable of leading the Super Eagles Super Eagles.

The former Nigeria international urged the NFF to reconsider their approach and avoid making hasty decisions.

“I still believe building a Nigerian for that task is possible because we have qualified coaches, even in the diaspora, with modern certifications who can execute the job. It depends on the Glass House supporting the coach.

AKO4 Debut Thrills Abuja with Nonstop Action, Epic Combats

The African Knockout Championship (AKO4) made a remarkable debut in Nigeria’s capital, captivating fans with its inaugural live event at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Abuja Continental. The night was full of thrilling fights in the various categories of featherweight, middleweight, lightweight and women’s bantamweight with each fight adding to a cascade of excitement.

The main event was a high-stakes showdown between Nigeria’s Daniel Emeka popularly known as “Big Shark” and Flex Munwe

from Congo, culminating in Munwe’s triumphant victory by unanimous decision.

The co-main event featured Richard Muzaan from Nigeria, who delivered a breathtaking technical knockout against Cameroon’s Tayo Athanassius, leaving the crowd in awe.

In the featherweight category, Daniel Iwuoha stunned everyone with a knockout of Emmanuel Nworie in just 38 seconds. Ugochukwu Melvin popularly known as “ the African sniper” also claimed victory over Burkina Faso’s Israel Mano in a light heavyweight

decision, while Nigeria’s Jane Osigwe showcased her prowess in the women’s bantamweight division, dominating Togo’s Jibidar Cynthia with a technical knockout. Ivory Coast’s Marcel Yao, Knocked out Cherif Drame in 42 Seconds of the First round, there by winning the KO (knockout) of the night.

Senegal’s Gasmire Diatta also known as “Kayilla the Killer” defeated Nigerias Jackiel Ayana (the smiling Assasin). Nigerias Jane Osigwe and Senegals Gasmire Diatta won performances of the night.

HURIWA Endorses Enoh’s Inclusive Sports Development Initiatives

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has issued a press statement affirming its strong support for Senator John Enoh, Nigeria’s Minister of Sports, praising his comprehensive and inclusive strategies aimed at advancing sports development across the nation without bias towards any particular sport.

Kingdom Arena, which he insists he was enjoying too much in explanation of his showboating against the Ukrainian.

“I’ve watched the fight back lots of times. Still got the same answer - I thought I won the fight and thought I’d done enough. Usyk knows that he didn’t beat me,” Fury told FUROCITY ahead of their relaunch.

Responding to recent criticisms directed at the Minister of Sports, HURIWA conducted a thorough evaluation of the situation, concluding that such censures lack substantial evidence upon scrutiny. Addressing the allegations raised in a recent editorial titled “Enoh, Minister of Football,” HURIWA asserted that these accusations are baseless and fail to grasp the broader context of the minister’s initiatives. While frowning that the editorial had accused Senator John Enoh of allegedly favoring football over other sporting disciplines, HURIWA contended

that this narrative is misleading and overlooks the multifaceted nature of the minister’s endeavors in the sports sector.

According to HURIWA, the editorial’s conclusion lacks logical coherence, as it fails to consider the broader context of Senator John Enoh’s actions and the comprehensive nature of sports administration in Nigeria.

HURIWA emphasised the significance of accountability within sports administration, applauding Senator John Enoh’s efforts in advocating for transparency within the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF). The association stressed that criticising these efforts as inappropriate undermines the imperative for transparency and progress within Nigerian football.

Furthermore, HURIWA underscored that failures within other sports cannot be singularly attributed to the Minister of Sports. Instead, they often stem from systemic challenges necessitating

comprehensive solutions, which Senator John Enoh has actively pursued during his tenure.

“Accountability is a crucial aspect of the minister’s role, and demanding transparency from the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) is a legitimate endeavor aimed at improving Nigerian football for the benefit of all stakeholders. Criticizing such efforts as tactless undermines the quest for transparency and improvement within the football administration,” HURIWA stated.

“Senator John Enoh’s interventions with the NFF and other stakeholders should be viewed as proactive measures aimed at maximizing the potential of Nigerian football rather than unwarranted interference. His initiatives, such as urging the NFF to implement a 10-year football master plan and facilitating the release of funds to settle outstanding debts, underscore his commitment to the sport’s holistic development,” the statement read.

Melvin Ugochukwu secure his first victory in the AKO Championship. Ugochukwu triumphed over Israel Mano

goalkeeper Mike Maignan

Grouse About, Not ‘Against’

THISDAY of May 4 blundered: “C’River partner (partners) Poland to provide social services”

THE PUNCH of May 4 contributed the next two gaffes: “Dangote consoles” Who did the richest business mogul on the continent console?

“2024 World Malaria Day: Its time for real action on malaria” For real: It’s time…. DAILY INDEPENDENT of May 4 also swelled the pool of goofs: “Eminent indigenes of Akwa Ibom…are expected to converge in (on) Uyo….”

“Stakeholders rip-off (rip off) investors, ahead of certificate-less policy deadline”

“NAFOWA serves humanity via vocational trainings” Get it right: ‘training’ is non-count.

“Oba: My grouse against (about) election tribunals….”

It is not everything that is in the dictionary that is correct at all times because of language dynamism. It is for this reason that the dictionary and other reference books are continually revised. So, don’t go about dogmatically chest-thumping that you have an infallible authority when reacting to etymological issues published in this column. You need to do a lot of research-based rationalization informed by voracious reading if you crave purity in communication. That is the only way to go for sticklers.

“They, in turn, could be able to carry out their legitimate duties to their customers.” Either: could or would be able. ‘Could be able’ is offensive.

“Some people who have axe (an axe) to grind against (with) NIJ and its management.”

“That is one thing that is not so easy to come by at the Ogba campus of the NIJ” Get

it right: on the Ogba campus.

“The effort of such illustrious alumni are needed to lift it up from the present morass.” Why the subject-verb discord? Effort is (not are) needed.

“To those close to the corridor (corridors) of power.…”

“Let him breath the air of freedom.” (Vanguard, June 2) Noun: breath; verb: breathe.

“With a stroke of fate, Bola Tinubu has been thrust on (in) the leadership saddle of the nation.”

“Rather, we prefer to import the latest from foreign countries, without trying to see whether we can produce better varieties”. Delete ‘from foreign countries’.

“Though successful (successive) governments had at different times urged Nigerians to….”

“…the armed robbers have already gone with their loots”. ‘Loot’ is noncount.

“Nigerians need other people friendly (sic) foundations to join the bandwagon”. Either climb or jump on/aboard the bandwagon.

“Regard the face of our Head of State at formal and informal occasions.” (THE GUARDIAN, June 2) To laugh is human: on (not at) all occasions.

“That shoot-at-sight order in Libya” Get it right: shoot-on-sight order.

“…a constitution designed to ensure peace and stability is this nation’s only antidote against (to) national disintegration.”

“When our prisons are bursting at their seems (seams) with political detainees.…”

“The aversion of Nigerians for (to)

military rule is clear and unmistakable.”

“The way the principal actors in these two periods acted has become a re-occurring subject....” (Daily Trust, June 2) Why this recurring gaffe?

“…alleging intimidation and harassments which made fair conduct of elections unattainable. “ ‘Harassment’ is non-count.

“But I believe in a Nigeria in which what is good for the goose is good for the gander” (Thisday, June 2) What is sauce for the goose.…

”…Nigeria which should be flying with the eagles is roaming about with the chicken” (Source: as above) Always at the brink: delete ‘about’.

“While those with matured (mature) minds were able to control their emotions.…”

“Musicians pay last respect to departed colleague” Fixed: last respects.

“The armed bandits struck at Hawan-Kibo, about 60 kilometres from Jos.” Are there un-armed bandits?

“Relationship between the two departments cannot.…” Delete ‘two’ (if you crave class)

“Members of ANCLA are now working on plans to see that this menace is reduced or wiped out completely.” Yank away ‘completely’ to foreclose lexical insanity.

“The development is sad, pathetic and constitutes a terrible setback on the objective of the party reform.” Get it right: a setback to (not on) the objective.

“Hopefully, we will end up with a human specie (species) that is half-man and half-dog.”

“We must congratulate him for (on) these, but....”

“Former President of South Africa Nelson Mandela had before his death expressed confident (confidence) that the Nigerian leader will enthrone an enduring democracy

Reflecting on Flawed Nationhood (4)

Today, we wrap off our excursion into the unflattering bowels of our national malaise, and the critical remedies that should be administered if indeed we desire a great nation capable of exploiting her tremendous resources - human, natural and incidental - for the benefit of her wearied and worsted citizenry.

Our final piece is taken from the 15 May 2021 article titled “Nigeria and Her People: The End Is Near?” We wish you ‘happy’ reading as we roll back the years…:

“We have now come to the last leg of our marathon ‘wishful thinking’ - an exploration of ideals, actions and attributes that the people of Nigeria can embrace to produce and promote a truly great African country with global aspirations and commanding stature. Eight weeks ago, at the beginning of this column’s journey (April 3, 2021) under the banner ‘Great Nation, Poor People’, we laid down some markers guiding our interventions. In ending this journey, it is advisable we peep at those markers to affirm our fidelity to the assignment. The future will attest to its impact or futility.

Few quotes will suffice for now: “While we admit that it will take much more than whining and lamenting about our poverty of civic aptitude, occasioned by sundry interlocking incidents and failings of our nationbuilding actors, we must find the means and occasions to alert our people to the slippery paths we currently travel... In every area of our influence and authority, we must lead by examples, both in thoughts and deeds; in private and in public.”

“In taking this position, we are conscious of the enormity of our assignment, if indeed we want to get to a level where politicians will be afraid to make hare-brained campaign promises that can never be fulfilled; where governments, at all levels, know that their citizens will insist on holding them accountable for the successes or otherwise of their vaunted policies; where persons elected or invited

to positions of authority and prominence understand that their stewardships will be thoroughly scrutinised and weighed based simply on performance and application, not on any base sentiments.

“However, we need to own up to our failings, and understand that current perplexities are not merely the handiwork of irresponsible and incompetent leadership; that many leaders are currently enabled, endorsed and actively lionised by vast sections of the followership. Even standoffish, siddon-look followership should not see themselves as immune or beyond reproach in this current dilemma….

“We will attempt to explore some of what we believe are the root causes of our present anomie; such as: the family and the home, our educational system and policies, politics and governance, public service and infrastructure, sociological perspectives, erosion of ethos and values, broken communication practices, and crimes as cornerstones of our informal economy.”

Today, and finally, we hone in on the enthronement and glorification of criminality as a veritable business and political attitude. The sickening and frightening speck has ballooned to a massive log in our nation’s watery eyes. By the way, those eyes were initially ravaged by glaucoma, or whatever diseases imperil vision. Now, we have escalated crimes to the level of making some maniacal political statements and putative socio-economic re-engineering.

Our people no longer trust the speed and seed of the judiciary, and are even more distrustful of the police in enforcing the law and exacting justice. So we resort to jungle justice. Ordinary Nigerians maiming, stripping naked, lynching other ordinary Nigerians accused of stealing petty stuff. Unforgivable errors as a result of hasty conclusions of lynch-happy idlers or mischievous calculations of miserable elements have led to terrible deaths or permanent brutal disfigurement of many a Nigerian.

We put tyres on the neck of a suspected thief or kidnapper, pour petrol on them; then

in the country.” Would it have been after his death? Bunkum!

“At the end of the day, their children still have to interact with the offsprings of the marginalized masses.” ‘Offspring’ is uncountable.

“And Nigerians, as well as the international community, have evidently warmed to this new hopeful visage.” Get it right: wormed.

“As we observed last week Tuesday in regard to.…” Either: last Tuesday or Tuesday, last week with regard to or as regards

“Do we have any right to demand for grain supplements from these countries?” (THE GUARDIAN ON SATURDAY, June 15) Readers have the right to demand (not demand for) formal use of the English language by Nigerian newspapers.

“…the oba suffered the indignity in London of having some of his luggages (luggage) identified….”

“Atimes (At times) the person falls asleep easily.…”

“Right from the time she served on the guild’s standing committees, she put in her very best.” The face of grammar: ‘best’ cannot be amplified (very best!) because of its superlative form which abhors inflection.

“Firm plans MKO pavillion at poly” Spellcheck: pavilion.

“Hence the reluctance of some private sector employers to participate in the new welfare scheme is borne out of the precedence being set by the public sector.” Get it right: precedent.

Overheard on Monday morning: “Are you hearing me?” This is wrong. ‘Hearing’ cannot function as a verb because of its structural characterization. The correct expression goes thus: ‘Can you hear me?’

stand by in morbid satisfaction, and watch as they writhe, and burn - perhaps thinking that a part of our problems has been solved? And as soon as the unfortunate victim dissolves into putrid gore, the mob disperses into ‘thin air’ - waiting for another ‘alert’! Yet, the chief destroyers of our commonwealth sit comfortably in the bubble of adulation and envy of the unknown mob - immune to the desperation of their existence. They are the ‘unlynchable’ - because what they steal is too much for the mob to wrap their petrol-and-tyre-loving mind around it.

One of the major igniters of criminality is the poor handling of crises all across board, especially by governments and their point men. When bandits begin to identify and associate with certain persons as preferred negotiators; when one governor rightly insists he would not negotiate with bandits (also loosely known as terrorists), and others sheepishly kowtow to demands after demands of these insolent fat cows; the signal is clear to the criminals: it’s time to put on the squeeze. Is it not evident that all over the country, the crime lords are holding court; over running police posts, and wielding weapons that mock the guns in the hands of our officers? And you wonder, why are criminals getting heavy ammunition, seemingly with ease and regularity, and the state appears left with crumbs?

The season of anomie is upon us, signaling that the end is near for this nation. Unless our government and legislators wake up “shaperly” and deal sensibly, effectively and immediately with these existential threats, we may find ourselves in an unfortunate quagmire that will take decades to overcome; if we indeed survive it. Kidnappers, like wire transfer fraudsters (euphemistically called ‘Yahoo-Yahoo boys’) have mutated and expanded boldly into every region, challenging the might of the government and the safety of the people. They go on rampage; reclaim their seized property from the legal custody of law enforcement agencies; sack police stations

and chase ill-equipped policemen away from their duty posts. Stories abound in the media about entire settlements overrun by bandits or terrorists, foisting new regimes on the innocents, putting our people in harm’s way. And there have hardly been any repercussions to deter recurrence. The theatre of crises is like a huge field pork-marked by a thousand tongues of blazing fire - how many can our overworked military and police forces put out? How quickly? How judiciously?

The consequence of these upheavals may explain the current separatist or secessionist demands across the country. Frustrated by government’s inability to arrest the spiralling crime rate, lulled by wrong-headed ethnic profiling, emboldened by the seeming invincibility of bandits who make some governors quake with fear; and perplexed by the failure of our intelligence agencies to identify, expose and prosecute sponsors of crimes and terrorism; the cries to renegotiate the corporate MoU of the nation state have become more strident, more urgent, and more pervasive.

The logic is skewed but apparent: if bandits can display villainous wickedness by kidnapping and killing the innocents, and government run helter skelter to appease them, and spiritual leaders work hard to champion their ‘causes’; if blatant and consistent insurrectionist acts force the government to react by sporadic force of unguided arms, and later resort to political carrot and stick rapprochement - it seems clear to current agitators and frustrated Nigerians that inaction is tantamount to ignoble dismissal...that civility is an invitation to dishonour and stoic contempt... especially in this current climate of indifferent antagonism and misplaced aggression.”

So, we ask again: What sort of Nigeria shall we see in years ahead?

Saturday, June 22,

MISSILE

Peter Obi to Tinubu

“We are the poverty capital of the world, among the most insecure people on earth, among the hungriest, have poor education quality and the highest number of out-ofschool children, high infant mortality, corruption, unemployment, the highest income gap between the poor and the rich, high corruption perception index, infrastructure and healthcare challenges, and more.” – Peter Obi emphasized that what Nigerians need is a comprehensive approach to address the country’s unique challenges, not generalisations that dismiss their experiences.

OKEY IKECHUKWU

Loading: Asymmetrical National Security Challenges

As the security challenges facing the nation grow in leaps and bounds, the efforts at their containment multiply by the hour. These efforts range from the direct commendable interventions of individuals and institutions of state charged with the responsibility of securing the nation, to the well-meant suggestions of regional sociocultural organizations, as well as the actions of militant groups, wishing to proffer solutions of their own. They are all eager to see the situation change for the better.

In all of this however, especially in the many retreats, conferences and summits on national security held all over the country for decades now, there seems to be a preponderance of what can best be described as “lamentational” and descriptive submissions. Yes, many of them offer detailed descriptions of the problems, their historical origins and their negative impact on our lives. Then you also find many generalized recommendations, devoid of clear implementation strategies. In all, we remain on the same spot, complain about, and condemn, the military and security agencies, especially the Nigerian Army.

There are also, presumably very insightful and patriotic Nigerians, who never get tired of insisting that the solution lies in the declaration of a State of emergency on national security, followed by a complete overhaul of the nation’s security architecture. The problem here, however, is that no two members of this clan of patriotic Nigerans can give you the same definition of “Nigeria’s security architecture’, or what is so wrong with it that it needs a comprehensive overhaul. They are also usually not in the position to say what aspects of this supposedly faulty architecture need urgent medical attention.

Concerning declaring a State of Emergency, we should all ask ourselves what is to be gained by a simple verbal declaration that there is now a state of emergency on national security. Will that make uncooperative communities suddenly start plying the military and security agencies with the local intelligence they have been holding back for a long time now? Will it improve the availability of arms and ammunition, or will it dramatically raise the morale of officers and soldiers who are overstretched and also hamstrung by the missteps of a civilian ruling elite that has created a massive pool of impoverished and unemployed youths?

It was the need for a purely solutions-based engagement that is driven by objective and clear-sighted third-Party narratives that led to the Partnership between the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) and Development Specs Academy (DSA) to refocus the direction of all our conversations about national security. Yesterday, NARC and DSA held a well-attended press conference in Abuja, as part of activities leading up to their planned national Roundtable designed to interrogate “Asymmetrical National Security Challenges, the Army and National Development”. This is an event that would call from very specific, and implementable Action Points from the participants.

Also at the conference yesterday were the Strategic Partners of DSA, all who teamed

up to make the roundtable a phenomenal success. They include, but are not limited to the Nigerian Institute of Public relations (NIPR), the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Voice of Nigeria (VON), the News agency of Nigerian (NAN), the Institute for Strategic Development Communication (ISDEVCOM), Nnamdi Azikiwe Business School, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and the Institute for Peace, Security and Development Studies (IPSDS).

The point of securing the buy-in and deep commitment of these Strategic Partners was to make these credible and highly regarded professional bodies, institutes and institutions, as well as agencies of government that are headed by professionals in public communication, professional information management and the media to make these pillars of credibility part of the dominant voices that are heard on core issues of national security.

The organizers of the Roundtable went round, consulted with these Partners and other stakeholders, achieved some measure of consensus on the core issues at the heard of asymmetrical national security challenges and came out with a template for pragmatic and realistic solutions. The Roundtable thus stands out as a Third-Party initiative, designed to distil Implementable Action Points (IAPs) on pressing asymmetrical national security challenges in the country.

These are security challenges that do not take the simple form of easily-identified, routinely compartmentalized, properly isolated and unilaterally targetable problems. No! They range from embedded targets, refusal to help the army and other security agencies with local intelligence, the targeting of military personnel for hostile civilian attention, unproductive community engagements, deliberate misrepresentation of the activities and achievements of the Nigerian Army through fake news, to deliberate misinformation

and disinformation, among other disruptive environmental variables.

What we need today is a people’s RoundTable that will drive non-partisan national interest narratives. Believable national communication needs the twin elements of objectivity and professionalism, while promoting public understanding of the roles, and achievements, of the nation’s military and security agencies and platforms. In the end, it is all about creating a groundswell of that aspect of public communication that is usually best described as National Interest Communication without Propaganda (NIC–P).

From the pre-event investigations, surveys and consultations of the organisers, this forthcoming RoundTable needs to bring out the roots of growing spate of attacks on military personnel, as well as the crisis of targeted general hostility towards the Nigerian Army in particular.

It is unacceptable that more and more people see and treat national security problems as purely the business of the military and, especially, the Nigeran army. That such problems are also so clear and present as to be threatening their lives is a matter of little concern to many of them. That is why this RoundTable must drive a new narrative, by getting Nigeria’s various publics to see and understand their roles, and the roles of other key actors, in the wider national ecosystem of synchronized security.

For good measure, this Roundtable seems set to re-emphasize, as much as possible, the specific and general roles of the military, particularly the Nigerian army, in the cocktail of structures, activities and processes that constitute the national security architecture. It would, in the process, address the emerging challenges and deliberate misrepresentations of our men in uniform as objectively as possible.

Thus, we are looking at a national Roundtable on “Asymmetrical National Security Challenges, the Army and National Development that would, among other things, showcase factsbased reviews of current asymmetrical national security challenges. It should also highlight the achievements of the Nigerian Army in the war

We are all looking at the ancient city of Kano with bated breath. Two monarchs are at war in the “peace” of Kano. There is no seating monarch, since the two claimants to the royal stool have both been asked not to sit on the throne. So, if we must call either of them the monarch of Kano, depending on which of the court judgments flying around we subscribe to, we must say that they are “standing”, not sitting, monarchs.

We must also say that both monarchs, in so far as two people can be the kings of a kingdom that has provision for only one king, are in a state of partially suspended animation, since neither can live fully as monarch; or exercise the full constituent powers of that office.

All said, the situation in Kano City and Kano State at the moment defies even the best attempts at a semi comprehension. It is a combination

against banditry and insurgency, as it presents a holistic perspective on the imperatives of a “whole of society approach” to national security challenges.

As the organizers have declared that the event would be strictly guided by Chatham House Rules, the use of Third-Party presentations, narratives and suggestions to problematise asymmetrical security and the solutions to such challenges should be a harvest of the best possible indicators for those looking for Action Points and plans for an end to some of our most telling national security challenges. This will, no doubt include many things that the Nigerian Army and other players in the national security framework may not be a able to put in the public domain, because of the constraints of professional protocols and political considerations.

The Roundtable should also establish informed linkages between the negative fallouts of political decisions, overlooked multiplier effects poor civilian leadership and emerging national security challenges in different parts of the country. This should be in addition to presenting the nation’s general and specific security challenges and the efforts and achievements of the military, particularly the Nigerian army, in a way that does not try to mask any ugly truths. But the aim shall be to find and present realistic solutions, rather than the mere fact of discovering and celebrating problems alone.

Of course, it may be objected here that there has been so much talk and meetings about our security challenges. That is correct. The question for us is whether such talks and meetings, even where and when they do not deliver certain results, are necessarily pointless. Sometimes, all it takes for a presumably pointless conversation to make meaning is for the content, mode and desired results of those conversing to change. That change is expected in next week’s Roundtable. It is left for us who are interested to head to the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Mambilla Barracks, in Asokoro, Abuja on Monday the 24th and Tuesday the 25th, next week, since admission is free.

of the convoluted politics of the state and the roundly confusing gymnastics of the judicial officers who have been rendering contradictory, or at least conflicting, judgments. The moves, the formulation of the sentences in the judicial pronouncements, the near-equivocation and contrived befuddlement cannot remove the fact that there are some truths some people are not determined to tell us.

How it plays out remains to be seen, but one thing is sure: there are deeply entrenched interest on this matter that are not anywhere physically close to Kano city and kano State. Bayero’s inexplicable return to Kano to contest his ouster, after seeming to have calmly accepted same, was not done on a whim. Sanusi’s sudden reinstatement, without almost anyone seeing it coming, was not thought up on the spur of the moment. Enough said.

TRUTH & REASON

Army Chief, Major Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja