TUESDAY 25TH JUNE 2024

President: For Energy Transition to Succeed, Our Vulnerable People Must Be Supported

www.thisdaylive.com

Sani: Atiku's Visits to Buhari,

Abdulsalami Part of Northern

Says plan is to use Buhari to upstage Tinubu

Tinubu: We Can’t Achieve Security, Peace Without Dealing with Historical Injustices

Declares his government won't slow down until Nigeria is completely safe Says current security strategies already yielding results Army seeks local solutions to terrorism, insurgency To celebrate 161 years of existence

Deji Elumoye in Abuja President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, declared that Nigeria remained

L-R: Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno; Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Olayide Adelami; Deputy Governor of Imo State, Prof Chinyere Ekomaru; Governor of Cross Rivers State Bassey Otu; Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki; Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru; Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; Ogun State Governor and Chairman Southern Governors' Forum, Prince Dapo Abiodun; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah; Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti; Anambra State Governor, Prof Charles Soludo; Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke; Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji; Governor of Bayelsa State, Duoye

State... yesterday

Muhammadu Buhari.

Chuks okocha in Abuja and John Shiklam in Kaduna

STANDARD CHARTERED BANK EXECUTIVES VISIT TINUBU...

L-R: CEO, Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria, Dalu Ajene; Chairman of the Bank in Nigeria, Foluso Phillips; Group CEO of the Bank, Bill Winters; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila and Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, during the management of the bank audience with the president at the Presidential Villa Abuja....yesterday

Over 1,800 Filling Stations Shut in Northeast as FG Moves against Fuel Smuggling

Oil prices rise on fuel demand expectations, easing US dollar

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Nearly 2,000 petrol outlets were shut in Nigeria's North-east yesterday to protest against an anti-smuggling operation that targeted some operators, the local head of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association (IPMAN) said, forcing motorists to buy from the black market.

IPMAN Chairman for Adamawa and Taraba states, Dahiru Buba, told Reuters that petrol stations stopped operations after the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) impounded tanker trucks and shut some fuel outlets on suspicion they were smuggling petrol to neighbouring Cameroon.

Black market fuel vendors in Cameroon, Benin and Togo have for years relied on cheap gasoline smuggled from Nigeria, the report said.

When Nigeria scrapped a petrol subsidy last year, that black market trade collapsed, but the product has become cheaper again after Nigeria capped the price since June 2023 despite its currency sharply weakening.

Under "Operation Whirlwind", Customs initially impounded some tanker trucks belonging to IPMAN members and released them after the association protested. But more

trucks were seized and several fuel stations were shut, forcing fuel station operators to close outlets en-masse in protest, said Buba.

"We wrote to them (Nigeria Customs) again but there were no responses that is why we decided to go on strike," he said, adding that over 1,800 outlets had ceased to operate.

"This is our business and we cannot be quiet when our members are treated this way," Buba added.

Customs spokesperson for Adamawa and Taraba, Mangsi Lazarus, told Reuters that tanker trucks were seized because they were being used to smuggle petrol.

In Adamawa capital Yola, black market traders quickly took advantage of the shortages to sell petrol for N1,400 ($0.9459) a litre, compared to between N650 and N750 at the pump.

Meanwhile, oil prices edged higher yesterday, spurred by the prospect of strong driving demand in the coming season and as tensions in the Middle East and drone attacks on Russian refineries led to concerns about supply. An easing US dollar added to the crude price strength.

Brent futures for August delivery were up 80 cents to $86.04 a barrel, or a 0.9 per cent gain, by 1:45 p.m.

while US crude gained 90 cents, or 1.1 per cent, to $81.63 per barrel.

Both benchmarks advanced about 3 per cent last week for their second consecutive weekly upswing.

"The chief underlying reason behind the price strength ... is the growing confidence that global oil inventories will inevitably plunge during the summer in the northern hemisphere," said Tamas Varga of oil broker PVM, referring to seasonal demand for oil products.

After last week's big decline in US crude and petrol inventories, , traders are waiting to see whether the report due tomorrow will provide further evidence of sustained strong petrol demand, said Bob Yawger, director of energy futures at Mizuho in New York.

"It has to sustain for this positive narrative to continue in the market," said Yawger, adding that the growing electric vehicle market is eroding petrol share of the transportation market.

Geopolitical risks in the Middle East and an increase in Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian refineries also underpinned oil prices, Reuters said.

EU countries on Monday agreed on a new package of sanctions against Russia over its war in Ukraine, including a ban on reloading Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) in the EU for further shipment to third countries.

An easing US currency made dollar-denominated commodities

such as oil more attractive to buyers using other currencies.

The dollar weakened from a near eight-week high as traders went back on alert for intervention to support the yen after the Japanese currency danced with the 160 per dollar level. The dollar index, measuring performance against six major currencies, had climbed on Friday and was up slightly on Monday after data showed US business activity at a 26-month high in June.

Civil Society Groups Support Banking Sector

Following the decision of the Central Bank of Nigeria(CBN) to raise the capital base of banks in the country, a coalition of civil society organisations in the country have thrown their weight behind the plan.

According to them, the decision was healthy for Nigeria's economy, adding that it would make the banks

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Mr. Olatunji Bello as the new Chief Executive Officer/Executive Vice Chairman of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), with the appointment pending confirmation by the Senate.

Tinubu, according to a release issued on Monday by his media adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, expected that the new chief executive officer of the important agency will ensure the holistic realisation of the commission's mandate of protecting and promoting the interest and welfare of Nigerian consumers, and ensuring the adoption of measures to guarantee the safety and quality of goods and services.

stronger as well attract investors. They noted that at the last recapitalisation exercise, N25 billion was worth about $200 million, but the said amount is not worth $20 million today, hence the need for the exercise.

Addressing the press at Ikeja, Lagos State, the spokesperson for the civil society organisations and former chairman of the Institute of

Bello, a lawyer, administrator, and renowned journalist is a former secretary to the Lagos State government and holds a Master’s degree in International Law and Diplomacy from the University of Lagos. He studied Law at the same university and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2002.

Bello began his career in journalism at the Concord Newspapers in 1985 and held the positions of Group Political Editor, Sunday Concord Editor, and Editor, National Concord.

He is a winner of the US Alfred Friendly Press Fellowship and was appointed Chairman, Editorial Board of THISDAY Newspapers in 2001.

He also served as Commissioner for Environment under various administrations in Lagos State.

Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Lagos and District Society, Mr. Alesta Wilcox, said the banks in Nigeria now are weak, which discourages investors.

He noted that the recapitalisation exercise was to make the banks healthy and stronger, arguing that when banks are healthy, they would be able to perform better and recruit more staff.

The coalition made up of the Constitutional Rights Advocate Initiative; Cadrell Advocacy Center; Movement for Nigeria Restructuring; Centre for Social & Economic Rights; Committee for the Protection of People’s Mandates; Coalition Against Corrupt Leaders (CACOL) and Commonwealth Institute of Advanced & Professional Studies, noted that the exercise was important for the political and economic wellbeing of the nation.

According to them, they are supporting the recapitalisation exercise because there were allegedly plans by some benefiting from the weakness in the banking sector to sabotage it.

"We are a coalition of civil society organisations. Our role is to act as watchdogs to the government in the overarching interest of the Nigerian people.

"Our gathering today is to alert the federal government, the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Department of State

Services (DSS), the Bankers Committee and the Nigerian media to an organised plot by some vested interest within the Nigerian Banking System to begin to orchestrate a diversionary gas-lighting campaign to stop the proposed banking sector reforms using some faceless civil society organisations who will begin to make preposterous claims and allegations against some Nigerians who are critical to the success of the planned banking recapitalisation programme.

"We also have credible intelligence that they intend to make some unsubstantiated allegations against the current CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso; Mr. Olawale Edun, the Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister in charge of the economy, " the coalition warned.

They further alleged that some investors in the banking sector were planning to sabotage the recapitalisation, adding that the goal was to either delay or force the CBN to drop the ongoing reforms of the sector.

"It is germane to say that some of the banks which require the recapitalisation most are the very ones in need of the injection of capital off the back of the recapitalisation programme. But these vested interests would rather leave the banks in their sick state to prevent the truth from being unearthed, " the civil society stated.

Segun James

PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGU

Tunji Bello

NORTH-WEST SECURITY CONFERENCE...

Vice President Kashim Shettima (L) being welcomed by Sultan of Sokoto, His Royal Majesty Abubakar Sa'ad at the Inaugural North-west Peace and Security Summit organized by the North-west Governors Forum in collaboration with United Nations Development Program(UNDP) and the Government of Germany which held at the Katsina State Government House, Katsina State ... yesterday

Otedola Acquires Additional N17.2bn Worth of FBN Holdings’ Shares, Now Holds 11.64% Stake

Kayode Tokede

The Chairman of FBN Holdings Plc, Mr. Olufemi Otedola, has purchased an estimated N17.2billion worth

of shares in the holding company to further cement his position as the single largest shareholder of the financial institution. In a notice signed by the

company secretary, Mr. Adewale Arogundade, which was posted on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), about 797,946,415 at N21.58 kobo per share was purchased by

Envoy: Dutch Consulate in Lagos to Offer Schengen Visa Services to Migrant Workers

Funmi Ogundare

Netherlands Deputy Consul General in Lagos, Leonie Van der Stiji, yesterday, announced efforts to introduce Schengen Visa Services, particularly for migrant workers traveling for knowledge exchange.

Van der Stiji, who spoke on ‘The Morning Show’ on ARISE News Channel, revealed that the consulate has started testing fingerprinting machines and was constructing offices for long-stay visa applications.

"We anticipate about 800 to 1,000

applicants each year will come to our Lagos premises for long-stay visas to the Netherlands," Van der Stiji stated.

She said emphasised that the visa service was part of the streamlined Schengen Visa Services, which applies to all Schengen members, the European Union, and some other countries.

"Although the rules are rigorous, they are fair. Visa processing times are approximately three to four weeks after applying at the TLS Visa Center," she said, adding that

Another Ex-Benue Gov, Bayo Lawal, Passes

Another former governor of Benue State, Air Vice Marshal Adebayo Hamed Lawal (rtd) has passed.

This, however, brings to two, the number of past military governors of the state that died this year alone.

Group Captain Joshua Obademi, who also served that state between 1993 and 1996, died this year and was buried early this month in Lagos. AVM Lawal, (popularly known then in the state as Group Captain Bayo Lawal) was the military governor of Benue State from 1978 to 1979.

He handed over to Mr Aper Aku as the first civilian governor of the State. He was a one time Nigerian Minister of Youth and Sports.

According to his daughter, Mrs. Yinka Enahoro, the late AVM Lawal died in his sleep in the early hours of Sunday, June 23, 2024 at his home at the age of 83.

Also, Sergeant at Arms at the National Assembly, Air Commodore Sani Zakari (rtd), who also confirmed the ex-minister’s death to the media, noted that the funeral will be held on Monday.

“AVM Frank Ajobena (rtd) further informed us that AVM Bayo Lawal passed on in his sleep at the early hours of Sunday 23 Jun 24,” Zakari said.

Born on 14 September, 1941 in Offa, Kwara State, Lawal, attended Government College, Ibadan. between 1955 and 1962, before joining the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in 1963 among the pioneer officers.

applicants must provide proof that they would not overstay and would return if they have a short-stay visa because the consulate has witnessed rising levels of fraud, including fake invitation letters and other schemes, which have made strict rules necessary.

Van der Stiji, also emphasised cultural exchanges between the Netherlands and Nigeria, noting that a budget of £20,000 had been earmarked annually for such initiatives. She highlighted Nigerian artists' growing presence in Europe, mentioning Burna Boy's performance in the Netherlands and the popularity of Nigerian music in the European country.

She commended Lagos' fashion scene, particularly female entrepreneurs and expressed interest in better connecting cultural ecosystems.

According to her, "the fashion space with artists, painters, and movie makers is thriving. We're working on those exchanges and looking to the future to connect ecosystems more effectively."

Van der Stiji, pointed out that a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Dutch company, Harvest Waste, and the Lagos State government for a waste-to-energy project.

"This initiative aims to convert waste to power for 40,000 households. I am proud of the Eco Learn project we're dealing with climate youth in Lagos. It's the first of its kind, developing a curriculum on climate change awareness in schools with BSS DC and the Lagos Ministry of Environment," Van der Stiji stressed.

the billionaire investor on June 24, 2024. The transaction value of the new acquisition amounted to a staggering N17.2 billion.

The current price of FBN Holdings closed on June 24, 2024, at N20.00 per share on the floor of NGX from the N21.15 per share it opened for trading.

FBN Holdings’ total volume traded on the Exchange stood at 627,604,418. The latest acquisition takes his combined stake to 11.64 per cent, making him the only shareholder of the bank with a total shareholding exceeding 10 per cent.

The billionaire had acquired N18.9 billion worth of shares, which had increased his shareholding to 9.41per cent. The latest acquisition brings the total to N36.1 billion in

Dapo

a matter of days. He now holds a combined 4.178 billion shares of the company’s total outstanding shares of 35.895 billion.

Otedola, one of the only four Nigerian billionaires listed by Forbes, has invested an estimated N102 billion since he began acquiring FBN Holdings shares three years ago.

The pursuit of a majority stake in FBN Holdings has been a dynamic journey, beginning in October 2021 when Femi Otedola first announced that he had secured a 5.07per cent shareholding.

Following this, in December 2021, Otedola increased his stake further to 7.57per cent, marking a significant leap.

By mid-2022, Otedola reduced his stake to 5.24per cent, divesting approximately 30per cent of

his shareholding in the group. However, he started acquiring shares in the bank again in 2023 as controversy over who owned the majority stake in the bank remained.

After a review and confirmation by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) then, only two shareholders stood out as having over five per cent of FBN Holdings shares: Oba Otudeko’s Barbican Capital and Femi Otedola.

At the end of the first quarter of 2024, Otedola’s shareholding in the bank was confirmed at 7.01per cent, up from 5.65per cent at the end of 2023, officially surpassing Otudeko as the single largest shareholder. The latest acquisition now gives him a commanding 11.64per cent majority shareholding of the financial holding company.

Abiodun Emerges Chairman, Southern Governors’ Forum

James Sowole in Abeokuta

Ogun State Governor, Mr. Dapo Abiodun, yesterday, emerged Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum.

Also, Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Soludo, emerged as the Vice Chairman.

The emergence of the Abiodun and Soludo, was part of the decision reached at the end of the meeting of the Southern Governors’ Forum, held at the Presidential Lodge, Abeokuta.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwoolu, announced the emergence of Abiodun and Soludo.

Sixteen out of the 17 governors that constituted the Southern Governors Forum attended the meeting with only Rivers State Governor, Similayi Fubara, absent at the meeting.

While some governors were physically present at the meeting,

some were represented by their deputies.

The governors that attended the meeting included Sanwoolu (Lagos), Abiodun (Ogun), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Alex Otti (Abia), Godwin Obaseki (Edo), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Bassey Otu (Cross River).

Other governors in attendance, were Soludo (Anambra), Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi), Peter Mbah (Enugu), Duoye Diri (Bayelsa) and Uno Eno (Akwa Ibom).

Also on ground to represent their governors were Deputy Governors, Chinyere Ekomaru (Imo), Monday Onyeme (Delta) and Olayide Adelami (Ondo).

Speaking with journalists at the end of the meeting, Abiodun commended his colleagues, for electing him as Chairman of the forum.

He said, "It is indeed an honour and a humble one at that, that I have been nominated to lead

the Southern Governors' Forum, alongside with Prof. Charles Soludo, the Governor of Anambra State as the Vice Chairman of this forum.

"I first want to thank all the Governors, the 17 Governors for coming to Abeokuta today for this meeting, the first meeting after about three years. It underscores the commitment and the determination to ensure that the Southern States occupy by their pride of place.

"I also want to thank them for this confidence so reposed in myself and Professor Soludo and pledged that we will ensure that this confidence is justified.

"We have discussed a whole ranging number of issues but because of time constraints, myself and Governor Soludo will make available to you pressmen the details of our communique that reflects our aspirations, our determination and the new and repositioned Southern Governors' Forum."

George Okoh in Makurdi

AMEricAN BusiNEss couNciL NigEriA EcoNoMic upDAtE EvENt...

L-R: Business Development and Marketing Manager, Lagos Free Zone (LFZ), Mrs. Chinju Nwankwo-Udora; General Manager, Digital and Integration Division, SLB West Africa, Ghislain Fai-Yengo; CoManaging Partner, Detail Commercial Solicitors, Dolapo Kukoyi; Country Representative (West Africa), US Trade and Development Agency, Josh Egba; Vice-Chairman, Exxon Mobil, Adesua Dozie and Project Coordinator, American Business Council Nigeria (ABC), Obehi Ebohimen, during the American Business Council Nigeria Economic Update event held in Lagos... at the weekend

Obaseki: Edo Paying N70,000 Minimum Wage, Delivering Projects, Others with Savings

Declares State one of safest in Nigeria

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said the government was able to pay the new N70,000 minimum wage to its workers and fund the numerous developmental projects and other programmes initiated by his government to better the lives of the people from the savings from reducing the cost of governance.

A statement yesterday, quoted Obaseki to have said this in Benin City, adding that the State government made plans for the minimum wage three years ago when the telltale signs begun to show that the economy was going in the wrong direction.

According to him, “I am able to pay N70,000 because two or three years ago, I raised an alarm that we were resorting to massive borrowings, which will be inflationary in the long run. I predicted there will be massive devaluation of our currency.

“You will ask, if you knew this, what did you do? We knew it would translate into the demand for higher wages because of inflation and so we said, look, let's focus on building a much more efficient economy. Let’s focus on reducing our cost of governance. Let's focus on training our people and getting more productivity out of them.”

On efforts undertaken by his government to reduce cost of governance, Obaseki explained, “We have a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) where we purchased 5-10 megawatts of

power, which we use to run all of government offices and the street lights at night. So, I don’t have to buy diesel.

“I have a fleet management service, my own Uber, where I have put my own transport system, our cars, and vehicles into one transport system. So, I’m running the government at a fraction of what I used to run the system in the past.”

He further stated, “The savings I'm making from that, I'm saying, you know what, my most valuable assets are my people, let me pay them more and get more productivity out of them. I am measuring teachers today in terms of learning outcomes.

“My teachers can’t be absent from school because I can see all that from my tablet, whether a teacher is in class or not. I can relate my drug programme, what I pay for medicines to what’s been dispensed in my primary healthcare centers because I've trained my people. I have invested in technology. We have hugely invested in technology infrastructure.”

The governor added, “We have 2000 kilometers of fiber optic cable laid across the State. Every local government is connected with fibre optic technology.

“So, I'm able to extend telemedicine to a PHC in a community and get my doctors on the system. Why are we doing this? It’s to bring a better life to our people and how do you

do it? We can't make omelets without breaking eggs. So, once you decide that you want to make omelets, break the eggs. People will complain, but that's the way it goes.”

Meanwhile, Obaseki, has said the government’s investment in strengthening the State’s security architecture and overhauling the security system led to the transformation of Edo as the safest in the South-south region and one of the most secure in the country.

Obaseki, said the government gained the confidence of investors, which according to him, resulted in the influx of businesses, leading to enhanced economic activities and increased revenues for the State.

The governor, while noting that security was local, listed some of the nuanced steps taken to include the decentralisation and democratisation of the security system to allow community participation in the State’s policing and security architecture. He explained that the State has over 15,000 vigilante operatives policing various communities across the 18 local government areas in the State, adding that the initiative has tremendously improved safety and security in the State.

According to him, “On a scale, Edo is still the safest State in this zone. What we've done with security is to decentralise and democratise security. Security is local. Today, we

have community participation in our policing.

“We have up to 15,000 men as vigilantes policing the various communities in the State. We trained them with the assistance of the Federal security agencies; we equipped them with communication devices and have invested in surveillance equipment.

“We have a lot of cameras in the streets; we have a Command and Control Center where all incidents get reported to and there's response and dispatch, almost instantaneously.

“So, Edo is much safer today. Of course, you have incidents of bandits and one or two cases, but we respond. The major crime we

MPC Member Urges FG

have in Edo today is cultism. It leads to a lot of homicides and therefore when investors come in, insecurity is not a deterrent to most of them.” He, however reassured that the government was taking measures to end the activities of cultists, Okaigheles, and other criminal gangs, in partnership with other security agencies in the State. Obaseki added, “If you're spending the night, just drive around town, you will see that people stay out late doing their business. So, we've managed security and it’s much better. It's not affecting business as it did 6-7 years ago. The night economy in Edo, particularly in Benin, is thriving.”

Says monetary policy shouldn’t be only game in town to fix economy

James Emejo in Abuja

A member of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), Dr. Aloysius Uche Ordu, has said the country needed urgent action to scale up improvements in overall investment

Mary Nnah

The Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, has alleged that the $100 million loan from the World Bank meant for the empowerment of Nigerian women under the Nigeria for Women Project was mismanagement by my predecessors.

Speaking on ARISE TV News yesterday, the minister revealed that the funds were squandered on advocacies, meetings, and consultancies, with little impact on the targeted beneficiaries.

The minister revealed that the funds were mismanaged by the project's former handlers, who failed to deliver the intended results.

“We were not satisfied with how the $100 million was used," Kennedy-Ohanenye said, adding, “It

didn't align with our vision, and we didn't see the impact we expected. We realised that the approach was wrong, and we needed to change it.”

Determined to right the wrongs of the past, she announced a new structure for the disbursement of an additional $500 million loan from the World Bank. The funds would be channelled towards economically sustainable empowerment for women across the 36 states, including the Federal Capital"We'veTerritory.restructured the programme to focus on tangible projects that will generate income and improve lives. We're talking about farming, rice milling, fish production – projects that will make a real difference in the lives of Nigerian women,” the minister explained.

Laleye Dipo in Minna

Niger State Governor, Alhaji

Mohammed Umaru Bago, has described his Lagos State counterpart, Babajide Sanwo-Olu as an inspirational and courageous leader, who has remained focussed in making a positive impact on his people.

Bago also described the Lagos State Governor "as a valuable asset not only to Lagosians but also Nigerians."

In a birthday greeting to the Lagos State Governor, Bago said Sanwoolu "is a worthy ally in the voyage of service to humanity, and their shared vision of supporting President Tinubu's Agricultural policy to boost food security, has made the two states to enter into partnership on Agriculture under

climate to attract Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) that is much more sustainable. Ordu said while Nigeria was not the only emerging market economy that experienced outflows of portfolio investments, a key lesson from other countries including

India, Indonesia, Vietnam, South Africa was to improve on the ease of doing business in the country and remove all encumbrances to incentivize foreign investors into theThecountry. MPC member stated this in his Personal Statement at the 295th meeting of the MPC held on May 20 and 21, 2024 to review recent economic and financial developments and assess risks to the outlook.

The committee had at the meeting resolved to raise the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR), the benchmark interest rate to 26.25 per cent in response to persistent inflationary pressures in the economy.

the Produce-for-Lagos initiative of the Lagos State Government."

Bago prayed to God for more years in good health for him to sustain the good work being done for the people.

In a similar message to the Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, Bago described him as "an astute politician and a patriotic Nigerian."

He noted that Gbajabiamila has also demonstrated positive leadership, diligence, and commitment to nation building.

Bago, in the message signed on his behalf by his Chief PressSecretary, Bologi Ibrahim, noted how the Chief of Staff to President Tinubu "has continued to diligently carry out his duties, for the actualisation of the Renewed Hope agenda of the President."

Ordu however, pointed out that the “monetary policy ought not be the only game in town for the express purpose of stabilising Nigeria’s macroeconomy”, adding that an “activist fiscal policy stance is urgently needed to bring inflation down quickly and painlessly”.

Ordu who voted to raise the MPR by 100 basis points, and to hold the CRR and the asymmetric corridor at their current levels – had noted that “another substantial increase in the policy rate in May 2024 may raise market expectations both about the risks of inflation — because the MPC is so concerned about it — and market expectations about the ultimate expected tightening that we intend based on a balanced view of the evidence presented by CBN staff.”

While calling for a moderate increase in the MPR at the meeting,

he stressed the need for the central bank to continue to urge patience and to “let our restrictive policy stance do its work”.

The MPC member further observed that efforts to diversify the country’s export base remained of utmost importance, stressing that measures are warranted to significantly boost oil production from 1.28 million barrels per day, which is well below the OPEC quota of 1.58 million barrels per day, especially as oil prices are above $80 per barrel.

He also said much more could also be done in the mining sector in view of the country’s rich endowment in mineral resources.

He also noted that the tightened global financial conditions and high uncertainties continued to impact external financial flows to Africa, with overall declines in FDIs, official development assistance and portfolio investment.

He said across the region, public debt levels remained high at around 60 per cent of GDP in 2024, with debt service payments eroding fiscal space and constraining investments in vital infrastructure and human capital development.

Ordu observed that with the US dollar on track to remain stronger for longer on account of robust US growth, high interest rates, and geopolitical risks, African economies, including Nigeria will remain vulnerable as a stronger dollar raises the local currency costs of settling their international financial obligations.

LAWYER

dR MOBOLajI OjIBaRa

LAWYER

NBA Decides: Who’ll be General Secretary?

Quotables

‘Many experts have proposed that there is a need for scrapping the State Independent Electoral Commission. Their functions should be transferred to INEC, because they remain an appendage of the incumbent Governor and behave as such.' - Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Federal Republic of Nigeria

‘It is not yet democracy. We are still struggling to put democracy in place' - Femi Falana, SAN, Human Rights Lawyer & Activist, Recipient of the IBA Bernard Simons Memorial Award

PROF MIKE OZEKHOME, CON, SAN, FCIArb, PH.D. LLD Constitutional Democracy, means a system of government, in which political and governmental power, is defined, limited and shared by a grundnorm called the Constitution, which provides inbuilt checks and balances.

This column seeks to fiercely discuss constitutional, legal and political issues, with a view to strengthening, deepening and widening the plenitude and amplitude of democracy and good governance, without fear or favour.

The writer of this column, Prof Mike Ozekhome, SAN, is a Constitutional Lawyer, Human Rights Activist, Pro-Democracy Campaigner, Notary Public and Motivational Speaker. He co-founded the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Nigeria’s pioneer human rights league, on October 15, 1987, the Universal defenders of Democracy (UDD), in 1992, and with Chief Gani Fawehinmi and others in 1998, the Joint Action Committee of Nigeria (JACON), to push out the military. In his early days, he lectured at the University of Ife. Prof Ozekhome is an author of many books. He is also a Special Counsel at the International Criminal Court (ICC), at The Hague.

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Ikeja Law Week Commences With Prayers

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dR MOBOLajI OjIBaRa

aBdULWaSIU aLFa

Kano: An Emirate Being Diminished by In-fighting?

“There’s a trick to a Graceful Exit. It begins with the vision to recognise when a job, a life stage, a relationship is over - and to let go. It means leaving what’s over, without denying its value.” - Ellen

Goodman

Before I go into the Word for Today, I must restate the fact that I am not acquainted with either the 15th Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, or the 14 & 16th Emir of Kano, HH, Muhammad Sanusi II. I do not support either party, I only support the rule of law.

Sanusi, Ado Bayero and the Federal High Court

Someone asked me why it was alright for Emir Muhammad Sanusi II to have gone to the Federal High Court (FHC) when he was deposed as Emir of Kano in 2020, and why the same FHC now lacks jurisdiction to hear the case in support of the 15th Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero. The answer is simple. The reason is because, in the case of the 14th & 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, he sought to enforce his fundamental rights, that is, his right to liberty and freedom of movement guaranteed by Sections 35(1) & 41(1) of 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended in 2023)(the Constitution) since Governor Abdullahi Ganduje not only deposed him, but banished him to Nasarawa from Kano. See Section 3(a) of the Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules 2009 (FRR). The enforcement of his constitutionally guaranteed fundamental rights, were his primary and only complaints. The FHC declared Emir Sanusi‘s banishment to be illegal and unconstitutional, ordered his release from illegal custody and awarded him N10 million. Emir Sanusi’s action, was not instituted to dispute his deposition from the position of Emir of Kano. In Gafar v Government of Kwara State & Ors (2007) LPELR-8073(SC) per Mahmud Mohammed, JSC, the Supreme Court held that “a condition precedent to the exercise of the court’s jurisdiction is that the enforcement of fundamental rights or the securing of the enforcement thereof, should be the main claim and not an accessory claim. That where the main or principal claim is not the enforcement of a fundamental right, the jurisdiction of the court cannot be properly exercised, as it will be incompetent”. I submit that in Emir Sanusi’s case, the enforcement of his constitutionally guaranteed fundamental rights was the main claim, and the jurisdiction of the FHC was thereby, ignited.

This isn’t quite the situation in Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero’s case. In Suit No. FHC/KN/CS/190/2024 filed at FHC Kano (Amobeda J) in which the 15th Emir himself is the Plaintiff, that case is a mixture of enforcement of rights, but based upon the fact that Alhaji Ado Bayero asserts and believes that or holds himself out to be the Emir of Kano.

In the other case filed at the FHC by Alhaji Aminu Baba Dan Agundi (Sarkin Dawaki Babba) in support of Alhaji Ado Bayero, Suit No. FHC/ KN/CS/182/2024, it is as clear as a bell that this case is one in which the main or principal claim was that which bordered on the challenge of the appointment of Muhammad Sanusi II as the 16th Emir of Kano and setting it aside; and setting aside the other steps taken pursuant to the Kano State Emirates Council (Repeal) Law 2024 (KRL) including the dissolution of the five Emirate Councils, the sack of Emir Ado Bayero and the appointment of Emir Sanusi. In short, the main plank of this case, is to set aside Emir Sanusi’s appointment and reinstate Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero as Emir of Kano. The prayers of the Plaintiff and the orders of the FHC, are not only an affirmation of this fact, but is also a confirmation having seen the prayers in the matter, that the proper venue to ventilate these grievances is the Kano State High Court and not the FHC, as it is a pure Chieftaincy/Emirate/ Kano State law matter. See Section 251(1) of the Constitution.

Furthermore, in Olaniyi v Aroyehun (1991) LPELR-2566 (SC) per Adolphus Godwin Karibi-Whyte, JSC, the Supreme Court held that Chieftaincy is not a matter of fundamental rights, and couldn’t be enforced under the provisions of the Constitution. The Apex Court further held that Chieftaincy is not a human right, but a privilege; that “it is not such a right which the law can enforce, by virtue merely of the Claimant being a human being”. The purport of this is that, the enforcement of a Chieftaincy/ Emirate right, is not one of the fundamental rights contemplated by Chapter IV of the Constitution to be protected using the FRR. Therefore, in Gov of Kogi State & Ors v Yakubu & Anor (2001) LPELR-3177 (SC) per Uthman Mohammed, JSC, the Supreme Court held that where the primary complaint is deposition from chieftaincy and the alleged breaches of fundamental rights are mere accessories to the primary complaint, proceedings by way of the FRR are inappropriate. Being a chieftaincy matter and not one included in the jurisdiction of the FHC in Section 251(1) of the

onikepo braithwaite

onikepo.braithwaite@thisdaylive. com onikepob@yahoo.com

“It is therefore, shocking, not only that Counsel that filed this matter at the wrong venue, the FHC, is a learned Senior Advocate, but that Liman J of the FHC Kano went ahead to defiantly assume jurisdiction in the Bayero matter and issue orders, despite the fact that the FHC obviously lacks the jurisdiction to hear it….”

Constitution, Kano State High Court (KHC) is the proper venue for the Bayero matter, even if it may have involved the enforcement of fundamental rights (which the aforementioned court processes of the Alhaji Agundi case did not show). In EFCC v Wolfgang Reinl (2020) LPELR-49387(SC) & Ihim v Maduagwu (2021) LPELR-53906, the Supreme Court held inter alia that, both the State and Federal High Court have concurrent jurisdiction in matters pertaining to fundamental rights. Therefore, the irresistible conclusion to arrive at is that, since the primary complaint, that is, the deposition of Emir Bayero falls within the purview of the jurisdiction of the KHC, any other ancillary claim for the enforcement of fundamental rights could also have been heard at the KHC. See Section 46(1) of the Constitution.

Liman J’s Shocking Orders: An Absolute Abuse of Court Process It is therefore, shocking, not only that Counsel that filed this matter at the wrong venue, the FHC, is a learned Senior Advocate, but that Liman J of the FHC Kano went ahead to defiantly assume jurisdiction in the Bayero matter and issue orders, despite the fact that the FHC obviously lacks the jurisdiction to hear it (see the case of Madukolu v Nkemdilim 1962 2 SCNLR 34 about jurisdiction being the lifeblood of a case, without which a case is dead); also subsequent upon the Chief Judge of Kano State and her counterpart in the FHC, being summoned by the Chief Justice

Onwudiwe v FRN (2006) LPELR-2715(SC) per Niki Tobi, JSC.

I submit that the FHC’s purported nullification of Emir Sanusi’s appointment by virtue of the fact that the FHC order annulled and set aside every step taken by the Kano State Government in pursuance of the KRL, while holding that the validity of the KRL is not affected by the order, is not only confusing and contradictory, but appears to be null and void ab initio and an exercise in futility, since the court that issued the orders lacks the jurisdiction so to do. The precious time of the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court will also be wasted, in re-pronouncing on already settled issues about lack of jurisdiction, and the consequence of nullity in the decisions arising therefrom.

Local Government Caretaker Committees

of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON, on account of the Kano State imbroglio. This is obviously a case in which the LPDC and NJC, must rise up. We cannot continue to accommodate those who are destroying our profession, simply for their own personal gain. Nor can we allow politicians, particularly because they are in the ruling party, to have their way by hook or by crook. It is bringing our profession, into serious disrepute. It would be foolhardy, to continue on this downward spiral, as the consequences may be dire.

Anarchy?

What is really happening in our country, Nigeria? Where the arms of government in which the powers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria have been placed by Sections 4, 5 & 6 of the Constitution, misuse those powers with gusto and aplomb (relish too)? It is even more worrying when this abuse may be happening in the judicial/legal sector, where we are all meant to be officers in the temple of justice and experts in the law. See Gafar v Government of Kwara State & Ors (Supra). In AG Kano State v AGF (2007) LPELR-618 (SC) per Mahmud Mohammed, JSC, in which the Supreme Court held that “where a court had no jurisdiction to entertain any claim, anything done in respect of the claim will be an exercise in futility” It is also trite law that that neither a court nor parties to an action, can confer jurisdiction on the court; it is the Constitution and statute only, that confer jurisdiction. See the case of

Similarly, some Governors are also doing as they please, running their States like Emperors, and paying no mind to the Constitution and the Oath of Office they took to abide by it. Section 7(1) of the Constitution guarantees the system of local government, by democratically elected local government Councils. Therefore, it is obvious, even to the non-discerning and non-Lawyers, that an appointed Caretaker Committee isn’t democratically elected. Nobody, but the Governor who appointed them, voted for them. At least, the people did not vote for the Caretaker Committee in an election, which is the requirement to be democratically elected. The issue of Governors setting up Caretaker Committees to replace duly elected Local Government Officials, has been settled by the Apex Court in a plethora of authorities. In APC & Ors v Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission & Ors (2021) LPELR-55337(SC) per Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, JSC, the Supreme Court held inter alia that “…a Governor has a bounden duty to preserve, in all its ramifications, the existence of democratically elected Local Government Councils”. This duty of a Governor to ensure that the system of a democratically elected local government continues unhindered, was also earlier stated by Olabode Rhodes-Vivour, JSC in Eze & Ors v Governor of Abia State & Ors (2014) LPELR-23276(SC). It is the duty of the State Government to conduct local government elections, as and when due. The appointment of Caretaker Committees by Governors who may fail to fulfil their constitutional duty in this regard, is unconstitutional. In APC & Ors v Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission & Ors (Supra) per John Inyang Okoro, JSC, the Supreme Court held inter alia that the Local Government Laws of Enugu State which allowed the Governor to appoint Caretaker or Transition Committees out of which Chairmen shall be appointed for an arbitrary period of time, is in violent conflict with Section 7(1) of the 1999 Constitution as amended and is therefore, null and void” Also see Governor of Ekiti State & Ors v Olubunmo & Ors (2016) LPELR-48040(SC) per Chima Centus Nweze, JSC; Ajuwon & Ors v Governor of Oyo State & Ors (2021) LPELR-55339(SC) per Ibrahim Mohammed Musa Saulawa, JSC.

As to the extension of the tenure of a Local Government Chairman, again, in APC & Ors v Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission & Ors (Supra) per Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, JSC, the Supreme Court held thus: “Nigeria is a country governed by the rule of law. No tenure can be extended beyond the period stipulated at the whims and caprices of the Governor, without an amendment to the existing law”. The purport of this appears to be that, if there has to be a tenure extension of the Local Government Council, it must be done by virtue of amendment of the existing law, and not on the say-so of a Governor or any so-called doctrine of necessity which isn’t really a doctrine of necessity or caused by some force majeure, but, the failure, neglect or omission of a State Government to organise elections as and when due.

Conclusion

As some Lawyers and Judicial Officers alike go down the path to destroy our jurisprudence and profession for their own personal gain, and that of their cohorts, be it politicians, clients or whoever, we call on those who are empowered to protect same, to stand firmly against them to restore our legal profession, both the Bar and Bench, because for one, as the CJN succinctly put it a few weeks ago, the Judiciary’s “reputation deserves more crystallisation and embellishment than what it is currently getting”. Ditto for Lawyers. Sadly, this will not happen, if we continue on this negative trajectory of abuse of court process, and the general lack of respect for the rule of law that has pervaded all arms of government, and perpetrators do not face any consequences for their actions. The Kano Emirate is an ancient and extremely respected one, which shouldn’t be dragged down by an unnecessary leadership tussle.

Competence of Action Filed by Liquidator Without Appropriate Sanction

Facts

The Appellant, vide an amended writ of summons and statement of claim, filed an action in trespass against the Respondents at the High Court of Benue State. The Appellant sought against the Respondents, special and general damages for their invasion of the Appellant’s premises on 11th May, 2001 and 12th June, 2001. At the conclusion of trial, the trial court delivered its judgement wherein it held that the Appellant proved its claim for special damages in the sum of N10,448,830.00. The trial court thereby ordered the Respondents jointly and severally, to pay the said sum to the Appellant as special damages. The trial court also awarded against the Respondents jointly and severally, in favour of the Appellant, the sum of N1 million as general damages for the invasions of the Appellant’s premises; and costs in the sum of N10 million.

Aggrieved, the 2nd and 3rd Respondent appealed to the Court of Appeal vide Appeal No. CA/J/214/2009. The 1st Respondent equally filed an appeal vide Appeal No. CA/J/214A/2009. The 1st Respondent’s appeal in CA/J/214A/2009 was however, struck out subsequently, upon a successful challenge to its competence by the Appellant. The 1st Respondent was later granted extension of time to file a fresh appeal, and the same was eventually filed and entered as Appeal No. CA/ MK/159/2015.

On 25th January, 2018, the court below delivered judgement in Appeal No. CA/J/214/2009; while it delivered judgement in Appeal No. CA/MK/159/2015 on 2nd February, 2018. In its judgements in the sister appeals, the court below set aside the award of special damages made by the trial court in favour of the Appellant, on the ground that the Appellant’s claim to the same was rooted in hearsay evidence. It however, upheld the remainder of the trial court’s decision.

Dissatisfied, the Appellant filed Appeal No. SC. 324/2018 before the Supreme Court challenging the decision of the court below in Appeal No. CA/J/214/2009. The Appellant also filed the instant appeal, to challenge the decision of the court below in the 1st Respondent’s appeal in Appeal No. CA/ MK/159/2015. The Appellant’s Notice of Appeal was filed on 5th February, 2018 and the record of appeal was transmitted to the Apex Court on 6th March, 2018. On 7th March, 2018, the Appellant was also granted leave by the court below to appeal the court’s judgement, whereupon the Appellant filed a Notice of Appeal on 13th March 2018 which was regularised on 06/01/2020. On the same 7th March 2018, the 1st Respondent was granted leave to file a cross-appeal.

The parties filed and exchanged their respective briefs of argument. In its amended brief of argument, the 1st Respondent raised a preliminary objection challenging the jurisdiction of the Apex Court to entertain the appeal.

Issue for Determination in 1st Respondent’s Preliminary Objection

Whether the Appellant’s reliance on the second Notice of Appeal dated 13th March, 2018 filed after the transmission of the record of appeal to the Supreme Court on 6th March, 2018 and the absence of any leave granted previously on the first Notice of Appeal filed on 6th February, 2018, did not render the appeal incompetent and rob the Apex Court of jurisdiction to adjudicate on the same.

Arguments

Counsel for the 1st Respondent argued that the instant appeal is by the Notice of Appeal filed on 5th February, 2018 and upon entry of the appeal on 6th March, 2018, there was no concurrent jurisdiction between the Apex Court and the Court of Appeal over the res and the Appellant’s appeal from the said date, hence, the leave granted to the Respondent by the court below on 7th March, 2018 was a nullity.

He argued further that the entry of the appeal on 6th March, 2018 is incompetent, and all the defects therein cannot be cured by the further reliefs (leave, amendment etc) subsequently granted to the Appellant. He cited MACFOY v UAC LTD (1962) AC 152 and EZEOKAFOR v EZEILO (1999) 9 NWLR (PT. 619) 519 AT 524, PARAS. E-F, and urged the Apex Court to dismiss the appeal for being an abuse of court process.

In reaction, Counsel for the Appellant argued that the 1st Respondent cannot, by preliminary objection, challenge the order of the court below granting leave to the Appellant to appeal, and so long as there is no appeal filed by the 1st Appellant to challenge the said order, the same is valid and subsisting. He contended that as at 6th March, 2018, the record transmitted to the

In the Supreme Court of nigeria Holden at abuja

On Friday, the 12th day of january, 2024

Before their lordships

uwani Musa abba aji

Ibrahim Mohammed Musa Saulawa adamu jauro

Tijjani abubakar

emmanuel akomaye agim Justices, Supreme Court SC. 185/2018

Between THe ReGISTeRed TRuSTeeS OF MISSIOn HOuSe aPPeLLanT

And

1. aLL STaTeS TRuST BanK PLC.

(In LIQuIdaTIOn By nIGeRIa dePOSIT

InSuRanCe CORPORaTIOn) ReSPOndenTS

2. PauL TyOaPIne TSeGBa

3. Cad deVeLOPMenT (nIG.) LTd

(Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Ibrahim Mohammed Musa Saulawa, JSC)

Apex Court was only incomplete for the purpose of entering the appeal and for the Court to be completely seised of the subject matter of the appeal, it could not therefore, be said that the appeal had been entered as at then. He relied on OLORUNYEMI v AKHAGBE (2010) 8 NWLR (PT. 1195) 48 AT 61-62 PAR. G-B. Counsel argued that indeed, the two Notices of Appeal were filed on 5th February, 2018 and 13th March, 2018 and leave to appeal on grounds of fact was granted to the Appellant by the court below on 7th March, 2018; however, as the judgement was delivered on 2nd February, 2018, the leave granted was still within the 90 days period allowed for the Appellant to file an appeal.

Court’s Finding

The Court held that the invalidity of a subsisting order of a court of competent jurisdiction cannot be presumed by either the appellate court or a

“…the NDIC, having failed to obtain the necessary sanction as required by section 425 of CAMA 1990, its application and appeal before the court below were incompetent, and the court below lacked the jurisdiction to entertain and determine the same”

of Appeal and the 1st Respondent’s issue 2 distilled therefrom.

(iii) Whether the court below was wrong when it made a finding that Exhibit 2 is documentary hearsay and relied on that finding to set aside the award of special damages made by the trial court.

Arguments

Counsel for the Appellant argued on the first issue that the court below lacked jurisdiction to hear and determine the 1st Respondent’s application for extension of time to appeal and the subsequent appeal on the ground that (a) the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), being the Liquidator of the 1st Respondent failed to obtain the sanction of the court or that of the committee of inspection before filing the said application; (c) at the time the 1st Respondent filed its appeal in February 2006, it had ceased to be a juristic person; and (d) NDIC was never a party to the suit at the trial court.

In reaction, Counsel for the 1st Respondent submitted that Section 588(1) of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 2020 did not stipulate that leave of court or the committee of inspection was required, but, only provides that the liquidator can maintain an action with the sanction of either the court or the committee of inspection.

On the second issue, Counsel for the Appellant argued that the 1st Respondent’s Ground 2 and Issue 2 distilled therefrom are incompetent, because they introduced an entirely new issue as to the admissibility of Exhibit 2, for which leave of court ought to have been first sought and obtained. Responding, the 1st Respondent’s Counsel argued that the Appellant’s submission amounted to the Appellant approbating and reprobating on an issue it initially raised, but, subsequently, withdrew voluntarily.

On the third issue, Counsel for the Appellant submitted that question of whether the valuation report (Exhibit 2) was documentary hearsay was never raised and argued before the trial court, and the court below raised the issue suo motu without affording the parties an opportunity to address it.

Counsel for the 1st Respondent argued conversely that the said issue was raised and argued by the Appellant and Respondents in the sister appeals, who are also parties in the instant appeal.

Court’s Judgement and Rationale

In determining the 1st issue, the Apex Court held that Section 425 of the CAMA 1990 (now Section 588(1) CAMA 2020) as applicable at the time of the appeal to the Court of Appeal, was unequivocal as to the requirement for a liquidator in a winding-up by the court, to obtain the sanction of the court or committee of inspection before bringing or defending any action on behalf of the company in liquidation. The Court held that where a statute lays down a procedure for doing a thing, that procedure ought to be strictly complied with. His Lordship held that the NDIC, having failed to obtain the necessary sanction as required by section 425 of CAMA 1990, its application and appeal before the court below were incompetent, and the court below lacked the jurisdiction to entertain and determine the same.

Respondent, 2and such order subsists until it is set aside. The Court held that in the instant case, leave was granted on 7th March 2018 to enable the Appellant to appeal against the judgement of the court below and the 1st Respondent file any appeal against the leave granted to the Appellant; hence in the absence of any such appeal, the leave granted to the Appellant subsists.

The Court held that an application by way of preliminary objection for the striking out of an appeal in limine may be on points of law and where there are no facts in dispute to determine such objection; however, where facts are in dispute as in the instant case, the application ought to be by way of a motion on notice with supporting affidavit and not preliminary objection incorporated in the brief of argument with no supporting facts as done by the 1st Respondent. On this basis, the Court dismissed the preliminary objection and proceeded to determine the appeal on the merits.

Issues for Determination in Substantive Appeal

The Apex Court considered the three issues raised by the Appellant in its determination of the appeal to wit:

(i) Whether the court below acted without jurisdiction when it extended time for the 1st Respondent to appeal the decision of the trial court, and subsequently heard and determined its appeal.

(ii) Whether the court below was right in refusing to strike out Ground 2 of the Notice

On the 2nd issue, the Apex Court held that a ground of appeal and the issues for determination derived therefrom must relate to the decision appealed against, as well as challenge to the validity of the ration decidendi. The Court agreed with the Appellant that the question of the admissibility or otherwise of Exhibit 2 as a document made during the pendency of the suit was never raised on trial, and it was an entirely new issue raised on appeal which required the leave of court.

On the 3rd issue, the Apex Court held that it is most desirable that where a court, as in the present case, after hearing argument of Counsel, deems it expedient that the matter before it can in fact, be decided on a sheer technical point upon which it has not been addressed, then it behooves the court to invite the Counsel to address it thereupon. The Court held that the court below was wrong to have determined Exhibit 2 to be documentary hearsay and set aside the trial court’s award of special damages, without inviting parties especially the Appellant, to address it on the said point which was raised suo motu by the court below.

Appeal Allowed. Judgement of the Court of Appeal set aside. Judgement of the trial court restored. The Court ordered that the sister Appeal No. SC/324/2018, shall abide the judgement in the instant appeal.

Representation

J. S. Okutepa, SAN and others for Appellant/Cross Respondent.

Ogechi Ogbonna and another for the 1st Respondent/ Cross Appellant.

Okechukwu Ajunwa and others for the 2nd and 3rd Respondent.

Honourable Ibrahim Mohammed Musa Saulawa, JSC

ICC Nigeria to Host Inaugural Arbitration Days in Lagos

Stories by Steve Aya

The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Nigeria, in collaboration with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), has announced the inaugural

ICC Nigeria Arbitration Days. Scheduled for July 3rd and 4th, 2024, at the prestigious Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. This event will mark a significant milestone in the field of international arbitration and

alternative dispute resolution (ADR).

Building on the success of the ICC Africa Conference on International Arbitration, which was hosted in Nigeria from 2016 to 2023 and now

moves to Nairobi, Kenya, the ICC Nigeria Arbitration Days will explore the theme “Harnessing the Prospects of Arbitration and ADR in Emerging International Arbitration Hubs”.

NBA Ikeja Law Week Commences With Prayers

The much-awaited Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ikeja Branch law week began on Friday, June 21, 2024, with Friday prayers and there was also a Sunday service to pray for Lawyers. It is expected that the event will last till June 27, 2023.

The weeklong event has so far lived up to expectations, given the high turnout of registered Lawyers and members of the Ikeja Bar. It has been a celebration of commitment to Justice, the Rule of Law, and the Continuous Development of Legal Practice in Nigeria so far.

The theme for this year’s Law Week “Public Governance in Troubled Times: Safeguarding the Rule of Law”, has been described as resonating deeply with the challenges and opportunities that the legal profession faces in our rapidly evolving world, according to the Branch Chairman, Mr Seyi Olawumi.

According to the Chairman, the week will have an exciting lineup of events, that will provide valuable insights and foster robust discussions on various aspects of the law.

Some of the highlights are the Keynote Address and Panel discussions which will

have esteemed Speakers and Panelists, including, Mr Kanu Agabi, SAN (Keynote Speaker); Mr Lawal Pedro, SAN; Professor John Oluwole Akintola; National President, CLASFON, Yemi Ademolekun; Norrison Quakers, SAN; Dr Olaniyi Olopade, SAN; Afolabi Selebo, Tokunbo Wahab; Dr Oluyinka Olumide; Professor Olarenwaju Fagbohun, SAN, and other high-profile Speakers will be on hand to share their expertise on contemporary issues.

Legal issues, including the impact of technology on the legal profession, human rights advocacy, and the role of lawyers in economic development will also be in the front burner.

Shedding more light on the event, Olawumi said “as legal practitioners, they must adapt to these changes, uphold the highest standards of professional conduct, and contribute meaningfully to the development of the legal system’’.

“As our commitment to giving back to the community, our legal aid clinics will provide free legal services to those in need, ensuring that justice is accessible to all. This is a testament to our dedication to serving the public, and upholding the principles of equity and fairness.”

Stephen Kola Balogun Judicial Review

Nigerian law is where it is today, because of our refusal/inability to properly embrace the concept of judicial review. Most common law jurisdictions have established a procedural dichotomy between public law actions and private law actions, meaning that you can’t use private law methods to institute a public law action and vice versa. Nigeria does not yet have such a practice direction in place and now, perhaps, is the best time to consider

introducing such a practice direction.

Judicial review is the conventional methodology, used to institute public law actions. You require leave of court to do so, and the test is whether you have sufficient interest in the matter. An application for judicial review also serves as a stay of proceedings. The court then reviews the decision of the public law maker, to ascertain whether there has been either a breach of fair hearing (fundamental rights), procedural wrongs and/or illegality. In short, judicial review would have captured and embraced all

Olawumi gave assurances that the Ikeja Law Week, will also provide an excellent opportunity for networking and building professional relationships.

“Our social events will facilitate interactions among legal professionals, fostering a sense of camaraderie and collaboration.

“As we embark on this week of activities, I want to emphasise our unwavering commitment to excellence in legal practice. The legal profession is the bedrock of a just society, and we must continuously strive to uphold the integrity, independence, and professionalism that our calling demands.

The Chairman also noted the challenges that lie ahead, from the ever-changing legal landscape

to the pressures of maintaining ethical standards in a competitive environment. He further noted that an immense opportunity for growth is also seen, as well as innovation, and positive impact.

He said it is through events like Law Week that they can collectively address these challenges, share knowledge, and inspire each other to achieve greater heights.

He took the opportunity to thank sponsors, partners, and all the volunteers who worked tirelessly to make the Law Week a reality. Adding that, their support and dedication are greatly appreciated, and have been instrumental in bringing this event to fruition.

Participants will include company executives, Lawyers in private and corporate practice, arbitration and ADR practitioners, Judges, accountants, architects, quantity surveyors, expert witnesses, and students. The event promises excellent networking opportunities, and insights from renowned local and international arbitration practitioners.

These experts will share insights on global developments in international arbitration, emphasising its role as the preferred mechanism for resolving complex business disputes across sectors such as EPC Contracts, Oil & Gas, LNG, Shipping, Telecommunications, Manufacturing, International Trade, Construction, Infrastructure, and Financial Services.

As Nigeria strives to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) across all sectors of the economy, the ability to manage and resolve disputes effectively is crucial. The ICC Nigeria Arbitration Days, aims

to equip stakeholders with the necessary knowledge and tools to handle disputes proactively, fostering a more favourable investment climate.

“The ICC-Nigeria Arbitration Days will be a gathering of the brightest minds in Arbitration and ADR to shape the future of dispute resolution in Africa, with participants walking away with the knowledge, connections and inspiration to revolutionise their practice and transform the continent’s arbitration landscape!”. Mrs Dorothy Udeme Ufot, SAN, Chairman of the ICCNigeria Arbitration And ADR Commission.

According to Jean Chiazor Anishere, SAN, Co-chair of the Planning Committee of the Conference, “The time for innovation in Arbitration and ADR, is now. Let’s make it happen”.

Patrick Ikwueto, SAN, Co-chair of the Planning Committee of the Conference, adds that “Africa’s Arbitration and ADR landscape is evolving. Be part of the transformation”.

Unilag’s Commercial & Industrial Law Department Organises Annual Lecture in Honour of Prof Adeogun

The Department of Commercial & Industrial Law, University of Lagos will on Thursday, June 27, 2024 hold an Annual Lecture in honour of the memory of late Professor A.A. Adeogun. This year’s lecture will take place at 2:00pm at the Professor

the legal issues at stake in the Kano Emirates saga, without turning the law into a runaway road circus. This is most unfortunate. Why don’t we embrace judicial review? The answer is quite simple. The Grandees who trained the modern Nigerian Lawyer like Rotimi Williams, GOK Ajayi, Kehinde Sofola etc rarely used this procedure. Why? Because they largely practiced under military governments, and it was impracticable to review the decisions of the military. However, in a democracy it’s essential, particularly in trying to keep to the principles of

Ayo Ajomo Hall, Nigeria Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, University of Lagos.

A statement signed by Chairman of the Planning Committee, Professor Adejoke Oyewunmi states:

‘The Department of Commercial and Industrial

separation of powers. In short the Judiciary is not imposing its decision on the Executive and/ or the Legislature as the case may be. They are simply reviewing their decision, to ensure they have complied with existing and established laws. This is precisely why a private law action is not the ideal way to institute a public law action. I therefore, call upon the National Judicial Council (NJC), the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and other relevant stakeholders, to consider having a procedural dichotomy practice rule on instituting public and private law actions without further delay.

Law at the University of Lagos, has a storied tradition of excellence in labour jurisprudence.

The foundational work of trailblazers, including Professor Adeogun, has been carried forward by successive generations of academics whose seminal contributions have shaped the landscape of Labour Law, not just in Nigeria, but internationally.

“The lecture titled: "Workplace Developments, Unfair Labour Practices, and International Best Practices", will be delivered by His Lordship, Honourable Justice B.B. Kanyip PhD., OFR, the esteemed President of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria.

The paper will be dissected by a Panel of distinguished academics consisting of:

(i) Professor J.E.O. Abugu, SAN – Department of Commercial & Industrial Law

(ii) Professor C. Obisi – Department of Industrial Relations & Personnel Management and (iii) Dr Philip Folarin –

Department of Commercial & Industrial Law.

“This significant discourse promises to delve into critical issues facing today's workplace, and provide insights into both domestic and International Labour best practices. His extensive experience and leadership in the field, make him the round peg in the round hole to deliver this year's lecture.

“This annual event is more than just a lecture; it is a gathering of distinguished personalities from the legal, academic, and industrial sectors, all coming together to celebrate the legacy of a luminary in Labour Law whose pioneering work as a teacher, researcher, and thought leader has influenced countless legal minds and practitioners around the globe.

“In particular, his 1986 Inaugural Lecture, "From Contract to Status in Quest for Security", remains a cornerstone in labour law discourse. His pioneering thoughts have had a lasting impact on the field of labour law, inspiring many.”

Late Prof A. A. Adeogun

Chairman of the ICC Nigeria Arbitration and ADR Commission, Mrs Dorothy Udeme Ufot, SAN

NBA Ikeja Branch Chairman, Seyi Olawumi

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The Role of Law in Maintaining Sanity and Preventing Impunity in a Democratic Setting (Part 4)

Introduction

In our earlier outings in this treatise, we discussed the meaning of law, impunity, separation of power and separation of powers, checks and balances in Nigeria. Today, we shall x-ray How Law helps to maintain sanity and prevent impunity in a democratic setting. Please, read on.

The force of law is a major requirement, for maintaining social order and preventing chaos in societies. It is difficult to imagine the existence of a community, without law. Lawmakers, courts and other officials of the law, help to preserve a harmonious society. As Freeman wrote:

“Fiction provides us with numerous examples of utopian societies where congruence of norm and ideal is such that there is perfect social harmony and no need for law or lawyers to emerge. History teaches us the unhappy truth that no such society has ever existed. In all societies, socialisation is an unequal process; there is always deviance and conflict, and law can be seen to emerge as a norm-asserting authority with the coercive power to sanction those guilty of violating the norm. It is difficult to escape the fact that law is necessary. If a society should ever come about where it is not, it may be predicted with certainty that it will be a society different from anything we have known”.

Law functions as an integral part of the society and so, occupies a important position. It generally performs four functions. First, it plays the role of protecting us from evil that is, those people who wish to do us bad without any good intention. Secondly, law helps in regulating relationships amongst humans, and other institutions in the society in a bid to promote the common good. Thirds is the resolution of disputes over limited resources -through the judiciary, to adjudicate upon disputes amongst persons and institutions.

Finally, law in the society encourages people to do the right things even though there have been arguments as to the stricken division between law and morality. (ibid).

Thus, Law is an indispensable tool in maintaining sanity and preventing impunity in a democratic setting. As enquired by Okafor; (E.U. Okafor (1998) in his work Law, Democracy and Public Affairs:

“Why does Nigerian society function the way it does despite the provision of the law? It is a platitude to say that Nigerian society function as though no laws exist. And where there is no law, there is no justice and where there is no justice, there will be no order and peace.”

Without law, the society will suffer a great deal of anarchy and unrest; the mighty will exact the weight of their strength on the weak and defenceless and will not be made to account for their misdeeds. It is thus untenable to think of a society or State in the absence of law, let alone a democratic setting. This picture was aptly captured by Thomas Hobbes an English philosopher in his work “Leviathan”. Hobbes contemplates what life would be like in the absence of organised sovereign political power; or what the life of the people would be life if there was no law or the threat of punishment to keep us in check. He maintained that all humans were selfish as he looks at them in what he termed “state of nature” and further affirms that all men are driven by a common passion: a desire to be superior to others for the dual purpose of self-gratification and self-

protection. Hobbes stated thus:

“We are all basically selfish, driven by fear of death and the hope of personal gain. All of us seek power over others, whether we realise this or not...if society broke down and you had to live in a state of nature', without laws or anyone with the power to back them up, you, like everyone else, would steal and murder when necessary. At least, you'd have to do that if you wanted to carry on living. In a world of scarce resources, particularly if you were struggling to find food and water to survive, it could actually be rational to kill other people before they killed you... life outside society would be 'solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short”.

Attempting to find a solution to this undesirable situation, Hobbes was of the view that some powerful individuals or parliaments be put in charge. The individuals in the state of nature would have to enter into a “social contract”, an agreement to give up some of their dangerous freedoms for the sake of safety. Without what he called a “sovereign”, life would be a kind of hell. This sovereign would be given the right to inflict severe punishment on anyone who stepped out of line. He maintained that laws are no good if there is not someone or something strong enough to make everyone follow them. This of course suggests an idea of the need of law and a government to implement them. The obvious points therein are that, for there

“The force of law is a major requirement, for maintaining social order and preventing chaos in societies. It is difficult to imagine the existence of a community, without law. Lawmakers, courts and other officials of the law, help to preserve a harmonious society”

to be a democratic setting, there must be rule of law to control the exercise of the powers conferred on those in authority. Also, to prevent impunity, the rule of law must be fully observed. This is because, as stated above, human beings have the tendency to abuse powers and infringe on the rights of others if not restrained. This was aptly captured in the expression of the English Historian, Lord Acton in the following words:

“Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Great men are almost always bad men.”

It is therefore, the existence of law and the enforcement of same, by meting out appropriate punishment in cases of deviant behaviours, that guarantees sanity and prevents impunity in any democratic setting. Thus, where there is failure to enforce the laws and ensure that deterrent is achieved, impunity is bound to occur. This was aptly captured by Louis Joinet (United Nations Special Rapporteur) in the following words:

“impunity is a consequence of the —failure of states to meet their obligations, investigate violations and take appropriate measures (against) perpetrators, particularly in the area of justice, to ensure that they are prosecuted, tried and duly punished; to provide the victims with effective remedies and reparation for the injuries suffered, and to take steps to prevent any recurrence of such violation”.

Though Hobbs holds a critical and radical view of the nature of human beings, he is nonetheless correct about the outlook of life outside the society when law is absent in the society. Therefore, to prevent the scenario painted by Hobbes, law becomes an indispensable tool in preventing impunity and maintaining sanity in a democratic setting.

In fact, law is a tool for social engineering as has been rightly and strongly opinionated

by a renowned philosopher, Roscoe Pounds. According to Pounds, “law as a tool for social engineering is based on the notion that laws are used as a means to shape society and regulate people’s behaviour”. Accordingly, to him, “law is social engineering which means that where law is enacted, it curtails the selfish interest of man for the common benefit of the larger society.

In Nigeria, the need to construct a better society through the instrumentality of law has been duly recognised by the Section 15 (5) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended. This section provides for the total condemnation and abolishment of all corrupt practices and abuse of power. Abuse of power is impunity, the dangerous trend of the effect of abuse of power is what the grundnorm seek to avoid and so the necessity for the provision, so to guarantee a healthy society. The Constitution provides thus: “The state shall abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power”.

As beautiful as this provision appears, it is nevertheless not intended to be pursued seriously. This is because, the said section is contained under Chapter II of the Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended notoriously tagged: “Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy” and by extension not justiciable or simply put, no court of law in Nigeria is empowered to enforce it. Section 6 (6)(c) of the Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended clearly states thus:

“The judicial powers vested in accordance with the foregoing provisions of this section (c) shall not, except as otherwise provided by this constitution, extend to any issue or question as to whether any act or omission by any authority or person or as to whether any law or any judicial decision is in conformity with the fundamental objectives and Directive Principles of state Policy set out in Chapter II of this Constitution; and..”

The effect of Section 6 (6) (c) on Section 15 (5) is therefore, that though the state has a legal obligation to stamp out corruption and impunity, the same Constitution in another full breadth absolves them of that responsibility. To me it appears as a give and take back provision, which does not really present Nigeria as a country that is honestly ready to abolish all forms of impunity.

Severally, the courts have always held that chapter II of the Constitution is unenforceable. For example in Attorney-General of Ondo State v Attorney-General of the Federation (2002) 9NWLR (Pt. 772) and Okogie v Attorney-General of Lagos State (1981) NCLR 2187, the court has consistently echoed that Section 6(6)(c) of the Constitution operate to oust the court of any power to entertain any matter with regard to Chapter II of the Constitution.

The said section bears semblance with military ouster clauses or decrees, this is not unconnected to the fact the Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution is a brainchild of successive military government, which would go all the length to ensure that they are not subject to accountability. That itself is impunity even in a democratic setting.

As rightly stated by the Supreme Court in Attorney-General of the Federation v Sode (1990) NWLR (Pt. 128) per Belgore JSC:

“The purport of ouster provision in decrees is clear. That is, no court of law or tribunal should look into any matter the courts are so prevented from looking into. This is the peculiarity of the military regime, which makes the constitution subjected to their decrees...the original sources of jurisdiction is the constitution itself; but when a military regime by a degree promulgated outs jurisdiction or nay other law, the decree must be followed”. (To be continued).

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

“Law; an ordinance of reason for the common good, made by him who has care of the community.” (Thomas Aquinas)

Nigerian Law of Electronic Transactions

Book Review

Title: nigerian Law of electronic Transactions

Author:

adeniji Kazeem, San, FCarb

Publisher: West african Book Publishers Limited

Hardcover: ISBn: 978-978-153-967-1

Number of Pages: 192

Year of Publication: 2024

Name of reviewer: Gbenga Omolokun

Introduction

As a professional with over a decade of experience in the financial services sector, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of technology on the industry. However, the rapid integration of technology has outpaced the development of the corresponding legal frameworks. It is within this context that The Nigerian Law of Electronic Transactions proves to be a significant and timely contribution, offering a comprehensive overview of the laws governing electronic transactions in Nigeria.

About the Book

Book Cover

The hard cover book has an alluring front cover, with a photograph of the author on the back.

Contents

The book of 192 pages contains six chapters, namely: Chapter 1: Introduction; Chapter 2: Electronic Contract Formation; Chapter 3: Evidence and Electronic Contracts; Chapter 4: Legislating for Electronic Transactions; Chapter 5: Cybercrimes and Electronic Contracts and Chapter 6: Resolving Electronic Commercial Disputes.

It serves as a much-needed compendium of relevant laws, addressing a critical gap in understanding the legalities that underpin the use of technology in

business and financial transactions. As I delved into the book, I was enlightened and surprised by the extent of existing legal provisions, many of which are under-utilised in practice. For instance, the Cybersecurity Act, which gained notoriety during my review, highlighted gaps in practical application, despite its comprehensive coverage.

A particularly compelling section of the book, deals with contracts and the notion of consent in electronic transactions. The discussion around what constitutes consent, particularly in the context of financial services, is crucial.

The book raises pertinent questions, about whether the completion of a payment transaction can be considered as contractual acceptance. This is an area ripe for further exploration and has significant implications for market participants.

The book also addresses the enforceability of Browser-wrap Agreements which are often overlooked, but critical in the digital age. Understanding these agreements is vital, for ensuring that both businesses and consumers are adequately protected under the law.

One surprising revelation was the exclusion of certain key processes from digital signature acceptance, such as the issuance of birth certificates and the termination of utility services. These exclusions present practical challenges, especially considering the National Population Commission’s

“Nigerian Law of Electronic Transactions by Adeniji Kazeem, SAN is an essential resource for anyone involved in the digital and financial sectors in Nigeria. The book not only illuminates existing legal frameworks…It is a timely and invaluable guide for navigating the complex legal landscape of electronic transactions….”

(NPC) move towards digital issuance of birth certificates. Similarly, the need for physical confirmation to terminate utility services complicates the digital provision of credit in sectors like power, where embedding digital financial services could offer substantial benefits.

The section on digital evidence is particularly enlightening, offering a comparison between digital practices in financial services and the evidentiary standards required in court. The emergence of AI and GPT models, introduces new complexities in the realm of digital evidence. The book prompts a re-evaluation of the admissibility and certification of computer-generated evidence, a topic that is increasingly relevant as technology evolves.

Cybercrime is another critical area covered extensively in the book. While high-value cybercrimes involving institutional hacks often make headlines, more prevalent issues involve lower-value online fraud, such as those arising from Instagram transactions. The book discusses the provisions in the Cybersecurity Act designed to address these crimes, but also highlights the practical challenges of restitution relative to the fraud value. Additionally, the lack of affordable cybercrime insurance in Nigeria further complicates the issue.

One notable observation, is the sluggishness and expense of the judicial

process in handling cybercrime cases, particularly internet fraud. Despite the Cybersecurity Act’s provisions, practical enforcement remains a challenge. The book underscores the need for more efficient judicial mechanisms, to handle the growing incidence of cybercrimes. Data protection is another area of concern, especially from a regulatory standpoint. The book points out that the majority of the Nigerian population either lacks the resources to understand or the awareness to care about data protection implications. This highlights a significant gap in public education and awareness that needs to be addressed to ensure comprehensive data protection compliance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nigerian Law of Electronic Transactions by Adeniji Kazeem, SAN is an essential resource for anyone involved in the digital and financial sectors in Nigeria. The book not only illuminates existing legal frameworks, but also identifies areas needing further attention and reform. It is a timely and invaluable guide for navigating the complex legal landscape of electronic transactions, offering clarity and insight for both legal practitioners and industry participants.

Gbenga Omolokun

NBA Decides: Who’ll be General Secretary?

The national Secretariat of the nigerian Bar association (nBa), is a massive edifice in the nation’s capital, abuja. The General Secretary’s Office serves as the ‘engine room’ of the nBa, where a lot of daily activities take place to ensure the smooth-running of the umbrella body of nigerian Lawyers. It takes a competent and IT savvy Lawyer to effectively man that office, as General Secretary of the nBa. In this year’s election, two Lawyers are running for the position, Dr Mobolaji Ojibara and Abdulwasiu Alfa. In this interview, Onikepo Braithwaite and Jude Igbanoi asked both candidates about themselves, what service they have rendered to the nBa thus far, and details of their manifestos and plans, if they are elected into this all important office of General Secretary of the nBa

Kindly, tell us briefly about your career as a legal practitioner, what roles you may have played in the NBA in the past, and what support you have given to our Association

My name is Dr Mobolaji Idris Ojibara. I had my Bachelor of Laws Degree from Bayero University, Kano in 1998, and I was called to the Bar in 2000. I obtained Masters Degree in Law from OAU, Ile Ife in 2010 and a Ph.D from University of Ilorin in 2018. I am a Notary Public and a Fellow of Institute of Human and Natural Resources.

Professional Career

Prior to the commencement of my professional career, as a Youth Corp Member, I served as a Protocol Officer to the Military Administrator of Rivers State in Port Harcourt between 1998 and 1999, where I was distinguished with an

"As

award of service by the Government of Rivers State.

I cut my teeth as a budding practitioner with the late Deji Sasegbon, SAN, in Lagos in 2000, and later joined the foremost advocate and doyen of Senior Advocates of Nigeria in Kwara State, Late Dr Aliyu Alarape Salman, SAN in 2001. I was with Dr Salman, SAN until June 2008 when I set up my Practice, LoftyHeight. As a trained and experienced Arbitrator, I have represented individuals and corporate bodies, as well as acted as party and court appointed Arbitrator.

I became a Member of the National Executive Committee of the NBA in 2013; I am an active Member of the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Business Law; a Member of the Dispute Resolution Section of the IBA; was a Member of the Editorial Board of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators UK; and a Member of the Lagos Court of

the Chairman of the NBA Ilorin Branch, in 2013, I first introduced, through collaboration with the Kwara State Judiciary, the appointment of young Lawyers as Research Assistants to Judges"

Arbitration.

Service to the NBA I have served the NBA at various times and in different capacities at both my local Branch and at National Level, as: Chairman, NBA Ilorin {2013– 2015}; Chairman, Practicing Fees Enforcement Committee, NBA Ilorin, {2011– 2013}; Publicity Secretary, NBA Ilorin {2005 – 2007}; Secretary, Revenue Committee, NBA Ilorin, {2010 – 2011}

Secretary, Young Lawyers Welfare Committee, NBA Ilorin {2007 – 2009}; Secretary, Annual Bar Dinner Committee, NBA Ilorin {2005}; Secretary, Bar Centre Project Committee, NBA Ilorin {2004}; Secretary, Branch Library Project Committee, NBA Ilorin {2003}; Member of several other Branch committees.

At the National level as, I have served as: Chairman, Exhibition Sub-Committee, Technical Committee for Conference Planning, NBA Annual General Conference 2015; Member, TCCP, NBA Annual General Conference, 2015; Member, NBA Administration of Justice Committee, 2016 - 2018 Member, General Purpose Committee of the NBA, 2022 - 2024

As an active member of the NBA Section on Business Law (SBL), I have also served as:

• Member, Conference Planning Committee, 10th Annual SBL Conference;

• Head Rapporteur, Annual Business Law Conference of the SBL 2016;

• Member, Conference Planning Committee, 11th Annual SBL Conference 2017;

• Head Rapporteur, Annual Business Law Conference of the SBL 2017

• Chairman, Exhibition Sub-Committee, Annual SBL Law Conference 2017

• Chairman, Exhibition Sub-Committee, 12th NBA – SBL Conference 2018

. Member, Fundraising Sub-Committee, 12th NBA – SBL Conference, 2018

. Member, Conference Planning Committee, 12th Annual SBL Conference, 2018

In 2008, I was appointed by the Chief Judge of Kwara State as a member of the Working Group for the Establishment of Kwara State Multi-Door Courthouse.

As the Chairman of the NBA Ilorin Branch, in 2013, I first introduced, through collaboration with the Kwara State Judiciary, the appointment of young Lawyers as Research Assistants to Judges. This practice has been adopted, across the various levels of Judiciary in the country. As a candidate for the office of General Secretary in 2018, I first introduced, as part of my manifesto, the idea of online payment of practicing fees. This has become implemented, and institutionalised. The office of the Nigerian Bar Association General Secretary is often referred to as the 'Engine Room' of the Bar, the busiest office in the Association. A lot of work goes with this office, including overseeing the day-to-day operations of the National Secretariat. What competitive advantage would you say you have over

Dr Mobolaji Ojibara

Abdulwasiu Alfa

NBA Decides: Who’ll be General Secretary?

your fellow contestant, in terms of skills and understanding the job description? What is your manifesto? What is your vision for an efficient, smooth running National Secretariat for the NBA? Why should Nigerian Lawyers trust you with their Secretariat?

My competitive advantage over my fellow contestant for the position of General Secretary of the NBA lies in a unique combination of skills, experience, expertise and a deep understanding of the role.

Skills and Understanding the Job Description

1. Administrative Expertise: I have extensive experience in administrative roles, particularly within the NBA, which has equipped me with the skills necessary to manage the day-to-day operations of the 'Engine Room' of the NBA. My track record includes overseeing complex workflows, implementing efficient systems, and ensuring smooth operations, in particular, with reference to the various cutting g edge positions of responsibilities I have held at all levels of the NBA .

2. Legal Acumen: As a seasoned legal practitioner, I possess a deep understanding of the legal landscape in Nigeria. This knowledge is crucial for addressing the specific needs and concerns of our members, and ensuring that the Secretariat operates in a manner that aligns with International best practices.

3. Project Management: My project management skills enable me to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, prioritise effectively, and deliver results within specified deadlines. This is vital for the 'Engine Room' of the NBA, where timely and efficient handling of matters is critical.

4. Technology Proficiency: In today’s digital age, leveraging technology for efficient operations is essential. I am proficient in using various digital tools and platforms that can streamline communication, data management, and workflow processes within the Secretariat.

5. Leadership and Team Building: My leadership experience includes fostering a collaborative work environment, mentorship and building strong, cohesive teams. These skills are necessary for maintaining a motivated and effective Secretariat staff.

My manifesto is built around three core pillars: Efficiency, Transparency and Member Engagement. My vision for an Efficient and Smooth Running NBA National Secretariat includes:

1. Cutting-Edge Infrastructure: Develop a modern, well-equipped Secretariat with the latest technology and resources to support efficient operations.

2. Responsive and Proactive Services: Ensure that the Secretariat anticipates the needs of NBA members, and responds promptly to their concerns and requests.

3. Strong Internal Controls: Establish a framework of checks and balances, to maintain high standards of governance and operational integrity.

4. Culture of Excellence: Foster a culture where excellence, professionalism, and dedication are the norm, thereby enhancing the Secretariat’s overall effectiveness.

Nigerian Lawyers should trust me with the Secretariat because of my unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity and service. My extensive experience, coupled with a clear and actionable vision, ensures that I can deliver a Secretariat that meets and exceeds the expectations of NBA members. I am dedicated to creating a transparent, efficient and responsive Secretariat that truly serves the interests of Nigerian Lawyers, and upholds the highest standards of the legal profession.

Disseminating minutes of the National Executive Committee meetings and other critical reports of the NBA has remained a huge challenge for most General Secretaries in past administrations. Members perpetually complain about this, and the inadequate flow of information from the Secretariat to the Branches on crucial issues. How will you address this, if and when you get elected into the office of GS?

To address the challenges of disseminating minutes of the National Executive Committee meetings and other critical reports of the NBA,

as well as improving the flow of information from the Secretariat to the Branches, I will implement a multifaceted approach centred on technology, transparency, and proactive communication.

My strategies for Effective Information Dissemination shall include:

1. Leveraging Technology

- Improved Digital Platforms

-Upgraded Email Newsletters System: -Develop Real-Time Mobile App:

2. Enhanced Communication Channels

-Dedicated Communication Teams:

-Branch Liaisons

3. Transparency and Accountability -Regular Updates: -Open Forums:

4.Feedback Mechanisms

-Interactive Platforms

-Surveys and Polls.

Why This Approach Will Succeed

-Reliability: Leveraging modern technology ensures that information is disseminated reliably and efficiently.

-Inclusivity: By involving Branch liaisons and creating feedback mechanisms, all members will feel included and informed.

-Proactiveness: Regular updates and interactive forums ensure that members are not only recipients of information, but also active participants in the communication process.

By implementing these strategies, I aim to create a transparent, efficient, and responsive communication system that ensures all NBA members are well-informed and engaged with the activities and decisions of the National Secretariat.

Artificial Intelligence has inevitably taken root in the legal profession, and to run the National Secretariat of the NBA requires an IT savvy General Secretary. Would you say you possess the requisite IT knowledge to deliver on the mandate, if you win?

My extensive training in IT has equipped me with deep understanding of the technological advancements, crucial to modernising the legal profession. As the General Secretary of the NBA, I will leverage on these skills to streamline operations, enhance data management and ensure efficient communication within the Secretariat. My proficiency in IT would enable me to implement robust system for legal research, case management and member services, ultimately contributing to a more effective

"If elected the General Secretary, upon my assumption of office, one of the first things I am going to recommend to the Administration, is the adoption of digital stamp"

and responsive NBA.

Lawyers continue to complain about the slow speed in processing the Stamp and Seal. Sometimes, Lawyers don’t get their seals for many months. How do you intend to deal with this challenge, if you are elected?

If elected the General Secretary, upon my assumption of office, one of the first things I am going to recommend to the Administration, is the adoption of digital stamp. To create a foolproof system for producing digital stamps for Nigerian Lawyers, several key modalities and security measures will be considered. These include:

1. Secure Technology Infrastructure

-Blockchain Technology: Utilise blockchain for tamper-proof records of stamp issuance and use. Blockchain's decentralised nature ensures that once a stamp is issued, it cannot be altered or duplicated.

-Digital Certificates: Issue digital certificates that verify the authenticity of the digital stamps. These certificates should be encrypted and digitally signed by the issuing authority.

2. Multi-Factor Authentication

- Authentication Mechanisms: Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for accessing and using digital stamps. This could include a combination of passwords, biometric verification (e.g., fingerprint or facial recognition), and one-time passwords (OTPs) sent via SMS or email.

3. Unique Identification Codes

-Unique Stamps: Each digital stamp should have a unique identification code linked to the Lawyer’s identity and credentials. This code can be verified by clients, courts, and other entities to ensure authenticity.

-QR Codes: Embed QR codes in the digital stamps that, when scanned, provide information about the issuing lawyer and verify the stamp’s legitimacy through a central database.

4. Secure Digital Platforms

-Secure Portals: Develop a secure online portal where Lawyers can log in to request, manage, and use their digital stamps.

-Encryption: All communications and data transfers through these platforms should be encrypted using strong encryption standards to prevent interception and tampering.

5. User Training and Awareness

-Training Programs: Provide mandatory training for all Lawyers on the use of digital stamps, the importance of security measures, and how to verify the authenticity of digital stamps.

-Awareness Campaigns: Conduct awareness campaigns to inform clients, courts, and the public about the new system and how to verify digital stamps.

By integrating these modalities, the NBA can create a robust, secure, and reliable system for issuing and managing digital stamps.

Many Lawyers also complain of not getting the Continuous Legal Education points for any of the programmes they participate in. This has been traced to

the inability of the Secretariat to efficiently monitor these training programmes. How would you handle this as GS?

Addressing the issue of Continuous Legal Education (CLE) points not being properly awarded to Lawyers participating in training programmes requires a comprehensive, technology-driven approach to ensure accurate monitoring and record-keeping. Here is how I will handle this challenge, as General Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association: Strategies for Efficient Monitoring and Awarding of CLE Points

1. Centralised Digital System

-CLE Management Portal: Develop a centralised CLE management portal where all training programs are registered, and attendance is tracked. This portal would be accessible to both organisers and participants.

-Automated Point Allocation: Implement an automated system within the portal that allocates CLE points based on verified attendance and participation. This reduces the chances of human error and ensures timely updates.

2. Enhanced Verification and Reporting

-QR Code Check-ins: Utilise QR code technology for event check-ins and check-outs, to accurately record attendance. Each participant would scan their unique QR code at the start and end of the programme to ensure they are awarded points for actual participation.

-Instant Feedback Forms: Incorporate post-event feedback forms within the portal, that participants must complete to receive their CLE points. This ensures that participation is meaningful, and also gathers valuable feedback on the training programmes.

3. Training Programme Accreditation

-Pre-Event Approval Process: Establish a preevent approval process where training organisers submit their programme details in advance for accreditation. This process would include setting clear criteria for awarding CLE points.

-Post-Event Reporting: Require organisers to submit a post-event report, including attendance records and participant feedback, to confirm that the event met the necessary standards.

4. Continuous Monitoring and Support

-Dedicated CLE Team: Form a dedicated team within the Secretariat responsible for overseeing all aspects of the CLE programme, from accreditation to monitoring and point allocation. This team would be available to assist organisers and participants with any issues.

-Regular Audits: Conduct regular audits of CLE programmes and points awarded, to ensure compliance and address any discrepancies promptly.

Conclusion

By leveraging technology and implementing a structured, transparent process, I will ensure that the monitoring and awarding of CLE points are handled efficiently and accurately. This will not only address the current complaints, but also enhance the overall experience of participating in

Dr Mobolaji ojibara

Abdulwasiu Alfa

NBA Decides: Who’ll be General Secretary?

continuous legal education for Nigerian Lawyers.

Dr Mobolaji Ojibara

Thank you, and best of luck in the election.

Abdulwasiu Alfa

Kindly, tell us briefly about your career as a legal practitioner, what roles you may have played in the NBA in the past, and what support you have given to our Association Wow!!! This question needs ample time to respond to, but, to be brief, I was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2003. I commenced my career as a pupil Counsel with the Zamfara State Ministry of Justice, after which I returned to Maiduguri, Borno State, where I practiced with the firm of J. T. Gunda & Co. before establishing my Law firm, A. A. Alfa & Co. (Metro Chambers) in 2006 and up to this moment I'm into full time private practice. As an active Barman, I have held various positions, both within Maiduguri Branch and the National level of the NBA.

At the Maiduguri Branch, I served as a member of the Branch’s Legal Education Committee between 2008 and 2010; the Chairman of the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee for the Law Week in 2010; a member of the Law Week Organising Committee in 2011; the Publicity Secretary between 2008 and 2010; the Secretary of the Human Rights Committee between 2010 and 2012; the Branch Secretary between 2012 and 2014; the Branch Chairman between 2014 and 2016; the Branch NEC representative between 2016 and 2018, the Chairman of the Bar Week/ Award Committee in 2017; the Chairman of the Branch Election Committee in 2018 and 2020; Member of the State Law Review Committee, as well as the State Conflict Management Alliance and the Chairman of the Committee on Bar/ Government Interface in 2022. I was appointed a Notary Public in 2014.

At the National level of the Nigerian Bar Association, I served as a Member of the Legal Education Committee between 2010 and 2012; Member, National Executive Council between 2014 and 2018; Member of the Technical Committee on Conference Planning in Abuja in 2015; Member of the NBA Legal Services Trade Mission to the Netherlands in 2016. I also served as Member, Task-Force Committee on North East between 2016 and 2018. Additionally, I was a Member of the Presidential Transition Committee in 2022 when the immediate past NBA President, Mr Akpata, handed over to incumbent President, Y. C. Maikyau, SAN. I was a Member of the NBA Constitution Review Committee in 2022, and I currently serve as NBA Representative on the NERC Consumers Forum, Co-opted Member of the NBA National Executive Council, and Member of the NBA Remuneration Committee, the Committee which recently came up with marvellous modalities on how our fellow Colleagues may lucratively charge for legal services. And, prior to the introduction of the universal suffrage by Mr Alegeh, SAN, I served the NBA as a special delegate to various Delegates Elections in Jos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Ibadan, among others.

While in the international compass, I am a member of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association.

The office of the Nigerian Bar Association General Secretary is often referred to as the 'Engine Room' of the Bar, the busiest office in the Association. A lot of work goes with this office, including overseeing the day-to-day operations of the National Secretariat. What competitive advantage would you say you have over your fellow contestant, in terms of skills and understanding the job description? What is your manifesto? What is your vision for an efficient, smooth running National Secretariat for the NBA? Why should Nigerian Lawyers trust you with their Secretariat?

Your postulates are right. The office of the

General Secretary is the busiest within the Association, as it is, not only the operational base, but also plays the role of a unifier within the system. This may heighten your expectations, but, of the truth, the success of any NBA administration is directly contingent on the success of the office of the General Secretary.

While I would not want to talk about my abilities on a comparative basis to my competitor, but having previously served as Secretary, NBA Maiduguri Branch, I am confident to have gained valuable experience and skills that uniquely qualify me for the role of General Secretary at the National level. I have a deep understanding of the administrative duties, communication practices, and organisational structure of the NBA, which will allow me to hit the ground running and effectively serve the needs of the Association and its members. Additionally, my experience at the Branch level has given me insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the Legal Profession in Nigeria, which equip me not only to consolidate the affairs of the National Secretariat, but to also bring a fresh perspective to the NBA. I am also fortified that my track record of dedication, attention to detail, and professionalism make me the best candidate for the position of General Secretary.

Moreover, as a candidate for the office of NBA General Secretary, my manifesto is built on the core values of transparency and accountability, with a strong focus on prioritising members' interests, promoting inclusivity and diversity, fostering innovation and adaptability. I am committed to enhancing communication through initiatives such as implementing a toll-free line, embracing digital transformation, and utilising electronic processes for the NBA stamp and seal. I will strive to cultivate collaboration and establish strategic partnerships with global bodies, government agencies, and stakeholders, to effectively leverage resources and implement international best practices at the NBA Secretariat. Additionally, I will prioritise the consolidation of the NBA Secretariat and invest in the training and capacity building of staff, to ensure a high standard of service delivery. Thus, entrusting the NBA Secretariat to me, represents giant strides towards achieving all of the stated goals.

Disseminating minutes of the National Executive Committee meetings and

"As a millennial and e-Lawyer, I possess all the necessary skills and knowledge to efficiently run an IT NBA Secretariat"

other critical reports of the NBA has remained a huge challenge for most General Secretaries in past administrations. Members perpetually complain about this. How will you address this issue, if and when you get elected into the office of GS?

To be fair with the current office of the Publicity Secretary and his Assistant, the question as to dissemination or flow of information and NBA activities to members is not germane, as it is widely attested that the Publicity Officers are efficient in their functions. Yet, I still aim to enhance the speed and efficiency of communication regarding all NBA activities; for instance, consolidation on the legal email system introduced by the previous administrations, but at a more functional level; creation of NBA verified official social media platforms; podcasts and video live transmission of information and real-time updates of NBA activities. I understand some of the potential challenges these may bring, but they have been well foreseen, and meaningful strategies will be in place towards addressing them.

I further assure the members of the NBA that the minutes of the meetings of NEC, shall be made available on the official website of the Association after each session. Access to information will not constitute a challenge, under my leadership at the NBA Secretariat. Artificial Intelligence has inevitably taken root in the legal profession, and to run the National Secretariat of the NBA requires an IT savvy General Secretary. Would you say you possess the requisite IT knowledge to deliver on the mandate, if you win?

Invariably, yes!

As a millennial and e-Lawyer, I possess all the necessary skills and knowledge to efficiently run an IT NBA Secretariat. This includes leveraging modern digital tools and platforms, in delivering on the mandate. For instance, at my law firm, I ensure that all of my employees keep up with constant personal and collective development on the utilisation of technology and Artificial Intelligence in their work, and when I was Chairman, NBA Maiduguri Branch dating back 2014 to 2016, I introduced sophisticated NBA ID Cards and individual Membership Stickers with electronic verification, a concept that was later adopted by other NBA Branches, and now ably embarked on by the NBA National. So, if elected as General Secretary, I will further expand my technological advancements to the NBA Secretariat attesting to possessing a fair knowledge of Artificial Intelligence and its application within the legal profession, which I intend to utilise especially as it affects matters of cybersecurity, database management and data privacy.

Lawyers continue to complain about the slow speed in processing Stamp and Seal. Sometimes, Lawyers don’t get their seals for many months. How do you intend to deal with this challenge, if get elected?

I understand that this has been a recurring

challenge within the Association. Item 7 on my 10-point manifesto, takes this into consideration. I will confidently assure the NBA iterating my commitment that, if elected the General Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association, this challenge will be squarely tackled. To avoid delays in the production of NBA stamps and seals, I plan to implement the following strategies:

1. Increase the number of staff members, dedicated to stamp and seal production.

2. Creation of distinct desks and office, to solely handle issues of the stamp and seal.

3. Streamline the production, according to NBA Branches zoning formula.

In addition to these measures, I propose to also offer both manual and digital options for the generation and use of the NBA stamps and seals. This flexibility can cater to the preferences and needs of different fellow Members, ensuring that every applicant has access to the stamp and seal in a peculiar format that works best for them. For example, a member who prefers the now obtainable method can opt for manual generation of the stamp and seal, where he or she can physically imprint the stamp on documents and/or processes. On the other hand, a member who prefers a more streamlined and efficient process can choose the digital option, which permits for generation and use of the stamp electronically. By fostering the stated measures, we can cater to a wider range of production and access to the stamp and seal in a timely manner, and can also help us accommodate any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during production, minimising delays and improving overall members' satisfaction.

Many Lawyers also complain of not getting the Continuous Legal Education points for any of the programmes they participate in. This has been traced to the inability of the Secretariat to efficiently monitor these training programmes. How would you handle this when come in as GS?

I have always considered this a matter affecting the interest of the members of the Association, which I pledge to prioritise. It is quite interesting that you, not only identified the problem, but also pointed to a possible root of it.

To address the issue of NBA members not receiving Continuous Legal Education points for the programmes they participate in, the Office of the General Secretary under my watch, will implementing a system that utilises individual members' accounts on the NBA website. This system would allow all points scored by members to be sent to, stored, and be easily accessed anytime for appropriate utilisation by the member concerned.

Thank you!

Abdulwasiu Alfa

Thank you, and best of luck in the election.

Dr Mobolaji ojibara

Abdulwasiu Alfa

Assessing Mala Buni’s Five Years of Reconstructing Yobe

That Yobe state in recent past was nearly brought to its kneel by Boko Haram insurgents is no news, the news is how well it has fared since the push back of these non-state actors, a story of reconstruction, resettlement and rehabilitation which was executed by Governor Mai Mala Buni. Michael Olugbode takes a critical look at what has been achieved in Yobe state in the last five years.

Yobe was one of the tripartite BAY states that Boko Haram laid siege to for over a decade and reined terror on, destroying every factor of production - land, labour, capital and entrepreneur. The land was nearly desolate when Mai Mala Buni took charge as Governor on May 29, 2019. Though nothing should be taken away from Ibrahim Gaidam who for a large stretch of his administration withstood the destructive insurgents and was able to squeeze out sizable impact, but there was no doubt that the state needs a midas touch and perhaps a magician to be brought back to life on the exit of Gaidam.

Entered Buni, who was thrown the challenges of bringing a state from the throes of destruction into an era of live with the onerous task of reconstruction, resettlement and rehabilitation.

Buni immediately after he was sworn in made a vow saying: “This is a new mandate that will enable us to continue with the implementation of far reaching policies and programmes towards making Yobe State achieve its full potentials to greatness through the policy of Continuity And Consolidation of legacy achievements recorded by the administration of Alhaji Ibrahim Gaidam.

“In keeping with the Oath of Office and Oath of Allegiance just administered on me, I seek the guidance of Almighty Allah (SWT) to enable us deliver on our promises and to abide by their tenets. I and my Deputy also pledge to citizens of Yobe State that, we will work to justify the confidence and trust reposed in us.”

He added that: “I hereby renew the pledge to serve the State to the best of my ability and with utmost sense of responsibility.

“It is evidently clear, that a lot of efforts have been made to provide security, qualitative healthcare, improved education, massive infrastructural development especially road construction and agricultural development, among others, to add value to the lives of the people. These laudable achievements had no doubt improved the quality of lives of the people.

“Under the new administration therefore, these sectors will continue to be given the desired attention they deserve. The new government will explore and exploit new avenues and opportunities locally, nationally and, internationally, to improve and expand the existing structured policies and programmes for delivering maximum dividends of democracy to the people.

We will take advantage of our State belonging to the ruling national government to make federal presence more visible and efficient, to contribute to the development of the State, and improve the lives of the people.

“Government will pursue every opportunity with high sense of responsibility to ensure that, what rightly belongs to the State in terms of appointments, projects and programmes are given to the state. This administration would partner with our national legislators to pursue our entitlements with vigour. We will ensure that our state’s quota in federal appointments are fully accessed and occupied by our people.”

Buni particularly pointed out areas to be given priority to include: security, education, health care delivery, agriculture (with special focus of production of gum arabic, sesame seeds and livestock), water supply, rural electrification, tourism, resettlement, reconstruction and rehabilitation, civil service and traditional institutions.

That he delivered on his first term mandate of four years has been judged by the people of Yobe State who gave him a second term of another four years.

At his second term inauguration, he acknowledged the challenges he faced in his first term saying: “We are all aware of the global and national challenges facing humanity including low crude oil price, debt crisis, decrease in foreign exchange earnings, diminishing allocation from the federation account, the COVID-19 pandemic, and economic recession.

“Furthermore, the effects of global warming and climate change have compounded the situation leading to excessive flooding with its attendant adverse consequences on the socio-economy of our people.

He, however, stated that: “We have made progress during the last four years, and we will continue to do so until our last day in office,” and also vowed to continue the post insurgency recovery, peace and security; healthcare delivery; agriculture; education; infrastructure; commerce; mass housing; water resources and environment; law and order; governance and accountability; public service reforms; wealth creation, and minerals resources development.

A person who was in Damaturu or elsewhere in the state during the commencement of Buni’s administration and on a visit now would definitely see that the state has had a touch of magic, and this was what was

showcased to journalists who were invited to see Buni’s Midas Touch.

At the Yobe State University, for instance, one of the points of attraction was the Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre (BioRTC), the BioRTC is home to equipment valued at

over N1 billion, acquired through grants and donations secured by Dr Mahmoud Bukar Maina, with robust support from Governor Buni.

Key equipment include Zeiss Laser Scanning Confocal Microscopes 780 and 700, LI-COR Odyssey imaging system, Applied Biosystems, 7300 Real-Time PCR system,

full tissue culture suite, Cellular biobank, Nikon Eclipse Microscope 50i with fluorescence, Bio-Rad Mini-Protean System, UVP BioDoc-It imaging systems and others.

It was learnt that the clinical significance of some of the equipment includes the ability to visualize detailed cellular structures, and live cell imaging capabilities to help in observing dynamic processes within cells in real time.

Researchers were on hand to tell journalists that the Multicolor Fluorescence Imaging enables the simultaneous visualization of multiple fluorescent markers, aiding in complex biological studies such as cancer research, neuroscience and developmental biology, while the Full Tissue Culture Suite which facilitates Drug Testing and Development enables the screening of potential drugs on cultured cells, and accelerating the development of new therapies.

At the Yobe State University Teaching Hospital, the Chief Medical Director, Professor Baba Waru Goni, said hundreds of people receive kidney dialysis for free. “It is all for free while we continue with the research to find a lasting solution to the problem. It is practically impossible for the poor to pay at least N50,000 for a session of dialysis. We thank the governor for his magnanimity,” the CMD said.

A tour by the newsmen without security escorts across the state was without a breach and showed peace has finally returned.

In Machina, a local government that took about three hours to drive to from Damaturu, the state capital, the Commissioner of Commerce, Hon. Kaigama Umar showed an industry on the rise, the Sesame seed development centre, which he said: “is to add value to the value chain of sesame seed production. Yobe is one of the leading states that produce sesame. “But our farmers are not getting value for their money. This is why this centre was established. We have three others in other parts of the state, including Potiskum,” Umar said.

The journalists were able to see great markets built by the governor, the massive Trailers Park, the connecting road, a cargo airport inherited from last administration nearing completion, among others.

As Experts Ponder on Proposed Shipping Regulatory Bill...

Folalumi Alaran writes that numerous experts believe that a regulatory framework is essential for the growth and development of the nation’s maritime sector.

The Nigerian Shipping and Port Economic Regulatory Agency bill has undergone multiple revisions, with the 2024 iteration duplicating the powers and functions of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) under the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. This proposed shipping regulatory bill has sparked intense debate and discussion among stakeholders in the maritime industry, with concerns raised regarding potential increases in governance costs. Nevertheless, numerous experts believe that a regulatory framework is essential for the industry’s growth and development.

In a public hearing that was held this year, stakeholders convened to share their perspectives on the bill, and the consensus was clear: the Shippers’ Regulatory Bill is the preferred option. The crux of the debate centers on whether the proposed bill will usher in a new era of streamlined governance and enhanced regulatory oversight or burden shippers with exorbitant costs. Proponents of the bill argue that it represents a long-overdue modernization of the regulatory framework, designed to address the evolving needs of the shipping industry in response to rapid global trade changes and technological advancements.

One of the bill’s sponsors and Chairman of the House Committee on Shipping Services and Related Matters, Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki, quoting a gazette, said the Nigerian Shippers’ Council was made the port economic regulator in 2015 by the Federal Government, a status that needed to be formalized through legislation.

“The Federal Government noted that the objective of the regulation is to create an effective regulatory

regime for the Nigerian ports after the concession of the ports. Port does not mean the Nigerian Ports Authority alone. It also means all the stakeholders in the ports, for the control of tariffs, rates, charges, and other related economic services”.

Experts from various sectors of the maritime industry presented their views on why they believe the bill holds the key to a more efficient and competitive shipping landscape. A prevailing argument put forth by stakeholders is the need for a robust regulatory framework that can adapt to the rapid changes in

global trade and technological advancements. However, a key concern raised by stakeholders is the potential for the bill to establish a new agency with overlapping responsibilities with existing bodies, leading to inefficiencies and increased government spending. Furthermore, stakeholders point out that the bill appears to contradict the Oronsaye Report, a government-commissioned study that recommended consolidating agencies to streamline governance, thereby minimizing bureaucratic redundancy and enhancing the overall efficiency of regulatory oversight.

According to industry experts present at the public hearing, the proposed bill presents a strategic opportunity to harmonize regulatory standards and practices, thereby fostering a more cohesive and responsive ecosystem for shippers. This harmonization, they emphasize, will not only enhance operational efficiency and resilience in the face of global economic fluctuations but also attract investment, promote economic growth, and ensure safety, security, and efficiency.

Dr. Alex Okonji, a renowned maritime expert, opined, “The industry has long awaited a regulatory framework, which will boost investment, economic growth, and overall development by ensuring safety, security, and efficiency.”

Mr. Ayo Adekola, another expert, added, “The Shippers’ Council will establish a level playing field, curtail unfair practices, and safeguard the interests of shippers, leading to a more equitable and competitive industry.”

Buni

Speaker Tajudeen Abass

How MTN is Fostering Innovation, Media Excellence through MIP at PAU

To foster innovation and media excellence, MTN Nigeria launched the Media Innovation Programme (MIP), at the School of Media and Communication of the Pan-Atlantic University three years ago. This year, the 20 MIP fellows, including ThisDay Newspapers’ Chiemelie Ezeobi, have kickstarted the six-month journey to increase their knowledge and skill base that would help them understand the changing media landscape, and how to effectively use technology to create impactful media content

“What are We Doing Today?”

That is the slogan of MTN Nigeria. In walking the talk, the brand is doing so many things at the same time with the overarching objective being to touch lives, give back and impact society.

From healthcare to education, environment, energy, social welfare, culture and even entertainment, they took the axiom “a finger in every pie” quite literally. But beyond these largesse, the brand has actually exhibited such dexterity in managing its so many portfolios.

MEDIA INNOVATION PROGRAMME

One of the ways MTN found its expression of “What are we doing today?” slogan was by sponsoring the Media Innovation Programme (MIP), a six-week long fellowship spread across six months for selected media practitioners in the Nigerian space “to increase their knowledge and skill base and help them understand the changing media landscape, and how to effectively use technology to create impactful media content”.

Run by the School of Media and Communication (SMC) of the Pan-Atlantic University (PAU), the fully funded residential fellowship is open to media practitioners whether print, electronic, online platforms and social media content creators.

The certificate fellowship includes a study trip to the University of Johannesburg in South Africa, visits to the South African Broadcasting Station, innovation hubs in South Africa to incubate ideas and a tour of the MTN Group Head office in Sandton, as well as MTN Nigeria Headquarters.

So for three years, the MTN has kept the faith in equipping media practitioners and innovators with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in a rapidly evolving media landscape and to tell the stories that need to be told, thus proving its commitment to improving the Nigerian media landscape and technology reporting.

MIP-3 APPLICATION AND SELECTION

The application process commenced on March 23, 2024 and ended on April 10. Out of over 2,000 entries, the PAU facility judiciously reviewed the applications and selected 20 top candidates who had the most outstanding essays.

Thus on May 20, 3024, the third cohort of the Media Innovation Programme converged on PAU for what portends to be a life changing experience.

MEET THE 2024 MIP-3 FELLOWS

In no particular order, the fellows chosen to grace the MIP-3 platform include Chioma Chukwuemeka, Lead News, Sapientia International Media Centre; Anthony Obakeye, Producer/Reporter, CNBC Africa; Pius Chidiebere, Anchor, Signature Television; Oluwadunsin Sanya, Senior Content Associate, BellaNaija; Chiemelie Ezeobi, Group Features Editor, THISDAY Newspaper; Nkechi Ogbonna, Senior Journalist Reporter, West Africa, BBC, West Africa; Blessing Agbeetan, Assistant Prog Manager, Women Radio 91.7 FM; and Aigbe Augustus, OAP/Producer, Cool FM. Others include Stephen Angbulu, State House Correspondent, Punch Newspapers; Raahman Toheeb, Editor-in-Chief, Legit NG; Juliet Tontoye Pere-ere, General Manager/Broadcaster, Royals Roots FM; Ebunoluwa Dosunmu, Content Creator; Ayodele Ayokunle, Managing Director, Rock FM Jalingo and Taraba Truth; Oluwatomisin Amokeoja, Staff Writer, Forbes Africa; Moninkanola Ogidan, News Anchor/Editor/Presenter, Adaba FM; Johnstone Kpilaakaa, Senior Tech Reporter, BCSL – Bendada.com;

Nifemi Oguntoye, Deputy Head of Presentation, TVC Communications; Prince Osuagwu, ICT Editor, Vanguard Newspapers; Omonike Babatunde, Broadcaster, Bright Broadcasting Ltd; and Lucas Ajanaku, Assistant Business/Head, ICT Desk, The Nation Newspapers.

INDUCTION

The third edition of the Media Innovation Programme started in earnest with the opening remarks by the Dean SMC, Dr. Ikechukwu Obiaya before Tobe Okigbo, MTN Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, took to the stage to regale the class of the decision that gave birth to the MIP.

Introducing participants to the structure of SMC-PAU was Director Professional Education, Prof. Isaac-Ogugua Ezechukwu, after which Dr. Obiaya gave a run down of the programme overview as Course Director.

Dr. Obiaya, while commending MTN Nigeria for the viable collaboration, said the programme will cultivate a new generation of media professionals who are equipped to drive innovation and excellence.

Regaling the class with the decision that gave birth to the MIP, Mr. Okigbo said it was a choice between spending to commemorate the anniversary of the brand or touching lives. Having chosen the latter, the three sets of cohorts are better off for it.

On what he hopes the fellows get out of the programme, he said: “First, When somebody reads your story or listens to you, they don’t say ‘and this one calls himself a journalist’. Secondly, how do you monetize what you do? This is your opportunity to learn how to contribute to make this country greater than it is. We need to make this country great and nobody has the power to do more than the press.”

He added that “At MTN Nigeria, we recognise the critical role the media plays in shaping our society. MIP is a testament to our commitment to empowering media professionals and fostering innovation in the industry. We believe that a free and independent press is essential to a thriving society, and we are dedicated to supporting the development of a vibrant and responsible media ecosystem in Nigeria.

“Through this programme, we aim to equip media practitioners and innovators with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in a rapidly evolving media landscape and to tell the stories that need to be told.”

WEEK ONE IN FOCUS

Done with the introductory aspect, the lectures for week one began with “Culture, Society and the Media” by Dr. Richard Ikiebe, who also handled the thorny “Ethical Issues for Media Practitioners”.

The next day being Tuesday, May 21, “The Concept of Innovation and its Imperatives for Media Practitioners” was taken by Mr. Frank Aigbogun.

This was followed by a Workshop/Discussion on Innovation, which he also handled.

Taking over to discuss the Project Topic was Prof. Ezechukwu before the participants were taken on a tour of the campus by Olalekan Aro-Oyedele.

Day three, which was on Wednesday, May 22 was heralded by “Introduction to Entrepreneurship: Principles and Practices 1-3” by Dr. Peter Bamkole, who also held a Workshop/Case Discussion on Entrepreneurship.

On Thursday, May 23, which was day 4, Dr. Nkem Iheanachor held sway in “Management Principles and Practices – 1-2” which led to a Workshop/Case Discussion. Afterwards, the first female lecturer the MIP-3 cohort had, Dr. Ruth Oji took the class on “Branding and Etiquette for Media Practitioners”.

The last day of the first week, which was on Friday, May 24, started off with “Media Laws: Principles and Practices Presentation/Interactive Session” by Barr. Tomi Vincent followed by “Taxation, Business Policies and Regulations 1-2” by Dr. Olusegun Vincent.

Although the classwork ended, the cohort did not depart until an address by the Alumni Team led by Mr. Mike Okwoche, a media veteran and two others. Afterwards, the cohort ran an intensive election that saw Nifemi Oguntoye emerge as President; Juliet Tontoye as Vice President; Blessing Agbeetan as Secretary; and Augustus Aigbe as Social Secretary.

ABOUT MTN NIGERIA

At MTN Nigeria, the brand is keen on the belief everyone deserves the benefits of a modern, connected life, thus their “dedication to enabling connections that matter – among families, friends, and communities – is fuelled by this conviction, and has not faltered since the very first call was made on the MTN network – at Maritime House, Apapa, on May 16, 2001”.

Twenty-three years later, MTN Nigeria is one of Africa’s largest providers of communications services, connecting approximately 77 million people in communities across the country with each other and the world with their leadership position in coverage, capacity and innovation remaining constant since its launch in 2001.

MTN Nigeria is part of the MTN Group – a multinational telecommunications group, which operates in 19 countries in Africa and the Middle East.

With Ambition 2025 to be “Leading digital solutions for Africa’s progress’, the brand has built strong core operations, which are underpinned by the largest fixed and mobile network in Africa; a large, connected registered customer base; an unparalleled registration and distribution network, as well as one of the strongest brands in our markets.

They are committed to bridging the digital and financial divide, furthering inclusion and advancing the attainment of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through their core business activities and their support to governments, communities and customers.

Guided by the principle of shared value, which enables shared prosperity, the proudly Nigerian company with a rich African heritage is committed to using their technology and assets to help build a better tomorrow, where businesses expand, the economy grows, and people make progress because with real access and support, there is nothing Nigerians cannot achieve.

SCHOOL OF MEDIA AND COMMUNICATION (SMC)

According to information found on its website, “the School of Media and Communication was instituted by Pan-Atlantic University in recognition of the critical role of the media and entertainment industries in shaping societal values and cultural life.

“No less important is the growing contribution of the creative industries to the Nigerian economy. The establishment of SMC is informed by the aspiration to train professionals who will uphold the highest intellectual, ethical and professional values that promote creativity, critical knowledge, technical perfection, social responsibility, and the spirit of the enterprise.”

The school offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Mass Communication, Information Science and Media Studies, Film and Multimedia Studies, as well as a full-time and part-time M.Sc. programmes in Data Science and Media & Communication; a PhD in Media and Communication as well as non-degree programmes for professionals as well as other courses like Executive MBA and EDC Programmes.

While the cohort looks forward to the bearings of the school this new week that would start today, it would be pertinent to commend the organisational skills of those who would bend and mould our lives these six weeks in six months. For the Dean to Prof. Ezechukwu to Samsideen Akano and Grace Kenneth, the goal is for the cohort to learn in character and in deed.

Tobe Okigbo, MTN Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer (sixth left); PAU Dr. Richard Ikiebe (eighth left); MTN’s Lakinbofa Goodluck (extreme right); MTN’s Funso Aina (extreme left) and SMC’ Mr. Samsideen Akano (back row extreme right), flanked by the MIP-3 Fellows

SMC Director, Professional Director, Pan-Atlantic University, Prof. Isaac-Ogugua Ezechukwu addressing the MIP-3 Cohort

We are but Strangers and Aliens

Okey Ifionu

Life here on earth is both temporal and temporary. Man is a bird of passage, a rainbow in an azure sky. Like a will-o’-the wisp, he is here today and gone tomorrow. That sounds rather obvious, doesn’t it? Yet many evidently don’t seem to be sufficiently aware or conscious of that. Look at the world around you; you would think that with all the deadly pursuit of power, splendour, honour and majesty by man, he is here on earth permanently. The bickering and jockeying for material glory and the vanities thereof appear to belie the reality of man’s true condition on earth. How many people truly meditate on the brevity of life in this realm? How many people think, as the hymn writer, that “time, like an ever-rolling stream, bears all its sons away,” and that “they fly forgotten, as a dream dies at the opening day”?

Well, the 3rd Session of the 6th Synod of the Diocese of Lagos Mainland, was a timely reminder to us of our pilgrim-status on earth, and the need for everyone to prepare for life in eternity. However pleasant or depressing life here on earth may be, it is only for a season. No man or woman will be here forever! With the theme of the synod drawn from the Letter to the Hebrews, chapter 11, verse 13b ---”We are but Strangers and Aliens”, the Synod kicked off with a spirit-lifting opening service at the Cathedral of St Jude Ebute Metta. It was led by the Diocesan Bishop of Lagos Mainland, Church of Nigeria, (Anglican Communion), the Rt. Rev. Akinpelu Johnson.

In the first homily which was brought by the bishop of the Diocese of Lagos West, the Rt. Rev. Dr James Olusola Odedeji, he dissected the theme admirably, with gripping anecdotes aimed at showing that man is only an immigrant in the world and pointing out the futility of holding fast to the present world instead of our faith in Christ Jesus. The crux of that sermon is that all things are vanity outside God. Believers must emulate the biblical heroes of faith who anchored their lives in God. Man has no permanent home on earth. Life does not end here in this realm. The spirit of man, like the God who created man, is immortal. The Bible is replete with references to the significance of life in the hereafter.

Bishop Johnson’s choice of the theme for this year’s synod, couldn’t come at a better time. It is indeed a wake-up call to a complacent church and a self-centred world. It is a subject that should be of interest not only to all people of faith, but all Mankind. Death, which is a universal phenomenon, should constantly remind Man that he is only a pilgrim to the earth, and that however long he may live here, he is fated to return (die) someday to his maker. How each of us will be received by God will be determined by how we lived on earth.

In session after session at the synod, the theme echoed loudly. Whether it was the sermons or the Bible studies or the Bishop’s Charge, the matter of man’s sojourn on earth and the ephemerality of that sojourn was in focus.

Bishop Odedeji who took the first shot at the theme roused his audience a great deal on the subject. It was a sermon that could make anyone who thinks he stands take heed, lest he falls. The Rt. Rev. Odedeji, famous for his adroit use of anecdotes to drive home moral or

theological points, stimulated the congregation to expect more during the following sessions of the synod. The prelate exhorted his audience to realise that both heaven and hell are real, and that God being a righteous judge, will not admit anybody who is not qualified to His eternal Kingdom. The only passport for entering that Kingdom is faith in Christ Jesus, the redeemer of mankind. He then illustrated his point by sharing a touching story of a young man who had wangled his way into a university where he ostensibly studied a course but on the graduation day, his elated father discovered to his chagrin, that his son’s name was missing from the graduation roll. It turned out that he had not actually gained admission into the university. He was a pretender! So will it be, the preacher declared, for those who might be “working for,” or “serving” God without knowing Jesus as their Lord and saviour. Such people, he said, have no place in God’s eternal kingdom. No one can wangle his or her way into eternal life with God. Everyone needs a visa and only Jesus can issue it. In his words, believers should not be “entangled with worldly passions but focus on Christ.” One synod delegate described that opening sermon as “a voice from heaven calling Men to think their lives over.” It was indeed!

The Bible study leader, Venerable Chidiebere Ukachukwu, took a practical dig into the subject in two study sessions. In his exposition, Ven. Ukachukwu brought home the vanity of Man’s consuming passion for self-glory and his striving to amass material wealth despite the uncertainties of his tenure on earth. However much a man acquires--- wealth, knowledge, social influence, etc--- he will inevitably die, leaving all of that for those who may fritter them away sooner, rather than later. Little wonder, the Bible says that everything is ultimately vanity without God. Ukachukwu challenged believers to rid themselves of excessive materialism which has ruined many believers and robbed them of their place in the ‘pleasant courts above’.

In his nearly 100-page presidential charge delivered standing all through, the president of the Synod, Bishop Johnson, delved into the theology of living and dying, and what follows thereafter. He enraptured his audience with his erudition and exegesis. Man is truly a stranger and alien on earth even if he is not always conscious of that. This truth leaps out from many pages of the Bible. Acknowledging that the question of afterlife is common to “virtually all belief systems”. Bishop Johnson said that man has a “non-physical part

that continues after physical death” for man is made up of body, soul and spirit.”

In Christian eschatology, the study of afterlife, “death is a gateway to eternal life” where “Jesus is both the intercessor and redeemer who pleads for, judges and vindicates the faithful believer.” He reminded delegates and his online audience that last two Synod themes were pointers to the certainty of the promise of eternal life. Christian baptism, for instance, symbolises a death to sin and rising to new life in Christ; a precursor to sharing in the resurrection of Christ. In the Eucharist, the Christian is sustained with the ‘True Bread which has come down for heaven and receives a foretaste of the eschatological banquet.’

Bishop Johnson said that the resurrection of Christ is an indication that Christians will share in Jesus’ resurrection to immortality in a spiritual body, as espoused by Apostle Paul in his letter to the Church in Corinth (1Corinthians 15:35--49). In this way, Bishop Johnson made clear to Synod the link between this year’s synod and those of the 2022 and 2023. For the faithful Christian therefore, participation in these sacraments of the church is but a ‘foretaste of glory divine’.

Both sacraments are intrinsically based on the salvific work of Christ and the Christian’s Walk by faith in Christ, results in the ‘blessed assurance’ that eternity with God is assured. The Christian must ensure adequate preparation for eternity which does not allow for spiritual carelessness or waywardness. Those who live corruptly, amass wealth illegally and bereft of any sense of social justice, must remember that a day of reckoning is coming.

Bishop Johnson’s presidential address was a fitting call to action to all followers of Christ.

His choice of Henry Francis Lyte’s evergreen hymn, ‘Pleasant are thy courts above’ was quite apt in drawing the curtain to his riveting address. The prayerful tone of the last stanza of that hymn, is for everyone who sincerely aspires to live in the beautiful courts above. It reads thus:

“Lord, be mine this prize to win; Guide me through a world of sin; Keep me by thy saving grace; Give me at thy side a place.

Sun and shield alike thou art; Guide and guard my erring heart; Grace and glory flow from thee; Shower, O shower them, Lord, on me!”

Truly grace and enduring glory flow only from God!

Taking it from there, the charismatic bishop of Langtan Diocese, the Rt. Rev. Stanley Fube, who took the closing sermon at the Synod Thanksgiving Service, stressed the importance of coming under the tabernacle of grace through faith in Christ Jesus, without whom no one can attain eternal life in God. The visiting bishop seized the opportunity to congratulate the Registrar of the Diocese, Lady Chikwue Ochjagha, who was stepping down as the chairman of the Synod Planning Committee, after serving diligently for 17 years.

As synods go, this was very edifying and challenging to delegates who are expected to live out the lessons learned from the various sessions.

Long live the Diocese of Lagos Mainland, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion).

• Venerable Ifionu is a priest in the Anglican Diocese of Lagos Mainland.

Report Nigeria, Rebrand Nigeria

What have you done to make Nigeria better? In shaping the narrative of our beloved nation, we must recognize the profound impact of media portrayal on global perceptions. Our country, with its cultural diversity and breathtaking landscapes, often remains unseen by those beyond our borders, who rely solely on media representations. Therefore, it is imperative that we exercise caution in not only how we report news but also in how we articulate our national identity to the world.

Why is it easy to condemn Nigeria? While individuals may adopt different nationalities, the indomitable Nigerian spirit courses through our veins, propelling us to transcend expectations. Nigeria is home to industrious and resilient citizens, and the responsibility of nation-building extends beyond political leaders to encompass every member of society, including the media. How many media practitioners and Nigerians have written positive articles about the greatness of Nigeria? It is a question we must all ponder, as the duty to uplift our nation lies in each of our hands.

How many of us have a driving license? These seemingly small personal milestones reflect our commitment to progress and order. They are symbols of our individual responsibility and contributions to the nation’s well-being. Just as we strive for personal achievements, we must also strive for collective progress. How many of us obey traffic laws? The disregard of simple things as the traffic lights shows our level of patriotism to the law and order of our beloved country. Our movie actors, actresses and artistes are making us proud abroad, with talents like Burna Boy, Davido, and Wizkid showcasing the richness of our culture on

global stages. These individuals are ambassadors of our nation’s potential and creativity, reminding us of the greatness we can achieve.

How many of us have the Nigerian flag in our homes and offices? Which is a symbol of patriotism. Our forefathers have died, and we have inherited this country. We should work hard to make it better, honoring their legacy and striving to create a prosperous future. Nigeria is a divine project entrusted to us, endowed with abundant natural resources and awe-inspiring landscapes. We must steward these blessings with

utmost care, fueled by unwavering patriotism and determination. Failure is not an option; our commitment to Nigeria runs deep.

Despite the barrage of negative portrayals from international media, we have remained silent for too long. The foreign media mostly promotes negative news about Nigeria. Should we also do the same? It is time to reclaim our narrative, to showcase the true essence of our nation, and to counter misconceptions with pride and authenticity. Are we going to allow our colonial masters and foreigners to write our history for us? If you have written an article about the good you see in Nigeria recently, may God bless you. If you have not, please you need to do one and publish it henceforth. We can utilize social media and print media platforms to promote the interest of our great nation. Our patriotism must shine through, as we recognize that the future of Nigeria rests in our hands alone.

We must not use negativity to chase away foreign investors, our anger must be properly channeled to the genuine issues that are confronting Nigeria namely: Electricity and Education just to name a few.

Electricity: We can call a national forum regarding how to solve the problem of electricity in Nigeria and we must pursue the goal with vigor and patriotism.

It is high time that Nigerians at home and abroad use their positions to change the narratives. The media must push for a law through the National Assembly that prevents senior government officials, Appointees and other senior public office holders from using generators and/or other alternatives

to National Power in their Offices and homes except law enforcement agencies.

Having Constant power supply is not rocket science. It is time to demand for it and have it so that investors and Artisans who have been negatively affected and chased out of business can return to their businesses, increase employment opportunities, production and ultimately, grow the economy. Education: There should be an educational summit where the education of our children is being discussed. The media should ask and demand that the National Assembly pass a law that prohibits Elected officials, political appointees and civil servants from sending their children/wards to private schools/ Institutions rather they must attend public schools and institutions because they are public officials. The government has failed to resolve and find a long-lasting solution to the unending face-off with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), simply because most of the Government officials and Politicians have their children/wards schooling outside the shores of Nigeria and have very little or no concerns for the education system here. The media must continuously demand for a quality education system until it becomes competitive and sit side by side with foreign educational systems. This bill needs to be passed into law before 2027 general elections.

• Ibadin presented this paper to The Nigerian Police Force, Zone 2, Onikan in Collaboration with National Association of Online Security News Publishers on 22nd of May, 2024 at Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Ikeja.

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

Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos West, the Rt. Rev. Dr James Olusola Odedeji

Matthew Ibadin

Ibadin

World Bank: Oil Companies Flared Record Gas Volume in 2023

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Oil companies around the world last year burned off the most natural gas in five years while also increasing the intensity of the highly polluting practice, a World Bank report has found.

With only six years left to meet a World Bank goal of stopping routine flaring, the companies burned off an estimated 148 billion cubic meters of gas in 2023, up 7 per cent from 2022 even as crude oil production rose only 1 per cent over the same time.

Drilling for oil often yields natural gas as well, and some companies opt to flare, or burn this gas instead of capturing and storing it,

usually arguing that building the infrastructure needed is not commercially viable, Reuters reported.

The growth in flaring more than reversed reductions made in 2021 and 2022, the report from the World Bank’s Global Gas Flaring Tracker said, adding that “global efforts to reduce gas flaring have not been sustainable and urgent action is needed.”

Eliminating the practice would cut at least 381 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent in environmentally harmful emissions released into the atmosphere.

“Substantial reductions in gas flaring and flaring intensity are achievable through ef-

fective partnerships and the creation of solutions to monetize associated gas,” the report added.

Nine major oil-producing countries account for 75 per cent of flaring and 46 per cent of oil output. They are Russia, Iran, Iraq, the United States, Venezuela, Algeria, Libya, Nigeria and Mexico, in order of volumes of gas burned off.

The report said Algeria and Venezuela had reduced flaring, but those gains were eroded by Iran, Russia, the United States and Libya, among others.

Flaring intensity, or the volume of gas flared per barrel of oil produced, is the highest in countries affected by instability, conflict or violence.

LBS, Stanbic IBTC Advocate Sustainable Practices in Corporate Organisations

The Lagos Business School and Stanbic IBTC Holdings have reiterated the need for businesses to embrace initiatives that promote environmental sustainability.

The charge was made during the presentation of a case study on the Holding Company’s Environmental, Social, & Governance initiatives at the LBS campus in Ajah, Lagos.

The case study, titled, “Beyond the Buzzwords: Concrete Sustainability Measures in Corporate Strategy,” was authored by Professor Chris Ogbechie, Dean of Lagos Business School, and Segun Jones, Hub Lead, LBS Management Hub, in collaboration with Dr Demola Sogunle, the protagonist in the case.

It was presented during a joint session to participants of

the Owner-Manager Programme of the Lagos Business School and the Strathmore Business School in Nairobi, Kenya.

During his presentation, Ogbechie underscored the importance of sustainability for every corporate organisation.

According to him, the success of any business entity no longer consists of mere revenue targets but efforts to promote environmental sustainability.

He said, “Sustainability is a headache that is keeping many CEOs awake today. In Nigeria, climate change is a big risk, causing us headaches because we are facing what we call food crisis, driven by climate change.”

On his part, the Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, Demola Sogunle highlighted the company’s continued focus on

adopting its ESG benchmark.

Sogunle emphasised that the company’s sustainability initiatives are designed to align with global best practices and recommendations.

He further stated that pursuant to its sustainability roadmap, the company had planted 43,928 trees in the last three years and plans to hit the 100,000 benchmark by 2025.

Commenting further on the case study, Sogunle said, “Our motivation stems from our top leadership’s recognition of the critical interdependence between Stanbic IBTC’s success and the welfare of the communities we serve. As market leaders in various sectors, and with the substantial trust placed in our Group, we have embraced sustainability in all its facets.”

APM Terminals Apapa Recycles Discarded Tyres into Flipflops

APM Terminals Apapa has begun the recycling of its discarded tyres into flipflops.

The terminal made this known in a statement to the press on Thursday.

The terminal had recently celebrated Go Green, global APM Terminals Awareness campaign which aims to draw light on sustainable business practices with regards to the environment and how to minimise the impact of its operations on the environment.

The campaign had the theme, “Nothing Goes to Waste.”

Terminal Manager, Steen Knudsen said, “We are all about continuous improvement and always on the lookout for ways we can sustainably repurpose our waste into other useful materials. We are in partnership with various environmental organisations licensed by the government.

“Over the years, we have taken calculated steps to not only reduce our plastic footprint on the environment but also reduce other forms of waste such discarded boilersuits and lubricants. Recently, we have, in collaboration with one of our environmental partners, begun the production of flipflops from discarded tyres. Each eco-friendly pair of flip-flops is crafted from 70% recycled tyres sourced from our truck and crane equipment used to handle cargo operations at our terminal.”

HSE Manager, APM Terminals Apapa, Felix Chinwe Ugwuagbo, said it was important for the terminal to take its employees along on this journey, taking the message of sustainability and waste recycling to their homes and communities.

He said, “There are so many things the terminal is already doing to reduce waste. However, we want to encourage our employees to not only come up with ideas on what we can do to reduce waste, but to also think of what they can do as individuals to reduce waste.”

Head of Environmental Management System (EMS) Consultancy & Services, Kevron Consulting, Dare Ayodele, described waste management as not just good for the environment but also good for business and our communities.

“Going green isn’t just about protecting our environment; it’s also about efficient resource usage. Traditional waste management strains resources and pollutes our oceans. Innovative waste management solutions ensure that nothing goes to waste,” he said.

Balogun: Ojude Oba Festival Fosters Unity and Economic Growth

The annual Ojude Oba Festival, a vibrant celebration of Ijebu culture and tradition, recently concluded with great success. The festival attracted thousands of participants and visitors who showcased elaborate traditional attires, captivating dances, music, and impressive equestrian displays.

Affirming the economic and social development potential that could be harnessed from the festival through tourism, Ogun State Governor, Adedapo Abiodun, committed to elevating the Ojude Oba Festival to a global stage. He envisions the festival as a permanent fixture on the international tourism calendar and its listing as one of the festivals backed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

This unique social structure empowers individuals. It has contributed to the overall resilience and development of the Ijebu community for centuries.

Central to the festival’s enduring legacy is the Regberegbe system, a tradition of age-grade solidarity and mutual support. Historically rooted in communal labour practices, the Regberegbe has evolved into a symbol of community cooperation, fostering social bonds and collective responsibility.

FCMB Group Plc, a major sponsor of the Ojude Oba festival, recognises the festival’s significant contribution to social cohesion and development. By celebrating shared cultural heritage, promoting unity among diverse groups, and strengthening community bonds, the Ojude Oba festival fosters a favourable environment for socioeconomic development.

The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $87.33 a barrel on Monday, compared with $86.00

Saharan Blend

Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

L-R: Environmental Management System Intern, Kevron Consulting, Teminijesu Ajani; Health Safety and Environmental (HSE) Manager, APM Terminals Apapa, Felix Chinwe Ugwuagbo; Head of Environmental Management System (EMS) Consultancy & Services, Kevron Consulting, Dare Ayodele and HSE Business Partner, APM Terminals Apapa, Emmanuel Uko at the APM Terminals

Annual Go Green Campaign in Apapa, Lagos... recently

Stock Market Drops by N707bn on Profit-taking in Airtel, 25 Others

Kayode Tokede

The stock market, yesterday commenced on a negative note in the last trading week in June 2024 as profit-taking in Airtel Africa Plc (-2.5per cent), and 25 others down the overall capitalization by N707 billion.

The Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) shed 438.93 basis points or 0.44 per cent to close at 99,304.12 basis points. Also, market capitalisation declined

by N249 billion to close at N56.175 trillion.

Sectoral performance was mixed, as the NGX Banking Index (-one per cent), NGX Consumer Goods Index (-0.4per cent), and NGX Industrial Goods Index (-0.2per cent), while the NGX Oil & Gas index closed flat. The NGX Insurance index (+1.1per cent), the sole gainer of the day.

As measured by market breadth, market sentiment closed negative, as 20 stocks gained relative to 26

losers. Secure Electronic Technology emerged the highest price gainer of 10 per cent to close at 55 kobo, per share. VFD Group followed with a gain of 9.85 per cent to close at N44.60, while John Holt advanced by 9.58 per cent to close at N2.86, per share.

Thomas Wyatt Nigeria increased by 9.52 per cent to close at N2.30, while Transcorp Hotels added 9.33 per cent to close at N98.40, per share.

On the other side, International

Breweries led others on the losers’ chart with 10 per cent to close at N3.96, per share. Deap Capital Management and Trust followed with a decline of 8.93 per cent to close at 51 kobo, while DAAR Communications shed 8.77 per cent to close at 52 kobo, per share.

Beta Glass depreciated by 8.62 per cent to close at N53.00, while Oando lost 7.36 per cent to close at N13.85, per share. Also, the total volume traded increased by 57.74 per cent to

973.623 million units, valued at N19.315 billion, and exchanged in 9,941 deals. Transactions in the shares of FBNH led the activity with 627.604 million shares worth N13.452 billion. Beta Glass followed with account of 35.698 million shares valued at N1.892 billion, while Veritas Kapital Assurance traded 35.344 million shares valued at N33.472 million. Chams Holding Company traded 26.152 million shares worth N60.269 million, while AIICO Insurance traded

24.299 million shares worth

N23.238 million.

Looking ahead, analysts at United Capital Plc said “we expect activities in the fixed income market to continue to stand as a demotivator toward a broader/deeper scale of equities investments. Investors are only entertaining opportunistic investments in fundamentally sound stocks (relatively/wholly undervalued) and stocks with recent corporate actions (particularly M&As).

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return. An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

GUIDE TO DATA:

Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS

BUSINESS WORLD

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The prices of major fuels, including Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) or petrol, diesel, as well as gas continued to rise in May 2024, taking their tolls on transportation costs nationwide.

Latest data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed that the average retail price paid by consumers for petrol in May was N769.62, indicating a 223.21 per cent increase compared to the N238.11 recorded in May 2023.

Likewise, comparing the average price value with the previous month, April 2024, the average retail price increased by 9.75 per cent from N701.24.

On State profile analysis, Jigawa state had the highest average retail price for petrol at N937.50 while Ondo and Benue States were

next, with N882.67 and N882.22, respectively.

In contrast, Lagos, Niger and Kwara states had the lowest average retail prices for the fuel, at N636.80, N642.16 and N645.15 respectively, while on the zonal basis, the North-west zone had the highest average retail price of N845.26, even as the Northcentral zone had the lowest price of N695.04.

On May 29, during his inauguration, President Bola Tinubu announced the removal of petrol subsidy, resulting in the astronomical rise in prices and pushing the country’s inflation rate even higher.

Last month, Nigeria’s inflation rate rose to a new 28-year high of 33.95 per cent, worsening hardship that was already fuelling public anger.

Also, the average retail price of

Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) or diesel paid by consumers increased by 66.29 per cent on a year-on-year basis from a lower cost of N844.28 per litre recorded in the corresponding month in 2023, to a higher cost of N1,403.96 per litre in May 2024.

But on a month-on-month basis, a negligible decrease of 0.78 per cent was recorded from N1,415.06 in the preceding month of April 2024 to an average of N1403.96 in April 2024.

Looking at the variations in the state prices, the top three states with the highest average price of the product in May 2024 included: Adamawa state (N1709.00), Sokoto state (N1675.00) and Bauchi state (N1657.92).

Besides, the top three states where lowest prices were recorded included: Niger state (N1140.20), Kano state (N1153.33) and Oyo state (N1236.92),

while the zonal representation of average price of diesel showed that North-east zone had the highest price of N1605.91 as South-west emerged with lowest price N1303.60 when compared with other zones.

Although the price of diesel has long been deregulated, the cost per litre remains relatively high, with the international price of crude oil still high at about $85 per barrel. Besides, other bottlenecks like the cost of transporting it around the nation, add to the final cost to consumers.

As expected, the soaring fuel prices raised the transport fares for the month, covering bus journeys within the city; intercity, airfare charge for specified routes; journey by motorcycle and waterways passenger transport.

The average fare paid by commuters for bus journeys within the city per drop increased to 0.86

per cent from N967.76 in April 2024 to N976.08 in May 2024, but on a year-on year basis, it increased by 50.26 per cent from N649.59 in May 2023.

In another category, the average fare paid by commuters for bus journey intercity per drop was N7,129.46 in May 2024, indicating an increase of 0.10 per cent on a month-on-month basis compared to N7,122.57 in April 2024.

On a year-on-year basis, the fare rose by 78.14 per cent from N4,002.16 in May 2023. In air travel, the average fare paid by air passengers for specified routes single journey was N89,432.43 in May 2024, showing an increase of 0.27 per cent while compared to previous month (April 2024).

On a year-on -year basis, the fare rose by 19.32 per cent from N74,948.78 in May 2023. For water

transport, the average fare paid in May 2024 was N1,385.95 which remained the same when compared to the previous month, but on a year-on-year basis, it increased by 32.61 per cent from N1,045.15 in May 2023.

According to the NBS data, the average retail price for refilling a 5kg cylinder of cooking gas increased by 13.75 per cent on a month-on-month basis from N6,521.58 recorded in April 2024 to N7,418.45 in May 2024. On a year-on-year basis, this increased by 70.12 per cent from N4,360.69 in May 2023. On state profile analysis, Benue recorded the highest aver age price for refilling a 5kg cylinder of cooking gas with N8,012.03, followed by Enugu with N7,926.21, and Ondo with N7,857.53.

Even though Africa has been projected to expand its production of rice, the outlook in Nigeria is dampened as escalating energy costs and difficulties in marketing produce are reducing milling operations in the country.

This is contained in the Food and Agricultural Organisation of the United Nations’ report titled, “Food Outlook: Biannual Report on Global Food Markets,” which was released this month.

The report stated that Africa appeared to be headed towards its third successive production expansion, with 28.4 million tonnes forecast to be gathered across the continent in 2024/25, up 4.0 per cent year-on-year and a record high.

But in the case of Nigeria, the production outlook is dampened by hikes in input costs and difficulties marketing produce following reductions in milling operations caused by hikes in energy costs,” the report said.

However, in Western Africa, Benin, Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo could also harvest more, a reflection of the high prices prevailing in many of these countries, expectations of broadly positive rainfall performance, and sustained government support to the sector.

According to the report, supplies of most of the world’s major food commodities are expected to be adequate in 2024/25, although extreme weather, rising geopolitical

tensions, sudden policy changes and other factors could all potentially tip the delicate global demand-supply balances and impact prices and global food security.

The FOA Food Outlook stated that the, “World outputs of rice and oilseeds are expected to be at record levels, while those of wheat and maize will likely decline modestly.”

The report further projected that world rice trade would fall to a four-year low in 2024 from an estimated 52.9 million tonnes in

2023 to 51.4 million tonnes this year.

It stated that this would represent a four-year trade low and, from a regional perspective, would be largely imputable to expected import cuts in Africa. The contraction would be consistent with the positive harvest results attained on the continent.

It added that, “persistent cost pressures stemming from weak local currencies, elevated international prices and, in some cases, also higher transport and insurance costs, Nigeria, as well

as Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Madagascar and Sierra Leone, could also slash purchases or keep them at comparatively reduced levels.”

The FAO’s report forecasted that world sugar production in 2023/24 (October/September) is pegged at 179.4 million tonnes, marking a slight uptick of 0.5 million tonnes, or 0.3 percent, from the previous season’s output.

Dike Onwuamaeze

B OO sT f O r ArT s, En TE rTA inm E n T indusT ry…

L-R: Director General, Ekiti State Culture and Tourism Board, Wale Ojo-Lanre; Business Manager, Public Sector West, FirstBank, Dolapo Muyiwa-Koku; Commissioner for Information, Culture & Tourism, Oyo State, Wasiu Olatunbosun; Group Head, Public Sector, West, FirstBank, Dr. Timothy Arowoogun; Head, Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability, Media & External Relations, FirstBank, Ismail Omamegbe; Chairman, Creazioni Nigeria Limited/Executive Producer, Oke Langbodo, Deji Osibogun; Head, Sponsorship, Partnership, Events & Collaborations, FirstBank, Chinwe Bode-Akinwande during the FirstBank-sponsored stage Production Oke Langbodo, at the university of Ibadan…recently

‘FG

Will Reap Unlimited Benefit from TMP Establishment’

President of the Nigerian Association of Master Mariners, Tajudeen Alao has said that the Federal Government’s Trade Modernisation

Project (TMP) will stimulate quicker cargo clearance at the nation’s ports. Alao made the observation in Lagos, noting that the establishment

ACAEBIN Challenges Members on Ethical Standards

In order to uphold trust placed in the Nigerian banking industry, Association of Chief Audit Executives of Banks in Nigeria (ACAEBIN), has challenged its members to constantly uphold ethical standards and principles guiding their profession.

Speaking at the 58th quarterly general meeting of ACAEBIN, the Chief Executive Officer, Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria, Mr. Dalu Ajene, said, the theme of the meeting, “Being a Human Auditor in a Challenging Environment,” is both timely and crucial.

He said even though auditors live and work in an era marked by rapid technological changes, economic uncertainties, and evolving regulatory landscapes, “they find themselves at the forefront of ensuring that their institutions remain robust, transparent, and trustworthy, amidst these challenges.

“We recognize these myriads of

challenges that face our industry: economic volatility, regulatory changes, technological advancements, and evolving customer expectations, to name but a few. Yet, as auditors, you must navigate these complexities with not just precision and professionalism but also with empathy and ethical fortitude.”

He noted that the association’s mission to foster cooperation among Chief Audit Executives, promote competence, and uphold ethical standards is even more critical now than ever.

For the ACAEBIN Chairman, Prince Akamadu, the 58th quarterly meeting theme, reflects the dynamic and complex landscape they navigate as audit professionals.

He stressed that they are tasked, not only with ensuring compliance and mitigating risks but also with adapting to rapidly changing technologies, changing regulatory policies, and global economic conditions.

SAHCO Shareholders Approve N406m Dividend

The Chairman of Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) Plc, Barrister Taiwo Afolabi, yesterday assured shareholders of enhanced profitability and dividend in the current financial year ending December 31, 2024.

Afolabi, gave the assurance at the company’s 14th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Lagos.

He told the shareholders that the board and management would work tirelessly to achieve better profitability in 2024.

Afolabi emphasised the company’s commitment to enhancing profitability and ensuring customer satisfaction through continued investment in state-of-the-art equipment.

He also guaranteed good returns for the shareholders, acknowledging their unwavering support and emphasising the company’s efforts to generate better dividends for them.

“That has been one of our unique selling points over the years and 2024 will not be any different. I would like to commend the shareholders, we greatly value your support for the management and board over the

years. We don’t take your support and encouragement for granted. Be assured we are working hard to make your company great and to generate a better dividend for you,” he said.

The Managing Director, Mr Basil Agboarumi, attributed the company’s impressive 2023 performance to substantial investment in eco-friendly equipment, resulting in significant revenue growth and an expanded asset base.

“In our last AGM, we announced a total revenue of about N11.1 billion for 2022, but as of the end of the 2023 financial year, our company’s revenue stood at N16.5 billion.

“We have also grown our gross profit from N4.3 billion in 2022 to N8.2 billion in the year under review,” he said.

The shareholders at the meeting unanimously approved a dividend of 30k per share, amounting to N406.074 million for the year 2023.

The shareholders expressed appreciation for the company’s performance and urged the board to focus on new business ideas to further improve performance and ensure increased returns on investment.

of the project would also boost Internally Generated Revenue and enhance the country’s global visibility.

He observed that the world had moved beyond conventional methods of doing business with the advancement of technology.

He said: “More than 30 years ago, when Singapore grew from a third-world country to a firstworld country, the President, Mr Lee Kuan Yew, led the drive for technology awareness, and now look at where Singapore is today in terms of technology. So, Nigeria must make more efforts to keep abreast

with technological advancements worldwide.

“The establishment of the Trade Modernisation Project would add value in terms of Internally Generated Revenue through improved customs clearance procedures. Consider the time when we had to carry files around; now everything is done through ICT. Nigeria must modernise, and I am glad this initiative is underway.”

He emphasised that without trade, growth is impossible and that creating an atmosphere conducive for trade “is essential to reap its

benefits”.

The General Manager of the Trade Facilitation Project, Mr Ahmed Ogunshola, explained the numerous benefits accrued to a nation when the Customs Modernisation Project (CMP) is fully automated. The Federal Government and Trade Modernisation Project Limited. signed a 20-year Concession Agreement on May 30, 2022, to provide best-in-class technology for the implementation of paperless customs at the Nigeria Customs operations.

Ogunshola explained that TMP was the automation of the business processes of the Nigeria Customs Service.

He said that the project would simplify and enhance the experience of stakeholders in the trade value chain, making it easy to obtain import and export clearances, pay duties, and obtain the release of goods.

Ogunshola said that the major advantage of the project was the significant growth in the revenue profile of the federal government.

FG, World Bank Trains 496 Youth in Web, App Development

Adedayo Akinwale in abuja

The World Bank and the federal government in partnership with Information Technology (IT) firms have trained 496 young Nigerians, comprising 218 males and 278 females in both Web and Mobile App Development.

Speaking at the flag-off/ business pitching ceremony of World Bank Digital Skills Development Programme of the Federal Ministry of Education on yesterday in Abuja, the Project Leader, Ololade Awe, said in today’s rapidly evolving world, digital proficiency is not merely

an asset but a fundamental requirement for personal and professional success.

She noted that the digital revolution has transformed industries, economies, and societies at an unprecedented pace.

To harness its full potential, Awe stressed that there was a need to ensure that the country’s workforce is equipped with the skills to navigate and lead in this new landscape.

She stated: “The World Bank and the Federal Ministry of Education are both renowned for their commitment to building

and sustaining individual and societal development.

“They both recognise the critical importance of digital literacy. This programme is a testament to that recognition. By offering comprehensive training in digital skills namely web development and mobile application development, we aim to bridge the gap between current capabilities and future demands, fostering innovation, and enhancing employability.”

Also, the National Project Coordinator, Mrs. Blessing Ehi Ogwu said that the selection process for the Innovation Grant

Facility (IGF) project was a highly competitive one, adding that over 150 organisations applied. Ogwu who was represented by IGF Consultant, Prof. Ndem Ayara explained that the IGF was a component of the Innovation Development and Effectiveness in the acquisition of skills (IDEAS) project.

According to him, “It is a project of the Federal Ministry of Education while being assisted by the World Bank. The aim of the project is to provide digital skills to young Nigerians especially Women and Persons-with-disabilities so they can become employable.”

TGI Group Advocates for Sustainable Agricultural Development

TGI Group has reiterated its commitment to sustainable agricultural development in Nigeria and the rest of Africa.

The company stated this at the recently held 16th U.S.-Africa Business Summit. The event, attended by over 1,500 public and private sector executives from across the continents, emphasised strategic collaborations for sustainable success in various sectors, including agriculture.

Executive Director and Executive Vice Chairman (Africa) of TGI

Emma Okonji

Layer3 has successfully implemented a state-of-the-art private cloud infrastructure for the West and Central African Research and Education Network (WACREN). The project, hosted in Nigeria, is supported by the AfricaConnect3 project, co-funded by the European Commission. Layer3 was selected for the project after an international bidding and tendering process.

Group, Farouk Gumel, participated as a panellist during a session themed, “From Food Insecurity to Thriving Agribusinesses: The Case for a U.S. Africa Strategic Agribusiness Partnership.”

Emphasizing TGI’s comprehensive approach, Gumel highlighted the company’s involvement in the entire value chain, from the seed to the final consumer. “At TGI, we engage in every aspect of the value chain, from seed multiplication to the dining table. This is because we

The newly established private cloud infrastructure will serve universities, research and education networks across the region, providing a robust, secure, and scalable platform designed to meet the unique needs of the academic and research community.

Giving details about the private cloud infrastructure, Layer3 CEO, Oyaje Idoko, said: “We are honored to have been selected by WACREN and the AfricaConnect3 project for this transformative initiative.

adopt a problem-solving approach to our business model,” stated Gumel.

He stressed TGI’s dedication to understanding local communities and cultural nuances, ensuring shared prosperity and sustainability.

“While we are involved in seeds, fertilisers and crop protection inputs, we do not engage in land ownership. We adopt a community-centric approach, recognizing cultural sensitivities in rural areas. When partnering with communities, we provide inputs

Our team is excited to have delivered this world-class cloud infrastructure that will empower the educational and research community in West and Central Africa, driving innovation and excellence. This project underscores our commitment to providing top-tier IT solutions that support academic and research excellence.”

According to WACREN CEO, Dr. Boubakar Barry, “The WACREN Cloud upgrade marks a significant step forward for us

while they undertake cultivation. Upon harvest, they have the option to sell to us or others, ensuring a mutually beneficial relationship. Even if they choose to sell to the open market, albeit rarely, we will still get it from the local aggregator,” Gumel explained. Gumel praised the country’s commitment to employment and community empowerment. “Nigeria, often misunderstood globally, boasts the continent’s most robust agricultural policy,” he remarked.

as it will enhance our capacity to serve national research and education networks (NRENs) and their communities across our region. We will leverage the capabilities of this new cluster to drive our suite of community-driven platforms and services. We look forward to the tremendous impact the expanded infrastructure will have on fostering research and innovation excellence across West and Central Africa.”

Oluchi Chibuzor

Kayode Tokede

Anambra 2025: The Ifeanyi Ubah Scenario…

To externalize his seething inner vision of a new Anambra State, Eastern Nigeria’s heartbeat, Senator Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah has signaled his intention to contest the state’s 2025 governorship election, writes Louis Achi

Driven by a relentless passion, not unlike Beethoven, Senator Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah has scaled up his alluring political symphony on the delicate keyboards of Anambra State. His proclaimed mission is simple: assume executive democratic leadership of Eastern Nigeria’s political-industrial center of gravity and launch it into its destined orbit. And from that perch, boldly redirect the stumbling trajectory of the entire region.

As it were, almost after thirty-three odd years of statehood, one curious fact stands out like a sore thumb - Anambra State, created on August 27 1991 - remains a land of promise. Indisputably, it has the potential industrial capacity to fire up the entire region and saturate West Africa.

But without that mysterious chemistry of visionary leadership, the inherent promises, unfortunately for this state, are yet to be unlocked. Peter Obi’s challenging, half magical governance interregnum remains the notable exception.

Successive observers have asked again - do the leaders of this land of promise have the interest of their people at heart? Various statistics have sharply dramatized the dismal governance lot of the state. Besides the fairly valid excuses of marginalization by the central government, many believe, validly too, that transformational leadership at the state level could turbocharge wide-ranging development and change the narrative.

It is against this troubling backdrop that billionaire entrepreneur and notable philanthropist, Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, representing Anambra South Senatorial District, enters the fray and appeals for the support of the people as he kicks off his 2025 governorship bid. Ubah contested the 2021 Anambra governorship election in a contest won by Chukwuma Soludo, former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

According to Senator Ubah, “All I ask for is a single term of four years. At the moment, I rate governance in Anambra State for the past 18 years at 20 percent. I will bring 80 percent content that has never been discussed in governance.

“I have a burning desire to contest the next governorship election in Anambra State because this government and those before it have not been able to put the state in the development trajectory that our people desire.

“We need to create support for our commerce; we have to develop our sector to make it a hub for health tourists and accelerate community development through local government elections.

“It is time we vote for people with passion, people with a track record. That is what I represent. I am prepared to change the narrative, and that is why my manifesto has remained the same from 2013 till date.”

Senator Ubah expressed these positions days after he slammed Governor Soludo for suspending the traditional ruler who conferred a chieftaincy title on him (Ubah).

It could be recalled that on January 9, a jittery Governor Soludo suspended Igwe Damian Ezeani, a traditional ruler of the Neni Community, for conferring a chieftaincy title of Odenjinji on Senator Ubah “without obtaining the permission of the traditional ruler of Nnewi Kingdom, where Ifeanyi Ubah hails from, or the ministry of local government, chieftaincy and community affairs”. The governor wisely reversed himself a few days later.

An obviously miffed Ubah had described

Governor Soludo’s suspension of the monarch as “a game of politics” stressing the governor’s action was connected to his interest in the 2025 governorship race in the state. “The governor is frustrated by my acceptance and popularity; he is jittery about the next governorship election, but I leave him to his conscience,” Ubah told the media.

Senator Ubah then provides some compelling insight into his vision of good governance recently. Hear him: “In the arena of politics, the world over, governance, actually good governance is central to human development and social progression. The opposite leads to regression and socio-political stagnation.

“Good governance has eight major characteristics. It is participatory, consensus oriented, accountable, transparent, responsive, effective and efficient, equitable and inclusive and follows the rule of law.

“It assures that corruption is minimized, the views of minorities are taken into account and that the voices of the most vulnerable in society are heard in decision-making. It is also responsive to the present and future needs of society. Deficits in these areas spark conflict and set back human development.

“More specifically, poor governance is characterized by arbitrary policy making, unaccountable bureaucracies, unenforced or

unjust legal systems, the abuse of executive power, a civil society unengaged in public life, and widespread corruption. These deficits are the reasons for our developmental woes. In all political projects I have championed I have always emphasized these.”

Senator Ubah, philanthropist par excellence, fondly called “Ebube Chukwu Uzo,” has business interests traversing oil & gas, jetty development, bonded terminal, truck park facilities, media, sports development, construction, telecommunication, real estate and general merchandise. He is a disciplined player whose unassuming, humble mien hides an inner steel that has enabled him conquer tough business engagements and sterner political challenges.

Undoubtedly since entering the political fray over a decade ago, Senator Ubah has grown in stature and matured. His positions on weighty state and national issues shore up this perception. He has spoken and proffered informed views on diverse subject matters and many other themes.

According to him, Anambra State has a rich intellectual and entrepreneurial presence in many parts of the world which could be tapped into for external inflow of investment and promises to run a government that would not rely on federal allocation or on revenue from petty traders or truck pushers who are

struggling to survive. His words: “I will run Anambra as a mini nation inside a nation. I am talking about a governance model that 80 per cent of the content has not been discussed anywhere. It is not rocket science. We have Anambra communities in many major cities of the world, and we can formalise bilateral relationships with these cities by having state representatives there.

“We will have a global image that will make mayors of major cities our friends and want to have investment interest in Anambra. Anambra has the network of human resources we can leverage on. Our development will be data-driven and anybody anywhere can get information about Anambra because we will use the media and ICT to put it on the global map.”

The Nnewi-born billionaire further told opponents that he has the influence and ingenuity to transform the infrastructures and lives of the Anambra people without inflicting pain on them and urged Anambra citizens not to judge every politician with the kind of leadership they have had over the years. Still providing more insight into his governance gameplan if elected, he revealed he would empower people such that it would not be attractive for youths to engage in crime and that he would deploy technology to combat insecurity if given the opportunity.

Hear him: “We have a working system in Nnewi and I can replicate it in Anambra. We still conduct marriages in Abuja, Lagos and other areas outside Anambra because of insecurity. I have street wisdom, I live with the people, and my investments are everywhere for people to see. I created wealth and empowered people as a private person, I want to impact society on a larger scale.”

Against this backdrop, the emerging consensus is that incumbent governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo’s quest to be returned by Anambra people for a second term as election holds later in 2025 is indeed a challenging project.

Political observers have identified potential hurdles facing Soludo which flow from several consequential, unforced errors he is believed to have made. Part of the forces that make or mar political ambitions in the state include both religion and the traditional institution. Since birthing of the Fourth Republic, in 1999, the church - religious politics - in Anambra State has played significant roles in the emergence of governors. The Roman Catholic and Anglican churches take the center stage here. The second factor is the traditional institution. Soludo is seen to have curiously rubbed both in the wrong places - wittingly or otherwise.

A third factor is that Senator Ubah’s movement to the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, positions him strongly as the foremost challenger to Governor Soludo. While APC’s entry into the region through Ebonyi State is seen as tenuous, top party hierarchs see Anambra as a top catch. Unfolding political events in both Rivers and Kano States are perceived as key indicators of APC’s nifty game-plan even as the swashbuckling “Obidients” of the Labour Party plot their fightback in the state.

Many believe that Senator Ubah, a known grassroots politician, who equally has deep pockets has his political task neatly cut out for him. As the Ifeanyi Ubah scenario takes concrete form ahead of the gubernatorial battle later next year, there is a palpable feeling that Ebube Chukwu Uzo’s time is finally here.

Ifeanyi Ubah

Photo

Group Managing Director/CEO,

and

L-R: Head, CRC Credit Bureau Limited, Data Analytics Division, Demola Adesalu; Head, Credit and Market Risk Management, LAPO Microfinance Bank, Mr. David Osadolor Agho; Directorate Head, Lagos and West, Keystone Bank Limited, Mrs. Helen Maiyegun;

Dr. Tunde Popoola; Lagos State Manager, Small

Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Mr. Olufunmi Kola-Dawudu, and Founder/Chairman, Proshare Nigeria Limited, Mr. Olufemi Awoyemi during CRC Finance and Credit Conference 2024 with the theme: ‘Sustainable Financing Options: innovations in Credit Risk Management’, held in Lagos… recently

Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Fayoade Adegoke (right), presenting a Police Plaque to the new Lagos State Sector Commander of Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Patrick Davou (left), during a courtesy visit to Adegoke in Lagos… recently

L-R: Honorary Secretary, Association of Professional Women Bankers, Abiola Bolarinwa; acting Managing Director FBNQuest Merchant Bank, Afolabi Olorode; Chairperson, Association of Professional Women Bankers, Funke Feyisitan Ladimeji; and Chief Financial Officer, FBNQuest Merchant Bank, Olamide Adeosun, during the courtesy visit to FBNQuest Merchant Bank by the Women Bankers in Lagos… recently

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Heckerbella Limited, Nigeria, Yemi Keri; Chief Executive Officer, Xpress Payment Solutions Limited, Dr. Markie Idowu; Economic Inclusion and Gender Equity Advocate, Lehle Balde Cameron; Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, 9 Payment Service Bank (9PSB), Branka Mracajac; Chief Executive Officer, Shared Agent Network Expansion Facilities Limited (SANEF), Nigeria, Ronke Kuye; and Chief Executive Officer, Hydrogen Nigeria, Kemi Okunsanya, during the panel session on ‘Women in Fintech’ at the 2024 Digital Pay Expo in Lagos… recently

The wedding ceremony of the son of the Assistant Photo Editor, Vanguard Newspaper, Chief Olu Ajayi, Mr. and Mrs. Emmanuel Kayode Ajayi (middle) with the Premier Symphony Orchestra (PSO) at the Christ Life Church in Ibadan, Oyo State… recently

L-R: Deputy Managing Director, Coronation Merchant Bank, Mr. Paul Abiagam; Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Coronation Group, Mrs. Ngozi Akinyele; and Managing Director/ CEO, Coronation Asset Management, Mr. Aigbovbioise Aig-Imoukuede, at the launch of ‘Trees for Tomorrow’ Initiative in celebration of World Environment Day in Lagos… recently

Oil Output: FG Pledges Conducive Environment, Mobil Says No Plan to Leaving Nigeria

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has reaffirmed the federal government's commitment to enhancing production and fostering a conducive environment for investors in the energy sector.

The minister made the remarks during a meeting with ExxonMobiI's Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Shane Harris, and his team in Abuja, according to a statement yesterday by his Special Adviser on Communications, Nneamaka Okafor.

Lokpobiri highlighted the min-

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, said though steps taken to combat Nigeria’s security challenges had been mapped out before he took up the presidency, achieving security and peace required that historical injustices that had torn communities apart were first fully addressed.

Tinubu spoke in Katsina when he declared open the North West Peace and Security Summit, with the theme, "Regional Cooperation for Securing Lives and Livelihoods in North West Nigeria."

The president assured that his administration would not rest until banditry, terrorism, and other forms of insecurity were completely eliminated from the country.

He said the country had already begun to witness a turning point in security, as the strategies adopted by the security forces, including rules of engagement employed, were beginning to yield result.

Relatedly, the Nigerian Army, yesterday, said the multifaceted security challenges confronting the country were local in nature and required local solutions to effectively bring them to an end.

The North West Peace and Security Summit, organised by the North West Governors' Forum, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), was held at Government House, Katsina.

Tinubu, who was represented at the two-day event by Vice President Kashim Shettima, declared, "What we are witnessing across the North is an explosion of these damaged relationships, and we have come to say, enough is enough.

“Our first decision was to task our brothers from the North-west and the North-east with the defence

istry's strategic focus on creating robust collaborations and sharing innovative ideas with International Oil Companies (IOCs) to strengthen the country’s oil sector.

"We are dedicated to ramping up production and ensuring a supportive environment for all investors by doing everything possible to maintain investor confidence in our country," Lokpobiri stated.

The minister commended ExxonMobiI for its commitment to the sector in the country, especially its planned investments, noting that it aligns perfectly with the nation's objectives.

and security of the region. Who else can better understand the complexity of the crisis of a region than the people themselves?

“This has been a turning point, and I am proud to share that the strategies we have employed have begun to provide redemption. We are not slowing down until we achieve our aim."

Tinubu described the summit as a communal gathering to address "the afflictions that have threatened the stability and unity" of the North.

According to him, "Beyond the economic rationale that drove the amalgamation of the Northern and Southern parts of Nigeria, the formation of our great nation was inspired by the need for mutual protection. But, I ask, how can we achieve this sacred objective if one part is afflicted?

"We have long established that whatever ails any part of this federation destabilises the other. So, the issue of national security in the North-west is not a sectional agenda. We promised to make Nigeria safer, and this aim has been our topmost priority since we came to office over a year ago."

Stating that the bold steps taken to combat the security challenges his administration inherited were mapped out even before embarking on the journey, Tinubu observed that achieving security and peace would require that the historical injustices that had torn communities in Nigeria apart were fully addressed.

He said, "We must also reverse the institutional frailties governing security and the economic dysfunctions that create vulnerabilities to crime. We must also counter the ideological mischief that has pervaded the discourse of peace and security in the region."

The president stated that the peace and security summit became neces-

"ExxonMobiI's planned investments are commendable and greatly appreciated. This renewed relationship is a testament to the mutual goals we share for the future of our energy sector," he said.

Lokpobiri hinted at the ministry's support for both international and indigenous oil operators, assuring the company’s chief executive of the government's support.

He highlighted the importance of creating a thriving environment for all stakeholders, which he hoped would result in further growth of hydrocarbons production in Nigeria.

"We fully support ExxonMobil

sary to proffer solutions to insecurity and ensure a region, "Where every trade is safe, where every group is at peace, and where the policing and military presence of the state is optimal."

In order to come up with pragmatic solutions to the security challenges in the North-west, Tinubu said his administration adopted kinetic and non-kinetic interventions designed to build the perimeters of the country's security infrastructure.

He mentioned the Pulaku resettlement initiative as one of the non-kinetic interventions rolled out by the administration. He said it was a timely solution to address some of the root causes of disputes and insecurity in the North-west.

According to him, "Our choice of Sokoto, Kebbi, Benue, Katsina, Zamfara, Niger, and Kaduna states for the pilot phase is strategically planned to create positive, nationwide transformations.

“The comprehensive plan includes building residences, roads, schools, and essential facilities, fulfilling our pledge to the nation.

"This effort symbolises our commitment to sustainable development and a unified, peaceful, and prosperous Nigeria, transforming our diversity into strength. Today, I believe we are going to continue comparing our ideas and thoughts to not only review our strategies and improve upon them, to make the states in the North-west stable and peaceful parts of the nation, but to assure ourselves that we cannot achieve the triumph we desire without any part of the nation being secure."

Addressing the topic, "Securing Stability: Uniting for Peace in North-west Nigeria," Shettima, in a release by his media assistant, Stanley Nkwocha, explained why Northern Nigeria was always considered globally as one unified people, saying the

S A n I : ATI ku' S V ISITS To Bu HA r I , IBB, A BD ul SA l

of n orTH ern PloT for 2027

After Atiku's visits, former Kaduna State governor, Mallam El Rufai, also visited Buhari. Though the outcome of the meeting remained a subject of speculation.

Sani, on his X account, stated that the series of visits by Atiku had political undertones, as it was the commencement of a plot to remove Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

Sani, who represented Kaduna Central in the eighth senate, stated, “The recent visits by some prominent northern politicians to Daura appears to be the usual Eid homage, but looking deeper and beyond the facade, it’s surreptitiously a new attempt to build a strong northern alliance using ex-President Buhari as a rallying point to challenge and evict President Tinubu’s government in 2027.

"It’s a regrouping of northern political forces for the next general election. A project that will eventually kiss the dust.

“Buhari’s reign ensured nepotistical placement, installation and dominance of northerners at strategic positions of authority and power for eight years. Results have shown that they only enriched themselves, pillaged the economy of the country, and pauperised our country.

“The Daura homage of the disgruntled and the obsessed will

fail. Our people in the North should reject these faces and their plots. They have nothing to offer. From the abandoned Baro Port, Ajaokuta, Lake Chad basin refiling and Mambilla hydropower, they failed.

“They came to power when the North was in the hands of terrorists and left it in the joint hands of terrorists and bandits. The Northern Talakawa should reject their antics.”

However, Atiku’s media aide, Paul Ibeh, had said in a statement, "On Saturday, 22 June, former Vice President of Nigeria and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2023 presidential election, Atiku Abubakar, led other stakeholders of the party to the Daura residence of former late governor of old Kaduna State, Alhaji Lawan Kaita, on a condolence visit over the loss of the matriarch of the family."

He said the former vice president, who was warmly received across major townships of the Daura Emirate, also paid courtesy visits to the Emir of Daura, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Farouk Umar Farouk, and Buhari. Atiku also visited the Emir of Katsina, His Royal Highness Abdulmumini Kabir Usman.

The statement said the visit was meant for Atiku to express his love

and other IOCs, just as we do with independent operators. Our collaborative efforts are key to the sustainable growth of our energy sector," he added.

Besides, the minister stressed the importance of continued dialogue and partnership between the government and IOCs to drive innovation and growth in the sector.

Speaking during the meeting, the ExxonMobil boss, Harris, hinted at significant new investments that the company is injecting into Nigeria's energy sector, expressing confidence in the renewed relationship between ExxonMobiI and the Nigerian

region's unity is firmly "rooted in a culture and bond of shared interests and common pursuits".

Earlier, the Katsina State Governor Umaru Radda lamented that banditry in the state and other parts of the North-west, including Niger State, had cast shadows on most of the communities, crippling social economic activities in the areas.

Radda, who is Chairman of the North West Governors' Forum, stated that the forum would not allow the menace of banditry to defile the region.

He said, "As leaders, we must adopt a multifaceted approach that includes robust intelligence gathering, community policing and deploying advanced security technology.

“Furthermore, to enhance the capacity of our national security forces, we will continue to improve it and provide adequate resources. To effectively combat banditry, we need to strengthen intelligence gathering networks.

“This means improving our surveillance system, investing in modern technology, such as drones and satellite imagery, and enhancing coordination among our security agencies. We must establish the most efficient communication to ensure timely response to threats."

Radda thanked Tinubu for the efforts in tackling banditry in the North-west and other parts of the country, and also saluted the efforts of the security agencies.

Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, said the Armed Forces of Nigeria, under the current administration, were committed to ending armed conflicts in the country.

Badaru stressed the need for synergy between security agencies and governors, adding that the government is open for collaboration. He said in the days ahead, the federal government would meet with the governors to deliberate on the

for Katsina State, in particular, and to familiarise with distinguished personalities of the Daura Emirate.

The statement added that Atiku’s visit to Katsina State was “essentially a continuation of his courtesy visits since the end of Sallah celebrations and, especially to condole with the family of his late old friend, Mallam Lawan Kaita”.

Atiku had in the last 20 years attempted, albeit unsuccessfully, to become Nigeria’s president.

He contested against Chief MKO Abiola in the famous June 12, 1993 presidential primaries, where Abiola and Alhaji Babagana Kingbe emerged as candidates of the then Social Democratic Party (SDP).

In 2003, Atiku contested on the platform of Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). Later in 2011, he contested the PDP presidential primaries against President Goodluck Jonathan and in 2015 he contested against Buhari at the general election and lost.

In 2019 and 2023, he was the PDP presidential candidate and lost the main the main election.

According to Sani, the prominent northerners want to resurrect the Buhari political charms, and fanaticism to mobilise the gullible to another hollow and bewildering end.

Sani, in the post, stated that the plot would fail.

government.

The ExxonMobil chief executive assured that the oil giant was not planning to leave Nigerias, stressing that the company was planning further investments in the country.

"We are excited about the prospects these new investments bring," the statement quoted Harris as saying.

"Our partnership with the Nigerian government is crucial for sustainable growth, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration as we have no plan to leave," Harris added.

A number of the IOCs in the country, including Shell, Agip, TotalEnergies and ExxonMobil,

outcome of the summit.

On his part, the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar III, said the traditional institutions were always willing to cooperate with the federal and state governors to tackle the security challenges.

The royal father called on the citizens and communities to join hands with the government and security agencies in to combate insecurity in the country.

Germany’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Annett Günther, who was represented at the security summit, congratulated the federal and state governments for organising the conference.

Günther assured of the German government’s support for Nigeria in the fight against insecurity, just as she emphasised the need to reactivate traditional solutions to the conflict in the North-west.

UNDP Country Representative in Nigeria, Elsie Attafuah, called for investment in the youth with a view to channelling their potential towards profitable ventures. Attafuah emphasised the importance of regional cooperation.

The summit was also attended by the immediate past President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, as well as Governors Umar Namadi of Jigawa State, Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State, and Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, and deputy governors of Kaduna, Kebbi and Kano states.

Federal lawmakers from the region were also in attendance.

Army Seeks Local Solutions to end Terrorism, Insurgency

The Nigerian Army said the multidimensional security challenges confronting Nigeria were local in nature and, therefore, required local solutions. Director-General, Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Maj. Gen.

outlook rating followed the recent announcement of the World Bank’s $2.25 billion financing package for Nigeria, reflecting the positive trajectory of the current administration’s economic reforms.

Speaking at a meeting, yesterday, with the Group Chief Executive of Standard Chartered Bank, Mr. Bill Winters, at the State House, Abuja, the president called for a just energy transition that supports vulnerable communities across the nation.

He also highlighted the importance of balancing the mutually beneficial shift to green industrial growth and energy with the immediate energy needs of Nigerians.

According to a statement by his Media Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu said, ''We value your cooperation, friendship, and partnership. Substantially, we have oil and gas as our primary source of revenue today.

“As friends, we do not expect you to run away from investments in this sector. We face the future prospect while prudently maximising the present.

''Green industry and energy, yes. We will surely catch up with that. To run a marathon, you need energy today. Nigeria holds the largest reserves of gas in Africa.

“We know we can make best use of great opportunities that exist in

have

Garba Wahab (rtd), said this in Abuja, at the opening of a roundtable on asymmetric security challenges in Nigeria.

The discussion had the theme, “Asymmetrical National Security Challenges, the Army and National Development.” Wahab said citizens, and not foreigners, would evolve strategies and practical solutions to end the security threats plaguing the country.

He stated, "Anywhere in the world where there is a crisis, the problem is often internally created. So, the solutions would also start by resolving the factors that triggered the problems. Nobody would come from outside to solve our problem for us.

“Our culture, tradition and way of life differs, and we must put all these things into consideration. The security agencies are Nigerian owned and that is the essence of this discussion, for us to believe in our security agencies to enable them perform, so that we can solve our problems ourselves."

Declaring the event open, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, said the Nigerian Army and other services were working hard to guarantee peace and security that Nigerians yearned for.

Lagbaja appealed to Nigerians to continue to support the Nigerian Army with intelligence and information that would grant advantage to the troops in order for them to be effective in combating the enemies of the state.

He stated that the army would work in line with the constitutional provisions to combat all enemies of the state and bring about the much-desired peace and stability across the country. The army chief said asymmetric threats connoted different meanings to different people and that was why

the sector. We do not want you to back away from fossil fuels.

''I have seen retractions and retreat positions by some players in the industry. But for any energy transition to succeed, people must live and live well.

''We must be able to meet our obligations to the vulnerable communities. We are committed to being prudent with our natural resources to bring prosperity to our deserving people.

''As we hold the largest reserves in gas on the continent, we do not want to go backward, we want to move forward, and we welcome deepened partnership with your institution.''

Tinubu, also spoke about some of the strategic projects across different sectors embarked upon by his administration to stimulate economic growth.

He reiterated his commitment to sustaining ongoing economic reforms and measures to stabilise the economy.

Earlier, the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, described Standard Chartered Bank as a valued partner to Nigeria, providing finance for infrastructure, advice on ratings, and the prudent management of Nigeria’s Eurobond. He disclosed that the bank has

indicated interest to finance key infrastructure projects in Nigeria, including the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway, Port Harcourt-Maiduguri rail line rehabilitation, as well as the provision of $3 billion in innovative financing for the NLNG dividend initiative.

''They are also one of our lead managers for Eurobond issuance, and they advise us on our ratings. I am pleased to note that Moody’s has just completed our rating review and maintained Nigeria’s rating as a positive outlook, which is very encouraging,'' the Minister said. Edun also said Moody’s positive outlook rating followed the recent announcement of the World Bank’s $2.25 billion financing package for Nigeria, reflecting the positive trajectory of the current administration’s economic reforms. In his remarks, Winters lauded Tinubu’s bold economic reforms, noting the international investment community's recognition and support.

''We see ourselves as ambassadors to Nigeria in the international investment community, and we take our advisory role very seriously.

“We will continue to offer objective advice to the country because we have commitments in the country backed by our strong belief in what this administration is doing,'' he said.

Deji Elumoye and Ikechukwu Aleke in Abuja

recently moved to exit their onshore and shallow water operations for Nigeria’s deepwater oil and gas assets.

Senator Heineken Lokpobiri

Continued on page 51

ARCON PRESS CONFERENCE...

L-R: Member Advertising Industry Colloquium (AIC), Buchi Johnson; President EXMAN, Tolulope Medebem; Director General, Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Olalekan Fadolapo; Chairman Advertising Industry Colloquium (AIC), Prof. Rotimi Olatunji; Chairman, Sub-Committee (AIC),Wole Odubanjo; representative of OAAN President, Nwagwu Churchil; and Director, Panning, Research and Strategy, Susan Agbo, at a press conference held by (ARCON) in Lagos... at the weekend

FG Declares Health Emergency Over Cholera Outbreak

53 deaths recorded in 31 states Ogun records 25 suspected cases, one death

The federal government, yesterday, activated the National Cholera MultiSectoral Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) following the threat of cholera epidemic in the country.

Director General of Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Dr. Jide Idris, made the revelations while addressing journalists in Abuja.

The revelations came as Ogun State, yesterday, confirmed nine out of 25

The government said as of June 24, 1, 528 suspected cases and 53 deaths had been recorded across 31 states and 107 local government areas. It put the fatality rate at 3.5 per cent since the beginning of the year.

suspected cases of cholera infection, with one death recorded as at June 24. The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, disclosed this at a press conference in Abeokuta. Coker said efforts were in top gear to establish the actual status of the 16 cases still under close monitoring.

Addressing journalists in Abuja, Idris said the country faced another public health emergency after coming out of Lassa fever and Meningitis outbreaks.

As part of interventions to arrest a cholera epidemic, Idris said NCDC was embarking on a coordinated approach with the states to identify

NCDC said the outcome of a risk assessment by the centre placed Nigeria at “High Risk” of cholera transmission and impact.

Alleged N338.8m Laundering: Court Acquits Ex-Lagos Speaker Ikuforiji, Aide

Says EFCC failed to prove case beyond reasonable doubt

Wale Igbintade

After 12 years of protracted trial, a Federal High Court in Lagos, yesterday, discharged and acquitted a former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Adeyemi Ikuforiji, alongside his former personal assistant Oyebode Atoyebi over alleged N338.8 million money laundering charges filed against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In his judgement, Justice Muhammad Lima, held that the prosecution (EFCC) failed to prove its case against the defendants beyond reasonable doubt.

The judge held that Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2004, and 2011 (As Amended) require clear evidence of intent, and actual act of money laundering.

Justice Lima stated that in the absence of incontrovertible evidence, the benefit of the doubt must be given to the accused going by the principle of fair hearing and natural

justice.

The judge further held that money laundering must be accompanied by an underlined act, adding that, "It is practically impossible to prove a case of money laundering without an underlined offence.

He said: "The prosecution has failed to establish any underlying criminal case against the accused. So, in the absence of any underlying criminal case, and the inability of the prosecution to prove charges of money laundering, the accused persons are discharged and acquitted. That is the judgement of the court.

Mr. Ikuforiji was charged alongside Oyebode Atoyebi, his former personal assistant.

The defendants were first arraigned on March 1, 2012, before Justice Okechukwu Okeke on a 20-count charge bordering on misappropriation and money laundering. They had each pleaded not guilty to the charges and were granted bail.

The defendants were, however, subsequently re-arraigned before

Justice Ibrahim Buba, following a re-assignment of the case.

On September 26, 2014, Justice Buba discharged Mr. Ikuforiji and his aide of the charges, after upholding a no-case submission of the defendants.

Justice Buba had held that the EFCC failed to establish a prima-facie case against them.

Dissatisfied with the ruling, the EFCC through its counsel, Godwin Obla, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, filed the Notice of Appeal dated September 30, 2014, challenging the decision of the trial court.

Obla had argued that the trial court erred in law when it held that the counts were incompetent because they were filed under Section 1(a) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2004 which was repealed by an Act of 2011.

EFCC further argued that the lower court erred in law when it held that the provisions of Section 1 of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2004 and 2011, only applied to natural persons and corporate

bodies other than the government.

The commission had also submitted that the trial judge erred in law when he held and concluded that the testimonies of the prosecution witnesses supported the innocence of the respondents.

In its judgement, the Lagos Division of the Appeal Court, in November 2016, agreed with the prosecution and ordered a fresh trial of the defendants before another judge.

Following the decision of the Appeal Court, the defendants headed to the Supreme Court, seeking to overturn the ruling of the Appellate court.

Again, in its verdict, the apex court also upheld the decision of the appellate court and ordered that the case be sent back to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court for reassignment to another judge.

and deal with the disease spread in the affected areas.

He said NCDC will be reaching out to other stakeholders, including state governors, to try to find a lasting solution to the causative factors behind the cholera outbreak in the country.

Idris stated, "In response to the rapidly increasing cholera cases, a dynamic risk assessment was conducted by subject matter experts on cholera outbreak situation in Nigeria last week.

"The subject matter experts were drawn from relevant ministries (Health, Environment, Agriculture, Water Resources, etc.), departments, agencies, stakeholders, and major partners. The outcome of the risk assessment placed the country at ‘High Risk’ of increased risk of cholera transmission and impact. This demands our immediate and coordinated actions and, therefore, necessitated the activation of the National Cholera Multi-Sectoral Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) in Nigeria today."

Cholera, a highly contagious food and waterborne disease, has recently erupted in several states across our country. It is caused by the ingestion of the organism, Vibrio Cholerae, in contaminated water and food.

While providing an update on the cholera epidemiological situation in Nigeria and ongoing prevention and response efforts at the national and subnational levels, the NCDC director-general said, “The decision to activate the Cholera EOC underscores the gravity of the situation and our unwavering commitment to protect the health and well-being of every Nigerian.”

He said the fatalities were not just statistics but significant loss of loved family members, and often seasoned healthcare workers and team members. He said the situation

might be compounded as the rainy season intensified.

Idris said the EOC will serve as the nerve centre for the coordination of response across the country.

He said the emergency centre will also support affected states, facilitate rapid communication, data analysis, and decision-making processes, mobilise resources, expertise, and support from across the NCDC, partners, and stakeholders at all levels of government.

Idris said the centre will ensure efficient deployment of needed resources, strengthen surveillance and diagnostic capacity and capabilities, enhance case management, training and intensify public awareness and community engagement activities.

Idris further said an incident manager had been appointed, who "will coordinate the day-to-day activities involving several pillars, such as surveillance (data collection, analysis and dissemination), case management, oral cholera vaccine issues, coordination, Infection Prevention and Control (IPC), Logistics support, and Research."

Prior to the activation of EOC, the NCDC, through the National Cholera Technical Working Group had carried out various prevention and response efforts including; repositioning and distribution of medical supplies for case management, infection prevention, and control, laboratory diagnosis, etc. to all 36 plus one states. It also undertook provisioning of offsite/onsite support to states (e.g. Lagos and Ogun) and follow up for daily reporting and progress with response activities. Meanwhile, Coker disclosed measures being taken by the Ogun State government to curtail the spread of the disease, at the press conference she addressed alongside the Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya.

Alleged Certificate Forgery: CSO Faults Membership Composition of Abia Security Fund Committee

Over 300 beneficiaries of Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) interventions drawn from Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo ethnic nationalities have lauded the activities of the private maritime security firm for mitigating climate change and economic hardship across Niger Delta communities.

The beneficiaries of PINL, at the end of an enlarged conference held in Warri, Delta State, gave the commendation after detailing the company’s onslaught against oil theft by youths of Ijaw extraction and community stakeholders in Bayelsa State.

Speaking on behalf of beneficiary communities of PINL, in Warri yesterday, an activist, Rex Anighoro, noted that the company, through its robust Corporate Social Responsibil-

ity (CSR) programmes, have been helping to mitigate the adverse impact of economic hardship in theHiscountry.words: “We recommend and recognize PINL for their exemplary commitment to civic engagement, citizens empowerment, community and sustainable development in our communities, in the broader Niger Delta and beyond.

“Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, has set an unimaginable precedent in engaging with stakeholders from the communities in the Niger Delta and beyond, empowering our young people and giving so much joy and smiles to those who have been bitten hard by the harsh economic communities.

“Their efforts in supporting bills of peace initiatives and fostering a sense of responsibility among our youths, are commendable. Unlike any other

company already in the Niger Delta providing pipeline services, PINL has consistently demonstrated an understanding of the critical role of stakeholders, civic actors and the communities, in achieving lasting peace and development.”

In the same vein, youths of Ijaw extraction and community stakeholders in Bayelsa State acknowledged that PINL constantly employs state-of-the-art monitoring systems; installing sensors, cameras and other technologies to detect pipeline breaches, enabling swift responses and minimizing damage.

Mr. Doumo Joseph Omubo-Dede, who spoke on behalf of the Ijaw Youths and community stakeholders, disclosed that PINL prioritizes regular maintenance, to identify and address potential pipeline vulnerabilities, thereby reducing the risk of leaks and rupture.

The Abia State Security Trust Fund committee inaugurated over a month ago has run into a storm as a civil society group, Centre for Reform and Public Advocacy (CRFA) has faulted its composition.

In a letter to Governor Alex Otti of Abia State signed by the community relations officer, Mba Edu Emeri, CRFA said that the inclusion of an Aba businessman allegedly involved in certificate forgery has blighted the integrity of the committee.

The letter dated June 5, 2024 and received by the governor’s office on June 19, the group alleged that Owelle Greg Okafor was involved in certificate forgery scandal in the Abia State Polytechnic, Aba in 2021.

The group alluded that the governor might have inadvertently

included Okafor in the highly sensitive committee without proper background check hence the need to reconsider his membership.

It, therefore, urged Governor Otti to remove the unfit member of the committee without delay for being a beneficiary of the certificate forgery syndicate in the state polytechnic.

CRFA asserted that documents it obtained from Abiapoly showed "manifest evidence of certificate forgery" of National Diploma Certificate purportedly issued to Okafor by Abiapoly in November 2021.

Tracing the genesis of the alleged certificate forgery, CRFA noted that Okafor was admitted in Abiapoly during the 2018/2019 "for a course that should run for at least 2 years and 4 months or 3 years as the case may be, inclusive of the Industrial Training (IT) period".

It stated that with the Covid-19 which interrupted academic activities,

Okafor could not have fulfilled all the requirements to have graduated in August 2020 as indicated in his statement of result.

It argued that following the Covid 19 total lockdown which halted academic activities worldwide "there was no evidence of the Abia state polytechnic, Aba, teaching their students virtually or taking exams online".

CRFA stated: "Thus, the statement of result issued by the Abia State Polytechnic, Aba, has August 2020 as effective date of graduation. The outbreak of Covid 19 pandemic brought academic programmes to a stand-still, worldwide.

"Nigeria experienced a total lockdown from March 2020 till around October 2020. It is thus, not possible that Owelle Greg Okafor graduated and fulfilled all the requirements within the Covid-19 total lockdown.”

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja and James Sowole in Abeokuta

Continues online

29th AnnuAl GEnErAl MEEtinG of CuStoDiAn

Tinubu, Buhari, Zulum Mourn as Shettima’s Mother-in-Law is Laid to Rest in Kano

Deji Elumoye in Abuja and Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

Vice President Kashim Shettima has lost his mother-in-law, Hajiya Maryam Albishir, who passed away in Kano on Sunday evening after a prolonged illness.

According to a release issued yesterday by the Media Assistant to the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Albishir, 69, the mother of the vice president's wife, Hajiya Nana Shettima, was laid to rest on Monday afternoon in Kano, in accordance with Islamic traditions.

The late woman, the statement said, was known as an exemplary and kind-hearted mother in her community and also a devout Muslim.

She was respected for her wisdom, compassion, and dedication to charitable causes, the statement said, adding that many remember her as a source of guidance and support, both within her family and in the wider community in Kano.

Nkwocha said the solemn event drew a large gathering of family members, friends and associates paying their final respects.

Among them, the statement said, were the Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf; acting Governor of Borno State, Umar Kadafur; Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari and Minister of State for Steel Development, Uba Ahmadu.

National Assembly members, former Borno State Governor, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, along with several former deputy governors of Borno State, were also in attendance at the funeral.

Her death, the statement said, was undoubtedly a great personal loss for the family of Nigeria's vice president.

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu

has commiserated with the vice president and his family over the passing of his mother-in-law, Albishir Tinubu, in a release issued yesterday by his Media Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, described her passing as a deeply painful loss.

The president not only mourned the deceased but also celebrated her legacies of philanthropy and good virtues.

While praying for the repose of the soul of the deceased, Tinubu urged the family to take solace in the remarkable life the departed matriarch lived.

Also yesterday, former President Muhammadu Buhari used the opportunity of his meeting with the vice president in Katsina to express his deepest sympathies.

Buhari, according to a release by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, said the death of Hajiya Maryam was extremely sad, adding that his thoughts and prayers were with the vice president and his family at this challenging time. He prayed to Allah to grant the deceased eternal rest.

Also, the Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Zulum, expressed shock over the death of the motherin-law of the vice president, Shettima.

In a statement released by his Senior Special Assistant on New Media, Abdurrahman Bundi, Zulum, who is currently attending a UN-sponsored retreat in Pakistan, described the death of Hajiya Maryam as a loss to the entire nation and particularly to the people of Borno State.

“Verily, we belong to Allah and to Him we shall return. We, the people and government of Borno State, have joined the family of the vice president in mourning the passing away of our mother, Hajiya Maryam.

“Hajiya Maryam Abubakar has left a legacy of compassion, humanity and philanthropy. She will be

remembered for her service to the community and the less privileged during her lifetime.

“I also wish to extend my commiseration to Her Excellency, Nana Kashim Shettima, as she goes through this difficult time while urging her to take solace in Almighty Allah,” Zulum said.

The governor also shared his condolences with the deceased daughter and other family members who are grieving the loss of a dedicated mother.

Besides, hundreds of mourners attended the burial ceremony of the mothers-inlaw of the Vice

President Sen. Kashim Shattima, and the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Abdullahi Ganduje in Kano.

Similarly, Hajiya Asiya Gauyama, the mother of Ganduje’s wife, Hafsat Ganduje died yesterday morning and was buried at the Tarauni cemetery in the city.

The funeral prayer for Gauyama was led by Sheik Auwalu Khalid, the Imam of Ganduje residence mosque at Miyangu road in Kano.

In a press statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the National APC Chairman Edwin Olofu, he announced the demise

of the immediate past governor’s mother-inlaw.

“Hajiya Gauyama, the beloved mother of Professor Hafsatu Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the wife of the National Chairman, died in the early hours of Monday.

“It is with deep sorrow and heartfelt sympathy that we announce the passing of Hajiya Asiya Muhammad Gauyama, the beloved mother of Professor Hafsatu Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the wife of the National Chairman of the APC, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

“Hajiya Asiya Muhammad Gauyama was a revered matriarch,

whose life was characterised by her unwavering commitment to her family, community and faith.

“Her passing is a profound loss, not only to her immediate family but also to all who knew and loved her.

On behalf of the National Chairman of the APC, Dr Ganduje and the entire APC family, we extend our deepest sympathies to Professor Hafsatu Ganduje and her family during this difficult time,” it said. Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin and Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila were those who attended the burial of the former governor’s mother-in-law.

Procurement Fraud: Witness Admits Not Interviewing Emefiele’s Wife on Ownership of

Says

award of contracts followed due process

Alex Enumah in Abuja

Mr. Michael Agboro, a prosecution witness in the trial of former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele, yesterday, admitted before a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), that he did not interact or interview Emefiele’s wife over the ownership of a firm, Archtekon Nigeria Limited, allegedly linked to her.

The witness who also could not confirm if any member of his team which investigated Emefiele on alleged procurement fraud did interview Emefiele’s wife, admitted that his evidence was based on documents obtained from the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) regarding Archtekon Nigeria Limited.

Agboro, who is the seventh

Prosecution Witness (PW7) of the federal government stated this while answering questions from Emefiele’s lawyer, Mr. Mathew Burkaa, who is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).

Emefiele is standing trial on an alleged 20-count amended charge, preferred against him by the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF).

He was alleged to have engaged in criminal breach of trust, forgery, conspiracy to obtain by false pretense and obtaining money by false pretense, when he served as the apex bank's boss.

Among the allegations was that the former CBN boss forged a document titled: ‘Re: Presidential Directive on Foreign Election Observer Missions,’ dated January 26, 2023, with Ref No. SGF.43/L.01/201 and purported same

Police in Edo Parade over 45 Suspected Cultists, Others

The Edo state police command has arrested and paraded over 45 suspects for involvement in various crimes in the state.

Parading the suspects, the State Commissioner of Police, Funsho Adeboye, said the suspects were arrested over alleged kidnapping, cultism, armed robbery, and illegal possession of firearms, among others.

The Commissioner of Police described the rate of cult-related killings in the State as worrisome.

He stated that the police would not fold its hand and allow criminals hold the state to ransom, adding that the police command has the

backing of the state government in its drive to rid the state of criminals.

On the murder of a female final student of the University of Benin, he said, “I want to assure members of the public that the perpetrators can only run for a short period. They cannot escape.

“We are on their trail; we are getting very close to them. We have been given the matching order by the Inspector General of Police that the perpetrators must be apprehended and brought to book to face the music.

“I want to expatiate on this sad event and note that this is why the governor and his executives decided

to change the law of cultism in this state. The decision is laudable. It has been assisting us. Before, we usually had it difficult to prosecute because there was no enabling law.”

He further stated that investigations so far have revealed that gangsters associated with cultism are criminals, describing it as ungodly and provoking.

He added: “I want to assure the relatives that the matching order given by the Inspector General of Police will be carried out. The governor has equally charged us. I want to assure the public that before the expiration of this ultimatum, the faces of the perpetrators will

be made public.

“We thank God for this harvest. We are harvesting criminals, exhibits, and arms. With your collaboration, especially members of the press, we know we are going to arrest more.”

The police commissioner appealed to all stakeholders to continue to give useful information to enable the police to fight crimes and criminality in the State.

He listed the items recovered from the suspects to include several locally made single barrels, pump action guns, cut-to-size pistols, cartridges, and different types of phones, among others.

to have emanated from the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).

Besides he was also accused of using his office as CBN governor to confer unfair and corrupt advantage on two companies: April 1616 Nigeria Ltd and Architekon Nigeria Ltd.

At yesterday's proceedings, Burkaa continued with the cross examination of the witness, who said he could not recall if Emefiele during investigation repeated that his wife did not sign the CAC documents relating to Archtekon.

According to him, he did not invite or interview Mrs. Emefiele in respect of the CAC, adding that he was not “100 percent sure” if any of his team members did.

“Have you seen any report where it was said that the team invited or interviewed her?,” the witness was asked and his response was “No.”

Furthermore, he was asked: “So the evidence that the defendant awarded contract to his wife was based on CAC documents that have her name without having any interaction or interview with her? And he responded: “Yes.”

When asked if documents relating to the award of contracts to April1616 and Archtekon that he tendered before the court showed that the contracts were awarded to the firms with the less bid, he pointed out that “it was a legal requirement.”

Also, when confronted with documents that showed the transactions between the CBN and the two firms, the witness acknowledged that the award of contracts to the two companies in question went through due process.

He also confirmed that the bids by

April 1616 and Archtekon were the least in the various contracts awarded to them respectively.

As regards the contract awarded to Achitekon Nigeria Limited, the witness was also asked if he saw requests for payment by the company after the work had been done. Mr Agboro confirmed, YES. He was also asked if he saw letters from CBN to ARCHITEKON limited awarding the contracts to the company, the witness confirmed YES. He was asked if he saw letters from CBN officials to the tenders board confirming that the job be awarded to ARCHITEKON limited because they were the lowest bidder , he confirmed , YES.

When asked if Emefiele alone could award contracts all on his own, Agboro submitted that the contracts were approved by the defendant.

When asked if the defendant was a member of the Tender Board or procurement department, he said he did not know.

Answering if there was no difference between CBN and Emefiele, he said the difference was that the defendant was an employee of the CBN. Meanwhile, the court turned down the objection of the federal government to the admissibility of document sought to be tendered by Emefiele relating to allegations bordering on forgery.

The document dated January 29, 2024, was a Certified True Copy (CTC) of a Forensic Report from the office of the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, to a legal firm, Nnenna Ozogwu and Co.

Cross examination of the PW 7 continues Tuesday, June 25.

L-R: Director, Mrs Mimi Ade-Odiachi; Group Managing Director Mr Wole Oshin; Chairman, Dr Omobola Johnson; Company Secretary, Mr Adeyinka Jafojo and Executive Director, Adeniyi Falade at the 29th Annual General Meeting of Custodian Investment Plc in Lagos... on Friday.

HealtHier aging ConferenCe 2024...

L-R Senator Dr Bode Olajumoke; Ogun State First Lady, Bamidele Abiodun; Founder Medical Director JBS Medical Services, Dr. Olutoyin Akande-Ajala; Representative of the Minister of State for Health/Chief Medical Director, Federal Medical Center Ebute Meta, Dr. Damola Dada and Chairman, Odu'a lnvestment Group/ Trustee JBS Elderly Care Foundation Africa , Otunba Bimbo Ashiru at the Healthier Aging Conference 2024 in Lagos ...recently

Police Deploy More Men to Emir's Palace, Dislodge Hunters, Thugs Guarding Sanusi

Court fixes July 2 for hearing

ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

Armed security operatives have dislodged hunters and thugs protecting the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, in compliance with the directives of Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf.

That was as the Kano State High Court fixed July 2 for the hearing of all pending applications in the ongoing case instituted by the state government, the House of Assembly, and its Speaker in the Emirate crisis.

In the early hours of Sunday, all non-state actors loitering in and outside the palace were dispersed by armed police officers from the Anti Daba department of the Kano State Police Command.

The command had deployed more armed security personnel

to provide security at the Emir Sanusi’s Palace as well as the Nasarawa Palace, where the 15th Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, resided. Yusuf had earlier ordered security agencies in the state to promptly bring an end to thuggery and youth clashes bedevilling the state.

The governor, who frowned on the recent upsurge in thuggery and clashes involving Yan Daba, said the government will not passively observe while unscrupulous elements endangered the relative tranquillity and harmony enjoyed by law-abiding citizens of the state.

Barely 24 hours after the governor's directive, the police swung into action by raiding and dislodging all hunters and thugs deployed to protect the Emir against any move to remove him

from the palace.

In an interview with journalists, the outgoing Commissioner of Police, AIG Usaini Gumel, said the deployment of the additional officers aimed at preventing security threats at the two palaces.

Gumel added that the command had reinforced its personnel to ensure adequate security and peaceful coexistence of residents following a recent upsurge in thuggery activities in the state.

He stated, “We deployed more personnel to provide security at the Kofar Kudu Palace, the residence of Emir Mallam Muhammadu Sanusi 11, and the Nasarawa Mimi Palace, the residence of Emir Aminu Bayero.”

The commissioner stated that the police command was committed to providing the required security that

would enable all residents to pursue their legitimate activities without threats to lives and property.

Gumel appealed to the general public to support the police in the discharge of their duties, urging residents to provide information that can assist the command in maintaining peace.

Meanwhile, the presiding judge in the emirate crisis, Justice Amina Aliyu, ordered that all defendants be served with a hearing notice and fixed July 2 for the hearing.

As the Originating Summons was ripe for hearing, the court, in its discretion, abridged the time for counsel to address all pending applications, considering the urgency of the entire case.

The case sought to perpetually restrain the 15th Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, and four

Edo Guber: Benin NBA Asks Participating Parties to Play By Rules of Engagement

adibe

in Benin City

Ahead of the Edo State governorship election slated for September 21 this year, the Chairman of Benn Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Nosa Edo-Osagie, has called on the 13 political parties and their candidates to ensure that they play by the rules to avoid the breakdown of law and order.

Edo-Osagie stated this at the opening ceremony of the Annual Law Week of the branch also known as the Lion Bar with themed: "Law as a Tool for Economic Advancement and National Security."

According to him, “The political parties and the their candidates must play by the rules. Incidentally, there are some of the candidates who are members of the NBA and what is critical to the body is that they must play the game by the rules.

“Otherwise we will have consequences, anarchy is not what we crave for in the society, because when there is anarchy, there is a bigger problem than you expect.

So for all those aspirants in the field, they must by necessity play by the rules.”

The association also invited some of the candidates including Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP) who are

both members of the NBA; Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Isaiah Osifo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

Earlier, chairman of the planning committee of the Law Week, Paschal Ugbome, explained that the theme

was chosen to reflect the current realities in the country and that solutions would also be proffered at the end of the day.

In his goodwill message, Governor Godwin Obaseki, who was represented by the Attorney General and Commissioner for

Justice, Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi, also said the theme was right.

He added that by encouraging investment and economic advancement, “We must examine our legal framework with the possibility of reforming it to ensure it is fit for the present realities.”

others from parading themselves as emirs.

When the case resumed yesterday for the hearing of a motion on notice praying for an interlocutory injunction, counsel to Alhaji Aminu Ado, Ibrahim Mukhtar, filed counter affidavits with three processes.

The processes included challenging the competency of the court to hear and determine the suit, a motion seeking to set aside the earlier ex-parte order (arguing it should not have been granted),

and a counter affidavit challenging the court's decision to restrain the defendants from parading themselves as Emirs of Kano, Bichi, Rano, Gaya, and Karaye. The defendants were Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, Alhaji Nasiru Bayero, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar II, Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad Inuwa, Alhaji Aliyu Ibrahim Gaya, the Inspector General of Police, Director of the Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Nigerian Army.

TUC: Mbah Paying N30,000 Minimum Wage, Salary Awards

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Enugu State has clarified the statement credited to the Assistant General Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Mr. Chris Onyeka, which listed Enugu state among the states yet to implement the N30,000 minimum wage.

Onyeka had mentioned Abia, Enugu, Bayelsa, Delta, Nasarawa, Gombe, Adamawa, Niger, Sokoto , Imo, Anambra, Taraba, Benue, and Zamfara as states yet to implement the N30,000 minimum wage in defiance of the Minimum Wage Act, 2019.

However, reacting to the development yesterday, the State

Ohanaeze: Three South-east Governors

Sabotaging Efforts to Secure Kanu's Release

Benjamin nworie in Abakaliki

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has alleged that three Governors of the South east region and some National assembly members, were allegedly plotting to scuttle the out-of-court settlement between the federal government and the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

In a statement by the Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the body noted the governors and other political leaders were obstructing the progress towards Kanu's freedom, because of their personal interest and avarice.

He, however, warned all those

who seek to obstruct Nnamdi Kanu's release to be mindful of the repercussions of their actions as the body would sanction them.

"The recent developments surrounding the possible out-of-court settlements between the federal government and Nnamdi Kanu have brought a glimmer of hope to Nigerians and Ndigbo alike.

“The Federal High Court Abuja's decision to adjourn the proceedings till September 2024, with the directive to both parties to explore negotiations and settlements, indicates a potential path towards justice and reconciliation.

"However, amidst this ray of hope, there are troubling signs of dissent and selfish motives within certain quarters. Some Southeast

Governors, along with political elites and misguided elders, seem intent on obstructing the progress toward Nnamdi Kanu's freedom.

“These individuals, driven by personal interests and avarice, are unwilling to relinquish their grip on power and wealth, even at the expense of justice and peace.

"Additionally, criminals disguising themselves as Biafra agitators, such as Simon Ekpa and his cohorts, continue to perpetrate acts of violence and criminality, further exacerbating the already dire security situation in the Southeast.

"We express our deep concern over the actions of a particular Southeast Governor, who has consistently impeded Nnamdi Kanu's release since May 2022

for selfish political reasons and fear of Kanu's opposition to his government.

“The missed opportunity during Former President Buhari's visit to Ebonyi for the commissioning of the Ebionyi International Airport on 5th May 2022, due to the governor's interference, is a clear indication of political sabotage.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo will not stand idly by as these governors continue to undermine the interests of the people for their gains," it said,

The group also added that the people of the Southeast were weary of the ongoing insecurity challenges and economic disruptions that have plagued the region and any attempts to subvert the process towards peace and justice would not be tolerated.

Chairman of TUC, Ben Asogwa, said the NLC chieftain must have been misquoted regarding Enugu state.

"The payment of N30,000 minimum wage and its consequential adjustment started in February 2020 for all the state workers while the local government workers and primary school teachers were paid with 25 per cent consequential adjustment.

“However, Governor Peter Mbah on assumption of office approved the full implementation for local government workers and primary school teachers.

"Besides that, the Mbah administration has also been paying monthly wage awards of N10,000 to local government workers and primary school teachers and N25,000 to all categories of state workers from December, 2023 till date to cushion the current economic hardship pending the conclusion of negotiation of a new minimum wage.

"The governor recently approved the 100 per cent Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) for nurses and midwives and Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals in the state.

"So, nobody is talking about N30,000 minimum wage in Enugu again. We are actually waiting for the conclusion of negotiation of a new minimum wage, which our governor has already assured us that he would key into once the negotiation ends at the federal level.

"In fact, the governor is conveniently disposed to the welfare of workers," Asogwa said.

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OgUn RallIes agaInst chOleRa...

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DAPPMAN Counters Dangote Refinery over Claim of Dirty Fuels Import

Says refining company’s assertions inaccurate

The Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) yesterday responded to the management of Dangote Refinery, debunking the company’s claim that marketers were importing dirty fuel into Nigeria with the support of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

In a statement issued last night, DAPPMAN said the information from Dangote Refinery's management was laced with inaccuracies.

DAPPMAN stated that no member

of the association and private fuels depot has imported any fuel with specification that is outside the regulation into the country, apart from what is currently approved by the NMDPRA.

"Over this last weekend, the news broke on the lamentations of the management of Dangote Industries Limited wherein they were quoted as having stated that the NMDPRA has been granting licences indiscriminately to marketers to import what they described as ‘dirty refined products’ into the country.

"DAPPMAN wishes to state emphatically that no member of the

association and indeed, no private fuels depot has imported into the country any fuel with specification that is outside of the regulation other than what is currently approved by the NMDPRA and would wish to state that the information from the Dangote Refinery management is laced with inaccuracies," the group stated.

DAPPMAN noted that the downstream regulator which is the NMDPRA had in the very recent past initially objected to offtakes by their daughter vessels from import mother vessels, via ship-to-ship operations, which they explained usually take place offshore Lome.

The association said the move was however vehemently protested and resisted by downstream operators and has been rescinded.

DAPPMAN recalled that between February and May 2024, the NMDPRA had allowed diesel imports with maximum sulphur content of 200/ ppm. It noted however, that this was followed by another move by the regulator to fast-forward the country’s target date of the implementation of the 50/ppm sulphur limitation on petrol and diesel imports from December 31, 2023 to June 1, 2024. By that action, DAPPMAN said

Pro-police Protests Rock Rivers LG Secretariats

FHC insists on hearing suit seeking removal of Amaewhule, 26 others Princewill: We need peace to attract investments

Former chairmen of the 23 local government areas in Rivers State and their supporters yesterday, embarked on a peaceful protests to support the police, who had barricaded the councils secretariats.

At the same time, the Martin Amaewhule led Rivers State House of Assembly has suffered setback in its bid to stall a suit against them by BOOT Party at the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt.

This was as a former gubernatorial candidate in the state, Tonye Princewill, has warned that the state needed peace to attract the much-needed investment that would drive its socio-economic growth.

The chairmen contesting tenure elongation and their loyalists stormed their various secretariats in solidarity with the ongoing barricades of the secretariats pending the decision of the Court of Appeal on Speaker Martins Amaewhule-led House of Assembly.

At Ikwerre Local Government Area, Samuel Nwanosike, led the protesters to the point of police barricade and described himself as the properly elected chairman of the council.

Nwanosike, who told the Police Area Commander of Ikwerre LGA that they would never disobey the police, said they only decided to embark on the demonstration following information that some labour leaders had mobilised to harass the police out of the council.

He explained that the failure of the state governor to conduct elections in the LGAs compelled the Martins Amaewhule-led House of Assembly to amend the law granting six-month tenure extension to the councils' chairmen.

"We are not here to foment trouble but if they want to take their luck too far, we are here to state that we own this council. I and this men and women here laboured and inconvenienced ourselves to rebuild this council from scratch when these hoodlums struggling to enter this council embezzled all that was available to them and refused to work for this council.

"Our governor refused to conduct elections as provided by law and you know in governance, there is no vacuum. We are here to state that as long those miscreants don't come here we will continue to stand by the side eat and drink."

In Obio-Akpor, Mr. George Ariolu, who said he remained the authentic chairman pending the decision of the court on tenure elongation, led residents of the council to the police barricades.

He said they were out to defend democracy and the rule of law against the forces plotting to force the police to vacate the councils to perpetrate violence.

Hundreds of pro-police protesters also marched to the Port Harcourt City Local Government secretariat along Bank Road and commended the police for professionally remaining neutral in discharging their

responsibilities of maintaining law and order in the state.

They insisted that the action of the police was for the overall interests of Rivers, saying it had forestalled breakout of violence in the 23 local government areas.

One of the conveners, who identified himself as Kingsley Ohunda said, “We are Rivers people and as you can see this a harmless and an armless protest.”

In Buguma, the Asari-Toru LGA, Onengiyeofori George, who continued to lay claims to tenure elongation, alongside his supporters marched through the streets of the town as they sang songs in solidarity with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

FHC Insist on Hearing Suit Seeking Removal of Amaewhule, 26 others

The Martin Amaewhule led Rivers State House of Assembly, has suffered setback in its bid to stall a suit against them by BOOT Party at the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt.

When the case registered in suit number FHC/PHC/269/2024 was mentioned yesterday, before Justice Stephen Daylop-Pam, counsel for Amaewhule and 26 other lawmakers, Ferdinand Orbih, a (Senior Advocate of Nigeria), sought that the matter be transferred to another judge. Orbih had drawn the attention of the court to a petition written by his client to the Chief Judge of Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho,

urging him to direct the matter to another judge.

The SAN, at the court argued that the matter should not be heard pending the response to their petition before the CJ.

However, following arguments by counsels to other parties involved in the matter, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Rivers State Government and others, the judge insisted on going ahead with the matter.

Justice Daylop-Pam stated that he has not been served a copy of the said petition or a counter affidavit, stressing that Amaewhule and 26 others have not also filed their response to the suit.

He however, adjourned the matter till Friday, June 28, this month for hearing.

Other parties in the matter had earlier told the court that they have not been served the processes, while the bailiff who served the processes was also nowhere to be found to show proof of service.

Princewill: We Need Peace to Attract Investments to Rivers

An entrepreneur and former gubernatorial candidate in Rivers State, Tonye Princewill, has said the state needed peace to attract the much-needed investment that would drive its socio-economic growth.

Princewill noted that the narrative about Rivers within the international community was negative and that it has prevented investors from coming in.

the regulator limited all marketers and depots’ diesel source to Dangote Refinery even though the latter was yet to install its desulphurisation equipment as the sulphur in its blends of diesel presently exceed 50/ppm.

"This again was resisted by DAPPMAN in its letter to the NMDPRA which was dated June 10, 2024 to warn and alert the regulator not to inadvertently promote and introduce a monopoly into the sector.

"With stiff resistance at every attempt at introducing a Dangote Refinery monopoly into the downstream, and the fact that the latter, despite its most recent production of diesel with sulphur contents reported at 1200/ppm, it is baffling to us that the management of Dangote Industries, including the Dangote Refinery, who are very much aware of these facts, could claim that the NMDPRA has been granting licences indiscriminately to marketers to import ‘dirty refined products’ into the country", DAPPMAN argued.

According to the marketers, Dangote Refinery's current blend of diesel with reported sulphur contents of 1200/ppm is technically classified as ‘dirty fuel’ and grossly in excess of the 200/ppm imported by any

the army was open to ideas and opinions from all segments of the society. This, he said, informed the roundtable that was put together by the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, in collaboration with Development Specs Academy, which the army was actively supporting.

He also promised to implement the recommendations that would come out of the discussion.

Earlier, Executive Director, Development Specs Academy, Professor Okey Ikechukwu, said the roundtable was put together to evolve local solutions that would work for the country.

Ikechukwu decried situations where citizens shielded criminal elements and helped them to procure arms to fight the state, rather than give intelligence to the military and other security agencies to dismantle the criminal empire in the country.

He also said the deployment of troops outside their areas of core training amounted to demobilisation and underutilisation of their full potential.

Meanwhile, the army announced plans to commemorate its 161 years’ anniversary on July 6, 2024, in Jos, the Plateau State capital.

marketer or depot owner.

While admitting that Dangote Refinery as a business entity was free to adopt any model that suits its management, DAPPMAN however posited that the refinery's current practice of cheaper bulk sales prices to international buyers at the detriment of Nigerian buyers called to question their patriotism to the country.

The association further claimed that several Nigerian marketers had in recent past been offered Dangote Refinery cargoes by international trading firms at rates that were very much lower than what they were directly offered by the refinery, stating that this will not be in the interest of the Nigerian fuel end-user. It added: "There is no doubt that the success of Dangote Refinery will be a thing of pride to the nation, but all downstream operators and their activities must be in tandem with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 which abhors monopoly of any sort.

"DAPPMAN will continue to work with all stakeholders, including Dangote Refinery willingly to provide safe, healthy fuels to all Nigerians competitively giving them great and affordable fuelling options for their daily activities."

Lagbaja, who announced this in a press briefing to herald activities lined up for the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2024, also said the army ranked very high in Global Firepower Index, 2024.

Represented by Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Maj Gen AB Ibrahim, the army chief said NADCEL 2024 would be a celebration of one of the greatest armies in the world whose eventful history spans 161 years.

According to him, the history dates back to 1863, when Lieutenant Glover of the Royal Navy organised 18 indigenes of Northern Nigeria into a local force known as the “Glover Hausas”.

This local force, he said, went through several stages of growth and development, evolving to the present Nigerian Army.

Lagbaja stated, "Over the years, the Nigerian Army has played crucial roles in the defence of our country and the maintenance of peace and security.

“Therefore, the Nigerian Army Day Celebration provides an opportunity to celebrate the brave men and women, who have served and continue to serve in our Army.”

Peter Uzoho

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Kayode Oladehinde; Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade; Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker and the Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya, at

press conference

the outbreak of cholera in Ogun State, held at the Olusegun Osoba Press Centre, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta... yesterday

Vice Chairman/Group Executive Director ADRON Group, Olori

Shoprite Mall Announces Shutdown of Abuja Branch, Citing Harsh Business Climate

emmanuel Addeh

Shoprite yesterday said it was shutting down one of its branches, Novare Central Mall, Wuse Central, Abuja, from June 30, 2024, blaming the current harsh economic climate for the decision.

In a circular signed by the Chief Executive Officer, Dr Folakemi Fadahunsi, on behalf of the retail supermarket, the popular mall said it came to the conclusion after a thorough evaluation of the store’s financial situation.

It notified vendors that their services would no longer be needed at the store, stressing that it will be reviewing its accounts with them in the next 60 days, with a view to reconciling any outstanding balances.

“We regret to inform you that as of June 30, 2024, Retail Supermarkets Nigeria Limited will be closing its Wuse Store located in Novare Wuse Central Mall, Abuja.

“This decision has been made after a thorough evaluation of the store’s financial situation and the current business climate. We believe this is the best course of action for our organisation’s long-term growth.

“Effective June 30, 2024, our company will no longer operate in Wuse, Abuja, and we will no longer require your services for the Novare Wuse Central Mall Store. Please note that all existing service contracts will also terminate for the store,” the circular stated.

The latest development is coming about six months after Shoprite Mall

in Kano similarly stopped operations in its branch from January 14, 2024.

Likewise, the popular Kano mall attributed its decision to financial difficulties and high production costs confronting business establishments in the country in a circular made available at the time.

It also came on the heels of an announcement by Jumia Food to cease operation in Nigeria, citing growing economic challenges.

“If your services are specifically tied to the Novare Wuse Central Mall Store and if there is an outstanding balance between our companies, we will carefully review our accounting records over the next 60 days (about 2 months). We will then promptly contact you to confirm the amount owed and discuss a suitable payment schedule.

“We would like to express our gratitude for your past business. It has been a pleasure working with you and your team. If you have any questions or concerns, or if there is anything we can do to assist you during this challenging transition, please do not hesitate to reach out to us,” it added on the latest incident.

A number of firms in the country, especially multinationals have recently completely left Nigeria, scaled down operations, transferred ownership or sold their stakes.

Among them in recent times have been Diageo, which sold its 58.02 per cent shareholding in Guinness Nigeria to Tolaram, Unilever Nigeria PLC, Procter & Gamble Nigeria, GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Nigeria

Court Freezes Swift Networks, CEO’s Accounts in All Banks over Alleged Indebtedness

Alex enumah in Abuja and Wale igbintade

Justice Y. Bogoro of a Federal High Court in Lagos has temporarily barred further transactions in the bank accounts belonging to Swift Networks Limited, over alleged debt to Union Bank Limited.

The restraining order which was sequel to an exparte application also affected the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Swift Networks Limited, Charles Anudu. Union Bank had dragged the respondents to court over alleged debt to the tune of N7 billion.

However, Union Bank in a bid to prevent the dissipation of funds belonging to the respondents while litigations are ongoing, the plaintiff/ applicant on June 11, brought an application praying the court to restrain Swift Networks Limited and its agents from accessing funds and assets in all banks pending the determination of a Motion on Notice in an alleged debt recovery suits.

Delivering ruling in the application on June 19, the judge granted the application as prayed and made an order freezing all the accounts belonging to the respondents in all banks.

A Certified True Copy (CTC) of the court’s ruling dated June 19 and signed by the Chief Executive Officer of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, M. J. Busari, noted that the court granted the application after considering the affidavit deposed in support of the motion by one Ifeanyi Odo and after listening to Gbenga Akinde Counsel for Union Bank.

The issues in the suit marked: FHC/L/CS/1010/2024, surround the alleged debt between the parties for a while, wherein the applicant claims that parties entered into fresh agreement in writing and duly signed by the parties in a bid to amicably resolve the matter.

However, Swift was said to have deliberately refused to honour the agreement, an action which led Union Bank to institute a fresh action to enforce the new agreement between the parties.

Therefore, on July 19, 2023, the court granted Union Bank Mareva orders restraining Swift Networks from accessing monies up to the tune of N7 billion in 25 banks to protect the res.

Among the reliefs sought and granted by the court include an order restraining the defendants, their Directors, Staff, Management and Agents from tampering with, operating, withdrawing from, and/ or dealing with the Defendants' funds (whether held directly or by proxy) in any bank and/or financial institution within Nigeria pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice.

The judge also directed all Banks/ Financial Institutions harbouring the defendants’ accounts to depose on oath and furnish the plaintiff or its firm of solicitors, the details of the credit outstanding in the defendants' account within seven days of receipt of the order.

Furthermore, the order restrained any electronic payment platforms, or digital and payment service banks including Interswitch Limited,

Interswitch Financial Inclusion Services, Hope Payment Service Bank, 9PSB, Hope PSB, Money Master PSB, MOMO PSB, Smartcash PSB etc., from processing payments authorised by the defendants, while also barring the defendants from their services to process funds payment.

The order also barred the defendants from tampering with, removing from jurisdiction, or dissipating, their fixed and moveable assets, investments, bonds, shares, pecuniary and other beneficial

interests, whether held directly or by proxy, in the custody of the Defendants or in the custody of any bank, financial institution and/o companies in Nigeria.

The banks were also mandated to disclose such assets and funds standing to the credit of the defendants in their custody within seven days.

“This suit is hereby adjourned to July 10, 2024 for Motion on Notice. Defendants/Respondents shall be put on notice,” the judge declared.

Ltd, Sanofi-Aventis Nigeria Ltd, Equinox Nigeria, and Bolt Food & Jumia Food Nigeria.

Some others are: Microsoft Nigeria, PZ Cussons Nigeria PLC, KimberlyClerk Nigeria, among others. Nigeria is battling the impact of a

weakening local currency, the effect of the ‘removal’ of petrol subsidy as well as skyrocketing energy prices, including electricity, diesel and gas costs, which have more than doubled in the last one year of the current administration.

House Resumes Plenary Thursday

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The House of Representatives has announced that it would resume the Second Session (2024/2025) of the 10th Assembly on Thursday, June 27, 2024.

Spokesperson of the House, Hon. Akin Rotimi, in a statement, yesterday, said the resumption date was communicated to the lawmakers via an internal memorandum from the Clerk of the House, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, yesterday, Monday, June 24, 2024.

The House had adjourned sittings on June 11, 2024 at the end of the First Session, to enable members celebrate the Eid-el-Kabir festivities.

Rotimi added that the House was also set to host its inaugural Legislative Open Week, from Wednesday, July 3, to Friday, July 5, 2024.

He said the Open Week, themed: "Improving Inclusion through Citizens Engagement," was aimed at fostering an open parliament and promoting citizens' engagement in legislative

and governance processes. The spokesperson stressed that this was in alignment with Agenda 6 (Inclusion & Open Parliament) in the Legislative Agenda of the People’s House.

“This initiative is particularly significant as we celebrate 25 years of uninterrupted representative democracy in Nigeria. Thus, the initiative will provide a platform for the legislature and citizens to reflect on our democratic journey, challenges faced, and aspirations for the future.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has been slated as the Special Guest of Honour for the Legislative Open Week, Similarly, President of the Senate, H.E. Senator Godswill Akpabio, CON, will be the Guest of Honour, while Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD is the Chief Host for the event. All State Governors, members of the Diplomatic Community, stakeholders, and all Nigerians are also invited to participate.”

N30trn Ways and Means: Senate Panel Demands Fresh Documents from Accountant General

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Senate adhoc committee investigating the N30 trillion Ways and Means spent by former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration between 2015 and 2023, announced yesterday, that it had requested additional information from the Accountant General of the Federation, Dr. Oluwatoyin Madein.

Chairman of the Committee, Senator Isah Jibrin (APC Kogi East), who disclosed this in a statement yesterday, assured Nigerians that the probe had not been jettisoned as being insinuated in some quarters.

Jibrin, attached a letter of reminder written to the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF) requiring vital

information for thoroughness of the investigative exercise.

The Senator, who is also the Chairman, Senate Standing Committee on Customs and Excise, explained that the adhoc committee was given six weeks when inaugurated in March to carry out the exercise and report back to the Senate.

He, however, attributed the delay in the submission of its report to the need to carry out a thorough and diligent exercise required for the sensitive national assignment.

Part of the statement read, "The essence of an investigation is to come up with factual findings and not just roll in report within specified time frame.

“Investigation on the N30 trillion Ways and Means, is on course and

not in anyway, in limbo as being insinuated.

"Some of the required findings have been made and still being made as clearly shown by letter of reminder recently written to the office of Accountant General of the Federation,” he said. The letter dated 19th June, 2024 was signed by Jibrin.

It was titled, "Request for Submission of Additional Information."

It added, "You may recall our earlier letter on the above subject dated 27th May, 2024, requesting for the following additional information on Ways and Means, which you are yet to respond to.

"The required information are, Details of disbursements under ways and means, Names of the beneficiaries. Amount / date of

disbursements and purpose of the disbursements.

"They also include, terms of the disbursement (where applicable), repayment schedule (where applicable) and adherence to the repayment schedule."

Ways and Means is a loan facility through which the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), finances the federal government’s budget shortfalls. This way of financing government deficits usually results in macroeconomic instability, leading to inflation and high exchange rates because of the excess liquidity injected into the economy. The CBN law limits advances under ways and means to five percent of the previous year’s revenue, but this has been mostly breached over the years.

L-R:

Aderonke Emmanuel-King; President of Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria PFN; Bishop Francis Olubowale Oke; and Chairman/ Chief Executive Officer of Adron Group, Aare Adetola Emmanuel-King; during the 2nd Anniversary of the Valiant Prayer Special Squad in Lagos... recently

in Abuja

Police Parade Alleged Killers of Rtd Gen Udokwere, Other Criminals

Gunmen kill Usman Dan Fodio Varsity VC

Ikechukwu Alekeinabujaand Onuminya Innocentinsokoto

The Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, Benneth Igweh, yesterday paraded the suspected assailants who murdered Brig Gen Uwem Harold Udokwere (rtd.)

in his Abuja residence, during a robbery operation, in the early hours of Saturday. Meanwhile, gun men suspected to be terrorists yesterday attacked and killed Deputy Vice Chancellor , Research, Innovation and development , Usman DanFodio University, Sokoto Prof Yusuf Saidu.

Civil Societies Support FG’s Recapitalisation, Reform of Banks

Segun James

Following the decision of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to recapitalise commercial banks in the country, the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in the country has thrown their weight behind the plan, saying that the decision is healthy for Nigeria’s economy and it will make the banks stronger, and as well attract investors.

According to them, at the last Recapitalisation, N25 billion was worth about $200 million, but the said amount is not worth $20 million today, hence the need for recapitalisation.

Addressing journalists at Ikeja, Lagos State, the spokesperson for the civil society organisations and former Chairman of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria

(ICAN), Lagos and District Society, Mr. Alesta Wilcox, said the banks in Nigeria are now weak, and its discourages investors.

He noted that recapitalisation is to make the banks healthy and stronger, arguing that when banks are healthy, they will be able to perform better and recruit more staff.

The coalition, which comprises Constitutional Rights Advocate Initiative, Cadrell Advocacy Centre, Movement for Nigeria Restructuring, Centre for Social and Economic Rights, Committee for the Protection of People’s Mandates, Coalition Against Corrupt Leaders CACOL and Commonwealth Institute of Advanced and Professional Studies, noted that it’s political and is only interested in the political and economic wellbeing of the country.

REA Director, Sambo, Arraigned on Alleged N1.8bn Fraud

Alex Enumah in abuja

A Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Abubakar Abdullahi Sambo, was yesterday, arraigned before Justice Mobolaji Olajuwon, of a Federal High Court in Abuja, on charges bordering on fraud and corruption.

Sambo, who is the Payment Finalizer on the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System platform of the REA, was arraigned by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission’s (ICPC) on a three count charge bordering on alleged conferment of undue advantage on some persons as well as making payment of over N1.8 billion without authorisation.

He pleaded not guilty to the charge and after taking his bail application the judge admitted him to bail in the sum of N200 million.

Meanwhile, another judge of the Federal High Court also in Abuja, Justice Emeka Nwite, has admitted three staff members of the REA to bail in the sum of N50 million each.

CP Igweh, in a statement on Sunday had ordered immediate investigation into the alleged attack and killing of Brig Gen Udokwere (rtd) in his Abuja home. He also assured the people that the yet

to be identified assailants would be apprehended and brought to justice.

True to his promises, the CP, while addressing a press conference at the Command Headquarters

in Abuja, paraded four suspects, noting that two are still at large. He identified the robbers as Ibrahim, Rafiu Jabiu, Aliu Abdullahi, and Mohammed.

Others paraded alongside the

killer suspects were notorious kidnap kingpin who had been on the police watchlist. Igweh said that one of the kidnap suspects is an ex-convict, who returned to crime.

Another Ex-Benue Gov, Bayo Lawal, Passes

George OkohinMakurdi

Another former Governor of Benue State, Air Vice Marshal Adebayo Hamed Lawal (rtd) has passed.

This, however, brings to two, the number of past military governors of the state that died this year alone.

Group Captain Joshua Obademi, who also served that state between 1993 and 1996, died this year and

was buried early this month in Lagos. AVM Lawal, (popularly known then in the state as Group Captain Bayo Lawal) was the military governor of Benue State from 1978 to 1979.

He handed over to Mr Aper Aku as the first civilian governor of the State. He was a one- time Nigerian Minister of Youth and Sports.

According to his daughter, Mrs.

Yinka Enahoro, the late AVM Lawal died in his sleep in the early hours of Sunday, June 23, 2024 at his home at the age of 83.

Sergeant at Arms at the National Assembly, Air Commodore Sani Zakari (rtd), who also confirmed the ex-minister’s death to the media, noted that the funeral will be held on Monday.

“AVM Frank Ajobena (rtd) further

informed us that AVM Bayo Lawal passed on in his sleep at the early hours of Sunday 23 Jun 24,” Zakari said.

Born on 14 September, 1941 in Offa, Kwara State, Lawal, attended Government College, Ibadan. between 1955 and 1962, before joining the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in 1963 among the pioneer officers.

SGCI Awards $250,000 Grants to Four Nigerian Research Teams

Kuni

Tyessi

in abua

Four Nigerian research teams have received a grant of $250,000 from the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI), to transform their research findings into commercialised goods and services.

Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, TETFund, Sonny Echono, disclosed this at the inauguration of the initial bootcamp of SGCI funding of research grants in Nigeria, yesterday in Abuja.

The grant award followed the successful implementation

of the Research for Impact Initiative (R41), under the auspices of TETFund where four teams were shortlisted to advance their developed ideas through a collaborative research grant established under SGCIs with Innov8 Technology Hub as the technical partner.

Represented by TETFund’s Director of Research Innovation and Development, Dr Salihu Bakare, the TETFund boss disclosed that the grant originated from the SGCI, a multi-funder initiative aimed at strengthening the capacities of 17 Science Granting Councils, SGCs, in sub-Saharan Africa.

Ondo NYSC Coordinator Seeks Aiyedatiwa’s Intervention on Decay at Orientation Camp

Fidelis David in akure

The Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Ondo State, Mr. Samuel Amaramiro Pepple, has called on the state Governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to intervene in the decaying facilities at the corps orientation camp located at Ikare-Akoko, Akoko North-East

Court Acquits Farah

Local Government Area.

Pepple decried the state of the facilities yesterday at the NYSC zonal office, Oda Road in Akure while familiarising with journalists upon his assumption of office as the 21st state NYSC coordinator.

However, the NYSC coordinator, who appreciated the commitment of the

state government to ensure the welfare of residents, including the corps members, passionately appealed to the state government to address the infrastructure deficit in the camp. He said: “Ondo State is one of the oldest states in Nigeria. I can tell you that the facilities in that camp are old. Let’s say

it the way it is, they’re very old. \“I am just new here, but I know; I’m trying to talk to the state government because the provisions of orientation camps is actually the statutory duties of state governments as enshrined in the NYSC Act. So I’m passionately trying to let them see the need for its upgrade.

Dagogo of

Criminal

Blessing Ibunge inPortHarcourt

A Rivers High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, has discharged and acquitted the immediate past member of the House of Representatives, Dr. Farah Dagogo of criminal charges filed against him by the state government.

Dr Dagogo was arrested on April 28, 2022 in Port Harcourt, the day he appeared for screening as a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant.

He was arrested after being declared wanted by the then Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, who

Charges

accused him of sponsoring thugs and cultists to disrupt the PDP screening exercise for National Assembly and State Assembly aspirants.

But Dagogo denied the allegation, maintaining that it was all trump up charges to prevent him from contesting the governorship position.

He was subsequently bailed in June 2022, after earlier spending 63 days in prison custody.

The former federal lawmaker was facing trial in suit no PHC/1440/CR/2022, as filed by the state.

Heat Wave Kills Four Niger Pilgrims in Mecca

Laleye Dipo in Minna

Niger State Governor Alhaji Mohammed Umaru Bago has disclosed that six pilgrims from the state died during this year’s Hajj, adding that heat wave was responsible for the death of four of the pilgrims while the remaining two died of natural causes.

A statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim,

said the deceased were interred in Mecca according to Islamic rites. Bologi said the governor lamented the period pilgrims had to spend in the Holy Land for the hajj, saying that the duration should not have exceeded two weeks instead of eight weeks.

He said in the statement that the governor was dissatisfied with the Basic Traveling Allowance (BTA) of 400 dollars given to

the pilgrims after paying over N8million each before calling for the law establishing the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria NAHCON, which handled the pilgrimage to be reviewed.

He said the governor wants the hajj exercise to be private sector-driven for “effective and efficient service delivery,” and that he will lead a Committee of State Governors to meet

Expert Decries Use of Poor Quality Paint

Yinka KolawoleinOsogbo

Chief Executive Officer of Streamline Paints, Kehinde Okweshine, yesterday decried the use of poor quality paint, lamenting that it can lead to a range of issues which can undermine the success of real estate projects in the country.

According to him, “This is a false economy that can end up costing people far more in the long run.”

Speaking on customer dissawtisfaction, he stressed that one

Speaking with journalists on whether building new property or renovating existing ones when Nigerians are undertaking real estate projects, Okweshine noted that it could be tempting to try to save money by using the cheapest paint available.

of the primary risks of using low-quality paint is customer dissatisfaction.

Okweshine emphasised that home buyers and tenants expect a certain level of quality and finishing in a property, adding that poor painting that can peel, fade, or develop other issues quickly can seriously detract from the overall look of the property.

Guns Intercepted at Onne Port in Rivers

Sophisticated guns were allegedly intercepted at Onne Port in Rivers State yesterday. A viral video showed sophisticated guns in thousands.

Although information surrounding the news was sketchy and there was no official

statement on the development, the sophisticated guns displayed in the video can be compared to a period in country that ready for war.

T A le S T H e Coun T r Y Tol D Me

looking for business in troubled zones. What business are you looking for in Kano? You want to go and buy kolanuts?”

“Lawyers and judges are part of the problem in this country. They are messing things up in Rivers, and in Kano. These days, I don’t even know which court ruling to believe. One judge says one thing, another judge says another thing…creating panic within the community. I thought lawyers always say that the law is meant to help modulate society and ensure order”

“The law is an ass…Have you not heard that? When judges make mistakes, they tell you to go and file an appeal in a higher court. When you get to the Appeal Court and they make a mistake again, your lawyers will advise you to go the Supreme Court. If you fail again at the Supreme Court, the Justices will tell you that it is part of their fundamental human rights to make mistakes because they are human beings and if you are not happy, you can take your matter to God. You see, this is why we all have to be careful.”

“What a country!”

“What a people!”

“When will we ever get it right in this country? The people are complaining of hunger and wages. The leaders want new presidential aircraft. University teachers are threatening to go on strike over unpaid wages. Prostitutes are telling their customers that the dollar has gone up against the Naira….”

“Wait. Wait. I think I am running out of credit. My phone is saying you have one minute left. I think they do this you have one minute left, just so someone can buy credit and help them make more money. These telcos. Please you will have to call me back…”

H e Ar MAM en T of Sobr I e

he treated me courteously. But there was an incident that beggars belief to date. And this is where my path crossed again with Professor Akpan Ekpo after over two decades.

A state government-appointed auditor reviewed the company’s payroll to ascertain the appropriateness of taxes paid by its staff working in Qua Iboe Terminal or any Field location in Akwa Ibom state. This routine exercise, conducted every few years, was appropriately concluded, and a satisfactory clearance report was issued. To the company’s surprise, a few months later, a letter was received jettisoning that report and an outrageous amount was slammed on the company as a penalty. Despite several attempts to understand the basis of its computation, the matter could not be resolved. Eventually, the government resorted to strange tactics, including issuing a warrant to arrest some key company staff. Though not directly responsible for the matter, I was also listed for arrest. This was comical but frustrated my ability to visit my aged parents in the village. There were also mixed messages from the Governor whenever we spoke, leading me to believe he was not fully aware of what his appointees were doing.

After a year of back-and-forth and a weighty petition from the company, the Governor requested Professor Akpan Ekpo to review the case. By this time, I had lost confidence in the ability of any government official to objectively review the matter as it appeared everyone was singing from the same songbook. My first shock at the meeting was how elementary Prof’s questions were. Disinterested in long speeches, he asked the state auditor to comment on the accuracy of the initial clearance report it issued. With the affirmation of authenticity, he asked about the basis for the penalty for which additional payments were demanded. There was silence. An angry Professor Ekpo was unmistaken in his reprimand, and I was embarrassed at how some officials had misled the government and created a rift with such a significant investor. It was unusual for a government representative to be so direct and transparent. What a relief that someone finally understood the issues! On how MPN offered medical support to its staff through a quarterly reimbursement, he advised that such payment was subject to taxation. This case was resolved in under forty-five minutes. Neither the outgoing nor incoming Governor opposed his recommendations. Still, it was never lost on me that though locally situated, Prof was quick to think globally, focusing on the implications of impeding smooth business operations in Nigeria and Akwa Ibom state. He connected the dots quickly, enabling the much-touted ease of business.

As mentioned earlier, Professor Ekpo has advised all levels of government (local, state, and federal) in Nigeria, and his contributions have impacted the country’s journey towards economic advancement. With a distinguished career spanning several decades, Akpan Ekpo has exemplified patriotism, expertise, and dedication in these roles. In economics and policy formulation, he has demonstrated a deep understanding of Nigeria’s economic environment and commitment to excellence, and his insights have been instrumental in guiding policymakers and shaping economic strategies to foster growth, stability, and inclusivity. You can, therefore, imagine how excited I was to serve under him as the Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Post-COVID-19 Economic Reconstruction Committee set up by Governor Udom Emmanuel in May 2020. For posterity’s sake, I will provide some insights and use this forum to plead with the state government to find comfort in entirely going through and utilizing that committee’s recommendations. Luckily, most of the current players in government, including the State Governor, were either part of the initial committee works or were aware of its activities. While I cannot attest to everyone’s support, as you will soon know, one thing is sure. In the usual duplicitous posturing, this report would have been given an elaborate unveiling if we were gathered for the funeral service of any of the committee members. The family would have been told they died in the service of the people and that such a person would be immortalized. We worked for the Akwa Ibom people when most were sheltered indoors except for essential service workers. Regrettably, the lacklustre attitude of some people concerning the pandemic, including officials who refused to mask up or respect the established control protocols, was not

“Hello” “Hello.”

“Can you hear me?”

“I moved from where I was. Let me change my location… Can you hear me now?”

Okay, I think it is better. These telcos. Well, let’s thank God. You remember those days when we used to climb on top of a tree or look for a mountain top before we could get a phone signal, or those days when we used to queue for a whole day at P and T to place a call to someone in London or the US.”

“We are in the age of Artificial Intelligence, bros. We need to do better. Let me even run something by you. I met some oyinbos. We are thinking of doing business in Zamfara. Gold mining, especially now that the Nigerian Government is beginning to focus on gold for Central Bank Reserves, Foreign Reserves and for addressing shoring up the value of the Naira. You saw the Minister of Steel Development presenting gold bars to the President the other day, product of artisanal mining of gold. I am trying to think ahead. We can get into that line of business.”

“Razzmatazz. What did I call it? Razzmatazz. Photo. Is it from artisanal mining and alluvial deposits Nigeria will join the league of gold mining countries? We have been prospecting for gold in this country since 1913. There was something like a small boom in the 1930s. In the 1980s, Nigeria formed the Nigerian Mining Corporation. Section 44(3) of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining law of 1999 vests ownership of mineral resources in the Federal Government. But the big problem in this country is illegal mining.”

“That is precisely what the Tinubu administration is trying to do. Close ranks with artisanal miners, bring

helpful and may have contributed to the loss of lives to COVID-19. It could have easily been one of us, as significant breaches occurred when we arrived at Uyo for the committee meetings.

Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem, the then Secretary to the State Government (SSG), called to inform me that the Governor would like me to be part of a committee to fashion a blueprint for the state post-COVID-19. This was a few days after I retired from ExxonMobil. I was looking forward to resting but was happy to contribute my knowledge and experiences towards the development of my state. This is not the first time I have served the state. During Governor Victor Attah’s tenure, I recall working with Dr Ebebe Ukpong, the then Commissioner for Economic Development, to design a roadmap for developing the oil-bearing communities of Akwa Ibom State. I was part of Governor Godswill Akpabio’s transition team in 2007. By 2015, when Governor Udom Emmanuel assumed duties, I volunteered to serve on the Agriculture Technical Committee, working with Professor Edet Udoh. However, given the importance of leadership, it was a no-brainer that I would ask Dr Ekuwem about who would drive the committee’s work. I was surprised that though listed as a member, it was not Prof Ekpo. I must credit Dr. Ekuwem for seeing my viewpoint and reverting shortly on the Governor’s approval for Prof to chair the team.

The Government was audacious in its timing, inaugurating the 20-member committee with nine terms of reference and a one-month time frame to complete the assignment. Prof. Ekpo’s leadership was indispensable. He led with foresight and determination, steering the committee during a pandemic to meet the deadline. The committee’s initiatives encompassed various sectors, from mindset change to healthcare, finance, agriculture, and infrastructure, reflecting his holistic approach to economic development. His advocacy for evidence-based policymaking was critical, recognizing the need for data-driven decisions. He always wanted to be guided by reliable information, not emotion, to respond effectively to the issues. Furthermore, Prof. Ekpo’s leadership was characterized by inclusivity and collaboration. He actively engaged stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, including government officials, business leaders, civil society organizations, and academia, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and collective action. By harnessing the expertise and resources of various stakeholders, he ensured that the

them into the fold, provide a framework. It is called a National Gold Purchase Programme that meets the London Gold Market Standard.”

“There is no framework that they are going to come up with that is new. When Mrs Oby Ezekwesili was Minister of Steel and Mining, she designed a framework for mining development in Nigeria. Dr. Kayode Fayemi as Minister of Steel further fine-tuned the road map. Go to the website of the World Gold Council. This is serious business, not a business for small-time miners. Do we have the technical capacity? Do we have technical partners? What lessons are we learning from the example of Ghana, a country that was originally known as Gold Coast? Before you join the Gold Rush, do your home-work.”

“I try to look at the positive side of things. Nigeria has just sold about 70 kilogrammes of gold to the London Bullion Market, making about N6 billion. We have to start from somewhere. The country has about 600, 000 tonnes of gold reserves. There are possibilities here. Besides, going to and fro Zamfara will become very easy, very soon, now that the state Governor is building an international airport to promote trade and tourism.”

“Tourism in Zamfara. You want to go and get yourself kidnapped. The bandits of Zamfara are so daring, they can even kidnap aircraft and all passengers. I don’t think the Governor is serious. Has he paid civil servants and pensioners before embarking on a white elephant project? I think he must have heard that when you try to build an airport, you can award big, big contracts.”

“I am already talking to my Chinese contacts”

“Just be careful with these Chinese people. One Chinese investor has just seized Nigerian properties in the UK”

committee’s efforts were comprehensive, responsive, and sustainable.

In addition to his immediate focus on managing the COVID-19 crisis, Prof. Ekpo emphasized the importance of long-term vision and structural reforms. He advocated policies that would mitigate not only the immediate impact of the pandemic but also lay the foundation for a more resilient and dynamic economy in the future. His vision encompassed investments in human capital, innovation, infrastructure, and reforms to enhance transparency, accountability, and governance.

Hear him:

‘’…there is a paucity of relevant data on the state. Establishing a State Bureau of Statistics is important to ensure that policy pronouncements are evidence-based. The State needs an Economic Advisory Council to assist in the conceptualization, formulation, and implementation of government policies. Such exercise would be evidence-based. It would advise the government and serve as a think tank. The State should have a ‘Reserve Fund’ – an agreed percentage from federal allocation should be deposited into the fund to meet unforeseen circumstances and save for a rainy day. The Fund should be invested in, and strict conditions should be established for withdrawal. The government should have an exit plan for its commercial investments. … the state needs a 30-year Perspective Economic Plan (2021-2050) with 5-year consecutive plans to execute the long-term plan. This would ensure balanced development of the state’.

This report was presented on June 9, 2020. Unfortunately, because of scheduling challenges, three Lagos-based members, including the Chairman, were huddled at the private aviation terminal awaiting the Aviation minister’s approval of a flight to convey them to Uyo. Professor Emmanuel Onwioduokit, the Committee’s Secretary, had to represent the chairman. The Governor was so impressed with the quality of work done and decided at that meeting to set up a 5-member committee to do a deep-dive, creating actionable plans and timelines for immediate implementation. Professor Ekpo was retained as the chairman, and Professor Onwioduokit as Secretary. The other three members were Dr. Glory Edet (as dean of commissioners), Mr. Ime Uwah (Senior Special Assistant to the Governor) and me. We were domiciled at one of the government guest houses and were excited to deliver on the mandate.

To our chagrin, and despite the Governor’s earlier compliments to the team, empowering it to solicit information from any public servant, including himself, things fell apart shortly. Even close allies of the Governor were non-cooperative, putting the chairman under pressure. Oliver Holmes Sr. reminds us that the young man knows the rules, but the old man knows the exceptions. I am thankful that age enabled Prof’s sobriety throughout this moment of trial. The young, radical, and activist Professor Ekpo would have acted differently. He earned my respect for his sustained calmness at every point.

The ill-treatment was signposted earlier. Given that travelling was restricted during the pandemic, no sufficient arrangements were made for us to arrive in Uyo, and even while we were yet to finalize our study, one of the committee’s recommendations was contracted out for implementation without any courtesy to the chairman. Upon arrival in Uyo, there were logistical and directional challenges. The team had no vehicle to visit locations, and the one assigned to the chairman would immediately attract the displeasure of even the driver. It eventually led to an altercation with a senior government official and remained unused throughout the assignment. I was embarrassed at such a level of treatment to a renowned son of Akwa Ibom State. I was more pained knowing the courtesies, usually extended to outsiders, with little or no value-addition to the state. In contrast to the Governor’s message, there was also a reluctance to respond to requests by some government officials. Given the nature of the information solicited, such reactions in certain instances were laughable. For example, a particular commissioner was unwilling to share rudimentary financial information with two economics professors he knew had access to the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Ministry of Finance, and the Debt Management Office. It took a phone call, and the committee obtained the needed data. Even a committee member, largely absent from meetings, would stonewall several times on information disclosure.

“If you go and check the case, I am sure you would find that our people are the problem. We don’t ever respect terms of contracts. We gamble with everything and when our partners move against us, we would start shouting sovereignty. In any partnership, trust is important.”

“Just be careful. By the way, have you heard that the Governor of Sokoto after deposing 15 traditional rulers is also planning to remove the Sultan of Sokoto. I saw a statement by the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) warning Governor Ahmed Aliyu not to try it because the jurisdiction of the Sultan goes beyond Sokoto. He is the spiritual head of all Nigerian Muslims.”

“I keep wondering why Governors no longer respect traditional rulers. Tension everywhere. I just hope that one day, one Governor will not wake up on the wrong side of the bed and make an attempt to depose a traditional ruler and cause real mayhem in the country.”

“Na wa. Are you going for Chivido?”

“What is that”

“The wedding of Chioma and David Adeleke. I hear all the billionaires in town will be there.”

“So, are you a billionaire? Why do you want to go to a billionaire’s wedding party? You don’t have important things to do with your time?”

“I have just been following the story, and the gbas gbos between Davido and his baby Mama, Sophia.”

“Look, let me wash my hand. As old as you are, you go about monitoring society gossip. Go and get busy my friend.”

“Wash that your hand very well. No carry cholera from pepper soup joint go house oh.”

“Comot my friend. Old man wey sabi gossip.”

These necessitated the chairman to seek clarity from the Governor on the committee’s status/relevance. To his disappointment, the Governor had been informed that the committee was ‘investigating’ the government, an allegation which was a blatant lie. Throughout his career, Professor Ekpo has exemplified the role of a thought leader, strategist, and implementer, driving positive change at local and regional levels. He came to serve the state, and all he got was backstabbing. That was most unfair. When he returned from that meeting, he contemplated resigning from the committee. I have never seen him so livid. It took much persuasion to have him continue, and we are grateful he obliged. But we now knew all was not well, despite the Governor’s statements and assurances. Undoubtedly, a third force had emerged, undermining either the committee or the Governor and the ultimate beneficiaries of the study, the people.

We all know that one of Prof. Ekpo’s career hallmarks is his crucial role in leading institutions dedicated to developing human capital. At the University of Uyo, where he served as the Vice-Chancellor, he demonstrated uncommon courage to confront the monsters of cultism and certificate racketeering, even at the risk of his life. As the Director-General of the West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management (WAIFEM), he spearheaded initiatives to enhance the capacity of policymakers and financial practitioners across the region. Under his stewardship, WAIFEM emerged as a beacon of excellence, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among West African nations. So, who was afraid of his efforts to re-position the state? If there was any suspicion of going outside the mandate, why was no one bold enough to confront him?

We recognized that the future of Akwa Ibom state was at stake, and unless disbanded by the Governor, there was no need to discontinue our work. We visited the Minister of Solid Minerals to support authenticating and registering the needed solid minerals data in Akwa Ibom State. Professor Linus Asuquo of the National Metallurgical Development Center was very useful in facilitating this meeting. We also visited the leadership of MainOne Nigeria regarding internet penetration in Akwa Ibom State. A visit to some of the leading farmers in the state was refreshing and comical, as some confessed that they have never been visited or supported by the government, despite the massive intervention of the State Government, including the Central Bank of Nigeria, in agriculture. A comprehensive report with viable solutions and actionable recommendations was submitted to the Governor promptly. He was thankful, and we had no reason to doubt him.

On this auspicious occasion of Professor Ekpo’s retirement, I pray that this report will not be consigned to the dustbin, at least for the following reasons:

1. In my opinion, the committee’s recommendations still represent a roadmap for revitalizing the economy of Akwa Ibom State and mitigating the socio-economic impacts of not only the COVID-19 pandemic but also our current economic challenges. They provide valuable insights, and it’s unnecessary to reinvent the wheel.

2. That study was conducted despite severe danger to members’ health. For example, the chairman was seriously ill; unfortunately, no official extended courtesy. His recovery was a miracle, and we remain grateful to God. We owe him and others who risked their lives some gratitude by implementing the recommendations.

3. Unsurprisingly, but not to be glossed over, no team member received a thank-you letter. We should always appreciate knowledge and commitment to general interest, knowing that these are valuable tools for societal growth and collaborative governance.

I am pleased to have penned these few words in honour of a professor who has earned his place at the top. I look forward to a well-garnished ‘okpo ebot’ in his Ikot Obio Eka home. That is, if the 1.5-kilometre road to his abode, abandoned since 2022, is passable. I pray that the government will restart work on that road as a modest demonstration of gratitude for Prof’s services to the state over the decades.

Prof, enjoy your retirement and the company of your family members!

•Udom Inoyo is Advisor, Inoyo Toro Foundation; Former Vice Chairman, ExxonMobil Companies in Nigeria

Prof. Akpan Hogan Ekpo

Napoli Reduce Victor Osimhen’s Transfer Fee

Femi Solaja with agency report

With him involved in off the field battles in recent time, there are strong indications that Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen, may have lost the chance to play in England this coming season.

Although Osimhen’s Italian club, Napoli, are believed to be considering lowering their asking price on their Nigerian marksman, some of the previous teams linked to the player

have now adopted lukewarm attitude in the face of his social media ‘wars’.

Before this development, Napoli had fixed Osimhen’s transfer fee at €140million before it was dropped to €120million. But news by Italian sporting media yesterday now put the new asking fee at €100million.

Osimhen has been one of the most sought-after players in the last two transfer windows by some of the

biggest clubs in Europe but chose to stay with the former Serie A champions where he’s a cult hero.

It was quite understandable. Osimhen was clinical in front of goal, providing 76 goals and 16 assists in 133 appearances for Napoli since he joined the club from Lille in France.

According to an Italian media outlet, getfootballnewsitaly.com, Napoli are now ready to lower the

asking price on their Nigerian star. It further confirmed that top English clubs including Arsenal and Chelsea have pulled the plug, insisting that the price was still way too high for Osimhen and have dropped their bid.

Previously, Chelsea, Arsenal, PSG, and Al Hilal (Saudi Arabia) were the clubs most interested in signing him. Osimhen favoured a transfer

to the Premier League.

With English clubs now uninterested and are looking at other options, this could have informed Napoli’s decision to lower their asking fee. This now leaves Osimhen with the option of moving to PSG or Saudi Arabia, where a bumper deal is waiting for him. The Nigerian appears not interested in both directions.

Mattia Zaccagni scored in the final minute of stoppage time on Monday night as Italy broke Croatia’s hearts with a late equaliser that ensures the defending champions progress to the last 16 of Euro 2024.

Luka Modric had thought he had won it for Croatia to send them through as runners-up in Group B when he slammed a shot into the roof of the net early in the second half.

That came after he had seen a penalty saved, but the swift response to that setback looked like it would be enough for the Croatians.

But Italy levelled in stoppage time when Zaccagni curled home in the 98th minute to ensure they go through with group winners Spain.

It was a cruel blow for Croatia, who had been minutes away from progressing but two points is now unlikely to be enough to finish as one of the best third-placed teams.

The result means Italy will play Switzerland in the last 16 on Saturday, 29 June.

EURO 2024

Albania 0-1 Spain

Croatia 1-1 Italy

France v Poland Netherlands v Austria

Denmark v Serbia England v Slovenia

Rangers, Fans Celebrate NPFL Trophy in Grand Style in Enugu

Okala Praises Gov Mbah for the support that made them champions

Rangers International Football Club and their fans trooped out in their thousands to the Okpara Square, in Enugu on Monday evening to celebrate the 2023/2024 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) trophy won by the Flying Antelopes.

The team arrived Enugu in grand style, yesterday afternoon after winning their last NPFL match of the season in Jos where they beat Gombe United 2-1 before they were officially crowned champions. Rangers 2-0 victory over Bendel Insurance of Benin in their week 37 clash in Enugu gave them their eighth league title penultimate weekend.

Lead by their captain, Chukwudi Nwaodu; Team Manager, Fidelis Ilechukwu; and the General Manager/ CEO, Amobi Ezeaku, Rangers were treated to a thunderous ovation by the crowd consisting of the state’s Commissioner for Youth and Sport, Lloyd

Ekweremadu; his Information and Communications counterpart, Aka Eze Aka; MD, Afrinvest West Africa, Ike Chioke; Executive Chairman, Enugu State Tourism Board, Rita Mbah; a retinue of Rangers legends, Emmanuel Okala; former Council Chairmen; and fans led by Emmanuel Okoh, aka Okwuluora.

Speaking, the GM, Amobi, thanked the fans for all the support given to the players and the entire team, noting also that the Governor of the state, Dr. Peter Mbah, made a whole difference by believing in the team with all his heart and investing in all the resources needed to put the team in good spirit and shape to do the exploits.

“First, this victory is not only for Rangers, but for Ndi Enugu and the entire Ndigbo. We thank our amiable governor for believing in us and giving us all the support. The only support we did not get was probably the one

we did not ask for.

“However, the truth is that the journey has just begun, because the victory calls for more work. We have to work harder and get even more prepared for the journey ahead. But we are the ‘Never Say Die team’. So, we assure you that we will continue to make you proud. We will retain this title next season because it has come to stay.

“Going into continental competitions, rest assured that we will make you proud,” he stated.

Amobi said because the trophy was for their supporters, the doors of Rangers office would be open for the next one month to enable their fans and supporters to have a feel of the trophy and take pictures with it.

While appreciating the fans and the governor for their unflinching support, the Commissioner for Youth and Sport, Lloyd Ekweremadu, assured

fans that Rangers would be going into continental competitions more fortified, describing the club as a national pride and brand.

Speaking to journalists, club legend, Emma Okala, said the name of the game was to win and the former players would stand by the team to see them to victory.

“The governor has done very well for the level of support he gave to the players, I must confess. Putting the stadium in order to enable them to play their home matches at The Cathedral instead of Awka was a major clincher,” he said.

A top fan of the club, Emmanuel Okoh, vowed to continue to give his all to ensure that Rangers excel in the coming season and continental competitions.

Okoh doled out cash appreciation to Rangers legend, Emmanuel Okala and some fans.

With the Nigerian striker’s contract expiring in two years, the Partenopeans are now desperate to

cash out by letting him go. Chelsea are believed to be searching for a striker below 23 years; Manchester United already have Rasmus Hojlund; while Newcastle have Alexander Isak. Arsenal are now his only available option for a destination in the English Premier League.

If the status quo remains, Osimhen could just find himself at PSG next season to fill the void left by Kylian Mbappe who moved over to Real Madrid on a free transfer.

Chairman of Nigeria National League, (NNL) Mr. George Aluo, has said that the present board of the second-tier league under his watch has in less than one year in office succeeded in changing the narratives of the most important league in the country even as he commended sportswriters for being partners in progress with the league body.

Speaking with journalists in Lagos as a special guest of the just concluded Paddysco Sports Award, Aluo described the league and Super 8 at Enugu as a huge success noting that the league house will build on the successes recorded to prosecute a more successful league next season.

"The just concluded league was a huge success and let me start by saying a very big thank you to my colleagues. They've been wonderful. The support they've given us has been massive and don't forget that football is a media event and as we tried to change the narratives, my colleagues in the media cued in and as such they deserve special recognition for their role in supporting the NNL.

"I decided to single out the media because if we're doing a good job and the media refuses to put us on the spotlight, we won't be able to make Nigerians appreciate what we're doing,” he stressed Aluo explained that when the present board took over July last

year, the NNL was described as cash and carry league while some people described it as Inter House League but in less than one year on the saddle, the perception has changed.

According to him, when the NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau gave him the mandate to lead the NNL, he felt it was a challenge because he knew that other journalists who have been there before him namely; Fan Ndubuoke, Mitchel Obi, Danladi Bako, Mainasara Iloh and Paul Bassey performed excellently well and with Aisha Falode being on the board of NFF with him, he has no reason to fail.

"When the NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau first appointed me as the chairman of NNL, I saw it as a challenge because other journalists before me performed excellently well on the NNL. But today I can beat my chest to say that after one year, we have re- branded the league. The NNL boss further described the Super 8 as a testimony to the fact that 8 teams that came to Enugu got there on merit and at the end of the day, the best four teams were promoted to the NPFL positing that it was the excellent administrative frame work put in place that enabled an academy team like Beyond Limits to gain promotion to the elite league which goes to show the quality of the league and that there was a level playing ground.

After recovering from the ailment that prevented her from competing in the women’s 100m hurdles, Tobi Amusan yesterday anchored Nigeria’s women’s 4x100m relay team to the gold medal at the 2026 African Senior Athletics Championships in Douala, Cameroon.

The relay medal increased Team Nigeria’s gold won to four at the championships.

Nigeria kicked off the sprint relay with Justina Eyakpobeya running the starting leg before handing over baton to Tima Godbless. Between Godbless and Olayinka Olajide, it was clear that the gold was coming home. But the 100m hurdles world record holder at 12.12seconds only need to switch gear to blow away the rest of the field, coasting home in 42.72 seconds to get the gold into Nigeria’s collection. Liberia and Ghana completed the podium finish inside Stade de Japoma, Douala, Cameroon. However, the Nigerian men’s 4x100m relay quartet could not repeat the feat of their women as they could only settle for the silver medal after they were beaten to the gold by Ghana that clocked 38.63 seconds. Côte d’Ivoire got the consolation bronze.

Victor Osimhen...value drops in new Napoli asking fee on their prized star forward

L-R: Tima Godbless, Tobi Amusan, Justina Eyakpobeyan and Olayinka Olajide celebrating winning the women’s 4x100m gold medal at the 2026 African Senior Athletics Championships in Douala, Cameroon...yesterday

EURO 2024

FG to HND Graduates

“The curriculum for HND and B.Sc holders were not the same, hence, HND graduates would have to undergo mandatory one-year training before conversion from Executive to Officers’ cader...the Nigerian civil service is leveraging learning and development to enhance the capacity and capability of its workforce with a view to delivering on national priorities” --HeadoftheCivilServiceoftheFederation,Dr.FolasadeYemi-Esan,tasksworkerswithHND.

Tales The Country Told Me

“My friend, where are you? I have been calling your line since, you no dey pick”

“Where else would I be at this time? I am either at work or at home. But to tell you the truth, I didn’t see your calls. I am at this joint that I just discovered. Omo, the pepper-soup is something else. The fish tastes like it was brought to my plate from the very eye of the Atlantic Ocean itself.”

“One of these days, they will use food to carry you away. Just remember that you are not responsible for yourself alone. You have a family, and very soon, you’d be a grandfather. You can’t be eating all about, looking for where soup is sweet all over town. But that is not why I am calling.”

“So what’s up? Come and join me. I will send you the address and we can talk over some nice delicacies. They even have palmwine. Frothing palmwine. Tastes as if it was tapped by my great grandfather who was famous for being a champion palmwine tapper in his days. I wasn’t there, but I was told the story by my father who heard it from his own father. I come from a long line of distinguished professionals you see.”

“I am calling you because of you”

“Calling me because of me. What kind of English is that?”

“It is your wife.”

“What about her? I still spoke with about an hour ago”

“She asked me to talk to you.”

“I don’t remember getting her upset in any way. When I am done with this pepper soup, and palm wine. I am almost done. I am going straight home to eat her food. I. know if I don’t eat at home, there would be trouble.”

“She told me you are planning to travel to Port Harcourt and she doesn’t think that is a good idea at this time. There is crisis in that state.”

“Oh. God. God. This woman and her troubles. Okay, you tell me. What does she say is the problem in Port Harcourt? I am going there for business. You know the nature of my work.”

“She says the work can wait. It is not just Port Harcourt.

The entire Rivers State. She does not want you to go to a place where the Governor and his Godfather in Abuja are fighting. Policemen have turned the state into a police zone. Deposed Council Chairmen are aggrieved. Lawmakers are in court, over who is a genuine or fake member of parliament. Everybody in Rivers State is now a lawyer quoting Section this, Section that of the 1999 Constitution. Angry youths are threatening fire and brimstone.”

“Oh my. For Heavens’ sake, there are about 10 million people in Rivers State. Why are we behaving like these white people who sit in their own countries, read one or two stories in a part of Africa, and they quickly issue a frightening travel advisory or write a whole book: Nigeria On The Brink, The Coming Death of Democracy in Africa. We exaggerate too much There are people living in Rivers State who have given testimony that there is no crisis in the state. It is just politicians behaving like over-pampered children.”

“The interim Chairman of APC in Rivers state says the state is at war. APC wants the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in the state. Chief Tony Okocha should know.”

“What do you expect him to say? The APC is playing a script in Rivers. They have grabbed 27 members of the House of Assembly who defected from PDP to APC. They want to take the state through the back door and mischief. Wike is helping them. It is all politics. I can’t stop my business transactions in Port Harcourt because of some of the politicians. I have spoken to some of the elders, they say…”

“I beg, elders, we all know these elders… Well, your wife is concerned and troubled. If there is a blow out in Rivers and you are caught in-between, nobody will know that you are just a greedy Ijesha man, always

looking for where to eat.”

“I am a man of courage. Nothing scares me. The logic of making money is that in the midst of crisis, you look for opportunities.”

“The only thriving business in Rivers State today is to be either pro-Fubara or pro-Wike. I hear that business is becoming more lucrative than crude oil theft.”

“You know me. I am a man who goes to where even angels fear to tread.”

“Your wife said exactly the same thing. She said you are an angel. But she does not want you to join the angels yet.”

“Oh God. Don’t worry. I know her problem. There is this Aso Ebi she wants to buy. Once I give her the money for it, she’d go for her owambe and allow me go to Port Harcourt. How can some characters fighting for their own stomach in Port Harcourt become an issue in my house in Lagos. Tomorrow, now, if I decide I want to go to Kano for business, my wife will again carry placard, and start calling friends and neighbours…”

“No. It won’t be your wife then. I will be the one to carry the placard. You don’t know this country? You want to go to where two brothers are quarrelling over the stool of the Sarkin Kano? Have you seen those tough-looking boys carrying hefty sticks about, each one defending his own Emir? If they hit you twice with those local baseball sticks, all the bones in your body will give way immediately. You know your wife won’t be able to come to Kano to rescue you. Even if anybody asks me to come and rescue you, my wife and children will refuse. You want to go to a state where lawyers and judges are part of the confusion. Let them resolve their matter first before you go and start

The Armament of Sobriety: A Tribute to Prof. Akpan Hogan Ekpo

Afew weeks ago, I received a call from a University of Uyo community member about a valedictory seminar and book presentation in honour of Professor Akpan Hogan Ekpo. He also requested that I send a tribute. I wonder if Professor Ekpo is a wine or whiskey connoisseur. Even if he is not, maybe today, given his background and tour of duties, he undoubtedly knows much about pre-dinner cocktails or excellent after-dinner drinks. Regrettably, we are in a country where, despite the best efforts of some government agencies, unscrupulous citizens are still bent on importing substandard food products, with some brazenly extending the madness to manufacturing supposedly choice drinks in unhygienic environments. So, anyone who has fallen prey to and consumed these drinks may never know the taste of a meticulously brewed drink. Lovers of good brews often identify a few things that go with the quality: colour, taste of wood, complexity, persistence, passion, and maturity. Age matters, just as it does in human life. Professor Ekpo undoubtedly comes in many shades of quality, not the least shaped by his upbringing and, unsurprisingly, now tamed by age. The younger Prof was different, and Akwa Ibom State couldn’t produce a better prototype! Wherever he found himself, from primary to secondary school and university, through dint of hard work and perseverance, he conquered. His parental background was never a setback, and he has always been authentic, proudly sharing his roots with any audience, local or international. This is probably one reason, despite numerous job opportunities, that

as a young lecturer at the University of Calabar. Like many intellectuals of that time, the bug of the African Renaissance bit him, and they were collectively at the forefront of the liberation struggle, especially in Southern Africa. Interaction with most young people, students, and fresh graduates in Calabar was easy, given their age. They recruited, nay indoctrinated, many with their leftist ideology. I was not part of that school, but there were a few of his ilk, both on and off campus, that I admired. Bassey Ekpo Bassey was a journalist whose vibrant articles were a delight to read. Edwin and Bene Madunagu, a young couple, were unrepentantly dogged in pursuit of a better Nigeria. I greatly admired both and remain grateful that many years after, my good friend, Kayode Komolafe, would reconnect me with Professor Madunagu when he visited Lagos. Who can forget the no-nonsense and blistering Professor Eskor Toyo, whose class was always packed, not necessarily by students offering economics, but anyone, including young lecturers, engaged in the stumping of Western democracy and its capitalist institutions? There was also Professor Eteng, Comrade Amah T. Amah, Dr Biko Agozino and Dr Yakubu Ochefu. How can I forget the one who drank from Eskor’s fountain right from home, a veteran journalist, Ikpoto (Comrade) Okon Osung! Whether fully persuaded or not, this bunch afforded many a broader view of issues and taught the importance of authenticity, transparency, and commitment. I am indeed grateful for such orientation at a young age. Interestingly, Professor Ekpo would utilize his skills beyond the academic community to

help positively influence our public institutions, both at the federal, state and even local levels.

In his home state, his service spans several decades, whether as a member of an Economic Advisory team, crafting the blueprint for the development of the state or superintending as Chairman of the Akwa Ibom Investment Promotion Council (AKIIPOC). He was a known name, especially when Obong Victor Attah held sway as the state Governor between 1999 and 2007. This was also a challenging time for the oil and gas industry, given the conflict between the oil-producing states and the Federal Government under President Olusegun Obasanjo because of paltry revenue allocation for crude oil extraction. Tagged ‘the agitation for resource control,’ the international oil companies, though in a joint venture with Nigeria (through the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation-NNPC), contributing their fair share of operational cost and paying relevant fees and royalties, were largely signposted as the culprits. After all, they were the operators of these oil and gas assets and, therefore, closest to the people. While there were relationship challenges with the oil-bearing communities, truth be told, these companies were also victims, trapped in the dishonesty and inefficiency dotting our landscape, which have negatively impacted the ability to improve the lives of citizens, even to date. In Akwa Ibom state, no love was lost between the Governor and Mobil Producing Nigeria. However, as one of the company’s leadership members, I must admit that

he returned to Nigeria after his academic pursuits in the United States of America. He desperately wanted to contribute to developing his state, country, and the continent.

I first encountered Akpan Ekpo during his sojourn

President Bola Tinubu

Prof. Akpan Hogan Ekpo