As Nigeria's banking sector looks to the future, a survey by THISDAY has revealed that Nigerian youth, mostly the Generation Z (Gen Zs), born between 1997 and 2012, are
demanding banking solutions that cater to their unique needs.
In separate interviews with THISDAY, the young adults said they want banks to offer flexible study loans, financial support for young entrepreneurs and improved
mobile banking services, paving the way for a more inclusive and innovative banking industry. Also of prime importance to them
was the issue of account security, given the rate of wire frauds so as to protect their sweat in the banks from being stolen. There has been an upswing in fraudsters getting sophisticated and illegally accessing and stealing depositors funds.
The survey, conducted by THISDAY, gathered opinions from young professionals across various industries.
According to the findings, the focused category of youth want banks to be more innovative, customer-centric, and inclusive of Gen Z’s, by sampling
their opinions before developing youthfocused products and reliable services that cater to their unique needs and aspirations. They emphasised the need for
“The
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James Emejo, Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Kayode Tokede in Lagos
Jonathan, Lokpobiri Optimistic Nigeria Will Overcome Present Economic Challenges
Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa
Former President Goodluck Jonathan and the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) have expressed optimism that Nigeria would soon overcome the current socio-economic challenges facing the country.
They both stated this in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital, yesterday, while formally declaring open the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Yenagoa Law Week 2024 with the theme: “The Legal Profession in a Time of Socio-economic Uncertainties.”
The ex-President represented by a lawyer and first-class monarch in Bayelsa, King Collins Daniel, noted that the federal government was doing its best to salvage the situation.
He commended the Somina Johnbull-led NBA Yenagoa for organising the 2024 NBA Law Week 2024 and for the successful hosting of the event, saying the theme was not only apt but well-chosen in view of the present economic hardships in the country.
He said the topic presents an opportunity for a reflection on general governance issues and the need to address them urgently for the wellbeing of the citizenry.
Jonathan said: "May I also remind
WHAT
us that the present economic hardships ravaging this country is not limited to the legal profession as it pervades all professions and sectors, including the high and low. We therefore, need collaborative efforts in finding solutions to it.
“Socio-economic uncertainty is not a new phenomenon in human race. After the First World War, the world also suffered from economic hardships as a result of economic depression which occurred about 1929/30. Nigeria was not also left out.
"Between 1984 and 1987 there were also economic challenges in Nigeria under the General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida's administration, which led the Federal Government to introduce an economic recovery programme called the Structural Adiustment Programme, codenamed SAP. The country experienced scarcity of essential commodities, and the citizens suffered severe hardship. God was with us and the country bounced back.
"Between 2016 and 2019 the whole world went through another economic recession. Nigeria also had her own share of the hardship, but we were fortunate we were able to get out of the recession in a few years."
He said the legal profession
ZS WANT FROM THEIR BANKS
uninterrupted network services, good customer service, and financial literacy programme.
Speaking with THISDAY, a 22-yearold Customer Service Representative at an EduTech company, Babatunde Olagbenro, was vocal about the need for more youth-oriented services.
“I believe my bank, Providus Bank, should offer flexible study loans for students and financial support for young entrepreneurs,” he said. His sentiment was echoed by Judith Adaobi, a 21-year-old businesswoman who banks with the United Bank for Africa (UBA,)
“A loan service for business would be a game-changer for me,” she added.
Also speaking, 20-year-old teacher, Ezekiel Kramer, and 23-year-old realtor, Ohamadike Collin Obinna, shared frustrations with their banks, stressing the need for financial institutions to offer uninterrupted services.
“Uninterrupted network and good customer service are my top priorities,” Kramer emphasised, while Ohamadike stressed the need for, “fast and safe transactions.” Ohamadike also mentioned the need for better mobile banking apps, citing the difficulties he faces while trying to transfer funds or check his account balance on the go.
On her part, a 23-year-old photographer and student, Lade Olaniyi Patrick, cited network issues affecting all banks occasionally as a challenge that needs to be addressed.
He also expressed his disappointment with the lack of support for small businesses and startups by banks in the country, saying financial institutions should offer more tailored services to help young entrepreneurs grow.
In the same vein, 22-year-old fashion designer, Micheal Imoter Iorja, shared concerns with his banks – GTBank and Union Bank.
“Fast and safe transactions are essential for my business,” he emphasised. He also highlighted the need for more branches and ATMs, particularly in rural areas, to increase accessibility and convenience.
But 22-year-old engineer, Michael Imoter Iorja, was generally satisfied with Firstbank's services, except for occasional hiccups. He suggested that banks should invest more in technology to reduce downtime and improve overall efficiency.
Similarly, 24-year-old Teacher, Awopileda Yomi Segun, said: “Uninterrupted transactions are crucial for me.”
He also emphasised the need for better customer support, citing the difficulty he faces when trying to
has credible, intelligent men and women, noting that the ingenuity of the profession in advocating for the common good and better life for the underprivileged had been one of history.
He added: "One good thing about the profession is that it discusses current issues and create fora for intellectual engagements always.
"The galaxy of legal icons gathered here, is a positive development. This great meeting of minds by learned silks, judicial icons, jurists and other brilliant members of the bar will definitely set the tone for fruitful deliberations.
"Lessons learnt will serve useful purpose for policy formulation as well. I therefore, enjoin all participants at
this conference to take advantage of the convivial atmosphere, to deliberate on the knotty issue of socio-economic uncertainty by proffering solutions that will lead to speedy economic recovery in our country.”
Also speaking, Lokpobiri, said whatever economic challenge Nigerians are facing, it was not peculiar to Nigeria.
Lokpobiri said: "Whatever you see here is what happens everywhere in the world. As a government, President Bola Tinubu is doing whatever that is necessary to see how the country can support the most vulnerable people in the society. For any society to be good, there will be times like this for a very bold decision for the interest and prosperity of this country.
14 Killed after Trailer Rammed into Worshippers in Kano
Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed the death of 14 persons with several others injured when a trailer lost control and rammed into Jumuat prayer worshippers in Kano.
In a statement issued by corps spokesman, Abdullahi Labaran, the FRSC Kano Sector Commander,
Ibrahim Abdullahi confirmed the incident which was reported at 1350hrs. The accident occurred at Imawa town along Zaria road, Kura local government area of Kano State, shortly after the Friday prayer, when the driver of the trailer coming from Kaduna axis with registration number MKA 537XN lost control and ran into the worshippers.
According to the statement, nine of the deceased were buried yesterday afternoon, while those injured were receiving treatment at a hospital
The Sector Commissioner also disclosed that the driver of the trailer was at large.
The statement read,’’ Upon receiving the distress call, FRSC Kano State Command promptly dispatched personnel to the scene, alongside other security agencies, to initiate rescue operations and provide immediate medical assistance to the injured victims.’’ Abdullahi emphasised the FRSC’s commitment to road safety and urged all road users to adhere strictly to traffic regulations to prevent such avoidable tragedies.
CALLS MOUNT FOR JOE BIDEN TO QUIT PRESIDENTIAL RACE AFTER DEBATE FUMBLE
it stands, the president is engaged in a reckless gamble. There are Democratic leaders better equipped to present clear, compelling and energetic alternatives to a second Trump presidency.
resolve issues with his account.
As the conversation delved deeper, the Gen Zs interviewed highlighted the importance of financial literacy and education. They expressed belief that banks should offer training, workshops, webinars, and other form of support to young people to manage their finances effectively.
Ezekiel, suggested that banks should partner with schools and universities to provide financial education programmes for students.
The young adults also stressed the importance of technology in banking, emphasising the need for mobile banking apps, online banking platforms, and cardless transactions. They pointed out that banks should invest more in digital infrastructure to improve customer’s security, speed, and convenience.
Furthermore, they noted the importance of customer support, citing the need for 24/7 support, multiple channels for communication (such as social media, email, and phone), and trained staff who can resolve issues efficiently, swiftly, and remotely.
According to them, by investing in young people, Nigeria could harness their energy, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit, positioning itself for sustained growth and prosperity. They noted that the future of banking in Nigeria was undoubtedly youth-focused, and the opportunities are vast and exciting.
Their views were however, supported by the Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Globus Bank Limited, Elias Igbinakenzuaa, who in an interview with THISDAY, pointed out that banks were aware that they cannot ignore the Gen Zs and so are doing everything possible to create the environment for them to enjoy their services. He said his bank has services and products to seamlessly support the banking aspiration of the young adults.
“In Nigeria, we have seen that we are very creative at that level and a lot needs to be done to encourage those (Gen Zs), to see how they can commercialise that creativity.
“The Gen Zs are here to help us grow and as we fade out, we create a room for them to step up and do it their own way. For now, we have aligned our system with what their aspirations are. “We are saying that you do not have to come every day to the office to work. This is part of the things we are doing to enable the Gen Zs participate in banking and it is working well,” he added.
“There is no reason for the party to risk the stability and security of the country by forcing voters to choose between Mr. Trump’s deficiencies and those of Mr. Biden. It’s too big a bet to simply hope Americans will overlook or discount Mr. Biden’s age and infirmity that they see with their own eyes.”
The board went on to say it would still support Biden as its “unequivocal pick” if the choice remains between him and former President Donald Trump.
The Biden campaign however, hit back at the editorial board’s critique.
“The last time Joe Biden lost the New York Times editorial board’s endorsement, it turned out pretty well for him,” Biden campaign co-chair Cedric Richmond told CNN.
The Times endorsed two Democratic presidential candidates in 2020: Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Elizabeth Warren.
The New York Times was the latest to critique Biden’s debate performance, which has set off alarm bells among top Democrats — leaving some to openly question whether Biden can stay atop of the Democratic ticket.
“He seemed a little disoriented. He did get stronger as the debate went on. But by that time, I think the panic had set in,” longtime Democratic operative and CNN senior political commentator David Axelrod said.
Axelrod also gave voice to a
by banks to deposit their FX cash with the CBN for onward credit to their off-shore accounts with the correspondent banks.
The new directive which becomes effective immediately is contained in a circular issued yesterday, and signed by acting CBN Director, Currency Operations Department, Solaja Olayemi, addressed to all banks, a copy of which was posted on its website.
The framework mandates banks to give at least three working days' notice of their intent to deposit forex cash, in writing to the Branch Controller, CBN Lagos or/and Abuja, adding that this must be accompanied by the list of owners of foreign currency to be deposited.
The CBN also requested that all deposits must be within a maximum limit of $10 million consisting higher bills of $100 and $50 per day while the lower bills including $20 and below must not exceed $1 million.
In addition, British Pound Sterling (GBP) and Euro cash have maximum limits of £1 million and €1 million respectively.
The CBN further stated that two representatives of the depositing bank must be present to witness and
conversation happening among many Democrats on Thursday night: “There are going to be discussions about whether he should continue.”
On MSNBC, the cable news channel that’s seen as the home to the country’s progressive political wing, anchor Alex Wagner said Thursday immediately following the debate that there had “been a uniformly negative reaction to Biden’s performance tonight.”
“This was about revealing who Donald Trump was, but it was also Joe Biden battling a caricature of himself as an enfeebled person,” Wagner said of the debate. “And he did nothing to disabuse, I think, the country of the notion that he is very old and was lost frequently in that debate.”
A raspy and sometimes halting Biden tried repeatedly to confront Trump, as his Republican rival countered the president’s criticism by leaning into falsehoods about the economy, illegal immigration and his role in the January 6 2021 Capitol insurrection.
Biden’s uneven performance, particularly early in the debate, crystallised the concerns of many Americans that, at 81, he was too old to serve as president, according to the Associated Press.
Biden’s delivery from the beginning of the debate drew the most attention afterwards. Trump’s allies immediately declared victory, while prominent Democrats publicly questioned whether Biden could move forward.
Vice President Kamala Harris, speaking on CNN afterwards, sought to defend the president’s
confirm the amount to be deposited.
The circular stressed that the deposits may be in $100, $50, $20, $10, $5, $1 and all GBP and EURO denominations - adding that each denomination shall be in separate boxes.
The revised guidelines also mandates deposit money banks (DMBs) to engage the services of only CBN-registered CIT companies for deposits of foreign currency notes, noting that the time for accepting deposits shall be between 8 a.m and 12 p.m.
The apex bank further clarified that Abuja and Lagos branches would receive, count and authenticate such deposits in the presence of the representatives of the depositing bank on the same day.
The bank shall credit the DMBs account through their offshore correspondent bank within the cycle time of T+5.
Also, the handling charge of 0.30 per cent of the authenticated amount shall be recovered from the DMBs current account with CBN.
The CBN however, warned that it would not accept forex deposits from any DMB that fails to comply with any of the guidelines.
performance while acknowledging the criticism.
“There was a slow start, but there was a strong finish,” she said.
Asked about his performance in the debate, Biden told reporters early yesterday, that “I think we did well”, but said he had a “sore throat.”
Pressed about Democratic concerns with his showing that he should consider stepping aside, Biden said, “No, it’s hard to debate a liar.”
Former President Barack Obama, yesterday, weighed in on Biden‘s dismal debate performance, in a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle.
“Bad debate nights happen. Trust me, I know. But this election is still a choice between someone who has fought for ordinary folks his entire life and someone who only cares about himself. Between someone who tells the truth; who knows right from wrong and will give it to the American people straight — and someone who lies through his teeth for his own benefit. Last night didn’t change that, and it’s why so much is at stake in November,” he wrote.
Meanwhile, at a campaign rally at Raleigh, North Carolina, yesterday, Biden forcefully tried to quell Democratic anxieties over his unsteady showing at the debate.
Acknowledging the criticism, the US president said, ”I don’t debate as well as I used to,” adding, “I know how to do this job. I know how to get things done.”
Speaking for 18 minutes, Biden appeared far more animated than his showing the night before, and
Meanwhile, the Nigerian stock market appreciated by N15.68 trillion in the first half of (H1) 2024 as investors continued to invest in blue-chip companies.
THISDAY checks revealed that the NGX market capitalisation closed yesterday, the last trading day for H1 2024 at N56.601 trillion, representing about N15.68 trillion or 38.3 per cent gain in investors’ net returns in H1 2024, from the N40.918 trillion the stock market opened for trading this year.
Consequently, the NGX All-Share Index closed June at 100,057.49 basis points, about 25,283.72 basis points or 33.8per cent from 74,773.77 basis points the stock market closed for trading in 2023.
The reported 33.8 per cent yearto-date (YtD) gain in NGX ASI means the Nigerian stock market still maintain its position as the best Exchange in Africa.
Commenting on the stock market performance in H1 2024, the Vice President, Highcap Securities Limited, Mr. David Adonri, stated that investors were still trading based on sentiment. Adonri, was optimistic that the
he excoriated Trump for his “lies” and campaign aimed at “revenge and retribution.”
“I know I’m not a young man, to state the obvious,” Mr. Biden told the enthusiastic crowd. “I don’t speak as smoothly as I used to. I don’t debate as well as I used to. But I know what I know. I know how to tell the truth. I know how to do this job,” he added. Even as Democratic leaders pledged confidence in Biden yesterday, pundits and political strategists openly expressed doubt in his ability to see the election through, in some cases calling for him to make way for a new nominee, the New York Times reported.
Indeed, the only way for Democrats to replace Biden is for him to step aside and surrender the delegates pledged to him. At this point in the race, his replacement would be decided on the floor of the Democratic National Convention in August.
The debate buoyed the spirits of Trump and his allies, as did the Supreme Court ruling yesterday, that prosecutors had overstepped in their use of an obstruction charge against a member of mob that attacked the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Trump, whose own case could be affected by the ruling, called it “a big win” in a post online.
During the Thursday night debate, Trump argued that the president’s policies had left the U.S.-Mexico border wide open, allowing crime and drugs to flow into cities and converting every state into a border state.
stock may maintain its positive momentum in H2 2024, on the backdrop of banking sector recapitalisation and expected H1 2024 corporate earnings by most especially the banks listed on the Exchange.
Amid hike in Monetary Policy Rate to 26.25 per cent, capital market experts stated that its impact has created sentiment trading among investors who see fixed-income market as alternative investment opportunity to hedge against double-digit inflation.
Responding also, an Investment Banker & Stockbroker, Mr. Tajudeen Olayinka, stated that the N15.68 trillion market capitalisation gain in the first half of 2024 tells us the presence of huge liquid funds in the hands of institutional investors who currently dominate activities in the stock market.
“It also holds the fact that the future is brighter for some of the listed companies, hence, investors are positioning their portfolios for that brighter future. This is also the reason market remains resilient in spite of high interest rate regime,” he said.
WE SHARE IN YOUR GRIEF…
Minimum Wage: You Can't Dictate What to Pay, NLC Replies Governors
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has rejected State governor's position that they should be allowed to determine what amount to pay their workers as minimum wage.
The Tripartite Committee set up by the federal government had submitted its report to President Bola Tinubu after the government side and private sector employers jointly agreed on N62,000 as new national minimum wage with organised labour insisting on N250,000.
However, in a statement yesterday, signed by the Head of Information
and Publicity, Benson Upah, the labour centre urged the governors to abandon any inclination towards dictatorial practices as the process remains a tripartite one.
The labour movement stated that it was compelled to address the recent statements made by some governors regarding their desire to pay what they deem fit to Nigerian workers as the minimum wage.
The NLC stated: "This notion is not only dictatorial but also undermines the very essence as well as the model adopted for creating a national minimum wage in Nigeria.
"The concept of a national minimum
wage is not arbitrary. It represents a national wage floor, a baseline below which no worker in the law should be paid."
The NLC described a national minimum wage as a threshold and a collective agreement that ensures a minimum standard of living for every worker in the law.
"The Governors’ demand to unilaterally determine the minimum wage negates this principle and
threatens the welfare of Nigerian workers and the national economy.
"It is important to remind the Governors that the national minimum wage is not synonymous with the individual pay structures of the states which they implement religiously, reflecting their unique financial capabilities and circumstances.
" This diversity in pay structures underscores the flexibility that already exists within the system, allowing
states to reward their workers in alignment with their financial realities.
"Furthermore, the Governors' argument appears inconsistent when juxtaposed with the remuneration of political office holders,” it added.
NLC said that it is unfortunate that workers' salaries were being viewed as charity rather than hard-earned income.
It said that the fate of Nigerian workers cannot be left solely in the
hands of employers, whether public or private.
"No sane society does that. What the governors are asking for is akin to allowing numerous companies and organisations in Nigeria to pay workers whatever they like.
"While these companies may not pay the same salaries, they must adhere to the national wage floor, and the same should apply to state governors.
Rivers Crisis: CJ Reassigns Assembly Case to New Judge
Court to hear matter July 17
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
for MSMEs Development
Enugu Governor Bags Presidential Award
Deji
Elumoye in Abuja
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has been conferred with a National Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Award by the Office of the Vice President on the World MSME Day for his outstanding contributions to the MSME sub-sector in his state.
Speaking while presenting the award on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima during this year’s National MSME Awards held at the State House, Abuja, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Office of the Vice President, Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, said Governor Mbah had impressed with his leadership capacity.
According to him, "The recipient is someone my principal described as changing the leadership strategy, not only in Enugu State, but in the whole of the South-east.
“Dr. Peter Mbah is also one of the most IT-savvy individuals I have ever met and he is putting a lot of
that experience and knowledge into governance in Enugu State. And he also recognises the impact that MSMEs have, not just on the labour market, but on productivity and increase in economic activities in his state.
“On behalf of the Vice president, I have the honour to present you with the MSME Award for 2024".
Addressing journalists after receiving the award, Governor Mbah described the award as an elixir to do more, saying MSMEs is the lifeblood of any economic development.
He described the Vice President as a champion of MSMEs, commending his tireless commitment to the Light-Up Nigeria Project, which he said would help to ramp up power supply to industrial clusters in the South-east.
“Let me, on behalf of the government and people of Enugu State, express our profound gratitude to the Office of the Vice President for recognising our modest effort in supporting the growth of MSMEs in our state.
Tinubu Appoints Eight New Federal Permanent Secretaries
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of eight new Federal Permanent Secretaries to fill in existing and impending vacancies of some states and geo-political zones in the top administrative cadre of the Civil Service of the Federation.
According to a release issued on Friday by presidential spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, the new Federal Permanent Secretaries appointed after a diligent selection process by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation include Dr. Emanso Umobong
Others are Olusanya Olubunmi - Ondo; Dr. Keshinro Maryam Ismaila - Zamfara; Akujobi Chinyere Ijeoma (South-east) and Isokpunwu Christopher Osaruwanmwen (South-south)
The President anticipates that the new Federal Permanent Secretaries will exercise absolute dedication, diligence, and fidelity to the nation in the discharge of their functions and ensure optimum service delivery to the Nigerian people.
The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court Abuja, Justice John Tsoho has reassigned the suit filed by BOOT Party challenging the defection of the embattled Speaker of Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule and 25 other lawmakers in the state.
The BOOT Party had filed the suit in FHC/PHC/269/2024 before Justice Stephen Daylop-Pam, seeking the court to declare the seats of
the lawmakers vacant following their defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), over disagreement that ensued between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike.
During the last sitting on June 24, the embattled lawmakers urged the court to transfer the matter to another court, but the trial judge, Justice Daylop-Pam informed the parties that he was yet to receive the written petition for stay of
proceedings by his court to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court Abuja.
The lawmakers were demanding that the case be stopped pending the position of court of appeal on the same subject matter.
Justice Daylop-Pam adjourned the matter for hearing yesterday, since the petitioner was deemed not to have been before the court since he hadn't filed any response to the court.
But the legal representatives and litigants were thrown into shock,
yesterday, when the registrar informed parties that the matter has been reassigned to Court 2, presided over by Justice E. O. Obele. At the resume sitting before Justice Obele, there was contention by two legal Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) claiming to be the authentic legal representation of PDP who are seeking for joinder in the matter.
Mr. Joshua Musa (SAN) informed the court that he was directed by the state legal adviser to represent the party in the matter.
Substandard Products: FCCPC Storms Three
Steel Manufacturing Firms in Ogun, Lagos
Dike Onwuamaeze
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has stormed three steel manufacturing firms in Ogun State to investigate alleged manufacturing of substandard iron rods and other trade anti-competition practices.
The affected companies were African Foundries Limited (AFL), Ogijo, Ogun State; the Monarch Steel Mill Limited, Sagamu, Ogun State, and the Kam Steel Integrated Company, Sagamu,
Ogun State.
The Acting Executive Vice Chairman of FCCPC, Dr. Adamu Abdullahi, who addressed journalists yesterday at the premises of AFL, said that the reason the commission visited these companies was based on intelligence that anti-competitive behaviour might be going on as alleged. Abdullahi said: “Essentially, we got intelligence and surveillance reports that these companies in question are allegedly involved in some anti-competitive behaviour. That is the reason we decided to come to these three companies.
“So that we can take samples of their products and see what it is that they do by going through the records they gave to us."
He suspected “that there are false, misleading and deceptive as well as unfair market practices,” noting that what has been going on is that some manufacturers would produce 10mm iron rods but label and market same as 12 mm iron rods.
This market behaviour, according to him, is among the major causes of building collapse in Nigeria.
Abdullahi said: “We are talking here about the issue of safety of Nigerians, which is the core essence of consumer protection.
“We have to ensure the safety of our population. What is happening in the building space so far is worrisome to government and all well meaning citizens of this country.
“So we have to look at their process to find out if they are cutting corners. If they are doing so, we will apply the full wrath of the law. That is why we are here."
More Boko Haram Terrorists Surrender to MNJTF Troops
Ikechukwu Aleke in Abuja
The Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) has said that three more Boko Haram terrorists have surrendered to its troops in Cameroon and Nigeria, following the ongoing military operation, code named "Operation Lake Sanity II".
A statement by Chief Military Public Information Officer HQ MNJTF, Ndjamena Chad, Lt. Col.
Abubakar Abdullahi, said that in Cameroon’s Sector 1, two terrorist fighters surrendered to the troops at Wulgo.
Abdullahi also noted that the surrendered terrorists were identified as Rawagana Mustapha, 18, and Mustapha Ali, 20.
"Similarly, Sector 3 in Nigeria reported the surrender of one terrorist fighter, Ibrahim Malam, 28, to the 403 Amphibious Brigade in Baga.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Malam had been a Boko Haram fighter living in Kwaleram, South of Lake Chad, for six years," he said.
As Operation Lake Sanity II progresses, MNJTF urges other terrorists to surrender and lay down their arms for lasting peace and prosperity in the region.
This was as Operation Lake Sanity II, Sector 1 in Cameroon embarked on a seven days free medical outreach
programme, as part of Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) civil military cooperation activities. In a separate statement, the Force Spokesperson, Lt. Col. Abdullahi, said the free medical outreach is targeted at locals in Darak, Kofia, Hile Alifa, and Soueram, extreme North Cameroon. This, he said, is aimed at enhancing the health conditions of local populations who have been affected by ongoing operations.
Former governor of Ogun State, Chief Olusegun Osoba (left) and former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, when Osoba paid a condolence visit to the Saraki family over the passing of their mother, Mrs. Morenike Florence Saraki... recently
L-R: Former Governor of Delta State, James Ibori; former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi and former President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, when the duo called on the Sarakis for a condolence visit following the passing of their mother, Mrs. Morenike Florence Saraki... yesterday
NO MORE WAR…
FG Begins Engagement with Govs, Lawmakers on 700km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Others
The federal government would today begin a stakeholders’ engagement on the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway and thereafter the 1,000km SokotoBadagry superhighway as well as the 477km Calabar-South-east-North Central-Apo-Abuja way.
A statement yesterday by Uchenna Orji, spokesman to the Minister of Works, David Umahi, explained that this followed the approval of President
Bola Tinubu, for the commencement of key national road infrastructure network.
The statement noted that the road infrastructure would traverse the various trade and agricultural corridors of Nigeria and in keeping with the current administration’s strategic economic recovery plans.
Umahi is expected to hold a session of the stakeholders' engagement in Akwa Ibom and Cross River states respectively, the statement added.
“In Akwa Ibom, he will present and discuss the proposed alignment for the construction of Sections 3B and 4 of Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project passing through the state.
“In Cross River state, he will present and discuss section 3A of Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and 92km segment of the CalabarSouth East-North Central- Apo-Abuja Superhighway passing through the state,” it said.
Stakeholders expected at the event
include: Governors of concerned states, Senators and House of Representatives Committees on Works, ministers of line ministries, royal fathers and technocrats.
Also expected to attend are: Officials of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and major telecommunication service providers as well as other relevant stakeholders and the media.
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, according to the statement,
Stop Playing with Citizens’ Lives, Cleric Tells Nigerian Leaders
James Sowole in Abeokuta
The Bishop of Abeokuta Diocese of Catholic Church, Rev. Peter Olukayode Odetoyinbo, has charged Nigerian leaders to urgently carry out a critical reappraisal and review of all their activities and policies, and stop playing with the lives of the citizens.
Odetoyinbo,gave the charge, while speaking with journalists at the sideline of his 10th Episcopal Ordination Anniversary, held at the St. Peter and Paul Catholic Cathedral, Adatan, Abeokuta.
would be the guest of honour.
“The three renewed hope legacy road infrastructure projects when completed shall have historic national interconnectivity that will criss-cross the major transportation routes of Northern and Southern States of Nigeria.
“They include the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, a 1,000-kilometer highway connecting Sokoto in Northern Nigeria to Badagry in Western Nigeria, passing through
seven states and connecting the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway at Ahmadu Bello way Lagos.
“Also, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, a 700-kilometre coastal highway connecting from Lagos State to Cross River State through eight states and the Calabar-South East-North Central-Apo Abuja 477km superhighway connecting from Calabar to Ebonyi, Benue, Kogi, Nasarawa States and ending at Apo in Abuja,” it stated.
According to Odetoyinbo, the Catholic Bishops and other anointed men of God had at different fora advised and came out with position papers, calling on politicians and leaders in particular to be fair and just as well as uphold conscientious fear of God.
He asked them to seek divine intervention for solutions to the challenges confronting the nation. While noting that challenges are not peculiar to Nigeria, the bishop, however, suggested commitment to the welfare of the people and
The bishop charged the leaders to be conscious of their positions and work in accordance with the will of God.
divine intervention, as solution to the problems.
He called on leaders to work towards fulfilling the needs of the people they serve.
While also calling on followers to always pray for their leaders to lead with justice and fairness, he said Nigerians need to be sincere in their service to the nation.
He said Nigerians should shun immorality and join hands with the leaders in finding enduring solutions to the nation’s challenges,
Speaking on his 10th Episcopal Anniversary, Bishop Odetoyinbo thanked God for the grace over the
past 10 years as a bishop while praying for more grace in the journey ahead.
He said it has been God all the way and he knows that God will never disappoint in upholding him more in the journey ahead.
Earlier, while delivering the homily at the Church Mass, the Catholic Bishop of Makurdi, Bishop Chikpa Wilfred Anagbe, called on all religious leaders to see their callings as a call to serve and deplete the kingdom of darkness.
He enjoined the priests, religious and faithful, to live in union and communion with one another and continue to support the works of God.
Tinubu Rejoices With UN Deputy Secretary- General, Amina
Mohammed At 63
Lauds AbdulRazaq, Nigerian winner of global sustainability award
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has extended his warm congratulations to the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ms. Amina Mohammed, as well-wishers around the world celebrate her 63rd birthday. The President, in a statement issued yesterday by his Media Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, celebrated the global icon and one of Nigeria's lodestars beaming light on the path to a more prosperous, peaceful, and
safe future for humanity.
President Tinubu commended Ms. Mohammed for her tireless service to the nation, and described her as a fine example of Nigerian excellence and a worthy model for both men and women globally.
He wished the UN Deputy Secretary-General many more years in fine health and renewed strength in her continued service to humanity.
Ms. Mohammed, a leading advocate of the environment, education, and the Sustainable
Development Goals, has applied herself, in many capacities, to the service of Nigeria and the global community.
She coordinated the Taskforce on Gender and Education for the United Nations Millennium Project from 2002 to 2005 and has served meritoriously on numerous international advisory boards and panels.
She was Nigeria's Minister of Environment from 2015 to 2017 and is credited for mobilising all government and non-government
oil and gas stakeholders to achieve the launch of the Ogoniland clean-up, among several other governance innovations.
President Tinubu also yesterday rejoiced with a renewable energy expert, Mr. Ridwan AbdulRazaq, on winning the 2024 Prince’s Trust Global Sustainability Award.
Mr. AbdulRazaq was honoured for his accomplishments in advancing solar energy system design and deployment in Nigeria, especially in off-grid rural communities.
Call A Lawyer Holds Conference on Human Rights
A group of young legal practitioners committed to providing pro bono legal services and representation to vulnerable, indigent and marginalised individuals and communities, Call A Lawyer, has held its maiden edition of the Human Rights Conference. A release by the Executive Director of the group, Ekpa Stanley Ekpa, said the conference put together in Abuja, in partnership with the Legal Aid Council and NBA Young Lawyers Forum, focused on sustainable practices and institutional partnerships for promoting and protecting human rights in Nigeria, stating that it was in response to the widening cases and crisis of human rights violations in Nigeria.
According to him, in line with the theme of the conference, 'Human Rights, Rule of Law, and the Future of Nigeria', implementing Chapter Four of the 1999 Constitution requires collective commitment to upholding rule of law, noting that when the rights of any Nigerian is infringed upon, the rights of all Nigerians are threatened.
The Director General, Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, Mr. Aliyu Abubakar, in his contributions, lamented over the lack of manpower and funding to carry out its operations in the country, urging young lawyers and members of non-profits organizations to join Call A Lawyer in taking up legal representation of those who cannot afford it.
BudgIT: FG’s Move to Run Four Budgets Simultaneously an Anomaly
Oluchi Chibuzor
BudgIT, a civic-tech organisation promoting transparency, accountability and effective service delivery in Nigeria, has decried the proposed elongation of the implementation period for the 2023 Approved Budget and 2023 Supplementary Budget from the proposed termination date of December 31, 2023, to December 31, 2024.
The organisation made its view known in a statement yesterday.
“The concurrent implementation of four budgets will lead to severe budget credibility issues, as revenues projected in 2024 alone would most likely be used in implementing four different budgets, negatively impacting service delivery in critical social sectors and the provision of essential public infrastructure,” BudgIT’s Country
Director, Gabriel Okeowo said. BudgIT also disclosed that it identified many frivolous items in the 2023 Approved Budget and 2023 Supplementary Budget that would compete with essential projects in the 2024 Budget for the meagre resources available to the federal government. It added: “To this end, we call on the federal government and the National Assembly to amend the complications of this convoluted budgeting system and return to a disciplined January to December Budget Calendar.
“We also urge the federal government to identify and implement only the projects and programmes that align with Nigeria’s overarching development goals, reduce inequality, and improve the lives of citizens, the bulk of whom are multi-dimensionally poor,” it added.
Alleged Perjury: Court Quashes Charge against Fenchurch Energy Directors
Wale Igbintade
A Federal High Court in Lagos, yesterday, quashed criminal charges of perjury filed against two Directors of Fenchurch Energy Nigeria Limited, Mr. Babafunsho Adeyemi and Olufemi Bakare for being frivolous.
Justice Daniel Osiagor, quashed the charge filed against the businessmen, by the operatives of the Force Headquarters Abuja, while ruling on the preliminary objection filed and argued by the lawyer to the defendants, Adedoyin AdetunjiAdeniyi.
The police in charge numbered FHC/L/265c/2024, had alleged that both Babafunsho and Olufemi and their company, sometime in February 2023, conspired together to commit perjury when they, in order to mislead the court, allegedly stated on oath that “the shareholding of the first plaintiff/ applicant and Bastanchury Limited in
the first defendant, as altered by the Shares Subscription Agreement dated March 15, 2019, ought to be registered at the Corporate Affairs Commission with the relevant documents and filings made thereon.
The offences according to the police, Sections 516 and 117 and punishable under Section 118 of the Criminal Code Act.
However, at the resumed hearing of the charges yesterday, Barrister Kyije Roland Abang, appeared for the prosecution, Adetunji Adedoyin-Adeniyi, appeared for the two defendants and their company, while Mr. Babatunde Ogalla (SAN) announced his appearance for the nominal complainant.
When the matter was called, the defence lawyer, Adedoyin-Adeniyi, informed the court that he had filed a preliminary objection challenging the competency and validity of the charge.
Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma (right), exchanges pleasantries with former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Emeka Ihedioha, at the burial of late Georgina Nwapa, held at Oguta in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State... yesterday
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan
PRESERVING MEMORY AND HONORING A LEGACY
The Enugu Rangers Veterans Trust is out to address the pressing needs of the ageing citizens of Rangers originals, writes, CHIDI
Umuawulu, a sleepy settlement in Awka, the capital of Anambra State in the south-east, is the unlikely origin of one of the greatest sporting resumes ever to come out of Nigeria. In the bowels of this village lies Holy Cross High School, the site from which story sprouted.
Until the politicians contrived to destroy education generally, Nigeria’s High Schools used to guarantee an interminable production line of rarefied sporting talent. This role pre-dated Independence. Historian, Peter Alegi, recalls that in territories - such as Nigeria - ruled by the British, missionaries and colonialists formed steeped in Victorian traditions, anchored their mutually complementary missions on “a belief that sport forged physically fit young men of sound moral character.” In the pantheon of sporting activities inspired by this belief, football was the undisputed king.
In 1963, a young man arrived Holy Cross Umuawulu to begin his secondary education. Emmanuel Okala was 12 when his goalkeeping career began in Umuawulu. Born in May 1951, his contemporaries from then remember him as a rather spindly figure whose height took him to the lower reaches of the heavens. Even as a new arrival at the beginning of his High School journey at the time, those who beheld him acknowledged that they were in the presence of a generational phenomenon.
In 1970, Emma joined a football club created around the talents of a few young men most of whom had been demobilized from the war. Its name was Rangers International Football Club of Enugu. At the time, the leading continental footballing super-star was Robert Mensah, the legendary goalkeeper of Ghana’s Black Stars and also of Ashanti Kotoko Football Club. After Mensah was killed in a stabbing incident on 2 November, 1971, the continent cried out for a new goalkeeping supremo.
From his humble beginnings in Umuawulu, Emmanuel Okala rose rather effortlessly to become the country’s undisputed goalkeeper over the next decade, ultimately growing to fill the void created by the untimely passing of Robert Mensah. Emma’s influence grew to outstrip the role of the solitary minder at the rear of the outfield players. In 1978 the African Sports Journalists Union (ASJU) voted him as the African Footballer of the Year, the first person and the first Nigerian to win that distinction. By then, he was better known as the “Man Mountain” a moniker invented by leading football commentator, Ernest Okonkwo.
Two years later, in 1980, Okala was goalkeeper of the national football team, then known as the Green Eagles, which won the African Cup of Nations (AfCON). The captain of that team was Christian Chukwu, who, like Emmanuel Okala, also began his footballing career as an “Academical” at the National Secondary School, Nike, on the outskirts of Enugu. Like Emmanuel Okala, Christian Chukwu was also born in 1951. From Nike National, he also joined the Enugu Rangers. As a footballer it was said that his “outstanding will to lead and motivate others earned him the nickname ‘Chairman’, as his colleagues saw him as an anchor of hope.”
That story of hope was not confined to the soccer pitch.
IN CALLING ATTENTION TO THEIR LIVES AND DISTILLING THEIR STORIES, IT IS POSSIBLE TO HOLD OUT LESSONS THAT CAN MAKE A SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCE TO THE FATE OF SUCCEEDING GENERATIONS
TANSELM ODINKALU
The Rangers Football Club for whom both Christian Chukwu and Emmanuel Okala were leading super-stars, embodied the hopes of the people of south-east Nigeria as they emerged from the ruins of an utterly destructive civil war at the beginning of 1970 bereft of both capital and dignity.
The core of that team also included Johnny Egbuonu described by a leading sports publication as “a classic dribbler” who could “do anything with the ball.” Popularly known as “School Boy”, Johnny’s career also began in the High School. He was destined for a great career in the colours of his country but left early for Germany to pursue qualifications in veterinary medicine.
That Rangers team would become the mascot of the race and region as they embarked the reconstruction of the Igbo identity and will after the war. That team also evolved to become the backbone of Nigeria’s national football team that went on in 1980 to conquer footballing heights in Africa.
Of the members of that original Rangers International team of 1970-1975, fewer than 13 are now alive. In addition to Christian Chukwu, Emmanuel Okala and Johnny Egbuonu, the others still around include Dominic Nwobodo, Francis Nwosu, Kenneth Abana, Patrick Ilouno, John Uwanaka, Godwin Adimachukwu, Johnny Azinge, and Sylvester Onwuekwe. At the time of this writing, the remains of two leading members of that side – Stanley Okoronkwo and Harrison Mecha – lie in the mortuary, awaiting the final earthly rites for their mortal remains.
At the peak of their powers, these men could have played for nearly any team in the world. At the time, however, the sport was poorly organized in Nigeria; management was nonexistent; football administration was poor; attention to wellbeing of the athletes was haphazard at best; and sports science was only just beginning to receive attention globally. Neither fully professional nor indeed amateur, their careers were spent in a vocational no-man’s-land. Their wealth in public adulation did not easily or at all translate into material comfort.
At that time also, football administration was mostly run as part of the public sector. At the end of their sporting careers, some of them went into sport administration and management but, even then, their careers also suffered from the debilities of a disorganised public sector. As senior citizens today, the public sector has forgotten them and the legacies of that generation of great sporting attainments are at risk of being lost.
At the personal level, Segun Odegbami, himself a leading member of that 1980 AfCON winning team, notes that these men - now senior citizens all - are today “slowed down now by arthritis – the ailment of retired footballers.” Some of them suffer a combination of even more serious ailments too and now spend considerable sums on medical bills.
To address this neglect and also preserve the sporting and civic legacies of the original Enugu Rangers International, it has become necessary to establish the Enugu Rangers Veterans Trust.
A lawyer and a teacher, Odinkalu can be reached at chidi.odinkalu@tufts.edu
WONDERS OF DIGESTION, BELCHING AND FLATULENCE
Kayode Ojewale details the intricate journey of digestion through the human guts
he complex world of human guts, a labyrinth of living tissue, teeming with trillions of microorganisms, showcases the intricate process of digestion. This intricate pathway, a marvel of biological design, is where the process of nourishment unfolds. As we savor a scrumptious sandwich or a delectable dessert, our digestive system diligently dismantles these delights, deploying a series of sophisticated steps to extract essential energy and nutrients. From the moment morsels meet the mouth, a cascade of chemical and mechanical processes commence. Saliva, saturated with enzymes like amylase, starts to break down starches, setting the stage for subsequent steps in the alimentary adventure. Each chew and chomp contributes to the creation of a bolus, a cohesive clump of chewed food, which journeys down the esophagus via peristalsis, a rhythmic, wave-like motion that propels the bolus toward the stomach.
Upon entering the stomach, the bolus is bathed in gastric juices, a potent mix of hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes such as pepsin. This acidic milieu not only disintegrates food particles but also decimates deleterious bacteria. Here, proteins begin their transformation, unraveling into amino acids. The stomach’s churning action ensures thorough mixing, converting the bolus into a semi-liquid substance known as chyme. As chyme gradually advances into the small intestine, it encounters bile and pancreatic juices. Bile, produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, emulsifies fats, making them more accessible to digestive enzymes. Meanwhile, pancreatic juices, rich in enzymes
like lipase, protease, and amylase, further break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, respectively. The small intestine, with its extensive surface area amplified by villi and microvilli, is the primary site for nutrient absorption. These finger-like projections facilitate the transfer of nutrients into the bloodstream, where they are transported to cells throughout the body.
Yet, not all consumed content is conquerable. Indigestible elements, such as certain fibers, escape enzymatic breakdown, embarking on a journey to the large intestine. Here, the gut microbiome, a bustling community of bacteria, ferments these fibers, producing short-chain fatty acids that are beneficial to the host. This fermentation, however, is not without its foibles. It generates gases such as hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide, contributing to flatulence, a phenomenon as ancient as eating itself.
Flatulence, a fixture of the human condition, is the body’s way of expelling excess gas. It is an essential, albeit sometimes embarrassing, aspect of digestive health. The composition of flatus varies, with diet and microbiome composition playing pivotal roles. Foods rich in complex carbohydrates, like beans and certain vegetables, are notorious for their flatulence-inducing capabilities. The gas released during fermentation is absorbed in part into the bloodstream and exhaled via the lungs, while the remainder makes its way to the rectum, awaiting expulsion.
Belching, another gaseous byproduct of digestion, serves as an escape valve for swallowed air. When we consume food or beverages, we often ingest air, which
accumulates in the stomach. The stomach, sensing this surplus, triggers the lower esophageal sphincter to relax, allowing the trapped air to ascend and exit through the mouth. This release, while relieving pressure, can sometimes bring a trace of stomach acid along, causing the occasional sour sensation. The delicate balance of digestion is not immune to disruption. Conditions such as lactose intolerance and celiac disease illustrate how certain substances can stir digestive strife. Lactose intolerance, characterized by the inability to break down lactose due to a deficiency in the enzyme lactase, leads to fermentation of lactose in the large intestine, producing gas, bloating, and discomfort. Similarly, celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, damages the small intestine’s lining, impairing nutrient absorption and causing a cascade of gastrointestinal and systemic symptoms.
The interplay of digestion, belching, and flatulence is a dance of delicate precision and occasional missteps. Despite its occasional awkwardness, this process is a paragon of biological efficiency, converting complex foods into the fundamental fuels of life. Each element, from the enzymatic action in the mouth to the microbial fermentation in the colon, contributes to the grand tapestry of human digestion. Understanding the science behind these everyday experiences fosters an appreciation for the remarkable resilience and adaptability of our digestive system. It is a system that, despite its propensity for producing socially awkward sounds and smells, sustains our very existence. The reasons behind particularly pungent flatulence are as varied as the foods we consume and the unique composition of our gut micro-
biome. While the majority of intestinal gases are odorless, comprising mainly nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, hydrogen, and methane, it is the presence of sulfur-containing compounds that typically tarnishes the air. Foods rich in sulfur, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, garlic, onions, and eggs, can significantly enhance the stench of flatulence. When these foods are broken down in the gut, sulfur compounds like hydrogen sulfide, methanethiol, and dimethyl sulfide are produced, each contributing its own distinct, often unpleasant aroma. Another contributing factor to malodorous flatulence is the composition and health of the gut microbiome. Thus, while diet plays a pivotal role, the microscopic inhabitants of our intestines also significantly influence the fragrance of our flatulence.
Maintaining a healthy gut begins with a balanced, fiber-rich diet, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Probiotic foods like yogurt introduces beneficial bacteria, while prebiotics in garlic and bananas feed these bacteria. Staying hydrated aids digestion and keeps the intestinal lining healthy. Regular water intake and a varied diet foster a thriving gut environment.
Regular physical activity stimulates intestinal activity, while stress management through mindfulness and meditation supports gut motility. Adequate sleep and avoiding excessive antibiotics maintain a balanced microbiome. These habits are crucial for good gut health and collectively promote a resilient digestive system.
Ojewale, of the Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA, writes via kayodeojewale@gmail.com
What’s next?
Space Missions and Technological Resurrection of Gods in Africa
If recent space missions in Asia have not taught us anything, it is that gods or goddesses are not as useless and foolish, as some may think. The god notion still has some value, some relevance in the scheme of things. As an atheist, this statement may sound as a contradiction, right?. It is not. My position has not changed. I believe that gods are imaginary beings, created by humans to make sense of their lives, nature and experiences. Gods and goddesses do not exist as religions teach and preach. However, gods and goddesses seem to be staging a comeback and are regaining some place in contemporary affairs, in space probes, and missions. The world is witnessing a rebirth of deities, an intriguing trend, one that is capable of disrupting and transforming the idea of a god as entertained by believers and nonbelievers alike: the technologization of divinities and divinization of technologies.
Many years ago, German philosopher, Friedrich Nietzsche declared that God was dead. And let me qualify it, that god was dead in the religious sense. And one observes that the belief in deities as religions have taught has continued to wane in the West and other parts of the globe. However, it seems the modern space projects are on a mission to revive that belief, to resurrect the gods in a strange way.
Asian space programs are reinventing their deities. And Africans need to examine these new Asian gods and goddesses and probably borrow a leaf from their Asian counterparts. Africans need to learn from Indians and the Chinese this modern way of honouring gods and goddesses. In a separate article, I have drawn attention to these developments, and the potential benefits for Africa. I noted the technologization of transcendental thinking and the possibilities for the region. That was after India’s first solar observation mission, Aditya-L1, named after the Hindu sun god, successfully arrived at its destination. I emphasized how this religious icon was used to inspire a space mission. And now it has been reported that the Chinese lunar mission, Chang’e-6, which blasted off in early May, has returned and landed in the inner Mongolia desert after an almost two-month odyssey. They named the mission, Chang’e, after the moon goddess. The report says that Chang-e is among the Chinese mythologies. Take note Chang’e is a myth.
The government named its lunar mission after this goddess and there was no protest anywhere.
As I have noted in a previous article, Africans should emulate Chinese and Indians in technologizing their gods and goddesses. This process is the next logical step for Africa, and for African emergence because, as in the cases of India and China, many gods and goddesses abound in the region. Hundreds of them exist and are technologically wasting away. The divinities include as the river goddess, mamiwota, the sun god, Anyanwu, the god of thunder, Sango or Amadioha, the god of iron, Ogun, the god of harvest, Ahiajoku, etc. In addition, there are the Christian and Islamic gods which many Africans profess and worship. Most Africans regard these gods and goddesses as real; they fear them and make sacrifices to them. Africans do not regard these gods and goddesses as myths. They have refused to technologize these divinities as in the cases of India and China.
For instance, a major sea probe mission could be named Mamiwota-1. Why not?
Leo Igwe is a writer with interest in religion and transhumanism
Gabriel Zuave Deserves
More
In Benue State, many who teach in primary and secondary schools are not gainfully employed by the government. They work as casual staff, known as PTA teachers. PTA stands for Parent-Teacher Association and they are employees of the association. Therefore, their salary is small while those employed by the government take better money home.
Mr. Gabriel Zuave, one of the best teachers at Ajio Community Secondary School, Ishangev-Ya in Kwande LGA of Benue State was unfortunately employed by the association (PTA) and has been teaching there for over 15 years now with no hope for a better salary. Zuave who teaches English language and Literature in English deserves something better to uplift him so that he can impact more on leaders of tomorrow.
I am aware of Governor Alia’s plan to recr uit more teachers for schools in the state and it is a welcome development. I am pleading that Mr. Zuave and others who may be victims of a poor salary package due to PTA employment system should be hired by the government.
Awunah Pius Terwase, Mpape, Abuja
Guilty and Free
THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER
EDITOR OBINNA CHIMA
DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
Julian Assange has pleaded guilty for something most think was not a crime, including himself. An odd quirk to question and consider is, will he be committing contempt of law by pleading guilty in this case?
He has been imprisoned either by the law or voluntarily for longer than he probably would have received on a conviction and it was for telling the truth.
He might however retire now, having already done so much, so that he can get to know his kids and just take them for a walk in the open air.
Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia
MOBILISING PRIVATE CAPITAL CONFERENCE…
INEC: Why We Won't Release FCT Area Councils' Election Timetable Now
Don’t scrap state independent electoral bodies, Yiaga Africa warns commission
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said that it would release the timetable and schedule of activities for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Councils’ election at the appropriate time.
INEC National Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed this yesterday, in Abuja, during a meeting with the national leadership of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) led by Yusuf Mohammed Dantalle, who doubles as Chairman of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).
Electoral Commissions (SIECs), noting that an overburdened INEC cannot be saddled with such responsibility that would further exacerbate its sad condition.
However, Civil Society Organisation (CSO), Yiaga Africa, yesterday, warned against scrapping State Independent
Yakubu, revealed that the commission had earlier received inquiries from some law firms, an individual, a political party and one FCT chairmanship aspirants’ forum.
The chairman stressed that all the inquiries relate to the tenure of the Area Councils and a demand for the commission to release the timetable and schedule of activities for the Area Council elections.
He noted that their inquiries were based on the provision of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) which was the subsisting law at the time elections
Sexual Assault: Appeal Court Affirms 5-year Conviction of Baba Ijesha
Wale Igbintade
The Court of Appeal Lagos Division ,yesterday, affirmed the judgement of a Lagos State High Court which sentenced Nollywood actor, Olanrewaju James, popularly called Baba Ijesha, to five years imprisonment for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old minor.
The appellate court in its lead judgement delivered by Justice Folashade
Ojo found the appellant, Baba Ijesha, guilty on counts 4 and 5, where he was accused of indecently touching a minor and sexually assaulting her.
Other members of the panel, Justice Abdullahi Bayero and Justice Paul Bassi aligned themselves with the lead judgement.
The Lagos State Government arraigned Baba Ijesha on a six-count charge bordering on the indecent
treatment of a child, sexual assault, attempted sexual assault by penetration and sexual assault by penetration.
In her judgement, the trial judge, Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo (rtd) of the Ikeja Domestic Violence and Sexual Offences Court, on July 14, 2022, sentenced Baba Ijesha to five years imprisonment over the sexual assault of a minor.
The court found Baba Ijesha guilty of indecent treatment of a child and
sexual assault, of a minor between 2013 and 2014, which is contrary to Section 135 of Lagos State Criminal Law 2015.
Justice Taiwo exonerated him of the offence of sexual assault by penetration which deals with allegedly sexually assaulting the minor by penetration with his car key seven years ago and attempted sexual assault by penetration during another encounter with the minor on April 22, 2021.
Sahara Harps on Policy Measures to Mitigate Effects of Climate Change in Nigeria, Africa
Peter Uzoho
Director of Governance and Sustainability at Sahara Group, Ejiro Gray, has emphasised the need for protection and rehabilitation of Africa’s natural carbon sinks, such as forests, oceans, coastal mangroves, wetlands and grasslands.
to the Area Councils were held on Saturday 12th February 2022.
Yakubu stated: “The Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) provides for a three-year tenure for Chairmen and Councillors which, in their opinion, expires next year.
“However, Nigerians are aware that the National Assembly has since repealed and re-enacted the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) as the Electoral Act 2022.
“In particular, in the exercise of its powers as the law-making body for the FCT, the National Assembly extended the tenure of the Area Councils from three to four years, thereby aligning it with executive and legislative elections nationwide.
“This is one of the important
provisions of the Electoral Act 2022. The Act came into force on Friday 25th February 2022, two weeks after the last Area Council elections in the FCT.
“By the time the elected Chairmen and Councilors were sworn-in four months later on 14th June 2022, they took their oath of allegiance and oath of office on the basis of the new electoral Act (i.e. the Electoral Act 2022) which provides for a four-year tenure. Consequently, their tenure therefore expires in June 2026,” he explained.
The chairman explained that tenure was not defined by the date of election but the date of the oath of office for executive elections or the date of inauguration for legislative houses.
US-CDC Launches BabyShower Programme to Halt Child HIV Infection
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
She pointed out that such measures could significantly aid in mitigating the effects of climate change on the continent.
Speaking at the maiden edition of Asharami Square, Sahara Group’s initiative aimed at promoting sustainability through media advocacy, Gray explained that developing intentional policies and investments on protecting the continent’s carbon sinks would enhance carbon sequestration and reduce net emissions.
She said these natural landscapes act as significant carbon reservoirs, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide (CO ) from the atmosphere.
She added that developing reforestation and afforestation programmes, implementing strict conservation policies, and providing financial incentives for conservation projects are critical for combating
climate change in Africa. According to Gray, natural gas development and commercialisation, increased use of renewables, investment in low-cost or low emissions clean energy solutions, carbon capture storage, carbon capture and reutilisation were other factors that could help accelerate Africa’s march towards sustainability.
Court Grants Mohbad’s Family Request to Conduct Independent Autopsy for Late Singer
Wale Igbintade
The Coroner’s inquest into the death of the late Nigerian singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, known as Mohbad, has granted the family permission to conduct an independent autopsy
and toxicology test on the late singer. The court, presided over by Magistrate T.A. Sonubi, approved the request following an application filed by the lawyers representing Aloba family.
The application sought an order
allowing a private, licensed, and certified pathologist to conduct a comprehensive independent autopsy on Mohbad’s body, currently held at the Military Hospital in Yaba, Lagos State.
Additionally, it requested
permission for an independent evaluation to collect various samples, including skin, urine, blood, and other fluids obtained by the Chief Medical Examiner of Lagos State during the initial autopsy.
As part of new initiatives aimed at further deepening efforts at eradicating mother-to-child transmission of the deadly HIV virus, the United States Centre for Disease Control (US-CDC) has started organising 'Baby Shower Programme' where many pregnant women gather to celebrate and receive medical care preparatory to child delivery.
The Baby Shower Programme is a U.S. CDC-supported initiative geared towards preventing the transmission of HIV from mothers to their unborn children It is also known as the "Congregational Approach" to prevention of mother-to-child transmission.
Speaking during an interactive session with journalists in Abuja, the Baby Shower Programme Manager, Dr. Timothy Efuntoye, said the initiative involved layering health services, including HIV testing, on to religious celebrations through a coordinated gatekeeper.
He said that the idea behind the initiative is to use the Baby Shower
event to draw pregnant women to attend and benefit from various health tips including HIV tests and other health advisories.
Explaining the initiative further, Efuntoye said the process begins with the enrollment of congregations where priests/pastors invite pregnant women and their partners to Baby Shower events.
He said the Baby Shower event (led by Congregational Health Advisors) will involve health talks, health screening/testing for women and partners including weight, blood pressure, HIV, hepatitis B, sickle cell, singing and dancing, gifting of mama packs follow-up of HIV positive participants to ensure linkage to antiretroviral treatment (ART).
US-CDC said the session with journalists sought to highlight the importance of the congregational approach to the prevention of motherto-child transmission of HIV, what is also known as the Baby Shower Programme, and how the U.S. CDC and Nigeria are working collaboratively to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV and empower pregnant women.
Misconduct: NCoS Dismisses Three Officers, Sanctions Others
Ikechukwu
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), yesterday, announced the dismissal of three personnel, including a Controller of Corrections, for various misconducts such as gross negligence of duty, absence without leave,
trafficking in illicit items, general inefficiency, falsification of results, amongst others. NCoS, also revealed that three other personnel were compulsorily retired, six had their ranks reduced, while 13 attracted either verbal or plain warning, stressing that these
sanctions were in line with the zero tolerance on staff misconducts, a cardinal mantra of the Controller General of Corrections, Haliru Nababa.
Announcing the dismissal and other punitive measures against the erring officers of the personnel, the
spokesperson of the Service, Mr. Abubakar Umar, in a statement said the review of various cases of unprofessional conducts, wrongdoings, improper behaviours and serious misconducts of erring personnel, was part of effort by the service to maintain high standard
of discipline and professionalism
He said: "The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), in a bid to maintain high standard of discipline and professionalism has reviewed various cases of unprofessional conducts, wrongdoings, improper behaviours
and serious misconducts of erring personnel, resulting to the dismissal of three personnel, including a Controller of Corrections, for various misconducts such as gross negligence of duty, absence without leave, trafficking in illicit items, general inefficiency, falsification of results etc."
Aleke in Abuja
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja and Seriki Adinoyi in Jos
Agama;
Group Chairman, NGX Group,Dr. Umaru Kwairanga, at a conference organised by Chapel Hill Denham in collaboration with USAID, Prosper Africa and Power Africa held in Lagos… recently
PRESIDENTIAL AWARD FOR MBAH…
Vice President Charges PEBEC, MDAs on Business-friendly Environment, Innovation
Vice President Kashim Shettima, yesterday, stressed that a business environment that fosters innovation, creativity, and productivity must be built on the pillars of President Bola Tinubu’s eight-point agenda.
He charged members of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) as well as Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to be driven by the dreams of all Nigerians aspiring to grow their businesses and looking up to the government for direction
JAMB Releases Supplementary UTME Results
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB ) has released the results of candidates who participated in the supplementary Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted between June 21 and 22, 2024.
A statement signed by Spokesman of JAMB, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, yesterday, said the supplementary examination was conducted for 28,835 candidates, who were unable to be biometrically verified during the main 2024 UTME and were, therefore, unable to take their examination.
“Similarly, the other category of candidates were those suspected to have been involved in examination malpractices during the main UTME but who were given a second chance to sit the examination.
"The exercise, which recorded a huge success nationwide, was marked by heightened security measures put in place by the Board to preclude any instance of examination infractions. As such, some nefarious characters, who had attempted to impersonate bona fide candidates were apprehended and handed over to law enforcement agencies for further investigation and prosecution,” the statement said.
N25.7bn Fraud: S’ Court Affirms Conviction of Former Bank PHB MD, Atuche
The Supreme Court has affirmed the conviction of a former Managing Director of Bank PHB, Mr. Francis Atuche, charged with over N25.7 billion fraud.
The apex court affirmed the conviction after dismissing the former bank boss’ appeal challenging the judgement of the appellate court which found him guilty of fraud allegations.
According to the apex court, Atuche in his appeal could not proffer convincing reasons why the concurrent judgements of the appellate and trial courts should be upturned.
Justice Moore Adumein, who read
the unanimous decision pointed out that where a trial court’s decision on the demeanor of a party or witness is supported by the documentary evidence tendered, an appellate court has no business tampering with the decision of the trial court.
He consequently dismissed Atuche’s appeal and affirmed the concurrent judgements of the two lower courts that found the former bank boss guilty of corruption and fraud allegations. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had initially declared Atuche wanted over an alleged fraud of N56 billion, after which he was detained for interrogation at the Ikoyi office of the anti-graft agency.
Tinubu Condoles Victims of Karu Market Fire Incident in FCT
President Bola Tinubu has received with deep sadness the news of the fire incident, which affected sections of Karu Market in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
towards a future of prosperity.
Shettima gave the charge during the PEBEC Town Hall Meeting held at the Banquet Hall of the State House , Abuja. The meeting followed the successful completion of the 90-day Regulatory Reform Accelerator Action Plan.
The Vice President noted that no matter the depth of the reforms introduced, the government will fail to achieve its goals unless MDAs function at their best and align seamlessly with the agenda of the Tinubu administration.
He described the PEBEC town hall meeting as a rescue mission for a country that has saddled its citizens with "the critical role of creating an environment where every idea can germinate into an enduring business."
"Our success is not merely a matter of policy but is measured by its impact, from the small-time trader in Kafanchan to the large corporation on Lagos Island. Today, I feel the pulse of our collective desire to make this objective a reality."
Shettima urged all stakeholders, especially the MDAs, to build on the
gains of the past 120 days with a sense of urgency and purpose, as they reflect on the measurable outcomes of the Regulatory Reform Accelerator.
Imploring them to continue to improve Nigeria’s business environment through timely feedback, rigorous monitoring, and shared responsibility, the Vice President said, "We are the vehicles of the promises made by President Bola Tinubu.
"The Regulatory Reform Accelerator is an avenue to inject life into our economy and renew the hope of our nation. The quality of your ideas and
the intensity of your energy today are the very sparks we need to stay on track and to always remind ourselves of the burden of expectations upon us. "We must align with the vision of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and ensure that our pursuit of a business environment that fosters innovation, creativity, and productivity is built upon the pillars of the eight-point agenda. Today, we stand on a robust foundation, recognising that achieving PEBEC's mandate directly contributes to our shared economic prosperity as a nation."
Edelman Trust Barometer Ranks Nigeria Second Highest in World Innovation
The 2024 Edelman Nigeria Trust Barometer has ranked Nigerians as second among countries in the world that innovation is well managed in their country.
The outcome of the survey, involving 28 countries, was released yesterday, in the wake of a global debate on the role of innovation in society. Nigeria was at par with Kenya in the survey that also featured respondents from Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The findings also revealed that
the vast majority of Nigerians believed scientists, experts and academics should play a crucial role in managing the introduction of innovation.
The CEO for Edelman Africa, Karena Crerar, said the data proved people want to feel a sense of credible authority behind how innovation is managed and rolled out to the public.
She noted that Nigerians’ show of trust may be testament to their reliance on scientists as leaders in building trust in innovation within society.
However, the data casts a spotlight
on how scientists engage with the public, as a marginal but critical 37 per cent of Nigerian respondents said scientists did not know how to communicate with them.
“Our data shows that while scientists are still trusted within society as technical experts, to further build trust in expert recommendations there is a need to explain the research in an accessible and transparent way,” Crerar said.
On the other hand, the finding also said the government is the least trusted institution to tell the truth about innovation, with 73 per cent of
Nigerians saying government leaders are purposely trying to mislead people by saying things they know are false or gross exaggerations.
The survey also shows that while there had been significant strides in the advancements of vaccines, Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, and green mandates – there exists an equal pushback against these innovations.
Nigerians also displayed exceeding levels of trust in their peers to tell them the truth about new innovations (83 per cent) with 75 per cent saying they also trust scientists for the same.
Eterna Restates Commitment to Remain Competitive,
Kayode Tokede
Eterna Plc has reassured shareholders of its commitment to remaining competitive despite the challenging economic environment.
This assurance was given by the Chairman of Eterna Plc, Dr. Gabriel Ogbechie, during the company's 31st Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Lagos
Ratifies Abiola Lawal As MD/CEO
The shareholders also elected Mr. Abiola Lukman Lawal as a Director, thereby ratifying his appointment as the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer.
Ogbechie, emphasised that the fundamentals of Eterna's business remain robust. "Despite recent challenges, we are focused on elevating the business to new heights for the benefit of our shareholders and stakeholders," he stated.
The chairman highlighted several difficulties faced in 2023, including the removal of the oil subsidy by the current administration, the floating of the Naira, fluctuating oil prices, pipeline sabotage, crude oil theft, supply disruptions, and inactive refineries.
These factors contributed to a volatile economic landscape, affecting the company's financial performance. However, Ogbechie noted that Eterna achieved significant progress, with a consolidated operating revenue of N183.3 billion, a 57.4per cent increase from N116.4 billion in 2022, primarily driven by retail expansion efforts. Additionally, Eterna reported an operating profit of N7.8 billion, a remarkable 143 per cent increase from N3.2 billion in 2022.
Ajunwa Emerges First-ever PTA Chairman, De Gloryland College
Agnes Ekebuike
THISDAY Saturday News Editor,
President Tinubu urged caution and adherence to essential safety measures to prevent fire outbreaks and other accidents.
On Thursday evening, fire ripped through a swathe of the market, destroying property and other valuables.
The President, in a release issued yesterday by his Media Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, extended his heartfelt sympathies to all the traders affected by this distressing incident, and assured them of his administration's full support.
Mr. Charles Ajunwa, has emerged as the first Chairman of the Parents Teachers Association (PTA) of De Gloryland College, Lagos.
Proprietress of the school, Mrs. Maryann Igbinovia, who inaugurated Ajunwa and seven other executive members at the first-ever PTA meeting
held at the school's Multi Purpose Hall, Ejigbo, said the decision to form a function PTA was in response to agitations from parents, noting that the school is striving to provide the best education for the students.
Mrs. Igbinovia said that possible new courses are being considered to further enhance the school's curriculum.
"I welcome you to the first-ever
Parents Teachers Association (PTA) meeting of De Gloryland College. Today marks a significant milestone in the history of our institution, and I am honoured to stand before you as we embark on this new journey together.
"As we gather today, we reflect on our journey, which began on September 27, 2004, as Haraios Academy and later evolved into De Gloryand College on October 13, 2009. Over the years, our institution has grown, and we have achieved significant milestones. We have grown and evolved, always striving to provide the best possible education and environment for our students. Our commitment to excellence remains unwavering, and today's meeting is a testament to that dedication.
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
Alex Enumah in Abuja
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
L-R: Special Adviser to Enugu State Governor on MSMEs & Digital Economy DG, Enugu SME Center, Arinze Chilo-Offiah; Commissioner for Science and Technology, Enugu State, Engr. Lawrence Ezeh; Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah; Senior Special Assistant to the President on MSMEs and Job Creation, Mr. Tola Johnson; Commissioner for Education, Enugu State, Prof. Ndubueze Mbah; and Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Office of the Vice President, Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, during the presentation of the award for MSMEs Development by VP's Office to Mbah at the Presidential Villa, Abuja…yesterday
PAYING HOMAGE TO HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS.…
FRC Set to Release Nigerian Actuarial
Practice Regulation 2024, Says Olowo
Oluchi Chibuzor
The Chief Executive Officer of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC), Dr. Rabiu Olowo, has said the regulatory body would soon release the Nigerian Actuarial Practice Regulation 2024. This, he said, would curtail unlicensed professionals in the system taking undue advantage of the current gap in the number
of professionals in the country. He disclosed this Thursday, at the just concluded Nigerian Actuarial Society 2024 conference with the theme, 'Actuaries and AI: Strengths, Weakness, Opportunities and Threats', held in Lagos. He noted that unlicensed professionals were already taking advantage of the gap in the country, adding that as a regulatory body they are intentional about increasing
the numbers of skilled and qualified actuaries in Nigeria.
According to him, “We are aware of unlicensed professionals in the system. This will soon be addressed with the release of the Nigerian Actuarial Practice Regulations 2024 in the next few months by the FRC. In the near future, we will also carry out enforcement programmes to check the effectiveness of these regulations.
“The number today is very
disheartening. We have 50 qualified actuaries, whereas our South African counterpart has about 2,000. And if you compare our economy in terms of the size of our GDP, we will be requiring more than 3,000 actuaries to manage financial stability and all the professional work that actuaries do to improve financial stability in our country.
“Actuaries are the architects of financial security, the guardians of
Traders Count Losses as Fire Destroys Karu Market
FEMD blames lack of access road for fire
A fire outbreak at the Karu Main Market, Abuja, has left scores of traders in tears after goods worth millions of naira were destroyed.
Eye witnesses said the fire occurred late Thursday night, when the market had closed for business. It razed almost all the shops and destroyed food stuff, electronics, cosmetics, clothes and among other consumable and non-consumable items.
The market was under lock as debris and soothes from burnt remains littered the entire environment when THISDAY visited the place yesterday. Also many of the shops were still burning with the market emitting thick smoke of fire.
One of the traders, Ben Ogbue, estimated the value of goods he lost to the fire at N20 million. He said all the electronics stocked in the shop, including the consignment supplied to him two weeks ago were burned.
Another trader, Joakim Igweh who
had been selling kitchen utensils for the past 15 years, lamented that he had lost wares worth over N15 million.
In a tone that betrayed emotion, Igweh said he was called back to the market at about 8.00p.m., when it was too late to salvage anything from his shop.
He said: "l lost kitchen utensils worth millions of naira. I was called at about 8.00p.m., but it was already late before I could run here as the fire was already out of control. All
the shops were seriously on fire. My prayer is that the government should come to our aid.”
A wholesale provisions seller, Emmanuel Chibuke, said the fire had destroyed all he had laboured for in the last 15 years.
Chibuke estimated his loss to the fire at over N10 million. He said that someone called him on Thursday night after the close of business that Karu Market was on fire and that his shop was grossly affected.
Nigeria-born Journalist, Ayaara to Launch Album, Foundation in Atlanta Georgia
Olusegun Samuel
Former Nigerian journalist with Galaxy and Silverbird television and now an Atlanta-based musician, Victor Ayaara, is set to release his much-anticipated album, 'Freedom of Expression' on July 13, 2024, at Influence Restaurant and Lounge in Norcross, GA.
The event, aptly titled: 'A Night of Freedom and Hope', would also mark the launch of the Imabasi Youth Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting orphans,
at-risk youth, and less-privileged individuals in both the Atlanta Metro area and Nigeria.
Freedom of Expression is a testament to Ayaara's unique musical style, blending African rhythms with diverse genres to create a truly global sound.
Ayaara's music is a celebration of his authentic self as an artiste and his belief in the power of music to connect people across cultures.
In addition to the album release, the event will introduce the Imabasi
Youth Foundation, reflecting Ayaara's commitment to using his music as a tool for social change.
The foundation aims to provide resources and opportunities to those in need, fostering hope and empowerment through music and education.
A Night of Freedom and Hope promises an unforgettable evening of music, celebration, and philanthropy.
The former journalist with Galaxy television before he left for the United States, Ayaara shares his passion for
risk management, and the champions of informed decision-making.
“
music and his vision for a brighter future for all.
He said, "My decision to establish a non-profit organisation is to give back. I have been tremendously blessed and I want to be a blessing to others. Secondly, my mom whose name is Ima (meaning love in ibibio/ Efik) showed me at a young age that you don’t have to be a millionaire to touch lives. She raised her five kids and still fostered others as a widow and a petty trader. I hope to continue her legacy in this regard.
Kogi Senator, Natasha Appoints 100 Constituency Aides to Fight Poverty
The federal lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District in the 10th National Assembly, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has appointed 100 constituency aides to support her legislative responsibilities.
The Senator, the statement added, made the announcement via her verified Facebook page, noting that the aides had been selected from 57 wards in Kogi Central to enhance the quality of representation.
The Senator said each of the aides is set to receive N50,000 for community projects as a form of empowerment.
The decision, according to a statement by her Chief Press Secretary, Arogbonlo Israel, was aimed at reducing poverty and encouraging self-reliance among her constituents.
The statement in part read, "The appointments have been made without bias to political affiliations and have been allocated to individuals from diverse professional and artisan backgrounds, comprising young and old, men and women, amongst others.
"The selection process was transparent, and she intends to ensure fair representation for all constituents.
"As the Senator for Kogi Central District, I felt it was important to enlist the support of 100 energetic individuals from all 57 wards of Kogi Central to bolster our representation.
"These individuals, comprising people of all ages and from various professional and artisan backgrounds, not only cover the geographical expanse of our communities, but also bring diverse skill sets.
“Your expertise in assessing and managing risks, forecasting future trends, and ensuring the stability of financial systems is invaluable. In an increasingly complex world, your work provides the bedrock upon which businesses, governments, and individuals can build a secure future.
Speaking on the theme of the event, Olowo, said this year's conference resonates deeply with every organisation that aims to survive the incursion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into its operations and existence.
Edo Commemorates National Environmental Sanitation Day, Charges Residents on Proper Waste Disposal
The Edo State Government has urged residents in the state to imbibe good personal and environmental hygiene to have a clean state.
General Manager, Edo Waste Management Board, Mrs. Rita Idehai, said this at an event to commemorate the 2024 National Environmental Sanitation Day.
The National Environmental Sanitation Day is held every June 28th annually to drive awareness on the need to imbibe personal and environmental hygiene among Nigerians.
Idehai said the day is dedicated to creating awareness among residents in Edo State, noting, “It is also meant to promote the culture of effective sanitation and hygiene practices among citizens, with a view to curtailing the scourge of preventable communicable diseases such as Malaria, Cholera, Lassa Fever, and Yellow Fever, among others.
“As humans generate waste every day, there is a need to take care of the environment. Bag your waste properly, engage with the waste managers that are licensed by the State Waste Management Board. Do not dump waste on the median. Do not put waste in drainages.
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
L-R: Chairman of Tantita Security Services Limited, Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tomopolo); Senator Seriake Dickson and Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom, HRM Oboro-Gbaraun 11, Agadagba, when Tompolo and Dickson paid the traditional ruler a courtesy visit in Gbaramatu…yesterday SYLVESTER IDOWU
The Nigerian economy is in dire straits with major economic indicators looking grim amidst increasing vulnerabilities. This has seen the government take various measures to stimulate economic activities and improve livelihoods.
However, despite the challenging macroeconomic conditions coupled with economic headwinds, the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) achieved a remarkable triple-digit growth of 202 per cent from N34.730 billion in the previous year to N108.433 billion in 2023. AMCON was established on the 19th July 2010, when the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria signed the AMCON Act into Law. The Corporation was created to be a key stabilising and revitalising tool aimed at reviving the financial system by efficiently resolving the non-performing loan assets of the banks in the Nigerian economy. Its objectives include assisting financial institutions to efficiently dispose of eligible bank assets; efficiently manage and dispose of eligible bank assets acquired by the Corporation and obtain the best achievable financial returns on eligible bank assets or other assets acquired by it.
According to a statement by the Head Corporate Communications Department of the debt recovery agency of the federal government, Mr. Jude Nwauzor, a breakdown of the performance showed that AMCON, which is currently led by Mr Gbenga Alade as Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer achieved a Year-on-Year (YoY) growth in profit of 212 per cent, from N34.730 billion in the financial year, which ended on December 31, 2022, to N108.433 billion in the period ended December 31, 2023.
The report disclosed that fair valuation gains on Eligible Bank Assets (EBAs) increased to N40.9 billion in 2023, from a loss of N187.9 billion in 2022. Equity portfolio recorded 82 per cent growth in 2023 amounting to N43 billion, compared with N7.9 billion in 2022. The significant trading gains
Alade
was as result of an improved performance in the stock market.
Interestingly, the Corporation achieved a favourable reduction in total liabilities, from N6.282 trillion in 2022 to N5.739 trillion in 2023, primarily due to repayments of the N500 billion Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) loan. The Corporation also achieved 89 per cent achievement of its revenue budget in 2023 as the total recovery in 2023 stood at N125.2 billion.
A breakdown of the recovery showed that AMCON achieved N81.65 billion in collections from various obligors; N17.8 billion from share sales; N15.5 billion reinvestment income; N6 billion as proceed from sale of properties; N3.8 billion dividend income and N0.5 billion from rental income despite the country’s challenging economic environment, occasioned by the removal of subsidy and floatation of the naira.
The executive management of the Corporation led by Alade said AMCON was strategically positioned to continue with the positive trajectory achieved in the year 2023, with special emphasis
on improved recoveries and efficient realisation of value from disposal of forfeited assets in furtherance of the Corporation’s mandate.
Alade is expected to sustain the trajectory considering his background as a turnaround expert and a thoroughbred professional.
Until his appointment on February 22, 2024, by President Bola Tinubu, Alade served as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Guaranty Trust Bank (UK) Limited – a position he held for the past six years prior to the announcement.
He arrived AMCON as a thorough-bred banking professional with over three decades of experience and expertise in Corporate Banking, and Commercial Lending, Management and Business Re-structuring, Investment Banking, Turnaround Management, Product Development and Marketing, Portfolio Management, Enterprise Risk Management and Risk Modelling, Regulatory Compliance, Project/Programme Management, Process Re-engineering, Business Development and Competitive Strategy, amongst other competences.
He also distinguished himself as an astute leader and manager of human and material resources when he also served as Managing Director/CEO of Guaranty Trust Bank, Sierra Leone Limited from January 2014 – December 2017, where he managed the Bank to become the number one bank in Sierra Leone in profitability and efficiency in service delivery for four years.
In the process he won the Best Bank Award in Sierra Leone for 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017. He was also voted the Banker’s CEO of the year award in 2014, 2015 and 2016.
Alade holds a First Class Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Lagos (UNILAG), and Master’s of Science in Finance from the same institution. He is a Fellow/Honorary Senior member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN). He also holds professional qualifications in Project Management (Prince2 & PMP), and a Certified Enterprise Risk Management Professional (CERMP) from Canada.
With over 35 years of banking experience, he arrived AMCON as a strategic thinker with
Kunle Remi Leads
The problems that plagued their marriage heighten as the wife begins a relationship to close for comfort with the husband next door.
Aladese and Seyi Awolowo. of marriage through the interwoven stories of two Christian couples, following one of the couples as
Emmanuel Iren, the pastor of Celebration Church the story “What About Us?” adding a new title to his name with the announcement on Instagram that the trailer and the poster, which will premiere in cinemas across Nigeria on July 12, 2024.
Kayode Kasum, the movie director expressed gratitude to Pastor Iren for bringing him on the project, calling it a “privilege to bring a powerful story to life,” in a post also on Instagram.
great leadership skills with a track record of business turnaround and management for stability and profitability. He has worked with various financial institutions in Nigeria and other countries including Assetmix Incorporated, Ontario, Canada; Intercontinental Bank Plc, Lagos; Bank of Montreal, Toronto, ON; Societe Generale Bank; Citizens International Bank Limited and the Citibank Group.
He has over the years attended several trainings locally and internationally including Competitive Strategy programme of INSEAD Business School Singapore; Certification in Enterprise Risk Management, Canada; Prince2Project Management Practitioner of United Kingdom; Operational Risk Management & Audit-Euromoney Training, Winsdor, United Kingdom; Managing Successful Projects by AMP Group, Buckingham, United Kingdom; Executive Team Building by Symlog Consulting Group, San Diego, United States of America as well as International Corporate Finance, the New York Institute of Finance, USA amongst others.
“Today, the Corporation has ensured our depositors do not lose their hard-earned savings or their investors, their investments. Socially, the idea has saved thousands of jobs that would have otherwise been lost in the financial meltdown that affected the banks.
“The institution may have some shortcomings, no doubt, but that is expected of any new idea being experimented. But as AMCON grows in experience, such shortcomings are being addressed with perfect hands of a master craftsman.
“Before the advent of AMCON, accountability in the banking sector, particularly during the crisis, was something else. At one time, the collapse of banks became crooked ways of self-enrichment by the management cadre because there was no regime of accountability, while the system of oversight was weak and the framework for the regulation of their operations was equally weak,” Bashir Ibrahim Hassan, a financial analyst, had written.
It is expected that the Corporation would sustain the momentum in the coming years.
Jayriz Takes Nigerian Music Industry by Storm
In a breakthrough that’s sending shockwaves through the music industry, 19-year-old Jamiu Akorede Oladimeji, known professionally as Jayriz, is revolutionising the Afrobeats scene with his unique sound and undeniable talent.
Jayriz’s journey to fame began with the release of his viral freestyle ‘Alone’ in May, which quickly racked up thousands of streams and earned him a devoted fan base. His latest single, ‘Over Me’, is generating significant buzz among fans and critics alike, cementing his position as a rising star in the industry.
Industry insiders attribute Jayriz’s rapid success to his dedication, ambitious vision, and strong support team, led by the reputable management company E.F & R Limited.
The young artiste has already graced the stage at high-profile events, performing alongside notable acts like YCee Omo Alhaji. He has also received public endorsements from influential figures such as Horlar of Lagos, Woli Arole, Mc Rhelax, Poco Lee, and Yhemo Lee.
With a growing online presence and a fan base known as ‘The RIZLAS’, Jayriz is poised to take the music industry by storm. As he continues to release new music and perform at major events, his
goal remains clear; to entertain music lovers worldwide and achieve the highest recognition for his work. Fans alike are Keeping an eye out for Jayriz’s ‘Over Me’ as it makes more waves and entertains the growing legion of fans that have already discovered the magic of his music. Jayriz is here to stay, and the future looks incredibly bright for this young artist.
Oluchi Chibuzor
Ferdinand Ekechukwu
must be the couple that just moved in next door,” a line from one of the cast opens the scene, sooner takes it further into the snippets of the trailer of ‘What About Us?’, starring Kunle Remi, Uzor Arukwe, Folu Storms, Atlanta Bridget Johnson, Marycolette Unamka, Teniola
Atlanta Bridget Johnson, Kunle Remi, Teniola Aladese, Folu Storms, and Uzor Arukwe in a scene from the movie
Jayriz
Sunday Ehigiator
SHOWBIZFLAIR
Chivido 2024: Epic Love Story of Davido, Chioma Unfolds
Ferdinand Ekechukwu and Tosin Clegg
Four years after their initial marriage plans was stalled by the dreaded Covid-19 pandemic, music superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, and his longtime lover and special
The couple’s traditional wedding in Lagos was best described as a spectacle of culture family, friends, fans and dignitaries from all walks of life. The occasion marked the culmination of years of friendship and love, characterised by setbacks, series of scandals, drama and trolls.
As expected, the event generated buzz on social media. The lavish ceremony on Tuesday, came about two weeks after Davido, a front member of the 30 BG ofwould take place on Tuesday, June 25, 2024.
The Grammy nominee soon posted for the most anticipated events in the nation’s entertainment circle this year, tagging it #Chivido2024. #Chivido2024 promptly dominated trends across social media platforms and reached a crescendo during the D-day. People are still talking about it. Most likely it will remain so days leading to their white wedding.
The weekend before the wedding day was the major highlight as Davido and Chioma went personally to homes of their esteemed VIP expected guests to formally extend their wedding invites. One of the personalities visited which drew people’s attention was the Ex-NFF boss, Amaju Pinnick, who had a legal issue with the super star few months ago. In a turn of events, many were glad the tides were down and Mrs. Pinnick had also posted on a peaceful settlement between both parties highlighting it as the way to go.
On Sunday, 23rd of June, led by the craftiness of Davido, Chioma taken by surprise was led to a beautiful bridal shower which had been intensely planned to give one friends and associates patiently awaited her arrival. As usual it isn’t always expected or planned but it was indeed a mind blowing moment for Chioma. From the see her excitement knew no bounds, the overwhelming feeling melted on the faces of her friends while the pink and colorful ambiance gave a sense of romance and an atmosphere of warmth. Iyanya, Wurld gave performance like no other before the groom to be arrived, placing the icing on the cake as he should. Leaving an indelible mark, the bridal shower came to a wrap culminated in an outpouring of love, laughter, gratitude, and heartfelt prayers for the bride-to-be.
The Nigerian social media space was agog. personalities had to put personal projects to a halt as it yielded no mileage due to the attention Davido’s wedding was brewing. The atmosphere felt like no other and as the access card and invitation was holding a value like no other with many desirously seeking ways to get entry as the heavily tight security was made public knowledge. Many sought to staying tuned on their social media platforms to enjoy the view while others who did get invites took to to be an extremely valueable possession which had a timed worth but held much weight.
perfectly tailored attires, expensive jewelries, strong security personnel manned movements and much more. Social media was a frenzy as every platform was dishing
out contents from the CHIVIDO hashtags round the clock. Davido too wasn’t left out content creators and media platforms serving elegance, the renowned steeze phenomenon and a distinctive class. Accompanied was Chioma’s glamour and beauty which was detailed how she embodied her attires, carried her person and gave everyone a Harbour Point, Victoria Island, was the epicenter of an unforgettable day as it hosted a distinguished lineup of guests, including Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Governor Ademola Adeleke, Governor Dapo Abiodun, Governor Godwin Obaseki, Governor Alex Otti, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Senator Daisy Danjuma, Seyi Tinubu, JJ Okocha, Obi Cubana, Jowizaza, Wale Jana, Adebola Williams, Victor Osimhen
The event was also a grand celebration of culture and music, featuring captivating performances by the Legendary King Sunny Ade. The night also saw electrifying performances from an array of superstars, including Fireboy, Chike, Olamide, Kcee, Peruzzi, Young John, May D, and Zlatan Ibile, among others. The blend of traditional and contemporary music provided an enriching experience, making the event a memorable occasion for all attendees. The night later folded into an after party which took guests on a roller coaster of premium entertainment and groove incomparable.
Davido, a globally acclaimed artiste with numerous hits and accolades to his name, and Chioma, a chef, and school mate of the singer have been in the public eye for years. Old as it seems, their relationship, marked by love and resilience, captured the hearts of many, making their union a most celebrated milestone.
With rush of palpable excitement, Davido called it “the best day of his life” and expressed his joy about “receiving our wife.” Though the ceremony was invitationonly, video clips from the event trended, one captured Davido in traditional Igbo
The moment showed the singer prostrating before the bride’s family and guests to show his commitment and pay his vows. Following cultural customs, the anchor prompted ‘OBO’ to request the bride’s hand. “Are you begging for the hand of Chioma fortune, or you are not begging?” the anchor asked.
The “Unavailable” hit-maker replied, “I’m begging for the hand of Chioma.”
When asked how he planned to care for the bride, Davido stated, “I have only two words: ‘lifetime insurance.’ “I promise your daughter will be protected, respected, and connected. Mommy, Daddy, I love you.
happiest day of my life.”
Chioma’s enduring relationship with Davido dates back as far back as 2013.
2018 when the singer made it public at her 23rd birthday in October of that year. Their romance won the chef several music video appearances and songs by the singer such as ‘Assurance’, ‘ Wonder Woman’, and ‘1 Milli’, dedicated to her.
At some points in their relationship ‘Assurance’ was a buzzword among their fans and followers talking about the pair. On several instances there were rumours of breakups popping up many times over the years on social media. Once asked about his love for Chioma, in comparison to the other women in his life, shortly before he proposed to her, ‘OBO’ said, “This one is special to me”.
He didn’t fail to reassure her of her place in his life after the loss of their son in late 2022. Many had thought it was over between them following that sad incident. But that was not to be as last Tuesday’s ceremony sealed their union, hopefully…While the venue and atmosphere rained dollar.
ANALYSIS
Need to Protect Dangote Refinery from Saboteurs
Following revelations by the Dangote Refinery that the international oil companies operating in Nigeria, and petroleum products marketers aided by the downstream regulator are plotting to frustrate the 650,000 barrels per day facility, many Nigerians have called for urgent actions by the federal government to protect the $20 billion refinery from collapse,
Last Sunday, Nigerians received in shock the startling revelations by the Dangote Industries Limited that the international oil companies (IOCs) operating in Nigeria were doing everything to frustrate its 650,000 barrels per day refinery by not giving it crude produced in the country to run the plant.
The Aliko Dangote-owned group also alleged that the downstream regulator -the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), was still granting import licences, indiscriminately, to marketers to import dirty refined products into the country (even when the refinery produces large volume of high quality products to meet local demand).
It added that the federal government issued 25 licences to investors to build refineries, but Dangote Refinery was the only one that delivered on its promise.
At a time Nigeria is witnessing an exodus of foreign companies from the shores of the country with huge adverse socio-economic impact on the nation, it is expected that the federal government should do everything within its powers to protect investment of Nigerians in the country such as Dangote Refinery, owing to its immense benefits to the nation.
To many Nigerians, it is highly inconceivable that a refinery owned by a Nigerian, established in the country, cannot get crude oil produced in Nigerian soil to run its refinery and produce petroleum products for the country.
However, owing to the game-changing impact of the Dangote Refinery to the nation’s socio-economic and industrial development, the actions of the IOCs, the oil marketers and the NMDPRA have attracted responses from concerned citizens who have called on the government to do everything within its powers to protect the refinery from the plots of the saboteurs. In their interventions, civil society organisations, Nigerian students and social media users, analysts and local crude oil refiners have jointly risen in defence of Dangote Refinery, urging the federal government to protect the refinery against any form of sabotage.
The Dangote Refinery owned by Africa’s richest person, Dangote has been in operation since January this year, producing high quality diesel, aviation fuel and naphtha, with the Nigerian market now enjoying the benefit of in-country production of petroleum products from the refinery.
The plant has the capacity to meet 100 per cent of the Nigerian consumption need of all refined products (including petrol 53 million litres per day; diesel, 34 million litres per day; kerosene, 10 million litres per day, and aviation jet, two million litres per day) and has a surplus of each of the products for export, thus ending Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products.
The Sabotage
The Vice President, Oil and Gas at Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), Devakumar Edwin recently accused IOCs in Nigeria of doing everything to frustrate the survival of Dangote Oil Refinery and Petrochemicals.
A statement by the Dangote Group last Sunday, quoted Edwin to have made the allegations during a one-day training programme for energy editors, organised by the company. He specifically said the IOCs were deliberately and willfully frustrating the refinery’s efforts to buy local crude by jerking up high premium price above the market price, thereby forcing it to import crude from countries as far as United States, with its attendant high costs.
According to him, “While the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) are trying their best to allocate the crude for us, the IOCs are deliberately and willfully frustrating our efforts to buy the local crude.”
He added, “It would be recalled that the NUPRC, recently met with crude oil producers as well as refineries owners in Nigeria, in a bid to ensure full adherence to Domestic Crude Oil Supply Obligations (DCSO), as enunciated under section 109(2) of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
“It seems that the IOCs’ objective is to ensure that our Petroleum Refinery fails. It is either they are deliberately asking for ridiculous/humongous premium or, they simply state that crude is not available. At some point, we paid $6 over and above the market price. This has forced us to reduce our output as well as import crude from countries as
Peter Uzoho
reports
far as the US, increasing our cost of production.”
He also lamented that the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) was still granting import licences, indiscriminately, to marketers to import dirty refined products into the country.
Edwin disclosed that the federal government issued 25 licences to investors to build refineries, but Dangote Refinery was the only one that delivered on its promise.
He said the Dangote group deserved every support from the Nigerian government, especially with the Domestic Crude Supply Obligation (DCSO), as specified in the enabling law.
Edwin pointed out, “It is good to note that from the start of production, more than 3.5 billion litres, which represent 90 per cent of our production, has been exported.
“We are calling on the federal government and regulators to give us the necessary support in order to create jobs and prosperity for the nation.” He added, “It is sad that the country is giving import licences for such dirty diesel to be imported into Nigeria, when we have more than adequate petroleum refining capacity locally.”
The company said the decision of the NMDPRA to keep granting licences indiscriminately for the importation of dirty diesel and aviation fuel, had made the refinery to expand into foreign markets. Edwin added, “The refinery has recently exported diesel and aviation fuel to Europe and other parts of the world. The same industry players fought us for crashing the price of diesel and aviation fuel, but our aim, as I have said earlier, is to grow our economy.”
He stated that because the refinery met the international standard and complied with stringent guidelines and regulations to protect the local environment, it had been able to export its products to Europe and other parts of the world.
He appealed to the federal government and the National Assembly to urgently intervene for speedy implementation of the PIA and to ensure the interest of Nigeria and Nigerians were protected.
Nigerians Seek FG’s Action
Following the revelation by the Dangote Group on its frustration in accessing crude oil in-country, Nigerians in the civil society space and on social media rose in defence of the refinery, calling out IOCs for sabotaging the operations of the multi-billion dollar facility by not selling crude produced in Nigeria to it.
The Netizens voiced their displeasure over the efforts of the IOCs and local oil marketers to frustrate the refinery, stating that the federal government must protect the Dangote refinery against any form of sabotage. Coordinator of a civil society group, known as Initiative for Defence of Democracy and Justice, Alhaji Aliyu Kaoje, who spoke to told journalists, warned, “Let us sound a strong warning to them to desist forthwith whatever they are doing directly or indirectly to frustrate the operations of the refinery.”
Speaking on Arise News Channel, the Chief Executive Officer, ThinkBusiness Africa, Dr. Ogho Okiti, stressed that, “If there is a kind of saboteur anywhere, the federal government should do all to contain it. This refinery is not just for the interest of Aliko Dangote, it should not be seen as a Dangote problem, but a national problem because this is a national asset. This asset is part of the solution to our energy crisis in Nigeria.”
In his intervention, financial planning expert, Kalu Aja, posited, “If Dangote needs crude, Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) should support its 20 per cent investment by giving Dangote its oil equity.”
The Publisher of Sweet Crude Reports, Mr. Hector Igbikiowubo, asked, “How come the NNPC isn’t allotting all of its 445,000 barrels per day (crude meant for its four refineries) to the Dangote Refinery for refining?”
An X user, with the handle, AgriGATE Nigeria, tweeted that “If @DangoteGroup @AlikoDangote refinery fail, then @ NigeriaGov can be said to be complicit in conspiracy against the refinery. American government goes extra length to protect interest of American companies. Ours can’t be left at mercy of international oil companies.”
Another X user, Eguando, appealed to President Bola Tinubu to protect and liberate the economy by making the Dangote Refinery work, adding that the refinery needs all the supports it requires to succeed.
“They the IOCs have enjoyed exporting our Crude oil the last 60 years or more without building one refinery each or collectively building one for us as a country to reap the benefit, yet one Nigerian has taken the initiative and they want to do everything to derail it.”
Another user, Ayodeji Oluwadamilare added that “I am not even surprised there are people who want that refinery to fail. They enjoy the status quo of subsidy and don’t want it to end… Wicked humans… They will be shamed at last… ”Also, Shimsun, another X user, tweeted, “The IOCs must be brought to heel and the corrupt civil servants at NMDPRA who are bent on keeping the system poisonously inefficient should be made to answer for their actions.”
On his part, Oseni Lanre stated that “The refinery has to work and it must now!”
Local Oil Refiners Back Dangote
Also worried by the actions of the IOCs and indigenous producers against the Dangote Refinery, Local crude oil refiners under the umbrella of the Crude Oil Refineries Association of Nigeria (CORAN) threw their weight behind the refining company. The association stressed that the consumers can only purchase petroleum products if refineries in the country are made to function.
Speaking on a national television, Chairman of CORAN, Mr. Momoh Oyarekhua, corroborated claims by Dangote Refinery that some IOCs were actively obstructing the refinery’s operations by refusing to guarantee and provide crude supply. Oyarekhua said, “I will take it from the angle of producers of crude rather than focusing on the IOCs alone. What we usually call IOCs are the international producers, but I do not think it is just about the international producers and operators in Nigeria, I think it’s more about the producers of crude in Nigeria that are perhaps frustrating the refineries in Nigeria from getting crude.
“In fact, we have been on this journey, I particularly have been on this journey of advocating for crude sales to local refineries and also where necessary for the modular refineries for crude to be sold to them in naira because most of our products are produced into the local market and income is actually in Naira and it is just commonsensical that if you sell product in naira you should be able to get your feedstock in naira, mostly when that feedstock is produced in naira so that you don’t put pressure on the US dollar that is already scarce in the country.
“We have had several engagements with the NUPRC and all of that and it is clear that in the PIA Law, in section 109, there is DCSO which is supposed to be Domestic Crude Supply Obligation to support the local refineries and I think that law was specifically put there by legislators not to starve the refineries. But what we have seen is a huge and still resistance by the producers of crude in Nigeria. They will rather prefer to export crude abroad than to sell to local refineries.”
He insisted that the cost of finished products would reduce drastically if local refining is encouraged, instead of the importation of finished refined products that do not even meet quality standards
“We all saw that when Dangote came on stream, diesel dropped from N1,600 to about N1,200, and as we speak today, from our refineries, we are even selling less than N1,100. This is to tell you how far producing crude locally can support the economy and can support the people of Nigeria,” Oyarekhua said.
Steps in Evaluating Company You Want to Invest In
In an economy full of uncertainties, the idea of investing to build wealth comes very handy. Sadly, not a few Nigerians have lost fortune to wrong investment choice in recent times.
According to the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Company (NDIC), Nigerians have lost not less than N911.45 billion to various Ponzi schemes and related frauds in the last 23 years. Although, Ponzi schemes mostly and readily come to mind when pointing to unsafe investments, many are other decent looking businesses that are but wolves in sheep’s clothing.
An education entrepreneur, Dr. Abiodun Babatunde, recently learnt lesson after his N25 million got stuck in his friend’s microfinance bank which is presently on the verge of folding up.
Babatunde, had ignored necessary precautions and investigations he ought to have done before risking the whooping sum. The money he had borrowed from the bank in 2020, originally intended to execute a major project.
“I initially wanted to inject the money in a project in 2020 during COVID-19, but because I couldn’t secure regulatory approval and I didn’t want the money to lie fallow, I decided to invest it in a trusted friend’s microfinance bank.
“I was so comfortable because he is my friend. Of course, we agreed on a monthly interest rate which he was faithful, not until recently when I requested for my capital that he was reluctant.
Babatunde’s chances of retrieving his money looks quite slim, not only that the company is folding up, but also lacks regulatory and insurance backing.
Beyond ascertaining a company’s status with the regulator and its insurance standing, Managing Partner at Empyrean Professional Services, Mr. Bamgboye Emmanuel, highlighted more elements that Babatunde and any other aspiring investors should consider before doing business with any organization to avoid running into loss.
He disclosed that organisation’s audited account and the tool of Google are viable platforms investors can engage to track a company’s details in relations to the factors below:
Business Ownership/Structure
This has to do with a legal formation of the business. An investor must be well informed about this formation which could either be a sole proprietorship, limited liability company, partnership or a business name. For instance, a business name carries more risk while a limited liability company has a distinct legal personality that is quite different from others.
Employees Benefit
It is necessary to check out the packages available for the employees of an organisation. Are these package realistic and in tune with modern reality, are they well spelt- out and transparent enough in the financial statements of an organisation? A would be investor must find answers to these questions before leaping.
Litigation History
It is also important to determine the legal reputation of a company. Check if a company has been involved in legal dispute that may cast doubt about their ability to in a foreseeable future, if they have been involved in any dispute, find out the legal implications of the litigation, and more.
Tax Information
Check if the company has always been tax compliant. This means checking the tax antecedent of a company to know if it has been filing tax regularly. Also, if it is in good terms with the federal and state inland revenue and If such organisation
is good corporate citizen. The discovery here will determine the credibility of such a business.
Value of Current and Non-current Asset
A company with a very good solid asset base will able to stand any challenge and remain afloat. Companies like Union and FirstBank are leveraging their strong asset base because they have been in existence for a very long time and have been able to acquire so many assets.
Insurance Coverage
How covered is the asset base of the prospective firm? An investor needs to look for how protected an organisation is against fire outbreak, litigation and many other elements that might affect the smooth running of the business.
Customer Information
Of importance too is diving into the company’s customers’ information. An investor must take extra step in researching on the strength and credibility of a company’s customers. This is essential to have an idea of company’s revenue streams, market position, growth potential and their financial health, amongst others.
Capital Investment
This can also be linked to value of current and noncurrent asset. When checking the financials of a company, it is important to find its capital investment. This helps in determining the viability of an organization. Specifically, an intending investor can be able to assess a company’s scalability, understand its cost structure, envision its potential Return on Investment (ROI) as well as be able to assess risk involved.
Regulatory and Compliance Issues
Beyond being tax compliant, an organization must be socially responsible in terms of pension payment and commitment to environment and the country. An investor must take a holistic look at all of these before giving a nod.
Intellectual Property
This is also part of an organisation’s asset. Intellectual property includes assets without physical substance. An organization must possess both physical and intellectual property. Organizations like First bank possess both and have been leveraging this over the years. An investor must endeavor to know an organization’s value in terms of patient and goodwill, More so, the strength and viability of its intellectual value.
Revenue Base
This can be assessed from an organisation’s financial statement. With this, you can be able to track an organisation’s performance and probe the trend of either profit or loss of revenue. Once you notice a trend of loss, that is a red flag that should be a cause for concern.
Industry Trends and Analysis
Also to note is comparing the activities and performance of a company with prevailing industry realities. Understand the ranking of the organisation and performance, compare with other players operating in same industry
Offerings
Check out if a company’s products and services are needed in the market. Ask yourself if these offerings are sellable and competitive. A product or service must be relevant and able to stand the test of time. Also to note is whether such products possess required license and align with government policies.
IWS Leads Way for Financial Stability of Widows
The International Women’s Society (IWS) Nigeria, has reiterated its commitment to women’s development, just as its empowered about 200 widows at its Widows’ Feast and Empowerment Programme, in Lagos, recently. The group explained that the gesture was in line with its objective of advancing women’s cause and uplifting the needy in the interest of the society and nation at large.
with income-generating opportunities and empowerment items such as: grinding machines, sewing machines, freezers, POS machines, popcorn
machines, hairdryers, cake mixers and cash gifts, amongst others.
In addition, Abdul Samad Rabiu(ASR) Foundation, one of the sponsors also donated N100, 000 each.
Speaking, the Chairperson of Widows Trust the society’s commitment to women’s support through community engagement, empowerment programmes, and skill acquisition initiatives
“We believe that empowerment is multifaceted. It begins with economic independence but also encompasses emotional support, educational opportunities, and the fostering of a community where everyone feels valued and heard.
Expert Proposes Flexible Repayments Options on Students Loan
Astudents’ loan scheme recently signed into law (Access to Higher Educa- tion Act) by President Bola Tinubu, Managing Director of UpdateAfrika Communica-
repayment schedule in such a way that enables a win-win situation for both the borrower and lender.
gested an income-based repayment plans that over an extended period. This is as the federal government’s amended act on the loan pegged repayment to two years post National Youth Service(NYSC) and 10 percent direct deduction
repayment modalities, which he too submitted
may be counterproductive on the economy in the long run. He feared that with the height of unemploy- ment data, reportedly increasing on monthly basis, government’s modalities may be unrealistic, hence, the need for prompt adjustment.
Moreover, he stressed the urgency to tackle root causes of unemployment among youth to avoid running into bankruptcy with the scheme, advising present administration to learn from USA that is presently battling debt crisis as a result.
“Both government and educational institutions alike need to focus on enhancing job-relevant skills, internships, and career guidance to better prepare graduates for the job market.
Additionally, the authority needs to explore
routes. More so, there is need to drive policies that will enable mass jobs in both private and public sectors”, he admonished.
SystemSpecs Says Tech-savvy Teens Crucial to Future Growth
Financial technology company, SystemSpecs Holdings Limited has re-emphasised the need to promote tech adoption among children to engender future economic growth.
urged stakeholders to push for ethical and responsible use of technology tools, while guiding children through the digital space.
Children’s Day Essay Competition (CDEC) held in Lagos, recently, the company’s Group Chairman, Dr. Ernest Ndukwe, explained that the theme of the contest, ‘’Protecting the Nigerian Child from the Dangers of Online Technology,” was crucial to ensure children’s safety on the internet.
He reiterated the company’s commitment to inclusion, citing the CDEC initiative as being receptive to all Nigerians.
“We have taken the responsibility upon ourselves to provide every Nigerian child irrespective of creed, culture, or constituency an opportunity to be exposed to the amazing world of technology and its transformative power, thus setting them up on a path for success in an ever-increasing competitive world where
Indigenous food and beverage company, Rite Foods Limited has demonstrated support fo local culture at the just concluded Ojude Oba festival in Ogun state. The Ojude Oba festival is a celebration peculiar to Ijebu indigenes of Ogun state and notorious for colourful display of cultural elements. Rite Foods which was one of the sponsors of the event explained its involvement in the historic festival, as being part of its commitments to promoting and preserving cultural heritage. The company also seized the occasion to connect with loyal fans from Yoruba dynasty, while refreshing and entertaining guests and tourists from across the globe with its soft drink variants.
Speaking on the initiative, Head of Corporate
“he said.
For this year’s competition recording over 3,500 and Aletan Oluwajuwonlo were announced overall winners in the senior and junior categories respectively.
Both students from ljaiye Ojokoro Senior High School, Lagos State and Apostolic Faith Secondary School, Ibadan, Oyo State, respectively were rewarded N1 million each for their exceptional brilliance.
While the second and third positions in both junior and senior categories were gifted N750,000 and N500,000 respectively. All the winners also got a laptop, plaques, and other items.
Each winning school and overall winning state, Lagos were supported with 10 laptops each.
Commenting further, Managing Director of Remita Payment Services Limited (RPSL), Deremi Atanda said, “We are committed to the long term, having been at the forefront of business investing in local capacity building is crucial for the country’s global competitiveness. Our goal is to nurture a new generation of highly skilled, tech-savvy Nigerians, equipped to drive innovation and excellence, and make a meaningful impact on the global stage.”
Ekuma Eze, expressed appreciation to Ijebu society for being a loyal host community to Rite Foods’ world-class factory at Ososa.
He explained that sponsorship of the festival was one of the ways the organisation enriches lives of indigenes.
He said, “The Ojude Oba Festival represents cherished norms and values of the Ijebu nation, a collective endeavor of their tradition and cultural activities that bind them together.
“We are indeed excited to be in the vanguard of preserving the identity and civilization of the Ijebu people, and to refresh guests with our array of unique brands comprising 13 variants of the Bigi Carbonated Soft Drink, our Premium variants and Rite Spicy Beef, amongst others. These are produced with state-of-the-art infrastructure and modern technology.”
FEATURES
As Access Holdings Takes the Lead in Sustainable Finance
As
the
global community intensifies
quest
for environmental sustainability, Access Holdings
Plc is flying
high in pushing the vision of a better future free from environmental pollution and degradation writes Dike Onwuamaeze
Access Holdings Plc is taking the lead in organisational responsibility to the environment and communities. It is also a topline financial conglomerate with a vision to develop a global community inspired by Africa for the world, with the social responsibilities of environmental consciousness, economic production, and sustainable global growth.
Access Holdings’ environmental consciousness is in tandem with the United Nations in its “The Climate Crisis” report that emphasised that as global concern has continued to put environmental sustainability at the front burner of discussions, it has become increasingly pressing for all and sundry to reevaluate their commitment to issues around sustainability.
With the world’s market of sustainable finance inching closer to a $1.6 trillion mark, Access Holdings has a shot at delivering sound and sustainable banking services that are integrating responsible Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and practices into its business lines. Its objective is to build a safer and more humane tomorrow, which it does through a holistic sustainability plan that touches on all aspects of its operations and impact on the environment.
Climate Action
As a responsible corporate entity, Access Holdings vests its interest in minimising the overall level of climate change by decreasing the volume of GHG emissions, as well as collaborating with necessary partners in the achievement of the net-zero target.
The Holdco is pursuing the use of solar energy to counter dependence on the costly diesel sources for generators in its operations across its verticals. The purchase of energy-efficient appliances and systems for use in offices across its vertical is another way that it is reducing its carbon footprint.
Renewable Energy and Emission Reduction
As highlighted by the International Energy Agency (IEA), Africa should invest over $190 billion per year between 2026 and 2030 to ensure that it achieves energy and climate change goals. This magnitude of investment creates an opportunity for responsible corporate entities to play significant roles in realising Africa’s climate change goals and Access Holdings Plc is one of the contenders well positioned to mobilise these needed resources. The Holdco’s business verticals are all conscious of minimising emissions in their operations.
Access Holdings’ Green Initiatives
Recycling and Renewable Energy Investment: Figures from
the 2022 annual reports across Access Holdings verticals reported the generation of 8,204,226.99 kWh of energy from renewable sources and the installation of solar ATMs in 696 locations, thereby cutting down the dependency on diesel generators.
In addition to its core banking solution the Holdco across its verticals also ventures into sustainable waste management advocating recycling programmes at 75 various locations across Nigeria, in collaboration with ParallelPoint Consult. The company also supported the repurposing and recycling of waste materials with a combined value of 2,225.987 kg. These included waste cans, paper, plastics, and glass.
Green Bonds: Access Bank Plc, being a banking subsidiary of Access Holdings is the first in Africa to launch a Climate Bond Initiative (a certified corporate green bond used in financing and refinancing of environmentally sustainable projects), raising N15 billion ($41 million) in 2019. It is also the first financial institution in Nigeria to be endorsed with the Equator Principles, implying that any new major project this bank supports must have undergone the Environmental Impact Assessment and have recommendations on how to avoid the negative impact of such a project.
Another bond issuance happened in 2022, when the company raised $50 million channeled into funding areas such as clean energy, green transportation, combating floods and significantly cutting down on GHG emissions and
limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius
The sum of N14.521 billion was also disbursed to two eligible green assets, including a flood defense system in Victoria Island Lagos, and a solar PV system with a total GHG emission reduction of 17,037.50 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent per year (tCO2eq/y). With an installed capacity of 21.46 megawatts (MW) the project benefits about 400 000 residents.
Emission Reduction: As part of its efforts to contribute to its parent company’s sustainability focus, it is interesting to know that Access Bank has put into implemented policies and frameworks necessary to mitigate its emission of carbon. It had a target of reducing its GHG emissions by 10 per cent in 2022. Another remarkable goal by the bank is to reduce emissions by 50 per cent by 2027 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2035. These audacious goals are being implemented in efforts to transition to a net zero emission and mitigate climate change effects.
Preservation of Biodiversity: As part of its overarching environmental corporate social responsibility strategy across its verticals, Access Holdings employs an effective ESRM framework as a means of understanding and controlling various social and environmental risks, particularly in lending activities. Some of the initiatives by the Holdco’s vertical, Access bank include Save Biodiversity in Delta, (which involved the planting of 300 seedlings and education of students across Delta State on how to protect and preserve the endangered species of the plants), and the Go Green Initiative in collaboration with the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency, (Laspark).
To shape the future generations of leaders, the Holdco has been at the forefront of sustainability education. Its Climate Leadership Fellowship is an embodiment of the group’s stand on advocacy and leadership as a means of developing climate resilience. To support students in secondary schools, it established sustainability clubs and created young adult climate leaders. To date, this initiative has let Access Holdings train 13,089 beneficiaries on climate change to foster climate literacy, foster climate change adaptation, and develop a crop of environmentally conscious citizens.
Indeed, Access Holdings Plc is flying high in pushing the vision of a better future free from environmental pollution and degradation. This is well enshrined in its overall corporate strategy and woven into the fabric of every project and initiative undertaken by the company. By including environmental management as a part of its corporate responsibility, Access Holdings is also a worthy example for other corporate entities to mirror, and adopt environmentally sustainable and inclusive practices in their activities.
Raising Revenue without Stifling the Masses
Nigeria faces a myriad of economic challenges. Among the most pressing is the issue of government revenue. With an economy heavily reliant on oil exports, fluctuations in global oil prices significantly impact its fiscal stability. This necessitated a revenue drive that led to the removal of oil subsidy amidst other policies and its attendant untold economic hardship on the citizenry. Then emerges the debate about how best to enhance domestic revenue mobilisation through taxation; raising critical questions. Can the government have enough? Won’t more tax burden exacerbate obvious economic hardship? Will collecting more from citizens boost economic growth? How best to manage the drive for more revenue?
According to the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria’s GDP growth rate was approximately 2.74 per cent in 2023, insufficient to keep up with its rapidly growing population. Consequently, per capita income remains low, and many Nigerians live below the poverty line.
Nigeria’s tax-to-GDP ratio is one of the lowest in the world, standing at around 10 per cent, according to Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun. This is considerably below the African average of around 15 per cent and the global average of above 30 per cent. Such low tax revenues limit the government’s ability to invest in critical infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other public services necessary for sustainable economic growth.
Proponents of increasing taxation argue that enhancing domestic revenue is essential for economic development. Stating that it will improve fiscal stability and reduce dependence on oil diversifying revenue sources through increased taxation can reduce vulnerability to oil price shocks. A more stable and predictable revenue stream can enable better fiscal planning and investment in long-term development projects.
They also argue that higher tax revenues can enable the government to invest more in public services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Improved public services can enhance human capital, increase productivity, and attract foreign investment, all of which are crucial for economic growth.
Redistribution of wealth is another benefit of increased revenue as opined by the proponents. Progressive taxation can help address income inequality by redistributing wealth from the rich to the poor. This can boost domestic consumption, as lower-income households tend to spend a higher proportion of their income. More so, it can enhance governance and accountability. A broader tax base can lead to greater government accountability. When citizens contribute more in taxes, they are likely to demand better governance and efficient use of public resources, potentially reducing corruption and mismanagement.
Despite these potential benefits, increasing taxation in Nigeria is fraught with challenges and risks. Inefficiencies, corruption, and a lack of capacity plague the tax administration system. Enhancing tax collection without first addressing these systemic issues could lead to increased evasion and unfair practices.
A significant portion of the economy operates informally, outside the reach of formal taxation. This makes it difficult to broaden the tax base without implementing reforms to formalize these economic activities.
With widespread distrust in the government and perceptions of corruption, many citizens may resist higher taxes like Kenyans did. Without significant improvement in public services, increasing taxes could lead to mistrust, more hardship, social unrest, and further evasion.
The impact on small businesses and the poor could be devastating. Increased taxation, if not well-designed, could disproportionately affect small businesses and low-income households. This could stifle entrepreneurship, reduce disposable incomes, and ultimately slow economic growth.
To leverage taxation for economic growth, the government needs a balanced approach that addresses these challenges while capitalizing on the potential benefits.
Improving the efficiency and capacity of the tax administration system is crucial. This includes investing in technology, training tax officials, and implementing measures to reduce corruption. Transparent and efficient tax collection can enhance public trust and compliance.
Broadening the tax base is another viable approach. Efforts
should focus on formalizing the informal sector and bringing more economic activities into the tax net. Simplifying tax compliance for small businesses and providing incentives for formalisation can help achieve this goal.
Promoting and implementing reflective progressive taxation is important. Implementing a progressive tax system where higherincome individuals and profitable corporations pay a larger share can ensure that the tax burden does not disproportionately fall on the poor. This can also help address income inequality.
More important, is public awareness and engagement for the buy-in of the citizenry. Educating citizens about the importance of taxation for national development and demonstrating tangible benefits from tax revenues can increase voluntary compliance. Engaging with community, civic, and religious representatives and involving them in budgeting can enhance trust and accountability.
Above all, policy coordination and reform are crucial. Policy coordination should be part of a broader strategy that includes economic diversification, improved public financial management, and anti-corruption measures. Coordinated efforts across various sectors can create a more conducive environment for growth.
In terms of reform, efforts should be made to reduce double-digit taxation to single-digit. Though work is currently going on it. We await the outcome of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy & Tax Reforms led by Mr. Taiwo Oyedele in this regard.
Increasing taxation holds significant potential to boost economic growth, provided it is done thoughtfully and systematically. Addressing administrative inefficiencies, broadening the tax base, and ensuring a fair tax system are critical steps.
Equally important is building public trust through transparent governance and demonstrating the direct benefits of tax revenues in improving public services and infrastructure.
The success of this strategy hinges on the government’s ability to implement comprehensive reforms and foster a culture of accountability and trust. If these conditions are met, increasing taxation could indeed become a powerful tool for driving sustainable economic growth and development in Nigeria.
Aluya is a public policy analyst and the Research and Advocacy Officer at the Chartered Institute of Directors.
Aig-Imoukhuede
Mudiaga Aluya
FEATURES
Makanjuola: How Adesoye College Shaped My Life
After exiting the citadel of learning 30 years ago in flying colours, it was a homecoming for Chief Executive Officer of Caverton Offshore Support Group, Olabode Makanjuola, as he visited his alma mater, Adesoye College, an elitist private school located in Offa, Kwara State, last Saturday, to deliver the valedictory speech for the 2024 Graduating class. Makanjuola, who has become a quintessential role model, admonished the students to be good ambassadors as education received has equipped him with the skills, knowledge, and character to make a difference, therefore becoming independent, resilient and enterprising. Bennett Oghifo writes
Gratitude, nostalgia and emotions ran through the mind of the occupier of the chopper as it hovered over the expansive landscape of the first elitist private school in Nigeria, Adesoye College, Offa, Kwara State, which has produced the best of the best since its establishment in 1987. The early morning breeze was soothing, as if determined to welcome back one of its own into the domain. The August Visitor left the school 30 years ago and has remained one of its shining lights. The Chief Executive Officer of Caverton Offshore Support Group was a guest of honour at the graduation ceremony of the Class of 2024 and on ground to welcome him was his former teacher who is now the Acting Head of the School, Mr. Lawal Raheem Bola; Head of Student Life, Mrs. Bolaji Adesoye, amongst others.
Adesoye happens to be the first elitist private school in Nigeria. Founded by the late proprietor, Chief Emanuel Olatunji Adesoye, whose vision and dream was to produce visionary leaders with an allround education, emphasis is not just on academics but morals along with students embodying upright characters.
Over the last 37 years, the school has surpassed the founder’s expectations and to put it modestly, has over-achieved on its mission statement. Today, products of the school are high flyers occupying various positions in the corporate world, in governance and many others. Some are special advisers to presidents while some head large corporations and government agencies. Of course, the like of Makanjuola run successful companies and are calling the shots in the corporate world.
Studious, diligent, brilliant, Makanjuola left the citadel of learning 30 years ago and today, sits atop a prominent aviation and marine logistics company based in Nigeria which has been a story of tremendous successes and opening new vistas. The accomplished entrepreneur and business leader, who served as a prefect in Red House during his time, was one of the citadel’s third set of students between 1989 and 1994.
In his valedictory speech, Makanjuola spoke glowingly about the school’s core values of hard work, excellence, character, which have been the guiding lights in his endeavours. According to him, he was overwhelmed with nostalgia and a profound sense of duty returning to give a speech 30 years after passing out with distinctions, especially seeing the famous red bricks, yellow gates and the arch following the 4-journey through Lagos and Offa.
“As a former student of Adesoye College, having been part of the third set admitted in 1989, and graduating in 1994, I stand before you today not only as a witness to your journey but also as a bearer of a crucial message. Nigeria, our beloved nation, is a tapestry of challenges, dreams, and untapped potential. It is within this very complexity that we, as Adesoye College alumni, must find our calling. We must rediscover our national pride and redouble our efforts in contributing to the development of Nigeria for the future.
“In our lives, we often come across the phrase ‘I tried.’ However, let me tell you, as someone who has experienced both success and failure, that ‘I tried’ is never enough. It has become synonymous with giving up, with accepting mediocrity.
“We must unlearn this notion and become resultoriented individuals, where the end goal is the only goal. The education we received at Adesoye College has equipped us with the skills, knowledge, and character to make a difference. “We were taught to be resilient, to embrace challenges, and to never be complacent. Therefore, it is our collective responsibility to use these tools to solve the challenges that confront our communities, our nation,” he stated in his rousing speech.
Makanjuola paid homage to Fred Allison, a fellow alumnus of the 1989 set and his friend of 30 years who travelled with him to the event and teachers like Mr. Lawal, his agricultural science teacher; Mr Olanipekun, Mr and Mrs Ajaere, Mr Whitebread, Mr Bullock and the pioneer headmistress, Mrs REB Howard as well as the now late founder, Chief Adesoye.
Speaking further, Makanjuola said, “Entrepreneur-
ship lies at the heart of progress. As we navigate our journey beyond these walls, I encourage each and every one of you to see challenges as opportunities. Create innovative solutions, start impactful businesses, and change the landscape of Nigeria.
“The challenges that our nation faces should not intimidate us; instead, we should see them as stepping stones to success. But let us not forget the importance of collective responsibility. Bringing about meaningful change requires collaboration, empathy, and compassion for our fellow Nigerians.
“Together, we can build a society that thrives on inclusivity, where no one is left behind. For those of us who are fortunate enough to carve successful careers, I implore you to remember the responsibility you have to give back to society. Solving community challenges should be ingrained in our ethos, a constant reminder of where we came from and the impact we can have,” said the man who founded Caverton Helicopters along his siblings in 2004 and co-founded Le Global Gas added.
In a brief chat with journalists, the successful entrepreneur recalled his first day at school which he said was a mixed bag of emotions.
“I was a 12-year-old starting a new phase far from home in a completely new environment. As any 12-yearold at the time and even today, excitement at the thought of being ‘independent’ was apparent but at the same time “fear and anxiety” of being away from home for the first time for a long period of time occupied my being.
“Obviously, I was homesick but bonded with fellow students and that’s how our friendships were formed.”
Speaking glowingly about the school, he said, “It has shaped me a great deal. Time in boarding school are your formative years and some of my closest and genuine friends today are from Adesoye. Not to sound cliche but Adesoye taught us to be independent, resilient and enterprising.”
Waving aside the notion of being the choice of rich kids, Makanjuola said Adesoye College was not just the preserve or choice of the rich but rather, it was the college of choice at the time for anyone looking for quality education and discipline “in my time.”
“We had families from all walks of life and from all over the country. I learnt financial management from Adesoye as provisions were not allowed and the school developed a cashless policy where you co uld only buy provisions from the school using a specially designed cheque book.
“The list is endless in terms of my experience and how the college shaped my life.”
On his plans to give back to the great citadel of learning, Makanjuola said in their days, students travelled to different places to acquire secondary education but today, the nation is less secure so parents are wary of their children travelling a long distance.
Also, there is the option of similar or better schools in closer proximity. However, there are children and families close to Adesoye that equally desire and deserve a quality education and he believes as an alumnus, he will
work together with the school management to preserve the school and the legacy of the founder.
Praising the late visioner, Chief Emmanuel Adesoye, the acting Head of School, Mr. Lawal Raheem Bola, who has been with school since inception in 1987, said he was delighted to welcome Makanjuola back into their midst.
“We are glad to have him here. We have been calling on people from outside to come and talk. We now looked around and said ‘look, we have our own people, proudly Adesoye. We have them all over the place in positions of authority. So, let’s get them to the school.’
“Let them come and talk and inspire these younger ones by coming to speak. It would be a kind of inspiration. Obviously, seeing him coming out of his chopper is already an inspiration to ignite the ‘I can do spirit, I can conquer the world.’”
Describing the astute business man, he added,” I am an agriculturalist. I was ‘Bode’s teacher. I taught him agricultural science. Bode is cool-headed, humble, committed, very gentle, easy-going and almost a Saint. He was even a prefect in Olabande, Red House. Bode was outstanding and for him to be selected and elected to be in the position of a prefect in Adesoye those days, because the population used to be very large.
“So, all of them were equally good. But he was very good. When you look at his character; diligent, studious and his disposition while he was here, I know he would go places. Honestly, he is one of the torch bearers of the institution which has produced outstanding students who have made giant strides in their endeavors.
“We are really, really proud of him. Very, very, very proud of him. And that is why we want to showcase him so that parents can see, and say look, this is a product from this same school where you are from, so you have not made a mistake. You have come to the right place.”
On the spirit of giving back to the institution, Lawal said it is a welcome development.
“We have been clamouring for this for a long time. Because the problem has been that each year/group, they are in their enclaves. After this valedictory service, Bode and Fred have promised to spearhead the move of bringing the various year groups together and then form the parent body.
“We are even considering a candidate from them, maybe two or three to be part of the governing council. Now they are carrying the toga of the alma mater, wherever they go now, they carry that toga of Adesoye college.
“There is no way we can discard that. It will always be with them. So, for them until now, to carry that, they have to be carrying it proudly too. And that means they must see and put an eye on whatever is going on there so that they will be able to maintain and sustain the quality which they enjoy when they were there,” he stated.
Evolution of Broadcast Technologies: From Analog to IP and Beyond
Adewale Adeniran
The captivating world of television broadcasting has undergone a remarkable transformation since its inception. From the grainy black and white images of the early days to the crystalclear, high-definition experiences of today, the journey has been fueled by continuous research and development in a range of key areas.
This comprehensive exploration delves into the fascinating history of broadcast technologies, focusing on the research that fueled the emergence of “thrust technologies” and their subsequent impact, particularly in the context of Africa’s evolving broadcasting landscape.
Early Beginnings: The Seeds of In- novation (1800s-1920s)
The seeds of broadcast technology were sown in the 19th century with groundbreaking research in areas like electromagnetism and telecommunications. Pioneering scientists like James Clerk Maxwell, Heinrich Hertz, and Guglielmo Marconi laid the foundation for transmitting and receiving electrical signals without wires.
These early discoveries paved the way for the development of radio, a crucial precursor to television broadcasting.
Birth of Television: A Technological Tapestry (1920s-1950s)
The 1920s and 1930s witnessed a surge in research focused on the specific technical challenges of television. Key advancements included: Mechanical Television: Pioneered by John Logie Baird and Vladimir Zworykin, mechanical television relied on spinning discs with spiral patterns to capture and transmit images. While offering proof of concept, these systems suffered from limited resolution and flicker.
Electronic Television: Research by Vladimir Zworykin and Philo Farnsworth led to the development of the cathode ray tube (CRT), a core component of electronic television systems. The CRT enabled the creation and display of images electronically, offering superior picture quality and laying the groundwork for modern television technology.
Scanning Techniques: Research in scanning techniques, like interlaced scanning developed by John Logie Baird, was crucial for capturing and transmitting moving images efficiently.
Transmission Standards: Research into radio transmission standards, including bandwidth requirements for carrying video signals, ensured compatibility and efficient transmission over the airwaves.
Rise of Analog Broadcasting: A Dominant Era (1950s-1980s)
By the 1950s, significant research efforts had culminated in the establishment of commercial television broadcasting using analog technology. Key elements included: Broadcast Infrastructure: Extensive research went into designing and building national broadcast networks with a network of transmitters and relay stations to extend the signal across vast distances.
Transmission Standards: Standardised analog television formats like NTSC (National Television System Committee) in North America and PAL (Phase Alternating Line) in Europe were established, ensuring compatibility between televisions and broadcast signals. T hese standards defined the number of lines per picture, frame rate, and color encoding methods. Television Sets: Research focused on improving the resolution and picture
quality of television sets. Early black and white sets were bulky and expensive, but advancements in CRT technology led to the development of more affordable and compact models. Color television research culminated in breakthroughs like the development of the shadow mask CRT, enabling the display of a wider range of colors.
Rise of Research Institutions and Collaborative Efforts:
The development of these technologies wasn’t solely driven by individual inventors. Research institutions like Bell Labs, RCA Laboratories, and the BBC Engineering Division played a significant role in advancing television technology. Collaborative efforts between research institutions, universities, and private companies fostered innovation and accelerated the commercialisation of new technologies.
Impact on Africa: Limited Access and Content Diversification
While the rise of analog broadcasting marked a significant leap in communication and entertainment, research in developing low-cost, energy-efficient television sets and exploring alternative transmission methods, like satellite broadcasting, remained a focus. Additionally, research went into creating locally relevant content that fostered national identity and addressed the educational needs of newly independent African nations.
Digital Revolution: A Paradigm Shift (1980s-Present)
The latter half of the 20th century saw a paradigm shift with the emergence of digital technologies. Key research areas included:
Digital Signal Processing: Advancements in digital signal processing techniques facilitated the efficient compression and transmission of digital video and audio data. This paved the way for higher quality video, more channels, and interactive features.
Digital Video Formats: Research led to the development of digital video formats like MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group) standards, offering efficient compression algorithms for video data.
Computer Networking: Research in computer networking, particularly the development of the internet protocol (IP), laid the
groundwork for the transmission of digital video and audio over IP networks.
Video & Audio Technologies:
Building on the foundation of digital signal processing and video formats, extensive research and development has been conducted in video and audio technologies, shaping the modern broadcast experience: Video Formatting: A comprehensive understanding of video formatting is crucial in broadcasting. This includes knowledge of analog formats like composite video, component video, and S-Video, as well as digital formats like High Definition (HD), Ultra High Definition (UHD), SMPTE standards (259M, 372M, etc.), used for professional broadcast applications.
Streaming Platforms: Broadcasters leverage various streaming platforms like OBS Studio, Wirecast, vMix, and StreamLab to capture, encode, and stream live video content over the internet. Research in these platforms focuses on improving user experience, workflow efficiency, and integration with other broadcast technologies. Satellite & IP Technologies: Broadcasters utilize a combination of satellite and IP technologies for content transmission. VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) technology enables content delivery to remote locations via satellite. DVBT2 (Digital Video Broadcasting - Second Generation Terrestrial) is a widely used standard for digital terrestrial television transmission. BUC (Block Up Converter) and LNB (Low-Noise Block Converter) are essential components in satellite communication systems. DTH (Direct-to-Home) refers to satellite television services delivered directly to homes.
Audio Technologies: Dante and AES67 are digital audio networking protocols that enable the transmission of highquality, multi-channel audio over IP networks. Research in audio technologies explores improved audio codecs, efficient audio mixing techniques, and seamless audio synchronisation with video for a superior broadcast experience.
Audio/Video over IP for Broadcast: Routing Approaches, Management Strategies
The ability to transmit high-quality audio and video over IP networks has revolutionised broadcasting workflows. Research in this area focuses on: Routing Approaches: Different routing approaches are employed to manage the flow of audio and video signals over IP networks. Research explores techniques like unicast routing, multicast routing, and source-specific multicast (SSM) to ensure efficient delivery and minimize network congestion.
IP Address Management: Assigning and managing IP addresses for broadcast devices on the network is crucial. Research investigates efficient IP address allocation schemes like DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol UDP and TCP: Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the User Datagram Protocol (UDP) and the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) is essential for optimizing audio/video transmission over IP. UDP prioritizes speed over reliability, making it suitable for real-time applications like broadcast. TCP offers error correction and retransmission, ensuring data integrity but introducing latency. Research explores techniques to balance these protocols for optimal broadcast performance.
Adeniran is the Chief Engineer at the Nigerian Television Authority
Food Security: AYuTe Africa Awards $40,000 Grant to Boost Agric-tech Innovations
in Abuja
AYuTe Africa Challenge in Nigeria, has awarded $40,000 grants to three young agric-tech innovators to develop technologies that would improve farming methods and food production in the country.
The Challenge is an enterprise development programme initiated by Heifer International to identify, nurture, and support innovative, relevant and technology-driven agric-centric enterprises to grow, scale and thrive.
Speaking at the grand finale of the 2024 AYuTe Africa Challenge Nigeria in Abuja, Country Director, Heifer International, Dr. Lekan Tobe, said the initiative would encourage innovators to leverage technology to achieve transformation in agricultural sector, and boost the food security agenda of the present administration.
He said, “Leveraging youth and technology presents opportunity for the transformation of agriculture, ensure food security, youth
employment, and economic development.
“It is technology that is helping us to close the yield gap, and create sustainable value chains, reduce post-harvest loss, and increase fertilizer, water and soil use efficiency.
“It also helps smallholder farmers to be better organised and build improved strength to engage with the market.”
He said the competition serves as a springboard for identifying and supporting outstanding young agritech innovators for visibility, growth and increased productivity for smallholder farmers.
According to Tobe, through a regional competition, Heifer International awarded $1.5 million annually to leading agritech innovators across Africa. In his remarks, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Abuja, Prof. Akeem Oyerinde, emphasised the role of youths in leveraging technology to transform agriculture system in the country.
He added, “We all need to rejuvenate agriculture to where it belongs. Each and every one
of you can key into any agricultural products and business by using the various technologies like the mobile phones to promote productivity and address some of the challenges affecting small holder farmers in Nigeria.”
Special Adviser to the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security on Youth and Agricbussiness, Manir Umar, stressed the need for collaboration with stakeholders to ensure implementation of policies.
He added, “The government can create policies, but cannot be the implementers, so we try to collaborate with stakeholders to ensure efforts like this are being strengthened
“ Youths are the drivers of agriculture revolution. So the ministry is giving a lot of focus of the Renewed Hope agenda.”
Special Adviser to the Minister of Labour and Employment, Femi Oluwagbemi, said “With agriculture, young people can easily get into the process of job creation, self employment and organise themselves into cooperatives.
“By so doing, they will have the chances to access funding from programmes such as this.”
The winners of the prize awards include Ruth Ede with Scratop Nigeria Limited, who was awarded $20,000 grants for her innovation in converting bio-waste into nutrients-rich bio fertilizers.
Akpem Shadrach, Vet Konect, a digital animal health company secured $12,000 for his innovation in providing comprehensive care for livestock farmers across Africa via mobile devices using AI tools to boost productivity.
Other beneficiaries are Scarecrow Green Eden’s 4th industrial revolution who $8,000 for using technology in combating climate change effects and increasing farming efficiency for smallholder farmers.
Ede, who emerged overall winner, said she will use the grant to improve access to nutrients-rich bio fertilizer for farmers to boost for more production.
DG, NBC, Charles Ebuebu
POLITY
Umo Eno: What Comrades Do
Ekomobong Peter |
Comrades do not slumber. They stand in solidarity. They are “fighters” who waste no time to bounce back and cover lost grounds. They have vision and strategy. So is the story of Comrade Umo Eno, Governor of Akwa Ibom State who had his day at the Postgraduate School of the University of Uyo to share in a feast of scholarship.
As a doctoral candidate, he presented his Seminar which is a sine qua non for graduation. “I was done with my course work but could not fulfill other conditions for the award of a PhD due to the demands of politicking for the state’s plum job”. Having done with the rigor of electioneering with 354,348 votes from 268 wards across 4,354 Units and clinching 29 out of 31 Local Government Areas, he has moved on these 378 days to proof a rare mettle of social consciousness in governance by revolutionizing rural development, community health and education, social inclusion especially People Living with Disabilities (PLWD); Building of ARISE Compassionate Shelters for the poor and widows across communities and allocation of 156 apartments to civil servants at the Grace Estate.
Through the State Bulk Purchase Agency, thousands of vulnerable citizens are given free stable foodstuffs to eliminate effect of floundering hunger occasioned by the national economic crunch.
While he is daily sandwiched by protocols that accompany Governors in Nigeria, Governor Umo Eno never hesitates or has any inhibitions about stretching forth his hand to shake youths, cuddle the aged and warmly pick up kids everywhere he goes.
Posing a task for his security aides, who by now have understood they are working with a non-conventional Nigerian political figure. There have been no qualms between the comrade governor, labour movement and union leaders since he took the mantle This is because before they make demands, he often ensures supply is available. So far, he has supplied over eighteen billion naira to offset pension and gratuities, paid leave grants to staff of the unified local government commission.
During the thanksgiving service to mark his administration’s first anniversary, the excited Umo Eno reminded the labour community that he has fulfilled his pact with them. “When we were campaigning, I told you I will be your champion, today I am championing your cause”. Received as truth, the audience reverberate with thunderous clap for a Comrade who prioritizes the welfare of comrades possibly in anticipation of another round of thirteenth month salary and more largesse.
Would more come the way of civil servants, students, artisans, farmers, the poor and needy? Certainly.
Last week at a thanksgiving service to mark the first anniversary of members of the Eight Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Pastor Umo Eno for the umpteenth time echoed his empathy to the downtrodden and his mantra for welfarism. “ I do not have to build bridges across tha Atlantic Ocean to show I have a legacy project... My legacy is to help people; connect with Akwa Ibom people to achieve their purpose and destiny, ensure peace in the state without which there’s no meaningful development.. 31 children from our public schools who didn’t know they could travel to Abuja are with their visas ready to travel to the UK for and educational exchange programme.
“I want to build confidence in them, let them know the world is theirs to explore, and that they are not limited by the circumstances of their birth. I have sponsored three Akwa Ibomites last week to Aviation School, Zaria where their dreams to one-day fly a Boeing has started...Those are my legacy projects “
An Entrepreneur, Rural Community Development Advocate, Philanthropist, Priest, Doctoral Candidate, Community Health Ambassador, Tourism Exponent, Captain of Participatory Governance, Sustainable Development Goals Champion and Vanguard of quality education from bottom top. Umo Eno has shown he indeed is the people’s governor Akwa Ibom people deserve at this momentous moment in our history.
For Umo Eno, every day is for the people. An evidence of this was when he stepped forward to meet a crowd of aluta generation who nestled the postgraduate school as an amphibious battalion would do around their general. He did not disappoint. He has never been in a hurry when it has to do with interacting with communities anywhere. His first month in office could pass for a beautiful dawn where hope becomes real. He appointed his aides on Student Matters, one represents students living with special needs. Released N100 million intervention grant for Post and undergraduate students. Under this first phase of the many support for students with disabilities, undergraduates got two N250,000 each while Postgraduate students got N300,000. Not done he launched a bursary scheme where over twelve thousand students have so far benefited. A second phase is commencing, the governor assured his comrades while addressing them that wonderful day.
Emersed with thundering billows of aluta salutations and aspirational quest for leaders to “build the youth”, Pastor Umo Eno yet again saw an opportunity to assure these young Turks of the Tuskers Republic(as University of Uyo is known) that his administration will sustain the annual payment of bursaries and continue with interventions in education. He
and
did not hoard the proviso, but you must build yourselves. “... While it is good enough to chant “build the youth”, the youth must device means of building themselves to fit into today’s very competitive society”, he counselled.
At every fora, Governor Eno has challenged Akwa Ibom youth and students to take advantage of his administration’s lead to build and develop budding entrepreneurs. His administration has established IBOM- LED : an entrepreneurial and leadership School, which has an affiliation with the Lagos Business School. The facility takes interns through different modules, certify and facilitate their registration with relevant agencies, and on graduation are presented to the governor for startup grants. The first batch got N400million worth of grants. His target is to train 5,000 before the end of his first term in office. In addition, the Centre also has a partnership with MasterCard Foundation where Ten Thousand Women entrepreneurs are expected to be trained.
To further the course of re-engineering the economy where skills and proficiency are optimized, the governor recently inaugurated the Governing Council of DAKKADA Skills Acquisition Centre, which has been generously described as West Africa’s leading entrepreneurial centre by the consultant, Professor Ayodele Atsenuwa of the University of Lagos.
L-R: Team Lead; Health Sector W Initiative; Access Bank plc; Oyindamola Oyebola; Group Head; W Initiative; Abiodun Olubitan; and Unit Head; W Initiative; Bimpe Gisanrin at a press conference to launch the Womenpreneur PITCH-A-TON season 6 in Lagos…. recently SUNDAY ADIGUN
L-R: Founder & CEO of Gemstone Group, Fela Durotoye; Founder & CEO of GLITZ Group of Compa-mi; and Chairman of the Niyi Adesanya Foundation, Niyi Adesanya, at the ‘A Day with DT Conference’ in Lagos recently.
L- R: Executive Director Operations, Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, Mariya Aliko Dangote; Group Managing Director/CEO, Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, Ravindra Singhvi ; Group Executive Director Vetiva Capital Management Ltd, Damilola Ajayi, Company Secretary/Legal Adviser, Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, Temitope Hassan; at the Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc ₦200 Billion multi-instrument Programme with the SeIndustries Limited Head Office, Ikoyi Lagos.... recently
L-R: Managing Director, Portland Gas, Folajimi Mohammed, Managing Director, Trans Metro support system, Sam Uzorchukwu Representative of Program Director, Presidential CNG Initiative, Tosin Coker, FCT sector Commander,FRSC, Chorrie Muta’a
Special Adviser,(Technical) to the Minister of state Health, Dr David Atuwo during stakeholders meeting on “Driving Sustainable Transportation: Accelerating CNG Adoption in Nigeria” in Abuja...recently
Eno
FG: Auto Industry, Crucial to Nigeria’s Economic Recovery
The Minister of Industry, Dr. the automotive industry as a potential driver of Nigeria’s
job creation, technology transfer, and the development of ancillary industries.
Uzoka-Anite stated this at the Nigeria Auto Industry Summit organised by the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) in collaboration with National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), held at Radisson Hotel, Lagos, during the week.
The minister, who was represented by a Deputy Director in the Ministry of Industry Developautomotive industry is labour-intensive and has the potential to create thousands of jobs across the value chain from manufacturing and assembly
“By fostering a robust automotive sector, we can provide sustainable livelihoods for our citizens.
She said the automotive sector is a driver of technological innovation. “Through partnerships with global automotive giants and the establishment of local research and development centers, we can facilitate the transfer of cutting-edge technologies to Nigeria. This will not only enhance our manufacturing capabilities but also promote innovation in other sectors.
“The development of the automotive industry will spur the growth of other related industries such as steel, rubber, plastics, and electronics. This industrialization will diversify our economic base, reducing our dependence on oil and making our economy more resilient to global market
“I want to assure you that the government is committed to creating an enabling environment for the automotive sector to thrive. We have introduced several policies and initiatives aimed at supporting this industry, which are: the National Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP): This plan provides incentives for local manufacturing, including tax breaks, import duty reductions on essential machinery, and investment-friendly regulations. It aims to attract both local and foreign investments in vehicle assembly and production.
“We are investing in critical infrastructure such as roads, ports, and power supply to support the logistics and operational needs of the automotive industry. Improved infrastructure will reduce production costs and enhance the competitiveness of locally manufactured vehicles.
“We are fostering collaborations between the government and private sector stakeholders to
drive the development of the automotive industry. These partnerships will leverage the strengths of both sectors to achieve common goals.
According to her, “We acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. Issues such as inadequate production, and the need for policy consistency must be addressed. The government is committed to working with industry stakeholders to overcome these challenges and create a conducive environment for growth.
“The automotive sector holds the key to reviving Nigeria’s economy and positioning our nation as a hub for automotive manufacturing in Africa.
“With the right policies, investments, and
A similar train of thought was expressed by the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, who declared the Summit open on behalf of the Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
The theme of this event, “Developing Nigeria’s
He said, “As we gather here, we are reminded of the critical role the auto industry plays in not only driving economic growth but also in fostering innovation, creating jobs, and enhancing the overall quality of life for our citizens.
Lagos State, as a hub of economic activities and a key player in Nigeria’s development, recognizes the immense potential within the auto industry.
“The Lagos State Government is committed to creating an enabling environment that supports industry stakeholders, fosters collaboration, and encourages investment.
“We believe that through strategic partnerships and innovative initiatives, the auto industry can of our nation’s economy.
“Today’s summit serves as a crucial platform for dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas. It is an opportunity for all of us—governacross Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa—to come together and explore avenues for mutual growth and development. By leveraging our collective expertise and resources, we can identify and
He urged all participants to “engage actively, share your insights, and contribute to the discussions that will shape the future of our auto industry.
“Together, we can build a resilient, competitive, and sustainable auto sector that will drive our
He lauded the Nigeria Auto Journalist Association for organizing the summit and for their dedication to the advancement of the auto industry. “Let us seize this opportunity to forge lasting partnerships and create a roadmap for
The Comptroller-general of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Wale Adeniyi said the proliferation of used cars in Nigeria was further weakening the naira and straining the local manufacturers in the country.
TIPS OF THE WEEK
How Drivers Can Cut Fuel Use by Up to 25%
Motorists could be wasting up to 25 percent of their petrol and diesel usage by failing to remove a simple item from their vehicle, according to experts.
Petrol and diesel owners could slash their fuel consumption by up to 25 percent by removing one tool from their vehicle this weekend.
Motoring experts at CarShop have pointed vehicles to transport cycles.
They warned that any additional pieces added therefore increase drag.
Experts suggested that the simple tool could drain fuel by as much as 25 percent while being used in a major blow to cash-strapped road users.
Meanwhile, removing the cycles and carrying around an empty roof rack could use up to 15 percent more fuel.
They explained: “Cars are designed to be as aerodynamic as possible, meaning they are designed to reduce drag but external and increase drag.
“Roof racks and boxes are common additions to cars but can add to fuel consumption as research suggests driving with a roof box uses up to 25 percent more fuel. Many may think this is due to the roof box itself but even an empty roof rack uses up to 15 percent more fuel.
“Helpful tip - having open sunroofs and windows can also cause unnecessary, by only having these open when necessary you can
As well as having a major impact on the aerodynamics of a vehicle, heavy roof racks will also increase weight.
They commented: “If you have lots of heavy items sat in your car at all times, then you might be using more fuel than necessary.
“The less clutter weighing down your car, the less fuel you will need to power it. Be sure to remove any bike racks or roof boxes that are not in use - roof boxes increase fuel
Data from RAC Fuel Watch shows petrol and diesel costs continue to steadily rise since the turn of the year.
(Source:Express)
Autochek, VFD Bank Partner to Provide Women Entrepreneurs Auto Finance
Autochek Africa, an automotive technology company, has partnered with VFD Bank to provide Nigerian women with easier vehicle access, facilitating their business ventures and promoting economic growth.
This is a remarkable move to boost female entrepreneurship and economic empowerment in Nigeria, according to the collaborators.
The collaboration between Autochek Africa and VFD Bank comes at a time when womenincreasing, yet still facing substantial barriers -
women entrepreneurs. Here’s a look at what Nigerian women entrepreneurs are seeking in
is a major consideration, women entrepreneurs competitive interest rates and clear, transparent cost structures.
Flexible Payment Plans: Payment plans that are adaptable to their business income patterns, making it easier for them to manage repayments
Quick Approval Process: Simple application process with quick approvals.
women entrepreneurs are looking for auto
vehicle maintenance, insurance, and timely
customer support.
In conclusion, Nigerian women entrepreneurs are not just looking for a car loan; they are -
with their business aspirations and personal
with comprehensive insurance and an annual maintenance plan to keep the worries of car ownership miles away from the customer.
and growth of women-led businesses, fostering a more inclusive and dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem in Nigeria.
In Nigeria’s vibrant entrepreneurial landscape, women are emerging as powerful drivers of economic growth, breaking barriers and establish- ing successful ventures across diverse sectors.
As they navigate their entrepreneurial journeys, often becomes a crucial need. Yet, these enterpris- ing women often face formidable challenges,
The growing global and national advocacy the importance of empowering women to reach their full potential. Notably, Nigeria has made globally on the Mastercard Index of Women Entrepreneurs, with an impressive 43.8% of women-owned businesses. These women-owned businesses have substantially contributed to Nigeria’s GDP, and projections indicate that achieving gender parity by 2025 could boost the solidifying the country’s economic growth and development.Transportation is a critical component of many women entrepreneurs. Having access between their business success and stagnation. goods, reach a broader customer base, and expand their operations beyond local markets. in helping women entrepreneurs acquire the right vehicles to support and expand their businesses.
Empowering Women, Driving Growth.
GM, Business Banking and Partnerships, VFD Microfinance Bank, Yonodu Okeugo; and C.O.O., Autochek Africa Marketplace, Mayokun Fadeyibi
Participants at the Summit
GLOBAL SOCCER Paul
No More March-in with the Saints
Southampton Chief coach,Martin Russel,having made it clear that Nigeria international,Paul Onuachu,is not in his plan for the coming season andTurkish side,Trabzonspor keen to seal a permanent move for the Super Eagles striker after a successful one year loan spell in which he scored 17 goals and four assists in 24 appearances,it is almost certain that the former Genk super star has ended his march in with the Saints
Despite having a very impressive campaign on loan to Trabzonspor last season, newly-promoted Premier League club, Southampton have expressed their disinterest in having Super Eagles striker, Paul Onuachu back at St. Mary’s Stadium ahead of the coming season.
Onuachu joined Southampton from Genk in January 2023 after four years with the Belgian side. The Super Eagles striker was bought to help the club in their relegation fight. However, things did not pan out well for both parties.
Southampton were struggling badly, and Onuachu was not getting enough game time. Eventually, the club dropped to the English Championship. Even after dropping to the Englishsecond tier, Onuachu was not sure of his status at the club.
Due to doubts about his play time, Onuachu left Southampton for Turkish side Trabzonspor last summer on a season-long loan deal. The deal paid off for the 30-yearold, as he quickly became a fan favourite because of his sharpness in front of goal.
Onuachu registered 15 goals and four assists in 24 appearances for Trabzonspor to help them to a third-place finish in the Super Lig.
Following his impressive performances,
there have been talks that Trabzonspor want to retain him. But the type of deal has been in question- whether a loan transfer or a permanent buy.
According to GMS, Southampton do not want Onuachu, as the current coach, Russell does not have him in his plans.
Also, Onuachu does not want to return to Southampton, but with the club asking for €11 million, it may be tough for Trabzonspor to pull off the transfer.
Southampton’s summer transfer window has definitely taken an intriguing turn with the potential departure of Onuachu.
According to GiveMeSport, Onuachu is anxious for a swift decision from Russel regarding his future at St Mary’s.
“Southampton star Paul Onuachu is keen for boss Russell Martin to make a quick decision over whether he is willing to sanction his permanent departure from St Mary’s after setting his sights on sealing a permanent switch to Trabzonspor during the summer transfer window,” GMS sources have revealed.
The towering striker netted 17 goals in 25 appearances, coupled with four assists, showcasing his undeniable prowess in the Super Lig. His impact at Trabzonspor has been significant, and he is hopeful of
continuing his career in Turkey.
“Onuachu does not feature at the forefront of Martin’s plans despite being a constant threat for Trabzonspor, resulting in him being on course to hold internal discussions over his future, and it appears likely that he has already made his final appearance in a Southampton shirt,” reports GMS.
Despite Onuachu’s obvious talent, Southampton’s management seems inclined towards a strategic overhaul. The club, recently promoted to the Premier League, is actively reshaping its squad. The arrival of Adam Lallana from Brighton & Hove Albion underscores this intent, adding experienced depth to their roster. However, this also means tough decisions on existing players, with Onuachu seemingly on the chopping block.
GMS sources learned that “Southampton are prepared to make a considerable loss on Onuachu as, despite forking out £18million when they lured him away from Genk two-and-a-half years ago, they are willing to entertain offers worth half that price during the remainder of the transfer window.”
Southampton’s willingness to offload Onuachu at a cut-price highlights the financial balancing act clubs must perform. Originally costing £18 million, the club is now open to offers around £9 million. This
move, while resulting in a financial loss, could free up significant funds for further acquisitions crucial for their Premier League campaign.
There is also the looming possibility of losing Che Adams, whose contract is nearing its end. This scenario leaves Southampton in a delicate position concerning their attacking options. Yet, GMS sources indicate that manager Martin remains steadfast in his approach, ready to sanction Onuachu’s departure despite these challenges.
Meanwhile, President Trabzonspor, Erturul Doan has given a transfer update suggesting Onuachu could continue his stay at the club.
After an impressive season with Trabzonspor, the club President revealed they’re in talks with Southampton over a possible transfer that will see the 2.01m tall striker stay in Turkey.
“Paul Onuachu said that he wanted to stay with us and our team during his meeting with us and our coach. The player also submitted this request to his parent club. We want to hire him, and the negotiations are ongoing. There’s no such thing as just getting a striker, maybe we’ll get two. Again, we want to have him on our side, but it seems the transfer will take a while,” the President said in quotes revealed by Turkish outlet, 61saat.
According to GivemeSport, Southampton are prepared to make a considerable loss on Onuachu as they paid £18m to secure his services from Genk in the winter transfer window of 2023. The Saints are willing to entertain offers worth half that price this summer.
However, the former Midtjylland striker might not have his wish to permanently join Trabzonspor as Southampton want to completely have the Nigerian off their books while the Turkish side would prefer to have him on another loan, hinting at uncertainty over where he will be plying his trade next term.
In 12 games for Southampton, Onuachu was unable to find the back of the net, and he left the St Mary’s Stadium after just seven months.
Sorting out his transfer issues may take a while, but one thing that is certain is that come new season, Onuachu will not be a Saint.
GLOBAL SOCCER
Paul Onuachu celebrating one of his goals for Trabzonspor
At Grand NPFL Trophy Parade, Rangers, Fans Eye Continental Glory
After eight long years,Rangers International FC clinched a well-deserved eighth NPFL title.How did they succeed this time?What does it mean to the club?What plans for the future,especially heading to the continental stage?
For Rangers International Football Club of Enugu and their teeming fans across the world, it was a rare moment in the sun as they stormed the iconic Michael Okpara Square in Enugu to celebrate their eighth national league title. The club, which took the Nigerian soccer stage by shock and holy anger after the civil war, had won the league title in 1974, 1975, 1977,1981, 1982, and 1984. Those were the days of Christian Chukwu (aka Chairman), Iron Emmanuel Okala (Iron Gate) Sylvanus Okpala, (Quick Silver), Adokiye Amiesimaka, Aloysius Atuegbu, Ifeanyi Onyedika, among a host of other club legends.
However, they could only lift their seventh Nigeria Premier Football, NPFL, title in 2016 after a long, 32-year wait and wait for another eight years until the first year of the present Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, to win their eighth league title.
The club popularly known as the Flying Antelopes in direct reference to their logo, had earlier clinched the title a fortnight ago when they walloped Bendel Insurance Football Club of Benin 2-0 with thousands of their fans led by the governor Mbah, in attendance in the capacity-filled Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium. That week 37 victory secured for them an unassailable 67 points before their last game of the season with Gombe United, whom they defeated 2-1 in Jos to lift their already secured trophy in grand style.
Rangers fans from across the country trooped to the new Jos – Zaria Road Stadium in their good numbers, singing and chanting, as they exercised their bragging right in ecstasy. Led by Governor Mbah; business mogul and sports enthusiast, Chief Arthur Eze; the State Commissioner for Youth and Sport, Lloyd Ekweremadu; the Managing Director of their jersey sponsors, Afrinvest, Ike Chioke, and the young and ebullient club General Manager/CEO, Amobi Ezeaku, among others, the Flying Antelopes were officially crowned champions and presented with the NPFL trophy by Governor Caleb Mustwang alongside the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, President, Ibrahim Gusau, among others.
The crowd could only be compared to
that of final matchday of the 2016/2017 season when Plateau United FC needed just a draw against the then reigning champions, Rangers, to lift their first ever NPFL trophy at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium, but ultimately triumphed 2-0 against the Flying Antelopes. Ironically, it was in the same Jos that Rangers were coronated seven years after.
Reacting, an excited Governor Mbah told journalists after the stimulating encounter that it was just the beginning for Rangers and sports development in the state. Far from complacency, he said it was time for more hard work, assuring of continued improvement in the club’s welfare and sports infrastructure as they set to engage the best of the continent in the Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) Champions League.
He said that in Enugu, his administration regarded sports as business and as a sector that would contribute immensely towards his plan to grow the state’s economy from
“We are the best from the beginning to the end: the best technical team and best tactical team. And we have worked so hard to come this far. That was why we removed the home and away matches mentality as we see all games as the same, which helped us in the second round of the League.
“I have to thank so many people: Governor Peter Mbah; Amobi Ezeaku, the General Manager; all the management staff; the technical crew; and the fans, the best in the world,” he said. Meanwhile, it was probably when Rangers arrived at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport Enugu, Monday afternoon, with the trophy that the enormity of what they had achieved and its positive effect on the psyche of Ndigbo dawned on them. They landed to the warm embrace of a drumming and dancing mammoth crowd, which trooped out to welcome them.
However, it was at the trophy presentation event at the Michael Okpara Square later in the evening that it appeared the entire Enugu population was turned into the venue. They made a grand and triumphal entry, treated to a thunderous ovation by the crowd consisting also of a retinue of club legends like former Nigerian international, Emmanuel Okala; and club diehard fans led by Emmanuel Okoh, aka Okwuluora.
Addressing the fans, the GM, Ezeaku, who is also enlisted as a player with the team, starring in their 2-0 away win against Niger Tornadoes, dedicated the trophy to the people of the state and South East. He said the club’s door would be thrown open for one month to enable fans feel and take pictures with the trophy.
“First, this is victory, not only for Rangers, but for Ndi Enugu and the entire Ndigbo. In particular, we thank our amiable governor for believing in us. The only support we did not get from him was probably the one we did not ask for.
“However, the truth is that the journey has just begun. But we are the Never Say Die team. We have to work harder to ensure that we retain this title next season because it has come to stay. And going into continental competitions, we will make you proud,” Ezeaku stated.
On his part, the Commissioner, Lloyd Ekweremadu, while thanking the governor and the fans for all their support, said the league title had lent further impetus to the state’s bid to host the National Sports Festival.
Club icon, Emma Okala, said Rangers’ victory meant so much to the club’s legends.
“Putting the stadium in order to enable the team to play their home matches at The Cathedral instead of Awka we had used as home for over two seasons was a major clincher by the governor.
“So, I am a very happy man today. Their victory is a result of the hard work of the players, officials and the government. It is a great achievement, and we are here to be advising them,” he stated.
On factors that propelled the Flying Antelopes to success, a former Chairman of Rangers, Ajunike Mgbadogu, said, “I am super excited. First, we have a good GM. Secondly, we have a governor that has a listening ear. Thirdly, we have a good coach. Fourthly, we have good players that made it to be possible. Now, going forward, we need to fortify our team so that we can do well in our continental outing.”
A top fan of the club, Emmanuel Okoh, expressed confidence in the capacity of the club to do exploits at the continental level and also retain the NPFL title.
$4.4 to $30 billion.
“We are so excited, and I am so happy for the boys. I still recall what I told them in their dressing room before that decider against Bendel Insurance. I told them that they had the weight of history on their shoulders because they were walking the same path where legends had walked and that they had no choice than to deliver. I am so glad that they delivered.
“But this is just the beginning of a greater journey and what we are doing in the sports sector. We are not going to be complacent because we are now going to replicate this feat at the continental level. We are going to continue on that trajectory of success, ensuring that we have a superb reward system and infrastructure that motivate the players to do exploits,” he stated.
Technical Adviser of the team, Fidelis Ilechukwu, ascribed Rangers’ success to hard work, determination, and support from the governor and the fans.
“I feel very fulfilled and this could also not have been possible without the support of our governor. He gave me all the necessary support to do what I did. I have never been this proud of myself. I am 34 years of age. Even if I die next week, I will not regret it. I am so happy. I love this football club with everything in me.
“You know we are going to improve and we are going to buy players. The CAF Champions League is not NPFL. We want to make a statement in CAF and most importantly, I want us to retain the NPFL,” he said.
Elizabeth Ogbuagu, aka Madam Rangers, urged the players to continue to believe in themselves and conquer Africa.
“I am one billion times happy. As they are going to play at the continental level, my message is that they will go higher and higher and move across the countries of the world. They have the capacity to do that.”
Governor of Enugu State, Dr Peter Mbah, flanked from the left by Commissioner for Information and Communication, Enugu State, Mr Aka Eze Aka; Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke; Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mr. Lloyd Ekweremadu; and from the right, General Manager/CEO, Rangers International FC, Mr. Amobi Ezeaku; Managing Director of Afrinvest West Africa, Ike Chioke; and business mogul, Chief Arthur Eze, celebrate with the Rangers during the presentation of the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, trophy to the team after their last league match in the 2023/2024 season against Gombe United in Jos, Sunday.
L-R: General Manager/CEO, Rangers Int’l FC, Enugu, Amobi Ezeaku and the Technical Adviser of the team, Fidelis Ilechukwu, savouring the 2023/2024 NPFL trophy in Jos, last Sunday
Denmark Try Germany for Size as Switzerland, Italy Kick-start Round of I6
With the group stage done and dusted, its time for serious business as the Knockout stage of the UEFA Euro 2024 begins today.
The second of two Euro 2024 last-16 ties taking place today as host, Germany clash with Denmark at the Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund in the late kickoff.
Julian Nagelsmann’s men topped Group A to cruise into the knockout rounds, while their Scandinavian counterparts nabbed second place in a highly forgettable Group C.
Banishing the demons of their last two World Cup campaigns, which both ended with premature group-stage exits, Germany had already rubber-stamped their knockout place with just two games gone thanks to putting a combined seven goals past Scotland and Hungary.
Simply avoiding defeat versus Switzerland on the final matchday and Die Mannschaft were guaranteed to progress as group winners, but Nagelsmann’s men were on the brink of being unexpectedly demoted down to the runners-up spot thanks to Dan Ndoye’s opener.
However, on an evening of dramatic late goals in Group A, Niclas Fullkrug - who takes to home turf this weekend - popped up with an injurytime leveller to just about ensure Germany’s status as group winners, thereby avoiding a last-16 battle with reigning champions Italy.
Speaking of one-point affairs, Group C was one for the stalemate specialists in England, Slovenia, Serbia and Denmark, all of whom
contributed to the joint lowest-scoring men’s Euros group in history with just seven goals scored across six games.
Upcoming foes Germany were coincidentally involved in the only previous sevengoal section in 2016, and despite not winning any of their games in the group, Denmark’s three draws with their three foes was enough for Kasper Hjulmand’s side to clinch the silver medal position.
The Danes were responsible for just two of the seven strikes in Group C - although Morten Hjulmand’s rocket versus England will certainly go down as a goal-of-thetournament contender - and they have now qualified for the knockout stages of back-to-back Euros for the first time ever.
Hjulmand will be under no illusions that improvements are required quickly if his troops are to stand a chance of shocking the tournament hosts, but they coincidentally share Germany’s seven-match unbeaten run in 2024 and have just one loss under their belts from their last 15 contests.
However, Germany emerged triumphant over Denmark during their last competitive showdown at the 2012 European Championships.
Switzerland will take on the defending champions Italy today in the round of 16 of UEFA Euro 2024 at Berlin’s Olympiastadion.
Switzerland have remained unbeaten in the group stages. Out of three
group stage matches they played, Switzerland has won one match, which was against Hungary where the final score was 3-1. Two of their matches, against Germany and Scotland, ended in 1-1 draw.
The defending champions, Italy’s campaign started with a 2-1 win against Albania but they lost to Spain 1-0 in their second group stage match. In their final group stage match, Italy faced Croatia, where a draw was enough for them to qualify for the round of 16. Croatia were a goal ahead and it was thought that they would make it to knockouts but Italy were able to draw the match with a goal in the injury time.
Both teams have faced each other in Euro 2020, where Italy emerged victorious but Switzerland in this tournament are unbeaten and they also showed good performance against the 2014 World Cup Champions Germany in the group stages, who were dominant against Scotland and Albania.
Knockout stages are different, sometimes the major teams fall and small teams progress to the next stage. In the round of 16, Italy may have edge over Switzerland, and they may progress to the quarterfinals. It won’t be surprising if the game goes to the penalty shootout, which Italy may win.
Switzerland v Italy 17:00 Germany v Denmark 20:00
England v Slovakia 17:00
Spain v Georgia 20:00
Netherlands May Have Been Overrated, Says Van Dijk
Captain Virgil van Dijk says the Netherlands may have overestimated themselves going into Euro 2024.
The Dutch only qualified for the last 16 as one of the best third-placed finishers after losing to Austria on Tuesday.
“I can completely understand the criticism,” Van Dijk said.
“Things overall can and should be better. Maybe we overestimate ourselves.”
Ronald Koeman’s side finished behind France as Austria topped Group D with an impressive six points.
The Netherlands, who
last won the European Championship 36 years ago, know they are going to have to play much better to repeat that success in Germany.
Van Dijk added: “A lot had to be said [following the defeat to Austria] and we had to analyse a lot.
“It was not the tactics where things went wrong. It was mainly the will to win, so we have talked about that and with harsh words.”
Van Dijk was heavily criticised by fo rmer midfielder Rafael van der Vaart on Dutch TV channel NOS. Van
Rumours Linking Lookman with Premier League Clubs, Saudi Debunked
Europa League winners Atalanta have not received any bids for 2023 Africa Cup of Nations star Ademola Lookman despite earlier reports in the Italian press claiming that the Nerazzurri are evaluating an offer from Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad.
Tuttomercatoweb has confirmed from sources close to Lookman that there are no offers for the former Everton and RB Leipzig winger as of now.
The Italian transfer market portal has suggested that the
quotes claiming to be from the player’s camp were fabricated as neither Lookman nor Atalanta have received an offer from potential suitors in the summer transfer window.
In recent days, Lookman has been sensationally linked with Premier League giants Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool, but there is nothing concrete at the moment.
German Bundesliga powerhouse Bayern Munich have also been credited with an interest in the 2017 Fifa U20 World Cup
winner.
The Charlton Athletic Academy product was recently named Atalanta’s Player of the Season for the second year in a row following an exceptional season where he registered 27goal involvements (17 goals, 10 assists) in 45 games across all competitions.
The best moment in his professional career was scoring a hat-trick as Atalanta thrashed Bayer Leverkusen 3-0 to win the Europa League last month. When Lookman found the
Jamilu Collins Resumes Pre-season Training at Cardiff after Contract Extension
Jamilu Collins has resumed pre-season training at Cardiff City ahead of the forthcoming Championship season.
The Super Eagles defender is preparing for his third season at the Bluebirds after the club triggered the option to extend his contract by another year.
Collins would have departed the capital outfit as a free agent if Cardiff City did not unilaterally extend his contract.
As part of their preparations for the new season, the Welsh
club will take on Kidderminster, K.V. Kortrijk, Penybont, Reading and Bristol Rovers in pre-season games.
Collins is raring to go after overcoming the fitness issues that saw him miss the last three games played by Cardiff City in 2023-2024, plus the Super Eagles 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana and Republic of Benin’s Cheetahs.
He missed almost the
whole of the 2022-2023 campaign due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury he suffered few weeks after his arrival in the United Kingdom.
The former HNK Rijeka and SC Paderborn 07 man has played 41 games for Cardiff City, scoring one goal and providing four assists.
Cardiff City will begin the 2024-2025 season with a league game against Sunderland at the Cardiff City Stadium on Saturday, August 10.
Edo Urges Residents to Participate in Olympic Day Run
The Edo Sports Commission has urged residents in Benin City to participate in the 2024 Olympic Day celebration run.
The Olympic Day is celebrated worldwide every June 23 but this year’s exercise which has as its theme “Let’s Move and Celebrate” will hold on Saturday, June 29 in Benin City.
The Chairman, Edo State Sports Commission, Olympian Yussuf Alli confirmed that Edo State is participating in the 2024 Olympic Day Run during a meeting with the Heads of
Departments of the Commission.
He urged all Edo residents to participate in the exercise. He also directed the coaches and secretaries of all the Sports Associations in Edo State to mobilise their athletes for the global event.
According to the programme of events as approved by the Acting Permanent Secretary, Edo State Sports Commission, Dr Igbinosa Emmanuel, the Chairman of Oredo Local Government Dr. Tom Obaseki will flag off the race at the
Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium at 7.30am.
Participants are expected to gather at the stadium by 7:00 AM and take off immediately.
The Chairman of Oredo Local Government and the Chairman of the Sports Commission will lead the runners through Akenzua Road; Plymouth Road, King Square (Ring Road) through Oba Market Road, Zabayor Street and round off the exercise at the stadium, where certificate of participation will be presented to the participants.
Federation Cup Final to Broadcast on DStv, GOtv
der Vaart accused him of showing a lack of passion in an overall “disgraceful performance” against Austria.
The Liverpool captain was at fault for the third and decisive Austria goal in Berlin and the 32-year-old told the media yesterday he knows he has to defend to a higher standard.
“I’m not stupid,” Van Dijk said. “I also know that I can do better and that it should be better, and that’s what I’m working on.”
The Netherlands play Romania for a place in the quarter-finals on Tuesday at 17:00.
MultiChoice Nigeria has announced that the 2024 President Federation Cup final will be broadcast live on SuperSport, available on DStv and GOtv.
A statement by the company said it has finalised arrangements to broadcast the men and women’s finals, scheduled to take place at the Mobolaji
Johnson Arena today. The women’s final between Rivers Angels and Naija Ratels will kick off at 1 pm, on SuperSport (DStv Ch 204 and GOtv Ch. 62), while the men’s final between Abia Warriors and El-Kanemi Warriors will kick off at 4 pm on the same channel.
Executive Head of Marketing,
MultiChoice West Africa, Tope Oshunkeye, said the company is pleased to broadcast this year’s final of the oldest football cup competition in Nigeria.
The prestigious President Federation Cup final is returning to the history ground, formerly Onikan Stadium, which hosted the final from 1945 to 1972.
…NPFL_Live App to Stream Finals Too
Executive Director of Propel Sports Africa, Vince Macaulay Razaq has announced that the company will be streaming the finals of 2024 Presidents Federations cup . Razaq said that “it is such an honour for me as the newly appointed Executive Director of Propel and of
course as the grandson of Herbert Macaulay to make this announcement on behalf of“IPropel.want to thank Ibrahim Gusau, the President of the Nigeria Football Federation(NFF), and Abubakar Lawal, the Managing Director of GTI Assets Management for
their continued support of what we have been able to achieve in the streaming of the NPFL live in its first season”, Macaulay Razaq remarked.
The games will be available on the NPFL Live App in Nigeria and African Sports Network throughout the rest of the world
Germany celebrate their equaliser against Switzerland
Lookman
Intellectual Violence
THE NATION of June 27 lied while defending our freedom: “…the six governors seemed to have taken the bull by the horn.” Truth: horns.
“Eight arrested in Bauchi over (for) attempt to bomb church” (DAILY INDEPENDENT Online, June 27)
DAILY INDEPENDENT of June 24 disseminated three goofs: “To assume a wider role, the Euro will have to first of all flourish in (on) the continent and survive….”
“The sensible caveat placed at the onset (outset) is now hunting or is it hurting the Euro?” There is a world of difference between ‘onset’ and ‘outset’.
“Those at the forefront in ECOWAS should start by doing the little things first before going for the big bang.” ‘Bang’ does not need any amplification as it is already a loud sound.
“The Igbo cultural war dancers at (on) the occasion” (Vanguard, June 24)
“Wade’s tenure extension chicanery was an affront on (to) the Senegalese 2001 Constitution….”
“Contrary to what Sanusi may want us to see, critical (a critical) analysis of his activities show (shows) a resourceful….”
“…enlightened and superior intelligence with regards to public or political questions.” Another form of intellectual violence: with regard to or as regards.
“Nigeria, China trade hit (hits) $10b”
“Investment into power without right tariff difficult—NERC” (DAILY INDEPENDENT, June 23) Business: investment in (into) power….
“The Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) said on Tuesday that the fate of banks are now in the hands of their shareholders.”
(DAILY INDEPENDENT Business, June 17) No commercialese: the fate of banks is (not are).
“The testimony of Major Hamza Al-Mustapha, former CSO to late General Sani Abacha….” A fox and his bagful of yarns: former CSO to the
late General Sani Abacha.
“The corporation said it is (was) determined to protect depositors by all means.” (THISDAY, June 15)
“Food crop production has declined rapidly and this is largely attributable to soil despoilation….” Frequent oil spills in the Niger Delta axis: despoliation.
“Money speaks, we will interprete” Spell-check: interpret.
“Anxiety over Nnamdi Kanu’s health hightens” This way: heightens.
“He said the taking over of these banks by AMCON will (would) not….” (Source: as above) Yet another Business English (commercialese)!
“The boys who were to kill us started fighting themselves” (Nigerian Tribune, June 14) This way: The boys fought one another (not themselves). Except, of course, they were on a suicide mission!
“English Premiership kicks-off in grand style August” (THE GUARDIAN, June 13)
This is incongruent with flagship journalism: inclusion of hyphen in phrasal verbs!
“Banks nationalization: Accusing fingers point at regulators” (SATURDAY TRIBUNE, June 22) A rewrite: Banks’ (take note of the apostrophe) nationalization: The finger points at regulators
“Adanma who is based in the United States and works as a medical personnel….” (Source: as above) ‘Personnel’ is a collective noun and cannot function as used. Get it right: a medical official, employee, worker, service provider, assistant, hand…
“President Bola Tinubu has warned that forceful takeover of power through coup d’etats will no longer be tolerated….” (THE GUARDIAN, June 12) Conscience, nurtured by truth: coups d’ etat.
“Otti mourns late Hausa leader” (DAILY
INDEPENDENT, June 12) The governor couldn’t have mourned someone who was alive! So, he mourns Hausa leader.
“Veteran golfers converge at Ikeja club” (Source: as above) Let’s go golfing as we converge on Ikeja Club.
“…maintained that Ojukwu was hale and healthy (hearty) in a far away (far-away) London hospital.” (THE GUARDIAN, June 11) Memorial: may the soul of Ikemba Nnewi continue to rest in peace (not ‘perfect peace’, please).
Nigerian TRIBUNE of June 11 circulated two embarrassing errors: “…even foreigners who should ordinarily be living in utmost circumspection have the effrontory and confidence to dupe Nigerians and even kill them.” No lexical quackery: effrontery.
“We shudder to imagine how many of these foreigners are involved in various forms of criminality which the lax security system of the state have (has) permitted.”
“He will do it well, but if you give it to a mediocre….” People and Power: a mediocrity or mediocrist. ‘Mediocre’ is an adjective.
“FRSC records 180 causalities in Kogi” Spellcheck: casualties.
“Customs seize N25bn goods” (THE PUNCH, June 10) Customs seizes.
“She argued that a pact such as is being advocated for by the lawmakers amounted to Nigeria’s re-orientation.” Remove ‘for’.
“I searched in vain for the Ministry of Defence and, unless the text I had was defective, it was conspicuously absent.” ‘Absence’ does not require any qualification. Simply, it was absent.
“His Excellency…Ambassador Extraordinary (Extraordinaire) and Plenipotentiary….”
“In fact, the situation has degenerated from that of epileptic power supply down to that of complete blackout which in most cases lasts from weeks to months.” ‘Blackout’ does not need any modifier—it means total extinction or concealment of lights.
When Ras Kimono Warned Us
It was the tenth day of this June, six years ago, that the indefatigable reggae maestro and copyright activist, Augustine Onwubuya, the colourful dreadlocked son of Ekeleke Elumelu, Delta State, danced off the earthly stage in his usual lumpy-slumpy ambling steps.
We recollect today my tribute penned the same week he died in 2018: “Barely two weeks ago, we were celebrating the shining star of one 60-year old...and about ten days after (on Sunday, June 10), Life happened to another 60-year old, Okwudili Ukeleke Elumelu Onwubuya, whom we all love to call Ras Kimono. Both were born in the same month and year (May, 1958 - Ras on May 9 and Shina Peters 30th).”
We remember on the day SSP was being celebrated at Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island... the top management staffers of COSON were abuzz about plans to storm the venue with a powerful delegation in solidarity with one of their non-executive directors. Of course, Tony Okoroji was the chief organizer of the party-going ensemble... but Ras Kimono, also a director at COSON, appeared to be delaying the trip... And it was well past 4pm...in Ikeja...for a 5pm event on the island!
When Tony eventually got the man with the longest dreadlocks I have seen on any man (or woman sef) on the telephone... he assured Tony not to be UNDER PRESSURE... that for that day, he was a LONE RANGER… as Lagos traffic had made him RUN FI COVER... But Tony wanted to know WHAT’S GWAN?... and the RUB-A-DUB master immediately BROKE THE BARRIER... revealing that he was storming the venue in a RHUMBA STYLEE and wasn’t going to GIMME LIKKLE SUGAR... since it was KIMONO DEY WANT. Well, Tony didn’t want BABYLON BURNING...he agreed with him to let NATTY GET JAIL... And surely, it wasn’t a day to chant WE NO WAN war! Never a man to cling to the vanities of life...a deeply motivated pacifist who somehow separated his professional struggles from
age-long friendships and camaraderie. One of his best pals and music soul mates is Orits Williki, the then chairman of MCSN - the other collecting society that has been in bitter, court-strewn battles with COSON, and its predecessors, for over 20 years! Yet, Ras Kimono, undazzled and undaunted, has been fervent as a member, and for many years, a director at COSON!
Incredible humanist. Always in tune with old comrades...before he shattered our ignorance in 1989 with his massive album, Under Pressure (which housed the evergreen Rhumba Stylee), Ras was peripherally associated with the rave Reggae band of the early ‘80s, Jah Stix - but he wasn’t a member (the original members were the lavishly talented guitarist and composer, Amos McRoy Jegg (now Pastor Amos Osifo); the inimitable Majek Fashek (who died two Junes after Kimono - on June 1 - when we all thought he had been rehabilitated from drug abuse); the frenetic drummer, Black Rice Osagie (now a sage) and, later, George Orwell.
A great lover of the downtrodden... An unashamedly talented voice for the ghetto dwellers; infused with a near idyllic romance with the concept of people power - a universal template where the Black people all over the world believe in the oneness and completeness of their genesis and civilization; and therefore interface so deeply and intricately that poverty, diseases, corruption, misgovernance and all the ailments besetting the black race would soon be eliminated. He believed in the capacity of the black man to evolve into a greater space and activity than what is allowed by the shackles of neocolonialism and seemingly friendly imperialists. We salute the memories and melodies of a good friend, brother, and kindred spirit... you fought a good battle...be reassured that you finished your race with great aplomb. Your fans and music lovers all over the world miss you greatly. Do not stop Fighting for Nigeria… for we are Under greater Pressure...!
POSTSCRIPT: We also seize this remem-
“The reasons range from power generation limitation to the use of overaged (overage), antiquated and arsenic hydro-terminal plants and so many others too numerous to mention.” Agreed that ‘overage’ means ‘too old’ (used mostly for human beings), but for contextualization and language grasp, ‘obsolete’ (for inanimate things) should have been it.
“Many people have lost their household properties as a result of uncontrolled power voltage.” Time to remove the immunity of PHCN: property (not properties) in this context.
“The consensus of opinion in the country today.…” Despite the pockets of debate on what some learner’s dictionaries say, I insist on consensus (without opinion, which is optional anyway).
“It is also an open secret that a cabal of highly placed sacred cows holds the fuel distribution process in the country to ransome.“ Spell-check: ransom.
“Council chairmen and legislators at the council, state and federal levels would also later be sworn-in (sworn in) for the take off (take-off) of the Ninth Republic.” Again, phrasal verbs do not admit hyphenation.
“The Yorubas, Igbos and even Northern minorities have grudges….” English is no politics: the Yoruba, the Igbo and the Northern minorities.
“Except round pegs are put in round holes, the nation will be the looser (loser) for it.”
“It is arguable if the current spate of advancement (advancements) recorded in the area of….”
“Thank God he is concerned at (about/for/ over/in—depending on context—never at) the security situation.”
“There were other ministers in the last dispensation who performed creditably well, but who were not re-appointed.” Get it right: ministers who performed creditably or well. ‘Creditably well’ is an over-kill. Both cannot co-function.
brance to rededicate the following article (published in 2010) to the memory and exertions of Okwudili Ukeleke ‘Ras Kimono’ Onwubuya... the rub-a-dub grandmaster. Watch over your legacy! Maybe the living creatives will embrace wisdom, and do the needful.
‘HOW TO REVIVE OUR REGGAE MUSIC
I have a great fondness for Reggae music, right from secondary school age. My interest in it soared with the coming of age of our home-grown stars in the ‘80s and 90’sTerra Kotta, Majek Fashek, Mandators, Ras Kimono, Orits Williki, Daniel Wilson, Alex Zitto, and a few others. Don’t even mention the international stars, too many to remember. Our boys were talented, energetic, and full of passion. They made great music, and we loved them to bits.
But the masters of our lives, Time and Change, soon scattered our joy. One after the other, they dropped out of circulation. Some left our shores to seek better pastures in other lands. (The result of that is not my business today). Some others left the mic completely so that they can feed their family. Few others were stuck with the music, even when only a sprinkle bothered to listen.
Since life does not favour a vacuum, other types of music have taken over the streets. After Reggae music, came Pop music (we like to ‘’follow’’ America in chanting R n B, rhythm and blues)... and on its tail, hip-hop music quietly and stylishly seized the hearts of our kids. Today, as it has been since the turn of the millennium, Hip-Hop is the new spirit ruling almost all across the globe - the American wonder! [Today, 14 years since this piece was written, the new babe on the block is what is dubiously named Afrobeats].
Despite all this, I believe Reggae music can make a spirited and successful attempt at taking a slice of the heart of our youth. After all, it is the authentic language of the oppressed and the ordinary folks. Its rhythm and lyrics speak to the inner coils
of our rebellious resilience, and doggedness to survive against all odds. All they need to reclaim a chip of their old glory is to be more creative and accommodating. At this juncture, a cliché is in order: one tree cannot make a forest. No. The first concern is, where are the performers who can give life to this glorious energetic music? And the worry is correct, because when you look at the field of play, what you see is not encouraging. There is the recent returnee, Ras Kimono. The last time I hugged Kimono, I could hardly reach his back to pat him. So, how will he do those his stage ragga jumps, and belt out those throaty soulful lyrics? And you need a strong stomach to sing well. Is it Orits Williki who is perpetually in struggles with his co-artistes on issues of ‘’who go collect royalties’’...you will think our artistes are more worried about old works than creating new ones? Dan Wilson is busy running between Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Lagos seeing to his father’s business - we can even forgive him if he no longer knows how to switch on the microphone. And so on… It does look gloomy and daunting, but it can still be done, with a little first step that can grow giant ideas. Let the best-known Reggae musicians put their egos under their beds, and come together, to produce one truly outstanding album. Let them all contribute to each song according to their lyrical gifts and creative talents. Let them see this as a “survival” project not because they are hungry, poor, or jobless; but that the glory of Reggae music may return with greater impact.’” That word is still on the streets unheeded, even as our flowers are being plucked, now and again, by the grim reaper. So long, Kimono… the Natty warrior.
Saturday, June 29,
Shettima to Nigerians
“We are not asking you not to question the eligibility of your president’s condition. But there is this mischievous vexation about the president’s health status” – Shettima said at an event, calling on Nigerians to support Tinubu’s administration.
OKEY IKECHUKWU
okey.ikechukwu@thisdaylive.com
IMatters Philosophical
t was a heated debate. Everyone was up in arms. “Take a Look around you”, one person declared. “Today’s world is defined and dominated by scientific invention and material success. It is a world cramped by internet connectivity, microchip-enabled reality, artificial intelligence, digitisation, virtualisation, digital convergence and new breakthroughs in space science and quantum physics. These things confront, or probably even afront, you at every turn. So, how does it make sense for anyone to come here to talk about philosophy and less tangible things, like spiritual matters?
Below is largely my contribution to a controversy about Philodosophy, which came up tangentially as a side discussion during tea break at a strategy session on education and human capital development.
Today the world is focused only science, technology, entrepreneurship, and sundry knowledge and skills. Most people would rather learn how to fix a car, build an airplane, deliver nuclear warheads and much more, than think about philosophy and other such nebulous subjects of questionable economic value. Can you really make a case for philosophy in a world wherein the likes of John Hopkins had said: “Philosophy is dead”? The cheerful projection of this declaration of Hopkins by disciples of the physical sciences only accentuates a prevailing mood.
Remember William James? The American father of modern pragmatism, who once said: “Truth is what works”. James lived nearly a century before Hopkins, at a time that the demands for immediate material results was on a precipitous rise. The litmus test for the value, relevance and even truth, of anything was its “cash value”, as proclaimed by James.
So, what is there to say about the cash value of philosophy? Philosophy and spiritual matters are not things you can put on a shelf, like a loaf of bread, and ask someone to pay for it. A world that has gotten used to saying: “You cannot do anything with philosophy” will not suddenly give up the perceived gains of the empirical sciences in search of anything intangible.
Considering that science triumphed over the more subtle disciplines in the last one hundred years, wherein the world was flooded with astonishing discoveries and inventions, the great optimism that greeted the promise of science and technology was unequalled. That optimism galloped away, as inventions tumbled in from all sides. The actual development of science and technology even went beyond the projections, predictions and most fervid fantasies of scientists and science fiction writers.
All of the foregoing sustained and reinforced the smoldering feeling that a purely classical, or a non-scientific, education has the inborne defect of not delivering immediate material benefits. In other words, that a bookish life is unattractive, largely worthless and a sure road to nowhere.
Bringing it Back Home
Many Nigerian university graduates still remember their encounter with the General Studies Course, some lawyers, too, still remember their tango with Jurisprudence, or Philosophy of Law, with a slight shaking of the head. “It was a very difficult and abstract subject”, seems to be the dominant motif in their reactions to tangential encounters with that subject in the university. Do you expect someone who found just the introduction to philosophy very unsettling, and others who went away with a lasting headache after peering at jurisprudence or the philosophy of law, to recommend the real philosophy to anyone?
Many puny academic disciplines, and also acolytes of the purely physical sciences, including those standing on tiptoe because of the newness of their specialties, still manage to summon enough courage to shake an admonishing finger at philosophy. Their argument is that this mother of all disciplines has lost everything to its very boisterous, and possibly more impudent, children. The various disciplines has been taking from philosophy until, as their mother, she became empty-handed. The children grew wings and took flight, making their worsted mother a propertyless refugee, or the guardian of a barren territory. Is philosophy not reputed to indulge without restraint in the cheerful display of what the less than deep sighted consider pointless queries? Has philosophy’s habit of just walking about, like a forsaken, property-less refugee, in the wild and uncharted deserts and forest of the mysteries of human existence, not brought it into disrepute without anyone’s assistance?
The notion of philosophy as something tiring and tiresome, something boring and largely abstract, is partly due to the unending controversies usually connected with it. The writings, conversations and academic activities loosely grouped under the umbrella-name of philosophy bear this out to a very large extent. Wild speculation, convoluted conjectures,
intellectual summersaults, and analytical gymnastics are to be found in it. Thus, over time, many people came to consider themselves justified in doubting the value of philosophy.
But before we prance off to proclaim and celebrate the presumed irrelevance of philosophy, and thus our liberation from all philosophizing, let us listen to the words of Martin Heidegger, the German phenomenological ontologist. He said: “It is right to say that we cannot do anything with philosophy. But might philosophy, if we concern ourselves with it, not do something with us”?
A curious question, wouldn’t you say? In his 1951 essay, ‘What is Called Thinking’ Heidegger said: “Science does not think”. He described science as the mindless accumulation of ‘facts’, or results. He pointed out that the achievements of science create a world that manifests indifference [to the sense of community in the universe] rather than interest (in, and movement towards, a unified and sustainable ecosystem). Given the above submissions from Heidegger, let us recalibrate our thoughts and discussion; going forward.
You can get a lot of information about many things, and yet be devoid of true knowledge. To gather data from the world around us is not the same thing as making sense of what you have gathered. A person who gathers several car parts, from different types of cars, cannot derive any meaning or ‘purpose’ from that. He cannot say what he has before him, if he does not know what a car is.
But assuming you tell him what he has before him, have you, thereby, told him anything that would help him live his life as a responsible adult? Will the information he is given about the objects around him, and even his ability to control and use them, also tell him how to be a responsible father, or why he should not kill someone in order to take what the person has on him?
So, let us calmly admit that the ability to solve everyday problems, or fix things and introduce innovations, is not the same thing as understanding the meaning of life, understanding the values of right and wrong, etc. Let us also admit that the training of the mind and the personality is different from the acquisition of information and the fixing of a car. The ability to give a well-rounded, informed and somewhat impersonal outlook, which constitutes true knowledge, refinement and personal culture in the best sense of these terms, does not come from what we may (for now) call a purely scientific training.
In this sense then, what is sometimes called a “literary” education is superior. But the inferiority of science in this regard is not the fault of science itself as a human endeavour. It is, instead, the fault of the attitude and assumptions with which science is now being pursued and taught. By presenting science as empiricism, and showcasing the Scientific Method as the only path to knowledge and truth, we deny ourselves the fuller picture of what we can know, what constitutes our world; and what our place in it is.
It is true that we have all the gadgets we
need to live easy and relatively comfortable, and even lazy, lives today. But surely, material comfort cannot be the purpose of our existence. Science gives us a lot of facts and, despite the advertised achievements, we are still finding it more and more difficult to understand ourselves and our world. Science, technology and the gains of academic learning and intellectual knowledge gives us a world that is fundamentally incomplete. Such a world can only be dominated by partial truths, errors of understanding, and misapplication of the true purpose of science itself. It is, perhaps, the misunderstandings and misapplications that are derailing science today; especially with regards to the concepts of knowledge and human development. Can science and technology give us personal dignity and character, or help us answer the following questions in real terms: (1) What is the ultimate purpose of human existence? (2) What is the foundation and basis of values? (3) Why is it that prophets always bring new knowledge that is above the level of the most learned peoples of their times? (4) What is the ultimate foundation of morality; (5) Should right and wrong depend on personal, or group, opinion? (6) Why is there is no agreement among “experts” on the existing answers to the above questions” And (7) Can we really speak of experts on any subject, when the very experts themselves do not agree on a single issue?
Contemporary science sees knowledge in terms of what we can experience through the physical senses of sight, touch, smell, etc. But is our ability to know, as human beings, limited to what we can see, touch and physically interact with? Something must be fundamentally wrong with some aspects of the popularly accepted Scientific Method; with its eternal emphasis on empiricism and materiality – and nothing else. Scientific insights into the nature of Elementary Particles, for instance, puts old science to shame. Advances in atomic/nuclear physics and nano technology have made nonsense of the knowledge and scientific imagination of the average, plodding scientist of today. Much of what is being taught as science in many of our schools, worldwide, today is scientifically out of date. The traditional empirical world of science that many who worship science today are desperately projecting and praising does not exist anymore.
But, should we then turn to academic philosophy? Can we say yes to the above question with some air of finality? I don’t think so. Remember Will Durant’s statement in his book, The Story of Philosophy: “Philosophy itself, which had once summoned all the sciences to its aid in making a coherent image of the world...found its task of co-ordination too stupendous and ran away...and hid itself in recondite and narrow lanes, timidly secure from the issues and responsibilities of life”. You cannot project science as the ultimate solution. You also cannot project academic philosophy as the solution. The original philosophers were seekers after the truth. Is this true of academic philosophers?
