FRIDAY 30TH JUNE 2023

President: I Unified Forex to Save Nigeria from Financial Crisis

Advocates team work for robust economic turnaround Seeks governors' cooperation

Deji Elumoye in Abuja and Segun James in Lagos

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, rose in defence of the unified foreign exchange regime recently introduced by his administration, saying it is

in the best interest of the country.

Tinubu said he could have chosen to maintain the former multiple foreign exchange system and reap benefits from it, but opted, instead, to unify the official and parallel market rates to save the country

from financial haemorrhage.

Speaking at a reception organised in his honour by the Lagos State government at the Lagos House, Marina, Tinubu said he took the decision in the country's best interest, just like he did with fuel

subsidy removal.

It was Tinubu’s first visit to Lagos since his swearing in as president on May 29. He was in Lagos to celebrate the Eid.

“I could afford to share the benefit by participating in the

arbitrage, but God forbid! That's not why you voted for me," he said. He stated that it was imperative to take those decisive actions in the early days of his administration. The president said, "We need to take the steps to stop the bleeding

of our finances through speedy action on fuel subsidy. We have no choice."

Tinubu explained that as a way of ensuring good use of available

Continued on page 5

With $15.6bn Wealth, Bloomberg Rates Aliko Dangote Richest Man in Africa... Page 5

Afenifere Urges

to Arrest Spate of Price Increase...

WSJ: Aftermath of Failed Mutiny, Putin Moves to Seize Control of Wagner’s Global Empire

important message that although the

Continued on page 27

Tinubu: Despite Ineffective Cashless Policy, I Knew We Would Win Presidential Poll

Recalls emi lo kan declaration started in Ogun Says he invoked spirit of freedom, determination twice to overcome poll obstacles Pledges to fulfil all promises, urges Nigerians not to be in hurry

Obi chides president over convoy formation

Deji Elumoye in Abuja, James Sowole in Abeokuta and DavidChyddy Eleke in Awka

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, said he remained optimistic of emerging victorious in the February 25, 2023 presidential poll, despite obstacles thrown in his way, like what he called the ineffective cashless policy implemented by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The president spoke in separate meetings in Ogun State at the palaces of the paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, in Ijebu-Ode, and Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, in Abeokuta, during a thank-you visit to the royal fathers.

Tinubu recalled that the “emi lo kan” declaration started in Ogun

Continued on page 5

L-R: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu , the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, and Globacom Chairman, Dr. Mike Adenuga (Jr.), when the President visited the traditional ruler in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State... yesterday

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja with agency report

After Yevgeny Prigozhin’s army of ex-convicts and mercenaries halted their advance on Moscow, the Kremlin

is set out to seize full control of the global empire built by the notorious military entrepreneur, The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) has reported.

With $15.6bn Wealth, Bloomberg Rates Aliko Dangote Richest Man in Africa

Goddy Egene President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote remains the richest man in Africa, despite the volatility of Nigerian currency against the dollar. Bloomberg in its daily top billionaire lists, released on Tuesday, revealed that Dangote with a wealth of $15.6 billion topped other Africans in the Index.

Dangote, who remains the richest man in Africa for the 12th year running, was the only Nigerian on the list of the top 500 billionaires, as released by Bloomberg.

Other Africans listed in the latest top 500 world billionaires list for the

year 2023 included Johann Rupert and family of South Africa, now worth $13.3 billion, while Nicky Oppenheimer of South Africa, Nassef Sawiris of Egypt, Natie Kirsh of South Africa, and Naguib Sawiris are also worth $9.0 billion, $7.47 billion, $7.37billion and $5.93 billion respectively. These are the only five other Africans that made the list.

The Bloomberg Billionaires Index is a daily ranking of the world's richest people. In calculating net worth, Bloomberg News strives to provide the most transparent calculations available, and each individual billionaire profile contains a detailed analysis of how that person's fortune is tallied.

The index is a dynamic measure of

personal wealth based on changes in markets, the economy and Bloomberg reporting.

Each net worth figure is updated every business day after the close of trading in New York. Stakes in publicly traded companies are valued using the share's most recent closing price. Valuations are converted to U.S. dollars at current exchange rates.

Ellon Musk and Bernard Arnault were listed as the richest in the world with $219billion and $194 billion respectively in their kitties while Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates followed respectively with $151 billion and $130 billion. Larry Ellison was the fifth richest with $130 billion on the world’s billionaires’ chart.

Bloomberg is a global information and technology company, that connect decision makers to a dynamic network of data, people and ideas – “accurately delivering business and financial information, news and insights to customers around the world” Bloomberg L.P. provides financial software tools such as an analytics and equity trading platform, data services, and news to financial companies and organisations through the Bloomberg Terminal.’ Africa's richest man, with his new worth of $15.6 billion, controls Dangote Industries, a closely-held conglomerate.

The Lagos, Nigeria-based company owns sub-Saharan Africa's biggest

cement producer, Dangote Cement. It also has interests in sugar, salt, fertiliser and packaged foods. Dangote also recently commissioned the $19bn petroleum refinery plant, which is now Africa's largest refinery.

Aliko Dangote was also recently named as among the topmost charitable man in the World by Richtopia, a digital periodical that covers business, economics, and financial news, based in the United Kingdom. This recognition came after he endowed his foundation, the Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) to the tune of $1.25 billion.

Aliko Dangote started his Foundation in 1981, with a mission

TINUBU: DESPITE INEFFECTIVE CASHLESS POLICY, I KNEW WE WOULD WIN PRESIDENTIAL POLL

State and ultimately manifested.

Reflecting on the challenges that piled up in the build-up to the 2023 presidential election, Tinubu, according to a release by his Special Adviser on Special Duties, Communication and Strategy, Mr Dele Alake, confessed to invoking the spirit of freedom and determination to win the presidential poll.

Recounting his concerns about the confiscation of funds and the failure of the cashless policy, and how he had previously sought wisdom and guidance from Oba Adetona during his visit to the palace, the president pledged to fulfil all his campaign promises. He enjoined the Nigerian people not to be in hurry.

The assertions came as the presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) in the February election, Mr Peter Obi, yesterday, reacted to the viral video of the long convoy of Tinubu in Lagos. Obi said there was need to cut down the cost of governance, saying this has always been his position about governance.

In his engagement at the palace of the Awujale, Tinubu said, "Our monies were confiscated. The cashless policy didn’t work, it was terrible then. I realised that I came to Ogun State to invoke the spirit of freedom, which we are noted for.

"I invoked that spirit twice. The spirit of Baba Emi lo kan. That’s Baba. Being blunt, being decisive, that's him, he will tell you. The second spirit is that money or no money (we will do the election and we will win)."

The president acknowledged that these spirits had been the driving force behind his service. He expressed his gratitude to Oba Adetona, all the other Obas, elected officials, particularly his personal friend, Senator Gbenga Daniel, the Senator for Ogun East.

He thanked them for their loyalty and commitment during those crucial times in the 2023 election, and described his visit to Ijebu-Ode as a homecoming.

He stated, "The way you have taken me, the way you have responded to me, all I can say is thank you. May you live long and may you witness a prosperous Nigeria."

Tinubu also acknowledged the presence of Chief Mike Adenuga, Nigerian billionaire businessman, and expressed pride in his contributions to the Nigerian economy.

During his visit to Abeokuta, Tinubu thanked the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, for receiving him, and described him as a great leader.

He expressed his commitment to fulfilling his promises and appealed for prayers from the citizens of the state to ensure progress and stability in the country.

Tinubu said, "I have redeemed my pledge that I will come back with victory and the crown. The hope is recharged; the hope is here. That hope will never fail. That hope will recharge your lives in a positive

manner.

"By the grace of Almighty God, we shall reap the fruits of our labour. Nigeria will see positive change; just endure these baby steps of pain. This country is the only one we have. I have been a refugee and I know what it means to be a refugee and my green passport is what I still have now.

"Let's go through this baby steps of faith. I am taking baby steps as the president. Let's not be in a hurry. Be ready for this. Maintain an open-door policy. Let the freedom flow. Let the confidence return. This country is the only country we have. I've been a refugee and I know what it means to be a refugee.

“Having achieved the prayer point of 'Emilokan', what I ask for is prayer for this country. I am determined to help this our country, to steer the ship of the nation and to deliver on all promises that were made.

“I am here still making that pledge of the campaign promises. There's no difference between us and any other member of the Nigerian public. I said it in France that we are children of the same parents, living in the same house, but we are only sleeping in different bedrooms. Just recognise that.

“Let's be united, no distractions. We will arrive at a positive destination in the country. It's all in our hands to make history and I will do that. By the grace of God, we shall reap the fruits of our labour. Nigeria will see positive changes.

“I was determined to be here to say thank you to a great leader, Oba Gbadebo, and to all of us here present. Aremo Olusegun Osoba well-done. Dimeji Bankole, welldone. Ibikunle Amosun, well-done. Chairman of our party, I'm grateful, at least, we delivered, despite the hardship of no money, no fuel; I credit you.

“This visit, I didn't know that it would be like this. I only wanted to sneak in and sneak out; now I know exactly what it is to be a president. It is awesome. The hope is recharged right here. That hope will never fail. That hope will recharge your light...

“Please, we need your prayers, we need your supports, we need your interventions so that the economic prosperity of this nation being opened up will affect everyone of you positively.”

In separate remarks at the palaces of the paramount ruler of Ijebuland and Alake of Egbaland, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State thanked the president for the visit to the state, and described him as a man of uncommon grace and a living testimony of resilience.

Chronicling the oresident’s antecedents as a visionary politician, the governor said the pronouncements of Tinubu in his first few weeks in office had defined him as rightly prepared and qualified for office.

Oba Adetona and Oba Gbadebo, in separate remarks in their palaces, commended Tinubu for his leadership, acknowledging him

as an instrument of God chosen to rectify past shortcomings.

They offered prayers for the president's guidance and good health, urging Nigerians to support his administration.

The Akaraigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, who commended the president for starting his administration exceptionally well, noted that the people needed urgent palliatives to mitigate the effects of the current challenges. He lauded the wise decisions so far taken by the administration, and reminding the president of his promise to bring development to Remo.

The paramount ruler stated, "I remember when you came to the palace and all we said is our dream is for you to go and win the primaries, and that once you win the primaries, I’m sure that God will take us there. I’m glad

that God took us there.

''I want to remind you of what you said when you came to Remo. You said with the proximity of Shagamu to Lagos, you were surprised at the level of development in Remo. This is the time for Mr President to walk that talk."

Obi Chides Tinubu over Needlessly Large Convoy

Presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) in the February 25 election, Mr Peter Obi, chided President Bola Tinubu over his large convoy. Obi called for sacrifice by leaders of Nigeria as a way to show example to the followers on what was expected of them.

Obi spoke yesterday at St Faith Cathedral, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Awka,

during the burial mass for the late Dean Emeritus of the Church of Nigeria, the Most Reverend Maxwell Anikwenwa, who died at 83.

Obi, while reacting to the viral video of Tinubu’s long convoy on Wednesday in Lagos, said there was need to cut down the cost of governance. He said that had always been his position about governance.

Obi stated, "I have not seen the video you talked about, but let me tell you what I have always said that the present Nigeria requires, that all those who serve and lead must do so by example. The behaviour, character and public conduct of those who serve must be in consonance with what the society requires today. You cannot continue to preach for the people to sacrifice, without sacrificing.

"The sacrifice must start from the leaders, visibly, measurably at all time, because the people are

PRESIDENT: I UNIFIED FOREX TO SAVE NIGERIA FROM FINANCIAL CRISIS

resources, the government would "re-engineer the effectiveness of the control and management of our resources in order to meet the obligations to Nigerians by political officeholders."

He sought the support of governors to ensure even development of the country.

He stated, "We will work together with an open door policy. We will bring Nigeria from the brink to a resilient economy. I want us to be partners so that we can rescue our land and make it a born-again nation."

Tinubu thanked the Lagos State government for putting together the reception, and appreciated his friends and associates who attended. He apologised to some of his friends in the audience whom he said had been yearning to see him but could not, because of the demands of his office.

"The assignment is greater than the love of the living room. We got to do the job," he said.

According to him, “It was Tunde Fashola who was telling me that every time I fly across, I should look down and see so much dusty, unpaved roads, as well as incomplete projects. Yes, I've seen them, and I will see more.

“But I promise to work with the governors through an open door policy that will return Nigeria from the bricks to a resilient economy. Be ready, you governors.

“I know what I'm going to do from Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and on, and I want us to be partners so that we can rescue our country and make it whole again.”

Tinubu also thanked party members and faithful for keeping the faith with him on the long tortuous journey to the presidency.

He said, “I'm very grateful. I thank my vice president, you shall receive the joy of giving, the joy of perseverance, joy of resilience and endurance, you will see the reward for this country; it's going to prosper and be prosperous.

“I say thank you to all of you

and I appreciate tonight. I will continue to appreciate more when we work together to dissect the possible economic prosperity of our nation in favour of our children. I'm also glad to see former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode. God bless you all.”

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu told Tinubu, “Lagos is proud of you.”

Sanwo-Olu expressed confidence in the president's abilities. He said, “I'm sure you will all agree that since he took his oath of office as the president of the largest black nation, we have seen uncommon pronouncements, uncommon audacity of change, a renewed hope that he promised us. I'm also proud to say that this is a tenure that begins with a promise of change and, within a short time, we are beginning to see that change.

“Mr President, your ascension to the seat was greeted with great war and expectations. We believed in you as a leader, a builder of men, talents, and a custodian of the best ideas of governance. I'm happy to say that, indeed, you are our Grand Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“You've catalysed series of economic interventions, policy changes, and you have sown the seed of future prosperity. Your administration has rekindled the attitude of resilience and integrity among fellow Nigerians. It is, indeed, commendable here to sing of all the great reforms that you are about and you are changing for us.

"We are confident that under your leadership, Nigeria will reach unprecedented heights. We stand in solidarity with you in bringing your great vision for Nigeria to life, and we will join hands with the president to rebuild Nigeria."

Former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, while speaking at the event, reiterated the need to support the president to succeed.

Fashola said, "Nigeria's presidency is not a one-man job. He should

to enhance opportunities for social change through strategic investments that improve health and wellbeing, promote quality education, and broaden economic empowerment opportunities.

Aliko Dangote Foundation was however incorporated in 1994 as a charity in Lagos, Nigeria. 20 years later, the Foundation has become the largest private Foundation in sub–Saharan Africa, with the largest endowment by a single African donor. The primary focus of Aliko Dangote Foundation is health and nutrition, supported by wrap-around interventions in education, empowerment, and humanitarian relief.

suffering and we must all be at the forefront of the suffering."

On the life of the late Archbishop Anikwenwa, Obi said, "He was not just a pastor of God, but a great Nigerian, who contributed to this country beyond his pastoral work, in building a better Nigeria.

"He was involved in advocating a better Nigeria, good governance and others. He was a great Nigerian and a great Igbo man, and I am not surprised about the number of people at the burial ceremony today."

Several prominent Nigerians present at the occasion paid tribute to Anikwenwa. They included Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo; his deputy, Dr Onyekachi Ibezim; Senator Victor Umeh; and Archbishop, Province of the Niger and Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Reverend Dr Chibuzo Ibezim.

be supported to succeed. Six of his policies in Lagos, as governor, have stood the test of time and have been adopted in other states and so, I urge the governors to support policies that will be introduced by the president."

Speaking on behalf of the Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF), Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the forum, Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, pledged that the state chief executives, regardless of party affiliation, were ready to cooperate and work with the president to make the country better and safer for all citizens.

AbdulRazaq stated, "NGF is excited that both the president and vice president are alumni of the Governors' Forum. We are committed to work with a federalist, who worked to get things done in a truly federal system. We reiterate our support for a renewed hope agenda, regardless of our parties."

President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, who spoke on behalf of members of the National Assembly, thanked Tinubu for his leadership in smoothening the takeoff of the 10th National Assembly. Akpabio said, "You will succeed. Nigerians are proud of you and the National Assembly is here for you 100 per cent. We will do whatever is legislatively possible to make you succeed."

Going down memory lane, the leader of Lagos Governor's Advisory Council (GAC), Pa Tajudeen Olusi, said the emergence of Tinubu was a payback time for the state, having contributed significantly to the political evolution of Nigeria since the colonial era of Herbert Macaulay till date.

Olusi stated, "Those who have led this country were tutored in Lagos. We are grateful that the president of Nigeria this time finally came from Lagos. We have a man whom we are proud of. He has already started well and Nigerians have seen his first 30 days as remarkable."

Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, gave the vote

of thanks at the occasion.

Other dignitaries at the event included National Assembly members and House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abass. There were also Governors Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Hope Uzodimma (Imo), Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa), Babagana Zulum (Borno), Alex Otti (Abia), and Hyacinth Alia (Benue).

Others were Governor Bassey Otu (Cross River), Duoye Diri (Bayelsa), Yahaya Bello (Kogi), and Acting Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo).

Former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode (Lagos), former Kano State governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, and former Lagos State Deputy Governor Femi Pedro also attended the event.

In attendance, too, were National Chairman of the governing All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Adamu; APC National Secretary, Iyiola Omisore; Lagos State Chairman of APC, Cornelius Ojelabi; Chairman of Nigeria Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa; former Lagos Deputy Governor Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire; Chief of Staff to the president, Femi Gbajabiamila, Senators Ganiu Solomon, Musiliu Obanikoro and other members of GAC.

Business leaders at the event were led by Aliko Dangote and Alhaji Rasak Okoya. Royal fathers of Awori extraction were also present at the reception.

Meanwhile, Fashola, Ambode and Sanwo-Olu had their moment of reunion, when they presented Tinubu with the Lagos symbol of Eyo.

Ambode was the cynosure of all eyes at the event, being the first time he would be reuniting with Tinubu and Fashola in over four years.

The former governor, decked in a royal blue agbada with matching cap, heartily mingled with his predecessor and successor. SanwoOlu thereafter took Ambode to greet fellow governors and others at the reception.

REUNION OF THE PRESIDENT AND HIS BOYS...

Afenifere Urges Tinubu to Arrest Spate of Price Increase

Wonders if energy is imported by Discos in dollars to warrant tariff increase

In the wake of plans by some government institutions to jack up prices of commodities and services, the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to urgently halt such moves "as such would further worsen the precarious situations of hapless Nigerians."

The organisation also faulted the planned increase in tariff by the power Distribution Companies (Discos) because the naira exchange rate depreciated from N441 to a dollar to about N750 per dollar, wondering why service being rendered in Nigeria should be denominated in or predicated on US dollar

This was contained in a statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary of the organisation, Jare Ajayi, and made available to journalists yesterday.

Faulting the reason of Discos for the planned increase in tariff, Ajayi wondered why service being rendered in Nigeria should be denominated in or predicated on US Dollar.

“Is the energy they are distributing imported from the United States of America?”

Ajayi maintained that various steps taken lately by the Tinubu-led administration may have the potential of lifting Nigeria up in the medium and long term but, "there is the need to ensure that the people are not squeezed out of breath before that

good time comes, as it’s only a person who is wholesomely alive that would enjoy the largesse of tomorrow!”

While calling on Tinubu to checkmate steps capable of alienating his administration from the people, Afenifere urged him to be mindful of actions by government agencies that may be tantamount to sabotaging his good intentions.

Some electricity Discos had on June 25, 2023, announced that from July 1, this year, the tariffs being paid by electricity consumers in Nigeria would go up by 40 per cent.

Similarly, Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, Engr. Abdulhafiz Toriola, had on Tuesday, June 27th, disclosed that the Joint Tax Board has imposed

a levy of N1,000 per annum on every vehicle owner in Nigeria. The payment was said to be in the form of Proof of Ownership Certificate (POC). Afenifere said this was without regard to various taxes vehicle owners pay yearly viz Vehicle Licence, Insurance, road worthiness and hackney permit (for commercial vehicles) etc.

Afenifere said for instance, "in many states across the country, some road users (other than pedestrians) have daily payments to make to be allowed to ply the roads.

"An example is the one in Oyo State being carried out by the Park Management System (PMS). Many other states have similar arrangements."

The organisation said though

Access, UBA, Ecobank, Standard Bank, KCB Embrace Afreximbank's PAPSS

The Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) has announced the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with five African multinational commercial banking groups. They include Access Bank Group, Ecobank Group, KCB Group, Standard Bank Group, and the United Bank of Africa (UBA) Group.

According to a statement yesterday, the significant partnerships aimed to revolutionise the settlement of cross-border transactions across Africa, leveraging on the vast network of subsidiaries and representative offices across major economic centres across Africa.

These MOUs were signed on Monday, 19 June 2023, at the opening ceremony of Afreximbank’s 30th Anniversary Celebrations and 30th Annual Meetings held in Accra, Ghana, recently, in the presence of Heads of State and Prime Ministers from Africa and the Caribbean, Heads

of continental policy and governance institutions as well as international institutions.

"The signature of these memorandums signifies a monumental step forward in the pursuit of seamless cross-border trade payments throughout the almost 40 countries covered by these banks.

"The broad collaboration between PAPSS and African commercial banks will pave the way for enhanced efficiency, transparency, and reliability in intra-African settlement.

"The adoption of PAPSS's cutting-edge settlement model will streamline operations and empower businesses by providing a secure and technologically advanced platform for cross-border transactions," the statement added.

As part of the partnership, Access Bank Group, Ecobank Group, KCB Group, Standard Bank Group, and the UBA Group would collaborate closely with PAPSS to ensure seamless integration of PAPSS into their existing

systems.

The collaborative effort wouldl include opening up all their African footprints for PAPSS, facilitating settlement of transactions, encouraging the participation of Fintech in PAPSS via the banks and expanding PAPSS to all the banks’ current digital channels such as mobile app banking and e-banking.

Commenting on the signing, President of Afreximbank, Prof. Benedict Oramah, said: “the signature of these MoUs marks a remarkable step towards the realisation of the aspirations of Africa’s foreleaders, who envisioned the creation of a payment and clearing union about six decades ago.

" It also draws us closer to domesticating cross-border payments by enabling payments for cross-border trade in African currencies while strengthening African currencies. By leveraging on the vast continental coverage of these African commercial banks, PAPSS will seamlessly facilitate

cross-border trade and payments and boost intra-African trade and investments”.

Also commenting on the signing, Secretary General of the AfCFTA, Wamkele Mene, said: “the introduction of the new PAPSS Model for onboarding African Commercial Banks and the signing of the MoUs with the five African Commercial Bank Groups signifies a bold step towards the full operationalisation of PAPSS for the benefit of African traders and SMEs in the implementation of the AfCFTA Agreement.”

The Chief Executive Officer of PAPSS, Mr Mike Ogbalu III, expressed enthusiasm about the collaborations, stating that, "these partnerships with Access Bank Group, Ecobank Group, KCB Group, Standard Bank Group, and UBA Group mark a significant milestone in the journey toward a more integrated and efficient African banking landscape.

to further squeeze the citizens, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has made it obligatory for commercial banks to collect and verify their customers’ social media handles as part of their Know Your Customer (KYC) process, stating that the, "directive amounts to making members of the public ‘to pay’ for the failure and negligence of relevant organs of the government in carrying out their constitutionally assigned duties."

Ajayi added: "The CBN, through its Director, Financial Policy and Regulations Department, Mr. Chibuzo Efobi, said that it gave the directive with a view to ‘bolstering compliance with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism provisions.’

"Already, every telephone user in the country got captured as directed by the National Communications Commission (NCC) with the National Identity Number (NIN) incorporated.

"Besides, every bank customer now has what is known as a Bank Verification Number (BVN). Email addresses were also registered with the banks into which information from banks are sent to the respective

customers. Meaning that the information this new directive is seeking is already within the purview of government agencies."

He called on Tinubu to stop the planned increase on electricity tariff and ensure that the increase was not effected secretly as had been done before, stop the planned N1,000 POC levy and prevail on relevant arms of government to utilise information about Nigerians already in their purview as the new CBN directive is repetitive of what already exists in addition to its potential of being used to infringe on the privacy of Nigerians”.

Arguing that the new directive from the CBN was another way of traumatising Nigerians as was done to youths three years ago when the Joint Admissions and Matriculations Board (JAMB) made it a condition for them to obtain NIN before they could register for its examinations that year, Ajayi submitted that the youths suffered greatly as the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) that was supposed to issue the NIN could not cope.

Interior Design Industry Has Great Potential for Nigeria, Says IDAN

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The interior design industry has been projected to contribute immensely to the growth of Nigeria's economy.

Presently the industry has made significant contributions to the growth of the economy in most African countries, providing over N30 billion annually.

The sector has also grown in terms of capacity and professionalism over the years.

Speaking to THISDAY, on the outcome event organised by the Interior Designers Association of Nigeria (IDAN) in Abuja, the founder and former President of the International Federation of Interior Architect/Design, Titi Ogufere, said the industry has to a large extent impacted on the

economy and lives of the people in most profound ways.

"We in the interior design industry actually shape the nation in several ways and that is why we want to create public awareness to enable people know that we are here for the health and safety of the society.

"In terms of the economy and the contribution of the industry to our Gross Domestic Product (GDP), we have contributed a lot.

"The last study that was carried out by an Italian firm four years ago rated the industry in the continent as contributing well over N36 billion to Africa's economy.

L-R: Former Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode; current Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and a former Lagos Governor/immediate past Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, together at the Lagos House, Marina for the first time in over four years during a reception organised by Sanwo-Olu in honour of Tinubu, in Lagos…yesterday

Emameh Gabriel in Abuja

PAYING SALLAH HOMAGE...

Subsidy Removal: W’Bank Urges Nigeria to Avoid Disbursing Expected $800m to Ghost Beneficiaries

Nume Ekeghe in Lagos, Adedayo Akinwale and Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The World Bank has advised the federal government to ensure that when it finally receives the $800 million loan expected to be expended on cushioning the impact of the fuel subsidy removal on Nigerians would

be received, it should ensure that the fund get to intended beneficiaries and shielded from ghost names.

The Country Director of the World Bank, Shubham Chaudhuri, gave the advice yesterday, when he appeared on ‘Prime Time’, on Arise News Channel. He also clarified that the $800 million loan was yet to be available

Edo PDP Commends Tinubu for Removing Fuel Subsidy, Unifying Exchange Rate

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Edo State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, yesterday, commended President Bola Tinubu for the bold decisions in removing fuel subsidy and unification of the naira exchange rates.

Speaking with journalists at an interactive session in Benin City, capital of the state,Aziegbemi, an economist, described the decisions as the best way to go, adding that, "those policies will give the country in excess of N2 trillion."

The Chairman who stated this while commenting on the state of the nation, however said people were worried about the nature of palliatives that the government would put in place to ameliorate the suffering of Nigerians, arising from the fuel subsidy removal.

Besides, Aziegbemi expressed concern that there were allegedly too many crooks around Tinubu, urging him to be wary of such persons and try as much as possible to keep "the strong men" at the back seat of governance in order not to create a bad image for his administration.

On party politics in Nigeria, he said it was reprehensible for those the PDP had made to start throwing mud at the party because they did not get what they wanted.

Aziegbemi who was

apparently referring to some bigwigs who recently defected from the PDP in Edo, said character mattered in politics and warned that, "this tyranny of the vocal minority has to stop."

He said the G34 that formed the PDP, Adamu Ciroma, Dr. Alex Ekwueme, Chief Tony Anenih and others, would be turning in their graves seeing what such persons were doing, assuring "this party will not die."

The Edo PDP boss, therefore, called on governorship aspirants on the platform of the PDP to slow down their consultations because of the precarious situation of the party and the forthcoming Local Government Council elections in the state, just as he urged party leaders not to align with any aspirant at the moment.

Aziegbemi while commenting on 'Obaseki Phenomenon', said governor Godwin Obaseki was the most misunderstood governor in the country who had achieved the most, adding that the governor's philosophy was about hard work, due process, amongst others.

He listed the governor's legacy projects to include 55 megawatts Ossiomo Power Station, the two Modular Refineries in the state, Edo Tech. Park, which he said would train 15,000 Software Engineers in the next few years, Edo BEST Programme, and other laudable projects.

for disbursement as it was awaiting the approval of the National Assembly.

He further added that with the poverty bracket of Nigerians expected to rise further, the urgency of targeted cash transfers for the vulnerable was vital, just as he suggested an increase in the number of beneficiaries.

Speaking on the subsidy removal and the immediate effect on Nigerians, he said: “Like many dramatic and bold steps, there would be some short-term pain and it is natural that leaders and the country are hesitant to inflict that pain and not quite sure how to deal with it.

“So, it does take some decisiveness to say that yes it would be painful, but we need to do this and we would try to do our best to make sure that the pain is mitigated for as many people as we can.

“Removal of petrol subsidy needed to happen, what we are

saying is, help cushion some of the pains for a large part of the population as 60 to 70 per cent are those who would be considered either poor, near poor or economically insecure and vulnerable, meaning they're sort of getting by day to day.

“This is the group that's going to be hit hardest and government can do something to help cushion the pain, not alleviate it completely, but cushion the pain by providing targeted cash transfers to a large group of the population.”

Speaking on the likely means to identifying the poor and vulnerable, he said: “There has been an ongoing process right from the beginning. Identifying poor and vulnerable households near-poor households, all across Nigeria.

“Initially, and in fact, what's called the National Social Registry, there are about 15 million households already in there. That was based on going to each community and

asking the communities themselves to say who are the poorest and most vulnerable.

“And the idea is that the platform is available, not just for this, program that we're supporting, but should the government choose to expand beyond 10 million households to identify others who may need them. And then the key thing is to ensure that the transfers are delivered to real people. “

Speaking further, he said: “The key thing is that it shouldn't be ghost names and that the cash transfer should actually get into the bank accounts or mobile wallets of those individuals in a way that's monitorable and traceable.”

He further reiterated the importance of large scale cash transfer which according to him was in line with global standards.

He said: “Our board approved back in December of 2021, the $800 million that is available to provide cash transfers to roughly

10 million households. So at that time, I think the exchange rate was about N420/$1 so the calculation was $800 billion translates into roughly N360 billion of which N300 billion would be used for cash transfers of N5000 per household, for 10 million households over a period of six months.

“So that's N50 billion per month for each of six months, which gives you N300 billion and then the N60 billion additional was to basically cover the implementation costs of making sure that you have the right systems to identify the households register them and make sure that they get the transfers digitally, and if they didn't have bank accounts or mobile wallets, that they will be helped or assisted setting up bank accounts setting up a mobile wallet. So we were working with the national social safety net coordination office, the National Cash Transfer Office, and CBN to try and run this.”

Okwuosa: ICAN Not Beneficiary of FG's Budgetary Support

Dike Onwuamaeze

The President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Dr. Innocent Okwuosa, yesterday, clarified that the the institute was not a beneficiary of federal government's budgetary support and would not be affected by the government's decision to discontinue funding of professional bodies from next year.

Okwuosa stated that the clarification became necessary following a federal government's circular that it would stop budgetary allocations to professional bodies.

He said the circular had aroused members of ICAN inquisitiveness on whether the federal government had been funding the institute while they

had been paying membership levies to finance the institute.

But, Okwuosa, stressed in a press statement that ICAN was not among the professional bodies affected by the circular.

He said: "I want to categorically state that since 1990 to date, ICAN has been a self-funded organisation and does not receive any budgetary allocation from the federal government.

"ICAN relies on members’ subscription, professional examination, continuous professional development (CPD) and faculty programmes’ net fees, other self- financing events example Annual Accountants Conference (AAC) as well as financial support from different organisations that identify with the ICAN brand."

Okwuosa, however, said ICAN welcomed the decision of the Presidential Committee on Salaries (PCS) to discontinue budgetary allocation to professional bodies/councils effective 2024.

"We believe that like ICAN, all professional bodies should be self-financing organisations. On no account should budgetary allocation be extended to any professional body.

"This will assist in bringing down the high cost of public governance which we advocate for and as well discourage the proliferation of professional bodies," he said.

He also said ICAN would, "not support the discontinuance of budgetary allocations to some regulatory councils that function as parastatals. For example, the

Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC) and the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC).

"We will advocate for more budgetary allocations to be made to the FRC to enable it fulfil its many mandates.

"Similarly, given that climate change and energy transition are now burning global and local issues, the NCCC will need more budgetary allocations to be able to execute the important mandate given to it."

He also advised members of the ICAN, "not to read meaning into the headline news as there may have been misinterpretation of the original intention behind the communication on discontinuance of budgetary allocation to professional bodies by the media."

R- L: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Chairman of Progressive Governors' Forum cum Governor of Imo State, Sen Hope Uzodimma and Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio sharing a view at the Sallah reception for the President in Lagos... yesterday

NATIONAL ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT SUMMIT...

First Transshipment Vessel Berths in Nigeria's Port

Gilbert Ekugbe

The management of Lekki Deep Seaport has announced the arrival of the first transshipment vessel to

berth on Nigeria's shore. The arrival of the CMA CGM RIMBAUD was also the first transshipment vessel to call at the container terminal of $1.5 billion

Incompetent Leaders Reasons for Bayelsa Underdevelopment, Says LP Guber Candidate

Restates commitment to job creation

Julius Osahon, Yenagoa

Former President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) and Labour Party gubernatorial candidate for the November 11, 2023 Bayelsa Governorship election, Engr. Udengs Eradiri, has blamed the underdevelopment of the state on incompetent leadership in the past and present.

Eradiri, who restated his resolve towards job creation and development of the state posited that the state is presently going through a lot and attributed the challenges to those leaders whose shoulders were saddled with leadership, but has failed woefully.

Eradiri, a one time national President IYC and former Commissioner in the state’s ministries of Environment and Youths development, gave the indications during a pre-campaign media briefing held in Yenagoa, the State capital.

He said, while the state was richly blessed with both human and natural resources, funds accruing to the state had been allegedly mismanaged by the incumbent administration of Governor Douye Diri and his handlers.

He said, "We lack competent leadership in Bayelsa state, if you compare Bayelsa state to every other state in the country, you will discover that we are backward in every indices and yet we are suppose to be the richest state in term of allocation accruing to us, we have had trillions of Naira over the years , yet nothing to show on ground."

The Labour Party’s gubernatorial standard bearer who also spoke on the need to diversify the state’s economy noted that the state has comparative advantage in maritime economy and some food crops, maintaining that if elected governor of the state in the forthcoming polls, he intend to create numerous employment opportunities through the natural aquatic environment of the state, as well as rice and cassava plantations, amongst others.

He also took a swipe on the governor Diri’s administration for allegedly abandoning existing structures and building new infrastructure in the health and educational sectors of the state, saying it was due to leadership disconnection with its citizens, the spate of poverty and underdevelopment has increased in the state.

Lekki Deep Seaport.

The vessel, which arrived at approximately 1.00pm yesterday, contained cargo from two of the largest container shipping lines in the world, CMA CGM and Maersk.

The service originated from the Far East, passing through Shanghai, Ningbo, Shekou, Nansha, Tanjung Pelpas, Singapore to Kribi, Cameroun, before finally arriving

at the Lekki Port.

The vessel was carrying 411 TEUs of transshipment cargo and has a nominal container handling capacity of 6,900 TEUs.

Speaking on the milestone, the Managing Director of Lekki Port, Du Ruogang, expressed appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Transportation and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) for the

support in ensuring the start of transshipment activities at Lekki Port.

Also speaking, the Chief Operating Officer, Laurence Smith, noted that all regulatory agencies operating at the port particularly the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) worked together with Lekki Port and the container terminal operator, Lekki Freeport Terminal to ensure

a hitch free arrival of the vessel and processing of cargo. Lekki Port with its state of the art ship-to-shore cranes and sophisticated scanners is now poised to position Nigeria as the preeminent transshipment hub of West Africa.

The transshipped cargo will be departing for Cotonou its final destination on 6th July 2023.

‘How World Bank, Edo Govt, Six Varsities Kicked Off Procurement Training in Nigeria’

Edo students link national quiz glory to education reforms, share success story

The Managing Director of the Edo State Public Procurement Agency, Henry Idogun, has noted that the World Bank working with the Edo State Government and other institutions pioneered the mounting of procurement programmes across six Nigerian universities.

Idogun, who spoke with journalists in Benin City, noted that the programme was instituted after it came to light that there was no formal academic programme in Nigerian universities to build local capacity on procurement.

According to him, “Before, there was no University in Nigeria that offered Procurement as a course. Recently, about two or three years ago, the World Bank realised that there is inadequate procurement capacity in the country and started a programme in partnership with the Nigeria Universities Commission where they now want to run procurement courses in six selected universities.

“In fact, these universities were competitively selected. The one in the South-South is the University of Benin. When they wanted to start, they didn’t have resource persons. And the World Bank directed them to go and collaborate with our agency. Up till this moment, we act as resource persons to them.

"The progress they have made is well applauded by the World Bank which has also commended our commitment and support to the centre.”

He noted that the development was part of the Governor Godwin Obasekiled administration’s drive to entrench transparency and accountability in public procurement in the state, which has received international and national accolades.

Meanwhile, Edo students from Anglican Girls Grammar School (AGGS), Benin City, who represented the state at the just-concluded national quiz competition sponsored by MTN Foundation, have attributed

their remarkable and outstanding performance in the highly competitive national quiz contest to the transformative education reforms implemented by Obaseki.

The 15-year-old secondary school students, including Theresa John Parkson, Benita Omosefe Omonzejele, and Best Osasogie Edobor, brought pride to their school and state after outperforming schools from across the country to clinch the second position at the 2023 MTN Anti-Substance Abuse Programme (ASAP) Quiz Competition.

The trio had earlier emerged as the best performers in the SouthSouth region, securing their spot to represent the region in the quiz tourney, competing among the six best schools from the 36 States of the Country at the finale recently held in Abuja.

Speaking to journalists in Benin City after their successful outing, Best Osasogie, the leaders of the team hailed the governor for prioritising

investment in education, noting that the government’s digital teaching contributed immensely to their success at the national competition.

According to her, their impressive outing was a reflection of the dedication and commitment of both the students and their teachers, who have embraced the new educational paradigm introduced by Obaseki with a focus on enhancing the quality of teaching, providing modern learning facilities, and promoting innovative teaching methods.

She said, “The reforms by the Governor have raised the bar for education in Edo State, ensuring that we receive a quality education that is on par with international standards.

" I am especially impressed with the digital teaching methods across schools in the State and immensely grateful to the governor for his transformative initiatives, which have enabled us to compete and achieve outstanding results at the national level.”

The Plug's Partners Express Confidence in Long-term Global Relevance of Afrobeats

Afrobeats, the infectious and vibrant music genre rooted in African rhythms, continues to thrive and captivate audiences worldwide, experts have said.

The Managing Partners of The Plug, one of the leading talent management, events curation, and culture advisory company, recently conducted an exclusive interview #WithChude, where they expressed their unwavering belief in the longterm global relevance of Afrobeats.

According to a statement yesterday, Asa Asika, Abiodun ‘Bizzle’ Osikoya, and Tobi

Mohammed (Alhaji Popping), the driving forces behind The Plug, highlighted the genre's enduring popularity, its ability to captivate diverse audiences, and the importance of education within the industry.

Bizzle, known for his astute understanding of the music industry, emphasised Afrobeats' long-lasting impact.

"Afrobeats can never die. We Nigerians don't give up," he affirmed.

"Do you think we will get to a level where Burna Boy, Wizkid, or Davido won't have anyone come out

to see them or attend their shows in America?

"We will keep building and grinding so that those things don't stop. What needs to happen is that we educate our industry because that is one of the things that can halt our trajectory."

Asa highlighted the global reach and resilience of Afrobeats, stating, "There are 54 countries in Africa. How many countries are there in Europe? If nobody in the world cares about Afrobeats again, we are fine. "There are artists in the US that are only relevant in Texas, and they

are good. It's nice to go to Times Square and see the face of Olamide, and see Tiwa selling out shows in Brixton. One thing that helps us is that Africans, particularly Nigerians, are all over the world."

According to the statement, "Afrobeats has experienced a remarkable rise to global prominence in recent years. Emerging from the diverse sounds of the continent, this vibrant genre has captivated audiences worldwide with its irresistible beats, rich melodies, and infectious energy.

"The ability of Afrobeats to

seamlessly blend traditional African sounds with contemporary elements has created a unique and universally appealing musical experience.

"Artists such as Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Rema, Tems, Victony, and CKay have led the charge, garnering significant recognition on international platforms, topping global charts, collaborating with renowned artists, and gracing major stages around the world.

"This surge in popularity has not only placed Afrobeats at the forefront of the global music scene but has also celebrated the richness of African

culture and its global influence."

Mohammed, stressed the genre's ability to adapt and evolve as being a significant factor to its sustained relevance. "Afrobeats is not confined to a single sound or style. It constantly evolves and fuses with different genres, creating more exciting and innovative rhythms."

"Artists are pushing boundaries, collaborating with international stars, and introducing new elements to their music. This versatility ensures that Afrobeats remains fresh and captivating for years to come," he remarked.

L-R: Lydia Odeh; Senior Technical Advisor, Health Systems Strengthening, Palladium, Omarzaman Sayedi; CEO Sterling One Foundation, Olapeju Ibekwe; with Country Director Palladium, Oiza Nicholson; during the National Organisational Development Summit in Abuja.. recently KINGSLEY ADEBOYE

NIGERIA, NAY EJIGBO, IS NEXT DOOR TO ABIDJAN

There is strong cultural connection between Abidjan and Ejigbo, a small town in Osun State, writes BELL IHUA

NIGERIA: TO MOVE FORWARD, WE MUST GO BACK

See page 17

FAREWELL, LAI OSO

YUSUPH OLANIYONU pays tribute to Lai Oso, a communication scholar and a good man

The most successful football teams in history are built around the “spine” of the team. The spine usually consists of who form the superstructure of the team. It is usually the goalkeeper, one attacker. As the name indicates, the spine holds the team together. When you lose one or two of the other players to injuries, the team may not play at its full strength, but its technical identity and style need the players that constitute the spine of the team, the entire team could collapse. For example, Arsenal losing defender, William Saliba to injury appeared to cost them more than when the same fate befell Gabriel Jesus. Also, as Pep Guardiola has shown, a great team is built from the back forward. Which is why he obsessed and defenders with the technical ability to play from the back.

No country can build prosperity without focusing on certain core areas: health care, education and national national security is a sine qua non for national security – with the dimensions to corruption it has engendered – has been Since October 1st, 2010, when bombs exploded near Eagle Square in Abuja, followed by the deadlier bombing of the UN building in Abuja in August 2011,

See page 17

EDITORIAL YET ANOTHER GAS EXPLOSION

siege for years prior.

Those threats changed our country for the worse. As citizens, our clamour changed from wanting a country that killed by terrorists. To combat the menace, our Defence budget ballooned from $1.5bn in 2009 to $4.7bn in 2021. largely reduced, our security challenges

Clearly, we must adopt better measures Throwing money at a problem will not In my opinion, there is something to be learnt from British colonisation. The

to change their leadership. The kings remained in charge of their people (at least in the eyes of the people), while the kings paid obeisance to the British. rule. It retained the power structure;

a sort of B2B – Business to Business – engagement rather than a B2C (Business to Consumer) one.

that there was no apparent disruption to the traditional and social structure of the colonised societies. That helped the British maintain order. With amalgamation, things started to take a new form as a new way of leadership

in September 1923 – 100 years ago. Nigeria and other British colonies are societies together under one national umbrella.

in a world where the king’s word was law, were forced to be citizens in a new order where some kings ultimately lost their thrones and were sent into exile with new kings who were made subject

and traditional structure of society and paid the needed attention.

These days, our traditional rulers are usually ignored and are only courted during elections or when granular approach to national security.

policing (not the Police Community Relations Committee please!) and the empowerment of our traditional institutions. Despite the erosion of

their powers by colonial authority, and managed to retain their essence in the eyes of their people, if not the law.

It was comforting to see the president leaders days after his inauguration. That for me was an important signal to these leaders and their subjects, that they are an essential part of our country’s leadership structure. If we intend to foster enduring peace in our

rulers and their institutions. To start with, they are an indispensable source traditional institutions. They still trace their origins to kingdoms, not

be obliterated by the enactment of law. For instance, a person that prior to suddenly came from Bendel State, and by 1991 was from Edo State. Regardless of the change in nomenclature, that origin to the great Bini Kingdom. It is time to build the spine of our national security based on what existed think about it seriously. Because as we not come to fruition without a secure country.

opportunity to consolidate on what worked in the past and then the chance

insist on doing things the same old way because it is rather comforting to do what one has always been used to. To make change happen though, one must surrender to the discomfort of that comes with it. Because with a new way of doing things comes new challenges. These challenges once change can then help inform whether numerous challenges, more so our national security.

Omojuwa is chief strategist, Alpha Reach/author, Digital Wealth Book

JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA canvasses need to build a security architecture that involves the active participation of traditional rulers and their institutions

There is strong cultural connection between Abidjan and Ejigbo, a small town in Osun State, writes

BELL IHUA

NIGERIA, NAY EJIGBO, IS NEXT DOOR TO ABIDJAN

Nigeria has some fascinating connections with Cote d’Ivoire which many citizens of both countries are either unaware of or simply do not appreciate. Five years ago, my family and I spent our Christmas holiday in Abidjan, the beautiful capital city of Cote d’Ivoire. explore the city – its food, art, music, culture, people, and whatever more we could soak in within our three-week vacation. Not long after arriving, we settled into the sprawling neighbourhood of Cocody, home to major religious institutions. An unforgettable threeweeks it was, and the memory lingers in our hearts to date! Incidentally, within the period of our visit, Nigerian music superstar, Davido, was scheduled to perform at a major concert, with the likes of Awilo Longomba, Rick Ross, Fally Ipupa, Congolese Zaiko Band, and the legendary Alpha Blondy. Unfortunately, since we had no one to babysit the kids, I missed

Ivorians espouse the values of mutual respect, trust and conviviality towards one another. They are friendly, adaptable and willing to for the creative arts, feel at home adorning African fabrics, and love French-subtitled Nollywood movies. They prefer to hold multiple jobs, as opposed to regular nineand peaceful co-existence, as religion is However, the highpoint of our vacation was discovering some enthralling connections between Nigeria and Cote d’Ivoire. Imagine how astonished I was to discover a locality in Abidjan known as Biafra. A rambunctious settlement occupied predominantly by people of Igbo descent; bustling with trade, enterprise, and creative energy, the typical hallmarks of the Igbos. On inquiry, I was informed it was an area earmarked by the late President HouphouetBoigny to accommodate Igbos exiled during the Nigeria Civil War. As at the time of our visit, the area retained a strong social, cultural and commercial presence of indigenous Igbo people, who have settled in Cote d’Ivoire and established thriving businesses.

Another fascinating revelation from our vacation was discovering the extremely strong connection between Abidjan and Ejigbo, a small town in Osun State, in southwest Nigeria. It is said that four out of

YUSUPH OLANIYONU pays tribute to Lai Oso, a communication scholar and a good man

FAREWELL, LAI OSO

have ever worked on in my journalism career spanning over 30 years. And it should be understandable. My mind has been foggy and disturbed since that Sunday morning when Wale Olaleye sent me a Facebook

Ojodu area of Lagos, getting close to joining the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on a trip to Abeokuta to pay a condolence visit to the family of another late brother, Oba Babajide Bakre, the Agura of Gbagura who died a few days earlier.

As I read that Facebook post, my heart began to beat so hard and fast that I was afraid it would force itself out of my chest. I put a call through to Simisola but she did not pick it up immediately. However, a check on the popular I have heard this year. My mentor is gone. Prof. Olayiwola Muraina Oso will no longer attend to my constant demand for professional advice.

assessor, doctorate students supervisor, and so on.

Prof. Oso was always on the move. He was either delivering a public lecture to an academic body, professional group, student group, or policy-making institution or he was contributing papers to an academic journal. He was the soul of many professional bodies in the area of communication studies. He consulted for many private universities that wanted to start their department of mass communication or communication studies. He had published several books and coauthored many others. His articles were published in many academic journals. His public lectures had also been published as newspaper articles, and his views were taken seriously by journalists and members of the public.

the opportunity to watch a live performance of Sweet Fanta Diallo, my favourite from Blondy’s stable. Nonetheless, it was splendid to run into Senegalese-American singer, record producer, and entrepreneur, Akon, at the famous Hotel D’Ivoire.

From sightseeing, we visited a couple of indigenous Ivorian churches, and branches of two Nigerian Pentecostal churches, to get a hang of how church was done there. Amusingly, we observed some striking similarities and contrasts which could make a good story for another day. The games park at Abidjan Mall turned out to be the children’s favourite attraction, while the Alloco dromes the attention of wifey and I. We never forget the delightful six-hour road trip to and fro Yamoussoukro, the administrative capital of Cote d’Ivoire. It was to visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, the largest church in the world, as listed by Guinness World Records. The monument is one of the legacies of the late Ivorian President, Felix Houphouet-Boigny, which he gifted to the Catholic church. It was truly a sight to behold, and unarguably one of Africa’s unsung tourist attractions. No wonder the memory of President HouphouetBoigny remains alive in the hearts of Ivorians, even though he passed in 1993!

Abidjan lived up to its reputation as Petit Paris, or Small Paris as it’s fondly called. We districts of Bietry, Cocody and Riviera, as well as the backstreets and suburbs of Abobo, Treichville and Yopougon. I had the privilege of delivering an unexpected guest lecture at a youth seminar organised at the opportunity to meet and interact with several students, entrepreneurs, and regular Ivorians. At the end of the three-weeks, Abidjan left such a remarkable impression on us, which I had previously blogged about in a piece

headquarters of Ejigbo Local Government Area (LGA) located: 40 kilometres northwest of Osogbo, the state capital; 35 kilometres northeast of Iwo; 30 kilometres north of Ogbomoso; and 24 kilometres southeast of Ede. For those who may not know, Ejigbo is the only town in Nigeria where the French language is spoken colloquially (besides the French village school in Badagry). In Ejigbo streets and communicating freely in French; while adults can also be found having French tête-à-têtes. Similarly, parents christen their children with French names like Pierre, Bebe, Jean, Marie, etc.

Ejigbo people love Attieke, a popular Ivorian staple made from cassava, and Alloco, ripe plantain, fried in palm oil

Ejigbo are patterned after classic European architecture, displaying unique cornices,

indigene has a family member living in Cote 80-year-olds who were either born or raised in Ivory Coast (as the country was previously called). This gives you an indication of the age-long migratory ties that exist between the Ejigbo people and Cote d’Ivoire, dating back said to have arrived in Treichville, a suburb of Abidjan.

Like the Ivorians, Ejigbo indigenes have been reported to be hardworking, honest, A good number of them visit Abidjan frequently, as their second home. And there are multiple buses that commute directly from Ejigbo to Abidjan weekly.

Ihua mni, is a Professor of Practice in Opinion Research at Coal City University, Enugu, and Executive Director at Africa Polling Institute. He can be reached on Twitter @Bellemskey

Death, the inevitable end to all mortals had of us - his present and past students, associates, friends, colleagues, and others derive from Prof. Oso daily. You will wonder why I did not mention his dear wife, Aunty, and his children - Simisola and Moyosola - as part of has now stopped. It is because I know we, his professional and academic children, got a lot of his time and resources, perhaps more than the family who originally own him. And the trio have graciously conceded to allowing him to serve the rest of us without complaining.

Prof. Oso was a great person, a good human being, and an extremely kind man. I am waiting to know who he would have knowingly or good man. Being kind and nice to people came naturally to him. He was not an actor. He was a man whom God had endowed with tremendous intellectual resources greater than the wealth of Elon Musk. He had also spent this resource in such a manner that unlike Musk who would be afraid that his money, if freely dispensed to people as Prof Oso dispensed would be depleted, my mentor spent his as if giving it out was the source of its massive replenishment.

Prof. Oso can be rightly referred to as the father of modern mass communication in Nigeria and this is arguable. Since the death of communication in this country, nobody had made the kind of impact Prof. Oso had made claim any day. He was one of the few teachers of that course who had attended to students at all levels - from Ordinary National Diploma to Doctorate level. He had taught in over 20 universities either as a full-time, part-time, or guest lecturer, external examiner, external

Perhaps one of his strong points is that he started his career as a reporter after youth service and worked both in radio and the news agency. He was a state Correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) before he returned to the classroom as a Ford Foundation scholar at the University of Ife. He was a professional who later became an academic. He was abreast of developments in the journalism profession as well as public relations, advertising, marketing communications, and public communications. His research areas were very wide and he was not one given to just theorizing. His submissions were very practical and realistic, and took care of the trends in the industry.

I was admitted into the Department of Mass Communication of the Ogun State Polytechnic, Abeokuta, as a 17-year-old boy in 1983, and before then I had heard and admired two of the lecturers, Dr. Femi Sonaike and then Mr. Oso. However, the latter had left the school on leave to study for his Doctorate at Leicester University, United Kingdom. He returned in 1986 to teach communication theory and Precision Journalism or Research Methods. Thank God for his timely return. He rekindled my interest in the research methods because he made it look simple.

We became close immediately because he believed I had the potential to become a successful academic. He did everything to encourage me. My research work for my Higher National Diploma which he supervised was as intense as that of a person studying for a Master’s Degree. It was on Community Journalism and its Impact on Development. He made many others to follow up on the work. Prof. Oso was the reason I later acquired other degrees. university teacher like him or should I just say I failed him. He was however always following up on my progress. He was always there for me. The only time I ever saw him in Agbada was when I got married in Lagos and he was there with his wife. He had been to my house in Abuja just to check on me.

When I became the Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Ogun State me and even practically worked on some projects for me, at no cost. He conducted training sessions for the information

Olaniyonu is Comm. Strategist, Journalist, lawyer and

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

EDITORIAL

YET ANOTHER GAS EXPLOSION

Regulators should be alive to their responsibility

Monday’s gas explosion in Lagos that left three women and a man with serious injuries has once again drawn attention to the issue of gas handling. The explosion was said to have started from a gas shop following a leakage from one of the cylinders. According to the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), rescuers were able to contain the ensuing inferno from spreading to adjoining shops and nearby buildings. While we commend the Lagos authorities for the prompt manner the accident was handled and commiserate with the injured, we urge the relevant authorities to conduct regular drills on safety measures regarding gas handling. That is the only way we will not continue to harvest tragic but avoidable deaths.

In a recent tragedy in Omuaran, Kwara State, a woman was killed while trying to prepare breakfast for her family. Husband of the deceased was said to have also been trapped before he was rescued and taken to hospital by the Kwara State Fire Service, whose Director, Falade John Olumuyiwa, “charged the general public, particularly women to go and learn the correct practice of using cooking gas cylinders.” What is particularly worrisome is that many of the deaths arising from gas handling are preventable. For instance, when in 2015 a cylinder exploded at the Plateau State Water Board treatment plant leaving eight people dead, it was discovered that the fatalities were recorded because residents around the area inhaled the poisonous gas which enveloped the entire neighbourhood. There are

and greed play a big role in many of the tragic occurrences in a milieu where regulation is weak.

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

T H I S D AY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Letters to the Editor

In recent times, fatal explosions had been reported in Plateau, Akwa Ibom, Lagos and Jigawa States, killing dozens of people. In an incident that is typical of the carelessness often associated with many homes, a female domestic help in Epe, Lagos, turned on the gas and left to chat outside. By the time she returned to light up the gas, the kitchen explosion consumed her and many neighbours. While the list seems endless, most appalling is that these deaths have become mere statistics in Nigeria such that many would have viewed the latest

more than the absence of responsibility. It is therefore clear that much more must be done to ensure that those who handle gas always abide by safety procedures. Besides, the relevant authorities need to organise sensitisation programmes for all gas retail outlets on how to operate their business with minimal risk to themselves and the public. What is particularly concerning about the incessant domestic gas explosions because of negligence is that they occur amid intense campaigns on the need for Nigerians to drop kerosene for gas as a cheaper and cleaner means of cooking.

That gas has progressively become the source of death and bodily injuries for users and innocent bystanders is what should worry critical stakeholders. It is therefore important to educate households on the need to gradually replace their replace the gas cylinders in circulation with more advanced ones should be hastened. It will also cylinders as against individuals. Some households have been using the same cylinder for upwards of three decades. That practice is dangerous.

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

LETTERS

MOBILISING PARLIAMENTARIANS FOR INTERFAITH DIALOGUE

I just returned from Morocco, where I represented the Hu manists International at a conference on interfaith dialogue, Kingdom of Morocco cooperated with Religions for Peace, the ia League of Religious Scholars organized the event. It was the tradition. I have been interested in interfaith dialogue because such an initiative would improve knowledge and understand ing of the beliefs and teachings of people from faith and not faith communities. Interfaith dialogue has the potential to foster faith communities

and no faith in Nigeria. It was a successful event. The dialogue presented an opportunity to explore and understand interfaith

ten, people are brought up to think that their religion is the only true faith, their prophet the only true prophet, and their holy book a perfect book, the only true and sacred text. Incidentally,

this is not the case. All religions are truth claims, and untrue or partially true in relative to others. All religions and philosophies of life. The claim by each faith to be perfect, and to be the only intolerance. Dialogue is necessary to combat prejudice, hate and

So I was happy to represent Humanists International at this important event in Marrakesh. I thought it would be an op portunity to take this initiative to an international and global audience. Parliamentarians are critical to the realization of inter faith dialogue because lawmakers make or unmake laws that foster interfaith dialogue and relations. The conference featured plenary and parallel sessions on the situation of interfaith rela tions in various countries. Many speakers acknowledged that religions could be deployed for good or ill; that religion could egates recounted how their countries have been tolerant and accommodating of other faiths. Parliamentarians painted good and glowing images of interfaith relations in their countries, but some faith organizations drew the attention of participants to some state violations, and how some governments undermine

interfaith communications and conversations. They highlighted violations of freedom of religion or belief.

For instance, representatives of the Bahai faith drew the at tention of participants to the persecution of Bahais in Iran. Oth minorities in Iraq and other places. An Imam noted the hurt ing of minorities in Sweden. The event focused mainly on the Abrahamic religions. It was largely an interAbrahamic faith di alogue. There were more representatives of these religions than than African Traditional religions, Hinduism, and other faiths. I met only a representative of the African Traditional Religion from the Republic of Benin. In the course of the conference, I tried to understand the situation of interfaith relations and free dom of the region or belief in some countries. Before coming to the event, I read about the situation in Morocco, that conversion was illegal in the country. I wondered how a country that pro hibited a change of faith or belief could host an event on inter faith dialogue.

The relevant authorities need to organise sensitisation programmes for all gas retail outlets on how to operate their business with minimal risk to themselves and the public

POLITICS

Take Aways fromTinubu’s First Foreign Trip

Timing matters in everything. Less than 24 hours in office, two directives by Nigeria’s newly sworn-in President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, set the tone for emerging change, reverberating across the country and the world. Albeit, initially greeted with consternation and skepticism, steadily and inevitably, the doubt has given way to applause.

On President Tinubu’s first foreign trip, June 20th, 2023 - June 24th, 2023, to attend the Summit on New Global Financing Pact in Paris, France, the two master strokes of removing the agelong fuel subsidy and streamlining the dual exchange rates, paved way for new friendships, partnership deals and an inspirational presence on global stage. The President was attending his first international conference.

The historic decision on May 29th, 2023, to re-align the economy in his inaugural speech, completely altered the trajectory of Nigeria’s financial fortune, redefined trade and diplomatic relations, and showcased the President’s image as a reformist and a listener.

Other actions on security, financial regulations, signing of bills, that directly impacted lives, also projected President Tinubu to the world for being a people-first leader.

The two decisions taken on the nation’s economy made President Tinubu a toast of world leaders and financial institutions at the Summit. The ovation by economic and financial experts for the courageous steps revealed more for the future, with the World Bank projecting, after the meeting in Paris, that Nigeria will save about $3.9 trillion in 2023, and N21 trillion between 2023 to 2025.

The seriousness and quick engagement of critical stakeholders in the economy, like trade unions, oil marketers, depot dealers, the NNPC Ltd by the administration was also taken by the foreign institutions as a deliberate attempt, and not political convenience, to take the country to a new height, as well as various initiatives and measures being out on the drawing board to alleviate the impacts.

The two-day Summit, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron, was aimed at repositioning the global financial architecture to reconsider less developed countries, who are dealing with debilitating debt hangovers, struggling through energy transitions, and still reeling from effects of climate change and Covid-19. President Tinubu seized the moment to start a new conversation about Nigeria.

A plethora of sideline meetings were lined before he arrived in Paris, and the President was careful in making the right choices for Nigeria’s economic prosperity.

President Tinubu met with French President, Macron at the Elysée, President of Swiss, Alain Berset, at Palais Brongniart, President of Benin Republic, Patrice Talon, Director General of World Trade Organization, Dr Ngozi OkonjoIweala, President of the African Development Bank, Dr Akinwunmi Adesina, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of African Export-Import Bank (Afrexim), Prof. Benedict Oramah and President of European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), Odile Renaud–Basso.

The President also held meetings with Senior Vice President of Airbus/ATR, Public Affairs, Laurent Rahul Domergue, on aviation matters and a two-hour marathon interaction with the Nigerian community based in France, where he outlined his vision for the economy, starting with a roadmap on palliatives to soothe the burden of subsidy removal.

He sought “family” support for more inclusive growth, especially with technical expertise.

Every speaker at the forum thanked the President for taking the bull by the horn, and getting the “elephant’’ out of the way.

“You have shown we have a committed and competent leader. You are the first President of Nigeria, who has no godfather. You are your godfather. We are impressed with the removal of subsidies and streamlining of foreign exchange. We will wait for the palliatives,’’ Prof. Emmanuel Iga, a Nigerian in France, said.

The meeting with the Nigerian community was facilitated by Dele Alake, Special Adviser to

the President, Special Duties, Communication and Strategy, who highlighted achievements of the administration within three weeks, assuring of better days for Nigerians.

“We are ready for business, and prepared to welcome investments,’’ President Tinubu said, while receiving the President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of AfreximBank, and President of European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).

The President assured the delegation of AfreximBank Executives led by Dr Oramah that the Federal Government will continue to stimulate the economy with policies that support investments in areas of Nigeria’s competitive

advantage, particularly agriculture.

“We need reforms for national survival,’’ he added, noting that it would take sacrifice and audaciousness to reposition the economy, calling for more collaboration to consolidate and solidify. “We must stimulate recovery for the growth and prosperity of our people, which will not be far away. Nigeria is ready for global business and our reform is total. Nigeria is blessed with human and material resources.’’

The President of AfreximBank commended President Tinubu for the valiant steps in stopping the fuel subsidy and unification of the exchange rate, assuring the Nigerian leader of the full support of the financial and development

institution on the ongoing reforms.

Oramah said the bank was already building the first African Specialist Hospital in Abuja, and an Energy Bank, pledging to inject more money into the economy to further build confidence of investors. He listed areas of interventions to buoy the economy, like infrastructure, health, energy and agriculture.

An elated investor, Renaud-Basso, said it would be a mistake for the development bank not to invest in Nigeria, after considering six potential economies for investment. She explained that the focus of the development bank would be on the private sector, especially Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs).

President Tinubu welcomed an investment of $520 million in specialised agro-processing zones by the African Development Bank (AfDB), praising the leader of the multilateral institution, Dr Adesina, for further opening up the economy for investments that provide job opportunities and reduction in poverty.

The Nigerian leader said the agro-industrial project strengthens an area of advantage as he listed the priorities for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), including women and youth empowerment, infrastructure development, with stable electricity

Dr Adesina thanked President Tinubu for the daring initiatives that had repositioned Nigerian economy in three weeks and stimulated appetite of investors from different parts of the world; removal of fuel subsidy and correcting the distortions of the exchange rate.

“First and foremost, it was a great opportunity for me to see His Excellency to personally commend him for the thoughts and ideas he has brought to the Summit in Paris. We discussed many things and I commended him for his boldness, his vision and determination to having macroeconomic stability in Nigeria.

-Egwa writes from Abuja.

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

Oborevwori: Aiming for the Best for Deltans

In less than one month in office, Delta State Governor, Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, has been all over the three senatorial districts to inspect various projects. What stands out though is not merely the tour but the mind with which he embarked on it.

He revealed his heart at the inspection of the Ibuzor Road, Asaba, when he said his administration is not in a hurry to inaugurate projects but to ensure that the projects are executed to specification and in enduringly high quality standards.

At the inspection of the ongoing rehabilitation of the Warri Township Stadium, he demonstrated this insistence. “l am not too satisfied with what the contractor has done. We want the best for Warri and this is the Warri City Stadium.

“The contractor said what they are doing is according to the scope of the contract awarded to them. We are going to look at the contract and see what can be done to ensure speedy and quality delivery. Some of the areas that are not properly scoped will be re-scoped.”

At Ughelli, he also declared that it is a “no no” to have a motor park at the junction with people trading on the expressway.

He said: “That is not acceptable at all. Trading on the road is (also) not acceptable. You can see the risk involved in trading on the express road.”

Revealing that his administration has a project plan to re-organise the Otovwodo Junction in Ughelli, he accordingly ordered the relocation of the “Delta Appreciate Park” but, as a man of the

people, he has made sure that the relocation is to be done with a consideration for the continuity and sustenance of the people’s businesses and livelihoods.

So, before the pronouncement, he had engaged the Ovie of Ughelli and the Local Government Chairman with a view to provide new sites for the park and the traders.

“There is somewhere we have prepared for them and we have issue of access road but I have also directed the Ministry of Works to come up with a proposal to enable us have access road to the new market,” he assured.

This is simply the humane way to govern.

Oborevwori’s words and actions speak to, not just a disposition to seek value for money and establish business unusual, but to a deep personal commitment towards providing the

best for his people, at the end of which they can proudly proclaim: “This is Delta.”

However, the people must also accept some “no nos” on their part, to enable the government deliver on its vision.

One of such instances emerged at the inspection of the Storm Water Drainage Project in Warri, Effurun and environs.

It was discovered that many people had built houses and offices on water channels which posed difficulties for the contractors currently working to fully resolve the problem of flooding in the area before the rehabilitation of the city inner roads.

“On phase one of the project, there are a lot of buildings on the water ways,” Oborevwori lamented.

“l have called on the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Housing and Works to liaise with the Ministry of Lands to see how those buildings on water ways can be brought down to enable the construction firm have unfettered access to do their work.”

This is simply the way to go because it takes two to tango, and as it is said, we can not want omelette and not want to break eggs.

It is not unexpected that at the commencement of the demolition of the channel-blocking properties, we would have all sorts of claims but we need to be clear about what we want: A new, true and proud Delta must act in new ways.

That is what Sheriff represents.

-Edoreh writes from Warri.

Oche Egwa writes about the recent first official foreign trip of President Bola Tinubu to Paris, France, during which world leaders commended his government for the prompt economic steps taken in less than one month in office.

Fred Edoreh writes about steps being taken by Delta State Governor, Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, towards ensuring that ongoing projects are executed and delivered according to laid down standards and specifications.

High Chief Raymond Dokpesi: Will The Mourners Learn from His Example?

Out of the blues came the heart-wrenching news that an iroko tree had fallen. The term ‘iroko’ is used to refer to great men, distinguished personalities, and people in the mould of High Chief Raymond Aleogho Dokpesi, the doyen of modern-day broadcasting, including music, entertainment, journalism, sports and even politics, who had to answer the call at a time most unexpected. When the call came, I hurriedly asked in confusion, who died? Unbelievably, the caller answered, “High Chief.” Dazed, I asked again, “Which High Chief? You know that there are lots of acting ‘big men,’ people who have “arrived,” who also ascribe to themselves that title. So, it was imperative I asked properly, and the caller affirmed our fears. Cold sweat broke out from my forehead. Immediately, I stood up from where I was and called my wife, asking her if she had heard. She said what? And right there, I broke the sad news to her; abruptly, she dropped what she was holding and collapsed on the available armchair. “Oh my God,” she screamed. “Why Raymond?” she blurted out and then went into a long treatise regretting the inexplicable development, stating that Chief Raymond had all the money in the world, not only to cater for himself but also to consult the best doctor in the world as well as treat himself in any hospital. How did death manage to creep in? she wondered. I was getting dizzy myself, but swiftly, I jerked myself awake and took a long look outside the window, only seeing shadows. My eyes had become watery, and my head heavy from just thinking about the spiral effect of his dramatic exit. It was May 29, Democracy Day, and the winner of the 2023 presidential elections, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was about to be sworn into office as the 16th privileged Nigerian to hold the highest political office in the land. We were all glued to our television sets, not so much to monitor the event but to catch the moment he would be “arrested” as some “wave” making Nigerian “prophets had prophesied. They were so emphatic about it and even advertised it on social media. That was what captured our interest before the sad news crept in. So, it is understandable as those of us without the “spirit of foresight” stayed glued to our television set to ‘see’ how that would happen. A similar event had occurred in the biblical days, though unrelated, when Prophet Elisha was told by sons of the prophets that his master—Elijah—was about to be taken ‘away’ by chariots of fire; they urged him to be vigilant to see it happen. Truly, as foretold, it happened, and Elisha, who was alert, witnessed the great spiritual event! We were in that state of physical concentration not to miss out on this ‘modern day’ prophesy, since as it was ‘yesterday, so it is ‘today’, we are told.

But, it is instructive to note that not one of the wave-making ‘prophets’ ‘foresaw’ the earth-shaking departure of an illustrious son; not one of them. Asiwaju was eventually sworn in without mishap, and the subsidy he removed brought us down to earth—that we are in for a tough time! Nevertheless, as with every other thing on earth, I sat down to grapple with the magnitude of what had just happened. High Chief Raymond Dokpesi is not someone I would begin to write in the past tense. This is one of the mysteries in this world—here today, gone tomorrow. Some people would fall sick, and they would be flown to places like India for further treatment; they would return to recuperate; some would be admitted in the hospital, and they would be there for weeks with family members and associates trooping in to encourage them. With Chief Raymond, that privilege was not allowed—another signal that we are not actually in control of our lives. They said money answered all things; if so, why did nature and time not give our dear High Chief the opportunity to display his hard-earned resources to shame the ailment that took him away?

That’s the puzzle. Oh death! Where is thy sting? You left people who do all sorts to impoverish mankind; people who desecrate humanity and then went for a spectacular gentleman; showbiz impresario, the man who held the broadcasting world spellbound; a man who brought panache, glamour and comedy to elevate the status of Nigeria in the eyes of the world; you went and snatched a colossus businessman who set the benchmark in the media industry, a broadcaster with a stint of finesse; an unforgettable bridge builder who lived ahead of his time! The Chairman of DAAR Communication was not an ordinary man to be snatched away just like that without any warning; this is the Araba of Osoroland, the Gbobaniyi of Ilewi-Ekiti and the Ezomo of Weppa-Wanno clan we are talking about. This is the chairman Emeritus, who broke the jinx of poverty and smashed all known barriers to hit the very height of the limelight. Imagine a youngster who emerged from the remote and sleepy village of Agenegbode; who gave him the opportunity to excel? You could imagine the first day he arrived in Lagos and picture how he braved the odds. But Chief Raymond was a genius, a delightful, hardworking and

fearless adventurer. You know, this is the problem. Chief Raymond was a man who exemplified the maxim that “All work and no play make Jack a dull boy”. It was in 1986, at Ikeja Klass Night Club, owned by the late John Chukwu, that our paths crossed for the first time. I liked him that very day. He came in a white Mercedes Benz 230 model at the time. Instantly, I was gripped with joy. It occurred to me that if somebody from my native Estako could succeed big time, what am I waiting for? Of course, I had already met the late Prince Tony Momoh, who promptly recruited me as a reporter for Daily Times, and the late Dele Giwa, renowned journalists, both of whom inspired me to success. On that day, Ray, as we sometimes call him, danced with so much excitement. I was particularly impressed. From then on, I decided to “emulate” him. I imbibed his attributes and vowed to play in the big league like him. When I peeped into his background, I shook my head at what I discovered and released a whistle! This wasn’t a lazy man as some people may want to believe, judging from the ordinary perspective, he saw life. I found out that his business acumen and genuine progress were exemplary. His expertise covers social, corporate and individual levels. I realised that if I had to copy his example, I would have to put aside so many things—and be focused, for this indefatigable, dedicated, record-breaking media tycoon (apologies to Patrick Obayagbon) was actually a workaholic. He took his time and read Marine Engineering from the University of Benin; from thence, he left for Gdansk in Poland, where he bagged master’s and doctorates in the same profession. As a man with a mission, he didn’t just ‘bury’ himself in books; he took to student activism and led African and Nigerian students in Europe as a whole. He had big ideas. I am not too sure if he read Ben Carson, but he does appear to be one of his good disciples. Armed with a PhD, Chief Raymond lectured Marine Transport Economics in Europe before being invited back home by then-Head of State Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida. When he came, the handsome and delectable prince was no longer the son of Agenegbode alone but now of the

whole continent—Africa and Europe. From then, he became a master of his environment, blazing the trail in his chosen profession. His Midas touch became apparent, making him the “first” in every sphere of life that was to turn around the fortunes of the generation of Nigerians before and after him! Because there is no time to exhaust his gigantic achievements, we will just summarise. Before setting up the first indigenous shipping line in Nigeria, the African Ocean Line, Chief Raymond calmed down and joined the Federal Ministry of Transport and Authority, where he was the head of the Water Transportation Division before being seconded to the Nigerian Ports Authority, 1978-1993; at African Ocean Line where he was the Managing Director, his business partners were juggernauts like MKO Abiola, Shehu Musa Yar Adua and Bamanga Tukur. Watch out for the “northernisation” of his blood from this time on. Stepping up in life, Chief Raymond would later consolidate his northern connections with the likes of Adamu Ciroma, General Sani Abacha, and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, becoming useful in their political odysseys. He pioneered the first privately owned Radio Station in 1993; Gen. Sani Abacha would later galvanize him to launch into the world of private broadcasting, which he did in 1994. Alagbado, where Raypower FM was set up, would later become a mecca for young journalists. At the slightest excuse, we all trooped there to “belong”. The global satellite television station known as AIT (African Independent Television) grew expressly; He followed this up with 24-hour broadcasting and extended the reaches too far away United States, United Kingdom, Asia, etc. Ever tireless and in constant search for improvement, Chief Raymond, imagine his age at that time, scored other first; he assisted in formulating Nigerian Shipping Policy and in 2008 was conferred with the title, Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria(OFR). He even had the time to write books, one being ‘West African Shipping Ranges. 1975’.

If he was successful in business, the same might not be said in politics, dogged by policy hiccups. For example, as campaign manager for Bamangar Tukur in 1983, his short stint as chief of staff was cut short by a military intervention that year. When

he campaigned for Adamu Ciroma’s presidential bid, Babangida banned them for being old brigades. In 1993, when he stood in for Bamangar Tukur’s presidential bid, the military annulled the election again. His foray with ‘Atikulated’ ended in defeat in 2023. In the 2019 general elections build-up, I met him at his Kpaduma Hills mansion. We chatted happily. Chief Raymond has always been kind to me. When I worked briefly in the civil service and wanted a credit facility extended to my agency, he granted it without fuss. The agency wanted discounts to enable them to conduct a successful environment campaign, eventually saving hundreds of thousands. The woman who was my agency head claimed the credit and dealt harshly with me for no reason other than ego. Anyway, that’s a topic for my memoirs when the time comes. I never tired of visiting his massive DAAR Communication outfit established in the lush and serene environment of Kpaduma Hills in Asokoro. Chief Raymond had become a celebrated household name with a world-class reputation! Vibrant and dynamic, it is yet another mystery in life that at the height of COVID-19, in 2020, he was one of those struck down by the dreaded virus, but he miraculously survived. Some say it wasn’t his time yet, maybe. He lived an exemplary life to the admiration of all—the poor inclusive. He never believed in holding back. He was accessible, likeable and a socialite to the core; being in his company was a delight; instinctively, you wanted to hug him; he had genuine human feelings and never discriminated against anyone. He gave everyone a level playing field; ask Dayo Adeneye and Kenny Ogungbe; only his huge assets gave his true status away as a wealthy man. He was emotionally generous and down-to-earth; not for him was the life of self-deception—and pretence! Among those extolling his virtues, would they copy his examples? Can they fill the big vacuum he left behind? Will they rather ‘give’ than ‘withhold?’ Can people just barge in on them and welcome them with open arms? Now, as the grief-stricken mourners lament, let them stop the tears. Chief Raymond was in a class of his own. He was very careful. Yet, when his time came, there was nothing his great wealth could do. How did he die? Needless to find out, in Job 14 v 5, you will find the answer. God has appointed every man the bounds that he cannot cross. He has already determined the number of our days and months. That’s why we have been admonished that he shall come like a thief in the night, so we must be vigilant. Luckily for the High Chief, his deeds and thoughts will speak for him; mourners can rest assured that his journey to eternity is smooth and seamless. Chief Raymond will certainly reap from his impeccable actions while on earth—his love for mankind and legendary hospitality.

He has been irresistibly drawn into the unseen gears of the strictly operating laws of Reciprocal Returns; let there be no alarm and apprehension.

“In the light of the Truth”, Abdrushin describes death as an “event which is so inevitable and yet constantly pushed aside in our thoughts.” He says, “It is an irrefutable fact majority of us tries to ward off from our thoughts by reason of our indefinable fear of the subject!” Yet, he writes, “All the illusions do not alter the fact in the slightest degree we are all oppressed by a secret fear that death may one day surprise us!” He added that “it is a natural course of life!”

According to Abdrushin, dread and cowardice are responsible for why we shrink from death thoughts. “The vague fear which accompanies man like a shadow during his whole life on earth largely originates in the fact that he is fully aware of all that is wrong in his frivolous and degrading actions,” all of which amount to a delusion! Let us all beware. Chief Raymond has finished his course on earth—the gross material matter, and is ethereal, bound to luminous heights. Those of us privileged to know him must not depart from his magnanimous lifestyle. Look at the mammoth crowd that thronged the outskirts of the village as the hearse bearing his body arrived for the final journey. Gunshots and drum beats heralded his final hours on earth. Brother, what can we do? We are all powerless—a pawn in the hands of some invisible, great force imperceptibly propelling us hour by hour to that journey whence man shall not return. This is life; born today, traverse the world tomorrow and at the end, back to mother earth! How frail it is to be a human being! Will the mourners learn? In life and in death, High Chief Raymond Aleogho Dokpesi exemplified humility. We sincerely pray that God will give eminent personalities like him longer lives for the world to enjoy more of them. At 71, he was too young to depart; but then, that is the way of life. Painfully, I have no alternative than to say farewell, sir.

*Sule Ahmed Oyofo Editor-in-Chief, The newspaperman.com.ng

Late Dokpesi

L-R:

Chinedu Eze

during launch of 5 Billion Series 1 of the 30 Billion EKO Rice Contracts at LCFE, Lagos… recently

Aviation industry experts have lamented that international airlines are taking undue advantage of the exorbitant airfares and surge in passenger traffic in the Nigerian aviation sector to operate in the country.

The experts are of the view that international airlines are cashing out on Nigeria, thus making the country the most profitable destination in Africa.

The failure of foreign airlines to repatriate all their revenue from Nigeria and the devaluation of the naira with the merging of official and parallel exchange rates, have made

airlines to charge high inventory fares, making the airlines record the highest profit per passenger on the Nigerian route.

According to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), 16 international airlines operate into Nigeria and in 2022, the total inbound and outbound passenger traffic was 3, 503, 692, but industry experts projected that international passenger traffic in 2023 would surpass that of the previous year.

According to them, the first quarter of 2023 data indicated that more people travelled out of the country than the same period last year.

THISDAY gathered that economy

class ticket from Lagos to London and Lagos to Paris and most European destinations, which cost around N1.5 million a month ago, now cost an average of N1.9 million to N2.2million depending on the airline.

For instance a Lagos to Paris economy class ticket on British Airways cost about $2,500, but using the N770 exchange rate to a dollar, it will amount to about N1.92million. Lagos to London economy class ticket on British Airways cost about $2,800 which amounts to about N2.15 million and Lagos to London economy class ticket on Qatar Airways cost around $2,900, which amounts to about N2.23 million.

Also, economy class ticket from Lagos to United States through connecting flights, which cost about N1.7 million a month ago is currently between N2.2 million and N2. 6 million and economy class ticket from Lagos to Atlanta, United States on Delta Air Lines cost about N2.4 million. The same ticket on Lufthansa and Qatar Airways, now cost around N2.6 million.

A Business class ticket from Lagos to London, Lagos to France and most European countries which cost about N2 million, now cost an average of N2.9 million to N3.4 million; while a Business class ticket from Lagos to London on Lufthansa Airline cost about N2.9 million and N3.4

million on Qatar Airways.

Also a Business class ticket from Lagos to the United States, which cost an average of N2.4 million a month ago now cost about N4.9 million on Qatar Airways and N6.9 million on Ethiopian airlines. Air Maroc appears to have the cheapest ticket on the route, costing about N2.4 million.

It is also observed that direct flights to destinations without connecting flights from airlines’ operating hubs cost more, but industry experts express surprise that instead of such high fares discouraging passengers from travelling, the airlines are witnessing surge and high load factor.

Former President of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA) and the Group Managing Director, Finchglow Holdings Limited, Mr. Bankole Bernard, told THISDAY that the high fares are not discouraging Nigerians from traveling because of three key factors.

Bernard said that other Africans do not have the same travelling culture as Nigerians, remarking that Kenya and Ghana, for example, have good quality schools so many of their students don’t travel overseas for education.

Gilbert Ekugbe

A United States Certified Anti-Piracy Security expert, Captain Alfred Oniye, has faulted the Nigerian Maritime and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Ministry of Transportation for the high level of unemployed seafarers in the country currently put at about 80 per cent.

Oniye, said their failure has led to the continuous dominance of foreigners in the nation’s seafaring

space.

Speaking on the sidelines of the Day of Seafarers themed, “MARPOL at 50: Our Commitment Goes On,” Oniye urged the present administration to focus on employing officials who have the expertise to supervise their respective ministries.

In his words: “Some of the officials we appoint as head of agencies are far from the happenings in the sector they supervise. We have over 80 per cent trained seafarers that are jobless.

Even NIMASA that trains over 3000 seafarers outside the country cannot boldly say they have employed 100 out of the 3000 trained.”

“We have enough seafarers that have been trained and well certified that are not working because NIMASA and the Ministry of Transportation have failed and I keep saying that when we appoint people who do not understand the job, we are only creating a platform for failure,” he said.

Oniye who also doubles at the Secretary-General of the Merchant Seafarers Association of Nigeria, however, said Nigeria can generate over $100 billion from it’s maritime sector.

Lamenting over the current state of the nation’s maritime sector, Oniye added that the nation is bleeding due to Nigeria’s inability to leverage the opportunities the sector offers for revenue generation.

He advised that the approved Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) should be channeled towards building local capacities to build ships rather than expending on importation of ships.

According to him, Nigeria has the technical competence to build ships locally, pointing out that empowering local capacities for ship building would create more than 5,000 job opportunities for the nation’s teeming unemployed

youths.

“This is why I am more concerned about the implementation of the Cabotage Act, because if the law says that any ship that would sail within the Nigerian water ways must be built here, so why are importing ships into the country. We are already building ships all we need is to fine-tune the technical aspects.

Chairman, Lagos Commodities and Futures Exchange (LCFE), Onyenwechukwu Ezeagu; Managing Director/CEO, Akinsola Akeredolu-A le; Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu; his Deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat; former Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture (Rice Mill Initiative), Dr Roti mi Fashola and Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabiru Shotobi,

Making Oyo Investors’ Destination

On the 19th of May, 2023, the Governor, Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, was in London to organise the first edition of the Oyo State International Business Summit OYSIBS 2023. Themed, “Accessing the Pioneer Advantage to Sustainable Investments in Oyo State,” the summit was aimed at bringing together key stakeholders to showcase investment opportunities in the Oyo State economy and foster improved private sector-led business development and investment.

Undoubtedly, Oyo State has several investment opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, tourism, and infrastructure development. For example, the State has vast arable land suitable for agriculture and a large population that provides a ready market for agricultural products.

OYO STATE IN PERSPECTIVE

Oyo State has a landmass of 28,454 square kilometres. To put that in perspective, it is about 18 times the size of London. With an estimated population of over 8 million where about 60 per cent are between the ages of 16 and 54, the State boasts of a large working population force.

Demographically, data shows that Oyo State is a ready investment market with a landmass and population giving it the comparative and competitive advantage that very few States in Nigeria have.

According to the state governor, in 2018, the World Bank published one of its last annual Ease of Doing Business Reports for subnational in Nigeria based on four key indicators to rate the State.

The state, he said, scored average to above average in three of these indicators which include starting a business at about 76 per cent, dealing with construction permits at about 61 per cent and enforcing contracts at about 53 per cent.

“The score for registering property was quite low at just about 22 per cent. Oyo State scored 53.41 per cent in the Ease of Doing Business index overall. Looking at this data, it was clear that there was a lot of room for improvement in property registration. So, after we assumed office in 2019, we got to work. First, we built on the Certificate of Occupancy – C of O Made Easy Scheme, which our predecessors had tried to operationalise. Our goal was to ensure that properties could be registered in 60 days,” Makinde said.

He stated that so far, the State has achieved a measure of success in that regard leading to an expansion of the project.

“It was renamed C of O Redefined, and commercial entities were pulled into the mix. This moved the emphasis to the business community. We also looked at the other indicators that would attract big businesses to Oyo State. We worked on our regulatory environment. For example, we made the Bureau of Public Procurement a standalone agency and appointed a Director General who used to be a private sector player. One of the remits of this agency is to create opportunities for SMEs,” he averred.

ADDRESSING BUREAUCRACIES

To address bottlenecks hindering the influx of local and foreign direct investments, the state created the Oyo State Public Private Partnership Agency (OYSIPA). The agency is the one-stop shop for investment opportunities in Oyo State in its bid to ensure that compliance regulations that businesses must adhere to are within the purview of the federal government. The agency is also working with the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) to implement the State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) Programme in the State. The PEBEC Secretariat and World Bank coordinate this project. So far, PEBEC has released two Ease of Doing Business Reports with the first published in 2021, and the second in 2023. The report, which was based on infrastructure, transparency and accessibility to information, secure and sustainable environment, regulatory environment, skills and labour and economic opportunity showed a 2-point improvement in perception by Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in land and property acquisition going from 2.88 to 4.88.

“As mentioned earlier, our administration shortened the process of obtaining Certificates of Occupancy to 60 days. We also made it easier to pay taxes through the adoption of technology. Today, you do not have to go to the agency to pay any bills in cash, you can do so online from anywhere in the world,” Makinde said.

BUILDING HUMAN CAPACITY

He added that in the past four years, the dtate has consistently maintained a 15-20 per cent budgetary allocation to its education sector.

The State, he added, has increased its funding to the all levels of the education sector, including the tertiary level, one of the three State-owned universities,

the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology has been rated the best State-owned university in Nigeria for the past four years.

The move according to State is to bridge the dearth of skill gaps that exist in the nation’s skills and labour space as many middle-class people are leaving the country, the State is worried about the current trend and have taken steps to ensure that education and skills acquisition are prioritised.

“For example, in the last four years, we have also prioritised skills acquisition in the sectors where we have comparative advantage. For example, as part of our focus on agribusiness in the last four years, we have trained over 4,000 youths across the agribusiness value chain, and another 1,500 youths have passed through our Start Them Early Program (STEP), which trains young people aged 13-16 on various enterprises in the agribusiness value chain,” he added.

In his words: “With these and other improvements done, Oyo State has been able to create a conducive environment for the private sector to thrive. One of the factors that our surveys revealed has played a key role in the decision-making process of MSMEs is the growing middle class in Oyo State. MSMEs rated Oyo State 5.83 in New/ Range of Customers. Of course, this is always an important factor. We do not only have a large working-class population, but they also have spending power. We have ensured that about 8 per of our working population who are government workers have received their salaries regularly and consistently in the last four years; an injection of N12 billion into the economy monthly.”

“Through our efforts in the past four years, the State has been able to better its economic standing among Nigerian States and currently one of the top five economies in Nigeria. We now have a GDP of $8.67 billion in 2022. This is a growth of about 50 per cent in 4 years. The number of enterprises within the State grew to 1,872,941. We attracted Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) of $65 million,” he said.

“Against this background, I am sure you would like to know how you can join the thousands of investors in Oyo State and benefit from the huge Return on Investment that has led to about a dozen of these investors joining us at this summit to learn about how they can expand their business,” he urged.

partner with Oyo State, we will be able to tell you how much of a deposit of each of these minerals we have. That is one advantage of working with Oyo State in the solid minerals sector.

“The Oyo State now hosts the International Gemstone Market in Adan in Akinyele Local Government Area, Ibadan Zone. The collaboration between the Oyo State Government and the Federal Government shows how important the State is in the gemstone industry conversation. So now is the time to locate ancillary facilities in the State. To learn more about investing in the Solid Minerals sector in Oyo State, please approach the Chairman of the PMDC, Abiodun Oni,” he stressed.

SUSTAINABLE ENERGY

Makinde revealed that in 2019, the State created the Oyo State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources primarily to develop policies and programmes to help the State meet residents’ energy needs.

“While the power sector was still mainly under the Exclusive List of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) and so under the Federal Government’s control, Oyo State found a way of showing proof of concept for alternative energy sources to underserved communities.

So far, the Makinde-led administration has built five mini-grids in various communities. At the same time, private investors have come on board to provide Energy-as-a-Service (EaaS) to 17 more communities. Additionally, the State has worked with Fan Milk Plc to provide 1 MW of solar power and Nigerian Breweries Ltd to provide 600 kW with a plan to upgrade this to 3 MW.

“We also have the 11 MW Independent Power Project (IPP) and the Oyo State-Shell Nigeria Gas construction of a Pressure Reduction and Metering Station (PRMS), which will deliver an upside of 60 million standard cubic feet of gas per day to industrial, manufacturing and commercial entities,” he affirmed. Following the devolution of powers in the sector, Oyo State has created the Oyo State Electricity Regulatory Commission, allowing partnership with the private sector on large-scale energy provision. To talk about more specific investments in this sector, we have our Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Barr. Temilolu ’Seun Ashamu,” he advised.

AGRIBUSINESS

Oyo State has a comparative advantage in agribusiness and with a 2.85 million hectares of arable land and a climate and soil type suitable for most agribusiness enterprises, the State is focused on building agribusiness industrial hubs.

‘We have already shown proof of concept with the Fasola Agribusiness Industrial Hub. Some of the investors in this audience today are already subscribed to the hub,” the Governor said.

The hub, he added, will have a built environment that supports various agribusiness ventures such as livestock, crop production centres, warehouses for agro-logistics and more.

“Let me also mention that we will start to work soon on Akufo, Eruwa and Ilora Farm Settlements to convert them to agribusiness industrial hubs. So, if you are an investor looking to develop one of our nine farm settlements in Oyo State, talk to us. We should be able to work out a Public Private and Development Partnership.

“This partnership involves building infrastructure that will make the area more business viable. For instance, to make the Fasola Agribusiness Industrial Hub accessible, we are reconstructing the 34.85 km Oyo-Iseyin Road,” he added.

“Going forward, the State is planning to inject $40 million into its livestock value chain through the World Bank-assisted Livestock Productivity & Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) as this would ensure that investors get the infrastructural support required in livestock production. For those who would like to see in specific terms what deals we have on agribusiness, please speak with Dr Debo Akande, my Executive Adviser on Agribusiness who is also the Director General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency,” he advised.

SOLID MINERALS

Solid mineral development, Makinde added, is one of the three new entrants into the Oyo State investment portfolio. The State established the Pacesetter Mineral Development Company (PMDC). “The PMDC is the Special-Purpose Vehicle used to acquire solid minerals titles. We have exploration and mining titles. After surveying the areas where we hold titles, we created a database of minerals on those titles. I can tell you that we have deposits of Feldspar, Talc, Marble, Pyraiba, Gold, Tourmaline, Quartz, Beryl and Granite. So, when you choose to

TOURISM

Rich in culture and history, the State has barely tapped the available potential. After spending the first four years in office laying the groundwork to explore the State’s rich culture, it now has the market and the supporting purchasing power as evident in the State’s MSME experiencing massive growth business in the hospitality industry.

From its records, Oyo State has about 5,342 MSMEs in the hospitality sector up from 3,918.

“This is mainly because of the improved business outlook in the State. Oyo State receives over 10,000 visitors into the state daily. Some come to stay, others are passing by, and others stay for a while. As you make this decision, bear in mind that we will be providing you with access to our database of all tourism sites in Oyo State and their unique features. You can also work with us in organising trade shows and other events that will be built around state-adopted cultural days. If you are excited about investing in Oyo State Tourism in more specific ways, our Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatubosun, is your man, “Makinde said.

INFRASTRUCTURE

He stated that despite meeting a huge deficit when his administration assumed office, the state made infrastructure development as one of its core focus areas.

“To bridge its huge infrastructure decay, the present administration started with the bigger projects such as the 65 km Moniya-Ijaiye-Iseyin Road, the 34.85 km Oyo-Iseyin Road, the 76.67 km Ogbomoso-Fapote-Iseyin Road and the 48 km Ido-Eruwa Road. We are also working on completing the 110 km Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road, which encircles the Ilutuntun Business District in Akinyele Local Government Area, I mentioned earlier that the International Gemstone Market Centre is at Akinyele Local Government Area. We plan to turn this zone into “the most futuristic growth corridor of the city of Ibadan.

“So, within this radius, we also have the proposed Ibadan Inland Dry Port and the Railway Corridor. The State is also working on a circular road that would be rolled as it has completed the heavy lifting to construct the first 32km East-Wing and completing six bridges including two interchanges along the route. Why not talk to our Commissioner for Public Works and Transportation, Prof Dahud Shangodoyin, about investing in Oyo State Infrastructure,” he implored.

Makinde

To make Oyo State a destination for sustainable investment in Nigeria, the state government has taken several steps to attract foreign investors and promote private sector-led business development. Gilbert Ekugbe writes on the opportunities the Oyo State International Business Summit 2023 offers to potential and existing local and foreign investors

NIMET Turns 20, Extolled for Accurate Weather Reporting

Chinedu Eze

The Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) has received commendation from pilots for the agency’s accurate weather forecast.

According to pilots who spoke to THISDAY, accurate weather reporting by the agency did not just happen, but it took time as NIMET acquired state of the art equipment, employed the right personnel and had efficient management that developed a philosophy of excellence.

Few years ago, a British Airways pilot who regularly flies to Nigeria told THISDAY that in the past they used to rely on international weather report while flying into Nigeria’s airspace, but in recent years they have come to rely on weather reports by NIMET because the reports have become accurate and reliable.

As the agency turned 20 years on June 19, industry stakeholders have attributed a measure of safety in flight operations in Nigeria to the accurate weather reports of NIMET. They gave strength to this by recalling that some of the air crashes in the past were attributed to weather, like the Sosoliso Airlines Flight 1145 crash at the Port Harcourt Airport on December 10, 2015 and the ADC Airlines Flight 053 on take-off at the Abuja airport on October 29, 2006.

Since these tragic accidents, there have been significant improvement in weather reporting in Nigeria made possible by NIMET, which efficient management has elevated the agency to become one of the best in Africa and has been rendering services to other African countries.

The Director General of Nigerian Meteorological Agency, Prof Mansur Matazu recently confirmed that the agency has recorded 95 per cent precision and accuracy of weather predictions in the last 15 years.

This is far above the accepted minimum standard of 60 per cent, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

According to NIMET, meteorological services in Nigeria started in 1887 at Akassa (in present-day Bayelsa State). Followed later in 1891, within the premises of the Public Works Department (PWD), followed in Ilorin by 1907(present Day, Kwara State).

In 1909 it started in Lokoja (present day Kogi State), then by 1911 in Zungeru (present day Niger State) finally in Kano (Kano State) by 1949.

By 1937, weather reporting had become one of the constituent services of the British West African Meteorological Services of pre-Nigeria. Hence observing weather in Nigeria effectively started over 130 years ago. The Colonial administration had set up Meteorological offices at various locations in both the then Southern and Northern Protectorates.

“By 1949, the service became a full-fledged department and was one of the seven colonial departmental structures used in running Nigeria. The meteorological department was subsequently domiciled in various ministries at different times with the introduction of the ministerial form of government. This is not unconnected with the multi sectoral nature of its service delivery, and was semi-autonomously operated and differed from regular operations in the Ministry.

“Therefore, arising from the strategic importance of weather in our daily lives and how it serves almost all sectors of the economy, Federal Executive Council (FEC) on the 16th of May 2003 approved the transformation of the Department of Meteorological

Services of the Federal Ministry of Aviation, where it was domiciled then, into the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) vide establishment Act No 9 of 2003 and it became effective on the 19th of June 2003 following Presidential assent,” the agency said.

NIMET acknowledged that to improve the agency, the Federal Government of Nigeria invested in providing necessary equipment, infrastructure and technology for the take-off of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency with the core mandate to observe, collate, and analyze meteorological data to provide timely and accurate reporting of weather, climate and hydrological information for socio-economic development and safety of lives and property.

The Director General of NIMET, Prof. Mansur Bako Matazu, said the on-going investment has not only transformed the agency, but also enabled it to provide world-class meteorological products and services.

Industry observers said that the current management of MINET was able to glavanise all the efforts made in the past in the agency to build enviable agency that currently enjoy global recognition.

Matazu said the agency would continue to be driven by its nine Policy Thrusts for effective weather and climate services, namely: improved governance and institutional setting; effective partnership to improve service delivery; upgrade of observational infrastructure; improved data and product sharing policies to support climate – smart decisions and enhance socio-economic benefits of climate services in Nigeria; enhance numerical model and forecasting tools/applications; improve climate – risk early warning and advisory services. “It will improve our contribution to climate services; enhance products’ dissemination and outreach; improved staff motivation and welfare for job satisfaction and efficiency,” he said.

In 2022, the NiMet establishment Act 2003 was repealed and replaced by the NiMet establishment Act 2022 and signed into law by former President Mohammadu Buhari on the 31st of August 2022. The New establishment Act grants the agency the sole authority to give approvals and licenses for the establishment of Meteorological stations and other related matters.

According to Matazu, the new 2022 Establishment Act could not have come at a better time as this marks a paradigm shift for the Agency.

“We have established visibility and in the last couple of years demonstrated that we are relevant in providing products and services for socio economic activities,” he said.

“As NiMet marks its 20th year as an agency its core mandate remains to observe collate and analyze meteorological data to provide timely and accurate reporting of weather, climate and hydrological information for socio-economic development and safety of lives and property cannot be overemphasized. This is underscored by the United Nation’s recent recognition of early warning as a major factor that aids the mitigation of climate change related disaster and the subsequent policy statement the world body issued that in the next five years, all citizens globally should have access to early warning. This not only makes NiMet products and services visible and relevant in providing early warning but also makes its function essential for the safety of lives and property,” the agency said in a statement.

Kester Agwu: Offering Quality, Exceptional Service in the Culinary World

Whether in setting up the Ballers or Vegas Lounge in Ebonyi and Abuja respectively, or even at Anan World Clothing and Accessories, Chief Kester Agwu is driven by excellence. But it is as Chief Executive Officer, Tastia Restaurant, Bakery and Cafe he takes pride in offering the finest quality food, confectionaries and exceptional service. With seven branches all over Abuja, Tastia is a brand known for consistently delivering quality and taste. This, Agwu believes is in line with his commitment to excellence which sets them apart and keeps customers coming back for more. Beyond the food, Agwu, who employs over 1,000 staff across board, particularly pays attention to aesthetic as his bubbling 250-seater restaurant and bakery in Wuse 2, the largest so far in Abuja, caters for VIPS and regulars. Amongst other things, he tells Chiemelie Ezeobi that even though his venture into the culinary and hospitality world started off with a lounge, he has since found his niche in catering to the taste buds of Nigerians

What distinguishes your establishment as a cutting-edge dining experience, and what compelling reasons should attract patrons to choose your establishment over neighboring restaurants?

At our establishment, we pride ourselves on offering the finest quality food and exceptional service. Our diverse menu ensures that we cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. We understand that in the food industry, taste and quality are paramount, and we have consistently delivered on both fronts. Our commitment to excellence sets us apart and keeps customers coming back for more.

What factors influence the choice of a meal, particularly with regards to taste preferences? Additionally, could you share the story of how you ventured into this field?

The concept of “taste” in our establishment is closely tied to the name itself, which was coined from the word “Tastia.” When I initially entered the food industry, I operated a lounge in Gwarimpa approximately four years ago.

However, we encountered challenges with development control, leading to the demolition of the premises. During that time, there was also a restaurant within the lounge. Reflecting on the experience, I realized that running a restaurant provided a sense of tranquility and peace of mind. Consequently, I made the decision to focus on establishing a restaurant rather than continuing with the club/lounge format.

When did both businesses start?

I established my first lounge in 2012 and later opened another one in Abakaliki in 2016. Following that, I ventured into the restaurant industry with the launch of Vegas Restaurant and Bakery. Initially, I also operated Vegas Food Store, situated in a location facing the market in Gwarinpa. However, after observing that most customers would stop by to pick up items and then proceed to the market for their shopping, I made the decision to close down the store. It was during this time that I received inspiration from the Holy Spirit to transform the space into a restaurant.

Hence, I shifted my focus to establishing a restaurant. Originally, I planned to name it Vegas Restaurant and Bakery, but considering the presence of Vegas Resorts and Lounge on the same road, along with Vegas Foodstuff, I decided to rebrand and renamed it Tastia.

How has the journey been thus far?

For Tastia we have seven branches and for Vegas we have one and we have over a thousand staff. The journey hasn’t been easy but we thank God. It has to do with God, God has been our strength all the way because it has not been easy managing staff, government levies, FIRS, but we thank God for where we are today and putting our best and all that.

How would you characterise your management style?

I am grateful to have an exceptional team of staff members who have been the cornerstone of my business. One of the key factors contributing to our success is the strong and positive working relationships I maintain with each member of my team. We prioritise fair and competitive wages for our staff, and we make an effort to support them by addressing any issues or challenges they may encounter. By doing so, we foster an environment where they are motivated to give their best in fulfilling their responsibilities.

What is your approach to marketing and what strategies do you employ?

When we go out to the market, we have a dedicated marketing team. With their support, we are able to reach a wide range of customers who appreciate the taste and quality of our food. Our extensive customer base plays a crucial role in spreading the word about our business. Their satisfaction with our products encourages them to recommend us to others, helping us expand our reach even further.

Do you offer outside catering services?

Yes, we do cater for weddings, parties, and other events. Our catering services are available for various occasions, providing delicious food and exceptional service to make every event memorable. Whether it’s a wedding reception, birthday party, or any other celebration, we ensure that our food and presentation exceed expectations. Our team

of experienced professionals is dedicated to creating a delightful culinary experience for all our customers. You can rely on us to handle the catering aspect of your special occasion with expertise and attention to detail.

Do you have both internal and external quality control measures in place to ensure consistent quality standards?

Yes, we have a dedicated Quality Control department that ensures the highest standards for everything that leaves our facility. Our Quality Control team meticulously examines every product to guarantee its adherence to our rigorous quality standards. By implementing stringent quality control measures, we maintain consistency and excellence in all our offerings. This commitment to quality is what sets us apart and earns the trust of our customers. You can be confident that every item you receive from us has undergone thorough inspection and meets our strict quality criteria.

Could you please share your upbringing and how it has shaped you?

I completed my education at the University of Uyo. Initially, I pursued a diploma in International Relations, and later I pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Education. I successfully finished my studies in 2002 and 2003, after which I ventured into the business field. Coincidentally, my elder brother resides in the USA and had connections in China for importing. Taking advantage of this opportunity, we began importing in containers and supplying them.

However, after a few months, I realised that this business wasn’t something I could excel in. Consequently, I made the decision to shift my focus to clothing. In 2003, I traveled to China and started importing clothes and shoes. This endeavor gradually expanded, leading us to establish 15 outlets in Abuja. At one point, we were recognised as the largest fashion store in the city.

Unfortunately, due to the fluctuating exchange rates, there was a decline in people purchasing clothes. To adapt to the changing market conditions, I diversified my business ventures. I opened a lounge and later ventured into the restaurant industry as well. These additional ventures provided stability and allowed me to cater to different customer preferences and demands.

Could you provide an overview of your current activities and any other areas or endeavors you are involved or invested in?

I currently own and operate multiple establishments, namely Tastia, Vegas, and Anan World. Additionally, I have a lounge in Abakaliki called Ballers. To ensure smooth operations, I appointed managers to oversee each branch, and there is also a general manager who reports directly to me.

Each of these establishments offers unique experiences and caters to different preferences. Tastia, Vegas, and Anan World have their distinct atmospheres and offerings, providing customers with a diverse range of options. Meanwhile, Ballers in Abakaliki serves as a trendy lounge where patrons can relax and enjoy their evenings. With capable managers in place, I can effectively delegate responsibilities and ensure that each

branch operates efficiently. The general manager serves as a point of contact for all branches, overseeing their performance and providing regular updates to me. This organisational structure allows me to focus on the broader aspects of the business while ensuring that each establishment receives the necessary attention and guidance.

In the face of challenges that might have caused others to give up, what factors or motivations have driven you to persevere?

I may have faced challenges, but I don’t let them weigh me down. I don’t take them to heart. One thing that works for me is constantly reminding myself that I must always strive for success. Instead of viewing them as obstacles, I see challenges as opportunities to grow my brand. This mindset helps me avoid dwelling on them and accept them as a natural part of life’s phases.

Is it true that Tastia is regarded as the largest restaurant in Abuja?

It’s true that our restaurant has a capacity of 250 people, and I haven’t come across any other restaurant in Nigeria that is bigger than ours. Additionally, we take pride in offering the largest variety of food in the country, featuring both local and continental cuisine.

Could you provide information regarding the pricing for this budget?

We have invested over 500 million naira, close to 600 million naira or even more, in putting this place together. Our expenses include the cost of equipment, utensils, and the construction of the building itself. We spared no expense in creating a well-equipped and functional establishment.

Is the pricing at your establishment considered affordable and accessible for the average individual to dine at?

Yes, our restaurant is very pocket-friendly, and this is one of the reasons for our large customer base. We prioritise providing value and quality without being greedy. We strive to offer the best service and our prices are very affordable, appealing to a wide range of customers.

How do you address the issue of power supply? I heard that you manage to provide approximately 20 hours of continuous electricity.

One of the challenges we face is power outage. There are days when we experience prolonged periods without electricity, and we have to rely on running our generator for 24 hours. It can be quite expensive considering the current cost of diesel, especially since our generator consumes 725 liters per cycle. Dealing with power issues in this area can be extremely challenging and demanding.

What measures do you believe the government can implement to support business owners and mitigate the impact of various challenges, such as tax policies? Additionally, have you encountered any instances of multiple taxation within your business operations?

One of our challenges is dealing with the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) when

it comes to taxation. We have approximately 26 AMAC bodies that come for taxes, but on top of that, there are also fake ones that try to collect taxes from us. The number of fake bodies actually surpasses the number of genuine ones, sometimes resulting in up to 70 AMAC bodies visiting our store. It becomes problematic because we end up paying to the wrong entities and then the genuine ones demand payment as well. It’s a major issue, and the government has been working on finding a solution, but it’s not an easy task.

Interacting with the AMAC officials can be chaotic as they disrupt businesses and even force the closure of many establishments, which is unfortunate. In addition to addressing taxation challenges, the government should focus on stabilizing the power supply and reducing the 12.5% Value Added Tax (VAT) rate, which seems excessively high. When customers visit our restaurant and the additional tax is added to their bill, it can make them feel displeased, and some may choose not to return. Furthermore, the government should consider providing loans and grants with lower interest rates, as the current rates from banks are too high. This support would greatly benefit businesses like ours and stimulate growth in the industry.

What advice would you give to aspiring young men and women who wish to enter this business? Additionally, what are some common pitfalls they should be mindful of and avoid?

First and foremost, aspiring restaurateurs should have a clear vision of what they want to achieve. It’s crucial to be passionate about the restaurant business because it’s not a venture one can simply wake up and jump into. To succeed, one must be fully committed and actively involved in the day-to-day operations. Entrusting the business to others and only occasionally checking in can lead to mistakes and shortcomings.

In what ways have you contributed back to society, considering the blessings you have received?

At our restaurant, we actively engage in various charitable initiatives. One of our notable programs is a scholarship scheme that supports 40 individuals from less privileged backgrounds. Whenever I feel moved by compassion or a sense of guidance from the Holy Spirit, I make it a priority to extend help through these initiatives. Giving back to the community is an integral part of our mission, and we are involved in numerous other acts of generosity as well.

Given your background in political science, do you have any intentions or aspirations to pursue a career in politics and potentially run for political office?

For now, no.

Did you receive formal culinary training to acquire your cooking skills?

Yes, I am currently enrolled in a 12-month diploma program at RED DISH Culinary School. The training I am undergoing there is providing me with valuable culinary skills and knowledge. I believe that investing in professional education is essential for further developing my abilities and advancing my career in the culinary industry. The comprehensive curriculum at RED DISH Culinary School is equipping me with the necessary expertise to excel in the field.

What is the rationale behind producing your own water and juice in-house?

We place great emphasis on ensuring the quality of what we offer to our customers, particularly when it comes to our juices. Recently, we have taken the initiative to produce our own water, although we still carry other water brands as well. The reason behind this decision is to have complete control and accountability over the products we serve. By producing our own water, we can better investigate and address any issues that may arise, ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality for our customers.

How do you balance work and recreation?

I lead a busy lifestyle as I engage in various activities. Apart from playing football and attending school, I also enjoy going to clubs. However, I am able to maintain a balanced lifestyle because I have capable individuals who assist me with many tasks. It’s important to note that the workload is not solely on my shoulders, as I have a supportive team that helps me manage and delegate responsibilities effectively. This allows me to pursue my interests while still fulfilling my commitments in different areas of my life.

BURIAL MASS OF MOST REVEREND MAXWELL ANIKWENWA....

Major Shake-up as Navy Reshuffles, Redeploys 56 Rear Admirals

The Nigerian Navy, yesterday, reshuffled the appointment of top senior officers including 56 Rear Admirals and a Commodore.

The naval headquarters in Abuja made the disclosure in a statement by the Director of Information, Nigerian Navy, Commodore Adetotun AyoVaughan.

Details of the new appointments showed that Rear Admiral Olusanya Bankole formerly the Director of Logistics, Defence Space Administration, is now appointed Chief of Communications and Information Technology, Naval Headquarters, while Rear Admiral Alexander Bingel formerly Director Combat Policy and Tactics is now the Director of Logistics, Defence Headquarters.

Rear Admiral Ibrahim Dewu, formerly Director Project Implementation, Monitoring and Evaluation Directorate, Naval Headquarters is now the Chief of Defence Civil Military Cooperation, Defence Headquarters while Rear Admiral Kennedy Ezete formerly Director Project Monitoring, Defence Headquarters resumes as the Chief of Administration, Naval Headquarters.

The statement disclosed that Rear Admiral Livingstone Izu, who was the Director Manning at Naval Headquarters is the new Chief of Logistics, Naval Headquarters while Rear Admiral Musa Madugu formerly Deputy Director Special Operation Forces at the Defence Headquarters has been appointed the Admiral Superintendent Naval Ordinance Depot.

Rear Admiral Daupreye Matthew, the erstwhile Director

of Innovation and Concept Development, Naval Headquarters is now the Director of Training, Defence Headquarters while Rear Admiral Zakariya Muhammad, the former Director of Training, Naval Headquarters has been reappointed Chief of Training and Operations.

Rear Admiral Emmanuel Nmoyem has been reappointed Director Human Rights Desks at the Defence Headquarters while Rear Admiral Ibrahim Shettima formerly Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command moves to Defence Headquarters as Director of Plans.

The former Director of Plans, Naval Headquarters, Rear Admiral Monday Unurhiere has been appointed the Chief of Defence Administrations at the Defence Headquarters while Rear Admiral Hamza Kaoje who was the Director Equipment Standardisation and Harmonisation, Defence Headquarters has been appointed Group Managing Director, Navy Holdings Limited.

Further details of the redeployment showed that Rear Admiral Sulaiman El-Ladan, who was the Chief of Naval Engineering, Naval Headquarters is now at the Defence Research and Development Bureau at Defence Headquarters as the Director Marine Research while Rear Admiral Idi Abbas formerly Director of Operations,Naval Headquarters is now reappointed Chief of Naval Safety and Standards.

Rear Admiral Mohammed Abdullahi, the immediate past Director, Communications at Naval Headquarters takes over as the Flag Officer Commanding

Western Naval Command while Rear Admiral Saheed Akinwande formerly the Commandant Naval War College Nigeria has been

appointed Director Operations, Naval Headquarters. Also, Rear Admiral Istifanus Albara formerly the Head

ECOWAS Maritime Security Coordination Centre, Abidjan moves to Naval Headquarters as Navy Secretary while Rear

Admiral Clement Atebi has been reappointed to Naval Headquarters as the Director Audit, among several other postings.

11 Die, Several Injured in Edo Road Accident

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Eleven persons were yesterday reported to have died while eight others sustained injuries in a ghastly accident that happened on the Edo State section of the Benin-Lagos expressway.

The accident which occurred at the Ovia River in Ovia North East local government area of the state, involved a Toyota Hiace 18 seater bus and an articulated truck belonging to Dangote.

It was gathered that the incident happened around 11am at the Ovia

River, when the truck heading towards Benin from Lagos while on top speed rammed into the bus that was said to have slowed down at the failed portion of the road after brushing the back side of a Kia car killing 11 persons on the spot and injuring several others.

An eye witness said the “Toyota Hiace bus going to the East en route Edo slowed down at the bad portion of the Ovia River bridge, but the truck that was on top speed rammed into the bus, killing the passengers." It was further gathered that

some of the occupants of the bus and victims were coming from Lagos after attending a programme organised by a popular Lagos-based church

The Edo State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Paul Okpe who confirmed the accident, said, "We had a crash on the bridge at Ovia River this morning. A truck ran into a Toyota Hummer Bus and the casualty is 11 persons lost their lives, very unfortunate and eight persons injured. Both the dead and the injured were

moved to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) by our ambulances and three vehicles were involved.

“The truck ran into the hummer but before hitting the hummer bus, it narrowly missed a small Kia vehicle. The three vehicles are in the police station not far from our office at the toll gate.

"For the possible cause, we are leaving that to our Accident Investigations to establish, but it was the truck that ran into the vehicles and the casualties were in the bus."

UN Agency: Escalating Debt Challenges Inhibiting SDGs' Attainment

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

Soaring debt levels in developing countries, including Nigeria are holding back progress on many Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) targets, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has revealed.

The costs of repaying debts are the highest for low-income countries. In 2022, they spent about 19.3 per cent of government revenues to service their debts – four times higher than in 2012, the UN intergovernmental organisation which promotes the interests of

developing countries in world trade said in the latest annual SDG Pulse, a global reference for tracking progress towards achieving the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The report stated that mounting public debt posed a significant obstacle to development and achieving the SDGs adding that it undermines governments’ ability to invest in basic services, such as health care and education.

It observed that an increasing number of developing countries were on the brink or already in debt distress as they faced cascading and overlapping crises, including the devastating

impact of COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, a deepening climate crisis, and a cost-ofliving crisis.

This was in addition to the daunting global macroeconomic environment including higher interest rates and banking stress in developed countries, tightening global financial conditions, US dollar appreciation, growth slowdown and falling commodity prices, have also taken their toll.

The SDG Pulse noted that about one in three countries worldwide faces a high risk of a fiscal crisis, with developing countries bearing the heaviest debt burden.

The total external debt for these countries was 15 per cent higher in 2022 than in 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, it said.

During the past decade, their external debt stocks have more than doubled to an alarming $11.4 trillion, the report stated, adding that debt overhang had continued to become an obstacle to development and the attainment of SDGs.

Despite multilateral efforts, the debt problem in low-income as well as many middle-income developing countries, three years after the COVID-19 pandemic, continues to deepen, it explained.

NDDC Refutes €56,250,000 Contract Award Allegation, Says It's Malicious, False

Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has dissociated itself from a fake contract award letter being circulated online purported to have originated from the desk of the Managing Director of the Commission.

The commission stated that the fake letter which purportedly notified an Italian company of an award of a contract for the sum of €56,250,000 did not emanate from it. According to a statement from

the office of the Director, Corporate Affairs of the Commission, Dr. Ibitoye Abosede, the Commission stressed that it was not in the know of such a contract, advising the public to disregard it.

The commission unequivocally stated that the document was fake, adding that the purported contract was also a scam.

“It does not exist either in the records of the Commission nor is any of our officials aware of it,” the Commission stressed.

The interventionist commission,

having studied the purported document, stated that award of contracts at the NDDC follow due process as stipulated by the Procurement Act, adding that at the end of that process, successful bidders are always issued an award letter signed by the Director of Procurement.

It also stated that such award letters are always on a security paper which has a serial number and a QR code.

The commission stated further that contract award letters do

not come from the desk of the Managing Director, saying that the fake document was probably generated on an ink jet printer and purportedly came from the desk of the Managing Director.

The commission maintained that the letter dated June 1, 2023, purportedly signed by its Managing Director and Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, did not originate from the managing director as he does not sign such letter.

“In any case, the signature on

the fake document is not that of our managing director. Also, Nigeria had no Minister of Niger Delta Affairs by June 1, 2023 as the Federal Executive Council was dissolved before the handover of power on May 29, 2023,” it added.

The Commission reiterated that the fake letter failed all its branding standards, and therefore called on the public to disregard it.

“Our take is that the letter is a product of a cheap scam. It has no relationship whatsoever with the Commission. We hereby advise all

stakeholders and interested parties to cross check any purported letter of contract award with the Procurement Department of the Commission.

“We also warn the public to beware of fraudsters who will stop at nothing to dupe others. It also stated that the law enforcement agencies have been notified to go after the culprits.

“We have reported this scam to the law enforcement agencies so that the culprits can be brought to book.”

L-R: Presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) in last general election, Mr Peter Obi and Senator representing Anambra Central senatorial zone, Senator Victor Umeh, during the burial mass of the late Dean Emeritus of Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Most Reverend Maxwell Anikwenwa at St Faith Cathedral Church, Awka... yesterday.

MAINLAND BLOCK PARTY...

Senate Minority Leadership: Opposition Senators Tackle Atiku over Tambuwal

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

Senators elected on the platforms of other opposition political parties have kicked against alleged moves by the Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, to pick a former Sokoto State governor, Aminu Tambuwal, as the Senate Minority Leader.

The senators, who spoke with THISDAY in Abuja, yesterday, on the conditions of anonymity, alleged that Atiku had submitted Tambuwal's name alongside other preferred senators in the minority caucus to the PDP for appointment as principal officers of the 10th National Assembly.

The aggrieved senators have therefore vowed to resist Atiku’s alleged moves to impose Tambuwal on them.

They threatened to repeat the way they fought against the imposition of Senator Godswill Akpabio, by the All Progressives Congress and President Bola Tinubu on the Senate.

A substantial number of opposition Senators voted for Senator Abdul-Aziz Yari during the senate presidency contest.

A PDP Senator from Rivers State,

another senator from the North Central and a ranking senator from the South West geopolitical zones, made their grievances known in separate comments while speaking with some journalists, strictly under the condition of anonymity.

The federal lawmakers said the sensitivity of the issue would not allow them to disclose their identities now, but threatened to do so later if the situation persists, expressing readiness to vote for any person other than him.

Some of the minority senators, who spoke after their meeting, said they would not allow anyone to use the minority leader position to negotiate for self-preservation and to run for presidential election in 2027.

“You can trace the major political activities of Tambuwal for the past one decade. In 2019, He went against his party, the PDP, and a sitting president to rubbish the PDP zoning arrangements just because it favoured him. He always play ethnic and religious card when it favours him.

“When he became speaker with the support of opposition elements (that is Tinubu, Muhammadu Buhari and other leaders), he used the platform of speakership to effectively rubbish the presidency of Goodluck

Johnathan and the PDP.

"He later defected and abandoned the party that made it possible for him to be Speaker and moved the APC and negotiated to be governor. Buhari, Tinubu, but he decided to align with Atiku and came back to PDP with the APC mandate that was given to him with the hope of running for presidency.

“Wike against all odds backed

him and promised to deliver the presidential nomination to him but Thank God that did not succeed. In 2021, he again went for a presidential visit but this time did not get Wike’s support. This is the record of the politician Atiku wants to foist as minority leader on the party.

“Also, his senatorial election in Sokoto, is now being contested. He was desperate to come to the Senate

with the ambition that he would be rewarded with the position of the senate president.

“When it emerged that the PDP did not get majority and with the defeat of Atiku and Okowa, Atiku and the PDP then changed their plan to make him minority leader to compensate him.

“This explains why the PDP and other opposition senators are rejecting

him, saying he has an antecedent of placing ambition over party, friendship and anything else and that kind of person is not going to have their support,” one of the senators said It was learnt that Wike and his group are capitalizing on this to mobilise support for a senator from the North Central, who would be unveiled soon.

Shehu: Buhari Never Asked Tinubu Not to Investigate Officials Who Served Under Him

Former presidential spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, has disclosed that at no time did former President Muhammadu Buhari plead with his successor, Bola Tinubu, not to investigate those officials, who served during his eight-year tenure, if found wanting.

Shehu, in a statement yesterday, described as fake news and nothing more, in some recent reports circulating on social media that such requests were made by Buhari

at a recent meeting between him and Tinubu.

The former presidential aide stressed that no other person was at the meeting between the duo and there was no formal report of their discussions.

He added that his former principal, Buhari, decided to relocate from Nigeria to United Kingdom due to visits by individuals to his country home in Daura, Katsina State.

Shehu further said it was the wish of the former president to allow his. successor have conducive atmosphere

under which he could deliver on his electoral promises to Nigerians.

The release stated: "If social media is to be believed, former President Muhammadu Buhari is requesting his successor, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to investigate some former officials of his government.

"It is fake. Let us not discuss it or give it energy or air of publicity. This is fake news, and nothing more. Thankfully, there was no one other than the two leaders in the room in which they met, so no one was there to report their conversation.

“As much as possible, the former

WSJ: AFTERMATH OF FAILED MUTINY, PUTIN MOVES TO SEIZE CONTROL OF WAGNER’S GLOBAL EMPIRE

Wagner group will continue fight, it will no longer be under Prigozhin.

Russia’s deputy foreign minister also flew to Damascus to personally deliver a message to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad that Wagner Group forces would no longer operate there independently.

THISDAY recalls that recent acts of rebellion by the Wagner mercenary group in Ukraine against Russia, its mother country, has continued to generate concerns in Africa, especially in countries, where leaders had earlier turned to the group to help reinforce their stay in office.

The aborted rebellion was believed to have brought unease to many parts of Africa, where some of the leaders, who had earlier turned to the Wagner group, now face the possibility that the private paramilitary organisation could be weakened or even dismantled.

But The Wall Street Journal has reported that senior Russian foreign ministry officials phoned the president of the Central African Republic, whose personal bodyguards include Wagner mercenaries, offering assurances that last Saturday’s crisis wouldn’t derail Russia’s expansion into Africa. Government jets from Russia’s Ministry of Emergency Situations shuttled from Syria to Mali, another of Wagner’s key foreign outposts.

The rush of diplomatic activity reflected Putin’s attempt to play

down the chaos at home and to assure Russia’s partners in Africa and the Middle East that Wagner operations there would continue without interruption.

The report was put together by the news medium following interactions with diplomats and intelligence officers, Wagner defectors, people briefed on the conversations and a review of international flight data.

From now on, however, in Moscow’s preferred outcome, those operations would be under new management.

Russia, which for years denied any association with Wagner, appears to be trying to take over the far-flung mercenary network managed by Prigozhin and his lieutenants. After Saturday’s failed mutiny, it isn’t clear how much it can or how quickly.

“Wagner helped Russia build its influence, and the government is loath to give it up,” said Peter Pham, former special envoy for the West African Sahel region. “Wagner gave the state deniability. The question is whether they can manage its complexity and deal with additional scrutiny,” he added.

At minimal cost and at an arm’s length, Wagner helped the Kremlin amass international influence and collect revenues, managed by Prigozhin’s holding company, Concord, and a network of shell companies that

helped funnel funds to the Kremlin, according to Western officials and documents viewed by The Wall Street Journal.

Wagner companies generate hundreds of millions of dollars a year in Africa, a crucial source of funding to maintain both Russia’s influence on the continent and to finance operations in Ukraine, Western officials told the news medium.

The group’s sources of income include exports of Sudanese gold to Russia, as well as diamonds from the Central African Republic to the United Arab Emirates and wood to Pakistan, the officials said.

For years, Wagner Group has worked as a security force for autocratic regimes across the Middle East and Africa, and, more recently, it has been tiptoeing toward Latin America and the Caribbean. Including Ukraine and Russia, Wagner employs more than 30,000 fighters.

Wagner’s mercenaries—backed by political strategists, financiers and geologists to prospect for mineral resources—have become entrenched in Mali, Syria and the Central African Republic.

The group has offered help in suppressing anti-government protests in Venezuela and Sudan. Prigozhin’s associates had planned a secret trip to Haiti, as late as February, to offer their services to the government, which

is struggling to keep control of Port au Prince, according to classified U.S. military documents leaked onto the videogame chat group Discord. Haiti’s foreign ministry didn’t return a request for comment.

Around 6,000 or so Wagner personnel perform varied work outside of Russia and Ukraine— from safeguarding mines and politicians in the Central African Republic, whose civil war dates back a decade—to defending oil wells and governmentheld territory in Syria.

In Mali, Wagner fighters, backed by Russian-made jet fighters and helicopters, deploy alongside Malian soldiers to Saharan villages falling under the sway of Islamists. Militants have battled the state since 2012.

The fate of Wagner operations now hinges on whether the Kremlin can simultaneously marginalise Prigozhin and maintain the empire he built on three continents.

Some national security officials, sizing up the prospects, say Washington may have an opening to regain influence on a continent where Russia and China have been digging in.

The Joe Biden administration and European governments have been pushing leaders in Africa to stop working with Wagner and have been tightening sanctions on the group.

In January, CIA director William Burns pressured a top Libyan

commander to expel Wagner, amid fears the group could tap in to the country’s oil riches. The Treasury Department designated Wagner as a transnational criminal organization over its actions in the Ukraine war on behalf of Russia.

The U.S. levied sanctions Tuesday against Africa-based gold firms allegedly used by Wagner to help fund its fighting in Ukraine. A State Department spokesman said more actions would soon be announced.

After years denying any Kremlin connections to Wagner, Putin said on Tuesday that the group had been financed by the Russian state for the year ending in May.

In the Central African Republic, the Russian defence ministry—which first sent Wagner there in 2018—is paying for 3,000 of Prigozhin’s mercenaries, said the nation’s presidential security adviser, Fidèle Gouandjika.

The governments of Mali and Sudan didn’t respond to requests for comment. The Kremlin didn’t respond to emailed questions for comment, The Wall Street Journal said.

In Russia, Wagner’s men have until July 1 to sign contracts with the Defence Ministry. Prigozhin, whose plane landed Tuesday in Belarus, has repeatedly said his men would reject the contracts. He hasn’t said whether or not he would try to keep control of Wagner’s foreign

President wishes to remain outside the spotlight so as not to distract the new administration.

"He chose to go home in Daura hoping to find the type of quiet he wished for himself but realising that this was not the case, visitors trooping in morning, day and night, he moved out to a more distant place.

"It remains his wish that he be allowed to have his needed rest, and for the Tinubu administration to have the right atmosphere to work on the realisation of the promises they made."

operations while in exile.

Wagner’s Telegram and communication channels, which went dark on Saturday, are back online, said Lou Osborn, an analyst at All Eyes on Wagner, an open-source research group. They are largely all carrying the same message, Osborn said, that Prigozhin is being hailed as the man who could topple Putin.

To counter such an idea, Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Sergei Vershinin, flew to Damascus over the weekend to urge Assad to stop Wagner fighters from leaving Syria without Moscow’s oversight, people briefed on the conversation said. A statement issued by Assad’s office after the meeting said they discussed coordination, especially in “light of recent events.”

Wagner fighters, who had largely operated independently in Syria, were ordered Tuesday to an air base run by Russia’s Defense Ministry in the Syrian port city of Latakia, and they complied, two people familiar with the matter said.

In Mali, a military junta is betting on Moscow to secure a country that has been losing ground to Islamists for years. The U.N. this week is set to vote to pull out all its 13,000 peacekeepers, following demands by Mali’s coup-government to end the U.N.’s decade-long security mission.

L-R: Managing Partners of The Plug, Tobi Mohammed, Asa Asika, and Abiodun Osikoya at the Mainland Block Party, organised by The Plug in Lagos, recently.

Deji Elumoye and Chuks Okocha in Abuja

APPRECIATING CUSTOMERS…

L-R: Executive Director, Greenwich Merchant Bank, Mr. Benson Ogundeji ; Chairman, Mr. Kayode Falowo; Emir of Kano, His Highness , Alhaji Aminu Bayero, and Dr. Faruk Umar, Non-Executive Director, during a visit to customers and stakeholders in Kano…recently

Three Arrested for Killing Naval Officer in Ondo

Fidelis David in Akure

The Ondo State Police Command yesterday paraded three suspects for allegedly killing a naval officer, SubLieutenant Akingbagbohun Samuel Ayomide, at Idoani in Ose Local Government Area of the state.

Parading the suspects at the Command headquarters in Akure, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mrs.

Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, said the suspects alongside others who are at large allegedly attacked the deceased with iron and plank after he had an argument with one of them.

She identified the suspects as Sambo Ayomide, Adeleke Johnson and Shagari Samsosn.

The PPRO said: “On June 26, one Mr. Olaoluwa came to Idoani Police Division and reported that his friend, while on their way home had an

South-west Govs, Ooni of Ife to Host Tinubu

Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti

Governors in the South-west states alongside the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi and other prominent stakeholders are set to host President Bola Tinubu in Osun state.

The celebration, which will be the first gathering of Yoruba sons and daughters from Diaspora and within Nigeria to celebrate a president from their race, will be spearheaded by the Southwest Presidential Inauguration Celebration. It will also include other stakeholders, political bodies and would take place at the Ojaja Resort in Ile-Ife, Osun State on Saturday, July 22, 2023.

The chairman of the group planning the post-inauguration ceremony, Professor of Economic, Public & International Affairs, Kayode Familoni, and the Head of the Media and Publicity Sub-

committee, Femi Odere, addressed newsmen in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti state yesterday.

Familoni disclosed that Governors Biodun Oyebanji(Ekiti), Babajide Sanwo-Olu(Lagos) and Dapo Abiodun(Ogun) are expected to preside over the event, alongside other leaders of the ruling party across the country.

He stated that the event is significant to the unity and progress of the country as exemplified by the new president in his agenda for the country, adding that the people of the South West were determined to support the administration for success.

Familoni maintained that the new president since his assumption of office a month ago has demonstrated genuine intention for the development of the country with his policies and programmes.

IoD Nigeria Elects Borodo as President

Dike Onwuamaeze

The Institute of Directors Nigeria (IoD Nigeria), has elected Mr. Tijjani Mohammed Borodo as president and chairman of its governing council.

Following his election, Borodo would steer the ship of the foremost governance institute in Nigeria and take charge of its affairs for the next two years.

His election, which took place recently, followed the expiration of the tenure of office of Dr. Ije Jidenma, as president and chairman of the governing council of the IoD Nigeria after she meritoriously served the institute for two years.

The Director General/Chief Executive Officer of IoD Nigeria, Mr. Dele Alimi, said: “Borodo emerged as president after a duly conducted election at the institute’s 39th Annual General Meeting held on Thursday, June 22, 2023, at the institute’s secretariat, Ikoyi, Lagos.”

Alimi added that Borodo, who is a fellow of the IoD Nigeria, is a distinguished lawyer and the pioneer company secretary of FBN Holdings Plc.

He said: “Borodo is an astute boardroom executive who has served the institute previously in various capacities such as first vice president, second vice president, chairman, Finance and General-Purpose Committee, chairman, Membership and Branch Development Committee and honorary legal adviser among others.”

The DG added that “indeed, we are very pleased as Mr. Tijjani Borodo assumes the role of the president of IoD Nigeria. As a previous office holder and council member of the institute, he had brought his extensive knowledge and experience to bear and has provided inspirational leadership and direction for the success of the Institute.

altercation with one Johnson Adeleke, but that someone came around to settle the scuffle. Unfortunately, this young boy went and mobilise others and attacked them.

“Later, we realised that the victim attacked was a SubLieutenant, Akingbagbohun Samuel Ayomide, of the Nigerian Navy.

“Currently, three suspects are

in custody, and in the course of interrogation, we realised that one Ayomide Sambo was one of those mobilised to the scene. And when he got there, he carried an iron rod, hit him

on his head, his testicles and started stoning him. Later, he became unconscious and was rushed to the hospital in the town, where he was confirmed dead by the doctor.”

Plateau Task Force on Recovery of Govt’s Property Receives 50 Petitions

SerikiAdinoyiinJos

Plateau State Task Force on Recovery of Government’s Property said it has received 50 petitions and reiterated its stand against witch-hunt. Addressing the press, Chairman of the Task Force set up by the state

government with the mandate to identify , locate and recover government property purported to have been illegally auctioned, boarded, or possessed, Mr. Isaac Wadak, reiterated that the aim of the task force was not to witchhunt anybody but to safeguard the collective patrimony

of Plateau people. Wadak said the task force has interfaced with Ministries, Development and Agencies (MDAs) and has received inventories and reports of all landed property, equipment, moveable and immovable assets including vehicles and

machinery. He said that the task force has received over 50 petitions from whistle-blowers excluding information from MDAs and from the general public concerning individuals who may be in the custody of government property illegally.

Delta Assembly Approves N40bn Credit Facility for Oborevwori

Omon-JuliusOnabuinAsaba

Delta State House of Assembly has approved a N40 billion credit facility request sent to it by the state Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori.

The loan, according to the governor in a letter to the House of Assembly at the beginning of the

week, is intended to offset a chunk of arrears of unpaid pension to retirees of the 25 local government areas of the state, including teachers.

In its maiden plenary after the inauguration of the eighth Assembly on June 27, 2023, the state legislators unanimously approved the governor’s request of N40billion facility from

Zenith Bank for the state chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) to defray substantial part of outstanding retirement benefits to local government pensioners.

This followed approval of the letter addressed to the legislature and read in the Assembly by the Speaker, Hon.

Emomotimi Dennis Guwor. Oborevwori had informed the Assembly that his administration was collaborating with the state chapter of the ALGON to reduce the backlog of pension owed retired primary school teachers and other categories of local government employees in the state.

NUJ Bars Journalists from Covering A’Ibom State House of Assembly

Okon Bassey in Uyo

The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Chapter has withdrawn the services of its members from the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly with immediate effect over the appointment of a non-journalist

as Press Secretary by the Speaker, Mr Udeme Otong. This was contained in a communique released at the end its June Congress in Uyo yesterday and endorsed by the state chairman, Comrade Amos Etuk, Secretary, Comrade Domnic Akpan and Chairman of the

Communique Drafting Committee, Comrade Iniobong Ekponta. According to the communique, “congress frowned at this development and consequently warned that any defaulting member of the Union shall face severe sanctions.”

The congress also noted the

persistent flooding of some major roads in Uyo occasioned by indiscriminate dumping of waste, resulting in a complete blockage of the drain and called on the State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency to take immediate action to check the situation.

Kwara Gov Reiterates Commitment to Make Cultural Festivals Key to Economic Growth

Hammed Shittu

Kwara State Governor and Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) Chairman, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Thursday reiterated commitment of his administration to make cultural festivals across the state

a key component of its economic growth for a greater Kwara.

This, AbdulRazaq said that, has led to the development of a handful of projects such as visual arts centre, innovation hub, sugar film factory, and international conference centre, among others

so as to build a new economy around tourism eco-system, technology and innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Speaking in Ilorin during the Ilorin Durbar, the annual socio-cultural festival of the Ilorin Emirate that involved colourful

horse riding and local displays, Alhaji AbdulRazaq said:”It is a significantly important culture to the people of Ilorin Emirate, which we commemorate every year. This event unifies and brings us all together to be our brother’s keepers.”

FG, South-east Govs Urged to Embrace Igbo Cultural Fest

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The federal government and the governors of the South-east states have been advised to support the forthcoming Igbo Fest in Minnesota, United States(US).

Cultural Ambassador Peter Egbudom, made the appeal while addressing the media on

the event scheduled for August 11 and 12, 2023.

He lamented that the country’s diverse cultural heritage has been left untapped for years, describing the rich Igbo cultural heritage as an asset which the federal, states and private entities can harness to attract investment and earn some revenues through

tourism.

According to him, legitimate foreign investment through tourism potential will cushion the effects of economic challenges facing the country arising from diminishing internal revenues, inadequate foreign investments and excruciating debt burden.

Egbudom said participation

by the South-east states in the festival will provide a platform to showcase the investment potential of their states to Nigerians and other countries in the Diaspora.

The level of participation at the festival is projected at over 45,000 guests drawn from all walks of life.

Nigeria’s Challenges ‘ll Not Last Long, Says Kwara Guber Aspirant

A former Kwara State governorship aspirant, Sunday Adebayo Babalola, has urged Nigerians to persevere and not be frustrated or become despondent over the current challenges and hardships facing the nation.

In his Eid-el-Kabir message

yesterday, he stated that the current challenges would not last long, adding that God would soon visit the nation for good.

Babalola, who is also a pastor, called on the Muslim faithful to exhibit the lessons of Eid-el-Kabir in their daily lives.

He urged them to display sacrifice, love peace and brotherhood, adding that Nigerians should ensure national unity, cohesion and harmonious co-existence.

He also urged Nigerians to support and pray for President

Bola Tinubu so that he would deliver good governance and dividends of democracy to Nigerians.

He stated that without prejudice to the court cases, Nigerians should support anybody who is the President of the country.

Participate Massively in Politics for Transparency, Nigerians Advised

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The Edo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi, has called on Nigerians to massively participate in politics in order to ensure the entrenchment of transparent government based on the rule of law.

Speaking at a Public Lecture and Inauguration of New Chapter Exco/Awards organised by the Nigerian Society of Chemical Engineers (NSChE) FCT/ Nasarawa Chapter on the theme, ‘Promoting A Stable Political and Legal Environment for Industrialisation,’ Osaze-Uzzi said for democracy to thrive, the

rule of law must be upheld and everyone seen as equal before the law as provided by the country’s constitution.

“The rule of law is the legal principle that law should govern a nation, and not arbitrary decisions by individual government officials. It primarily refers to the influence and authority of law within society, particularly as a constraint upon behaviour, including behaviour of government officials.

“The development of the phrase “the rule of law” can be traced to Professor Albert Venn Dicey who wrote a book in 1885, titled: “Introduction to the Law of Constitution”, where he stated that the concept of the

WORLD OF ISLAM

Edited by: MJO Mustapha Email deji.mustapha@thisdaylive.com

rule of law means that the state is governed, not by the ruler or the nominated representatives of the people but by the law and that government must be based on the principles of law and not of men,” he said.

The former Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Director, who was the guest speaker on the occasion, urged citizens to resist executive domination of other arms of government, noting that the executive arm of government has always dominated “the political space over and against the other arms of government and want the people to see it as superior over the other arms of government.

Students Contribute to Free Six Inmates in Suleja Prison

Michael Olugbode inAbuja

Six inmates of the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Suleja, Niger State, have regained their freedom courtesy of six students of Jewels Leading Light Academy, Abuja.

The six students, Dave Falade, Otse Unogwu, Ife Atilola, Zachary Abu, Ugomsinachi Okoronkwo, and Nathan Oyinlola, all in JSS II, who are football fans and friends, decided to take action on the humanitarian intervention under ‘The Duke of Edinburgh Project’ initiative.

The students, who paid a visit to the correctional facilities last Tuesday, where the sum of N120,000 was paid as bail to effect the release of the six inmates, also took with them large quantities of toiletries for the remaining inmates at the centre.

On the choice of inmates, the students said: “We have volunteered to provide financial assistance in cash to the tune of N120,000, covering the fines for selected inmates who have demonstrated exemplary conduct and a sincere dedication to rehabilitation.”

The students, who are between the ages of 11 and 12, and tagged themselves under ‘The Duke of Edinburgh Project’ initiative as ‘The Champions’ Team’, said: “We decided to be part of this initiative because we would like to make a positive impact on the lives of people who need help and the society at large.

“We chose the name ‘The Champions’ Team’ because we believe we are champions in every area of our lives.

“We have decided that for this project, our focus will be to raise resources both financial and material to support our fellow brothers and sisters who are in prison.”

They added that: “Most times, society forgets and neglects prisoners. As a group, we have

decided that we are going to put smiles on the faces of the forgotten in our society.”

According to them, they raised financial support by selling some items in school and reaching out to family and friends for support.

One of the released inmates,

while showing appreciation to the students for their gesture, said his way to the custodial centre began at about their age, as he was stubborn and involved in smoking marijuana early in life; involved in petty crimes and had to drop out of university later in life.

Senator Adeyemi Lauds Gov Bello for Establishing University in Kogi West

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

Former Senator, who represented Kogi West senatorial district in the National Assembly, Smart Adeyemi, has commended the Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, for siting a new university in the senatorial district.

This commendation was expressed in a statement signed by Adeyemi, a copy of which was made available to journalists in Lokoja yesterday.

The statement read: “This is to commend Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello for siting the proposed university in Kogi West district,” explaining that there is no doubt that education is a catalyst for economic development.

According to him, “As at the last count, we recorded about 286 professors and about 25 associate professors some of whom will be glad to come and

contribute their quota towards the growth of the university.

“It is, therefore, heartwarming that the university is sited in Kabba, the headquarters of Kogi West senatorial district. As a senator who was privileged to serve Kogi West for three terms, I will be delighted to support any effort towards improving the well-being and Educational development of our people.

“While many would have perhaps welcomed the idea had it come three to four years ago, my answer has always remained that it is better late than never.”

“This has been the desire of our people and those of us who have been the vanguard for the upgrading of ABU College of Agriculture in Kabba to a full-fledged university, the proposed Kogi State University.

It is a welcome development while we continue to await the upgrade.

Diri Mourns as former Bayelsa Acting Gov, Binabo, Passes On

Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

The former acting Governor of Bayelsa State, Hon. Nestor Binabo, yesterday passed on due to protracted illness at an Abuja hospital.

Binabo, who was the acting governor of the state for a brief

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Zahirah Lynn Eppard/SoundVision

There are a number of resources that provide an array of Islamic guidance and details about how to implement that guidance into our daily lives.

The treasured words of Allah housed in the Quran Al-Kareem, the Glorious Quran, and the painstakingly detailed record of the Prophet Muhammad’s, peace and blessings be upon him, Sunnah, his speech, actions, and naseeha or sound advice, are stellar examples. But there is another which holds a special place near that top of any noble list, and that is the Prophet’s Last Sermon.

The Last Sermon, also known as Khutba Hajjatul Wida in Arabic, was delivered on the Day of Arafat, the 9th Day of Dhul Hijjah, 10 AH (March 6, 632 AD). It was delivered on Mount Arafat in front of a large gathering of Muslims performing Hajj. It foreshadowed the Prophet’s, peace and blessings be upon him, death and provided a comprehensive guide to the foundations of our faith. As such, it is a wonderful teaching tool for parents to use to harken back to our rich Islamic history, connect hearts to our beloved Prophet, and also to touch on the essence of the guidance that we can rely on to be successful in this life and in the Hereafter.

Make It a Family Learning Experience

The Last Sermon is written in simple language, making for an excellent opportunity to read from the document itself. The exercise is sure to bring goosebumps to those who can fathom the historic significance of the words and its delivery. Here are some simple steps that you can implement this year and to make it an annual family tradition.

1. Locate a copy of the full sermon. In the digital age you can easily find the entire sermon in the various formats including slide presentations, twitter documents, pdf downloads, and more. Be sure it is the comprehensive document from start to finish.

2. Collect some historic information. A history lesson requires facts, and it would be important to have some details on hand about the time, place, and circumstances surrounding the khutbah. Here are a few:

Mount Arafat or Jabal Al-Rahmah in Makkah. This area is where those who are performing Hajj, also known as hajjis, gather on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, commonly referred to as the Day of Arafat. from Mina to Mount Arafat for a day of supplication and Quran reading. It is widely considered the best day of the Muslim calendar year. and believe that, if it is accepted, it is an expiation of sins of the previous year and the upcoming year.

Allah on this day with the recitation of the Tahleel (Laa ilaaha illAllah), Takbeer (Allahu Akbar), Tahmeed (Alhamdulillah), and Tasbeeh (SubhanAllah). It would also be important to continue the practice into the days of Tashreeq (11,12, and 13th of Dhul Hijjah.

period between January 27 and February 14, 2012, also held other political offices, including as a Commissioner for Youth and Conflict Resolution, Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly, acting Speaker and Speaker of the state Assembly.

In his condolence message to the state and family, the state Governor, Senator Douye Diri, said Binabo was a grassroots politician, and will be greatly missed in the politics of the state.

A statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, also said Binabo contributed his quota to the development of the state and left at God’s ordained time having battled to stay alive.

Diri urged his immediate and political families to accept his demise as the will of God and be consoled by his great impact in the politics and development of the state.

He equally prayed to God to grant his family the fortitude to bear the loss.

The governor said: “It is sad that the state has lost a former acting governor, foremost legislator, and formidable grassroots politician.

3. Give proper reverence to the Prophet Muhammad. As parents, we have to use every possible teachable moment to connect ourselves and our children to the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. He was the last in a long line of prophets Allah, and is known as the seal of the prophets. The Quran, the final and most comprehensive book of guidance, was also delivered to him and preserved for the whole of mankind. He was sent as a mercy and the greatest example of a human being throughout time. His legacy, mannerisms, and advice are painstakingly preserved in the Sunnah and have offered guidance about the daily practice of Islam for more than 1400 years.

4. Gather the entire family for a reading of the Last Sermon. Make the effort to read the entire sermon as a family. These words are profound but hearing them in the voices of our own family members is very moving and can have a lasting impact. It is a relatively easy read and each member of the family who can read, even at an elementary level, can and should take turns doing so.

5. Upon completion, allow some time for reflection. Parents can take the lead in asking if anyone has questions about the reading or if there were parts that were most notable for each family member. Here are a few sample conversation starters: undivided attention? reading?

Each and every word is significant, however, there are some general themes that can be the focus of increased attention, particularly for older children.

all of mankind.

The sermon begins with: know; perhaps I may never meet you after this year in this place again. Therefore, listen to what I am saying to you very carefully and take these words to those who could not be present here today.”

The Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him, addressed the sermon to the whole of mankind and reiterated the significance of it for those present and for posterity. That is because the lessons in it are the foundational principles of our faith. By the choice of these words, there is an open invitation to all people, not just the Muslim believers, to practice the universal principles of Islam.

and property of a Muslim.

The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, reminded us that the life and property of every Muslim is a sacred trust. He cautioned listeners to treat one another and the property of others with care and return the goods entrusted to you to their rightful owners. He reminded us that Allah will hold us to account on the Day of Judgment for these actions. It was along these same lines that he mentioned that usury or interest is forbidden and waived all interest obligations henceforth

It is significant that there is mention of the dangers of Shaytan’s whispers. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, warned that Shaytan has “lost hope that he will ever be able to lead you astray in big things, so beware of following him in small things.” This would be a reference to the way that small sins can lead to bigger sins and how we can even develop a tolerance for wrongdoing when there is a repetition of sins, or we are surrounded by them.

of women.

Islam uplifted the status of women under the leadership of the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. And it is significant the Last Sermon mentions the rights of women under the sacred covenant of marriage. Husbands are implored to “treat your women well and be kind to them” and there are instructions to wives about their responsibilities as well

The khutbah reiterated the importance of the five pillars of Islam - worship Allah by living the shahadah, performing the five daily salat or prayers, fasting during the month of Ramadan, giving wealth in the form of zakat, and performing hajj if you can afford it.

The call to universal equality is in the reminder that all of mankind is from Adam and Hawaa, “an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also, a white has no superiority over a black, nor a black has any superiority over a white - except by piety and good action.” We are reminded that we are all brothers and sisters in Islam, and we need to heed these lessons and be the leaders in combatting racisim, discrimination, bigotry, hatred, and social injustice in every corner of the globe

The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, reminded that we “will appear before Allah to answer for our deeds.” And he also emphasized that we need to rely on the guidance of the Quran and Sunnah. And that this guidance is to be passed on to others throughout time, so much so that “the last ones understand my words better than those who listened to me directly.”

And in conclusion, the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, confirmed that he had fulfilled Allah’s mission to convey these messages to the people. Those were his companions, who had the benefit of learning from his advice and his presence, and that is the whole of mankind, all of us, who can hear and gain access to the message.

peace and blessing be upon him, received the final revelation of Quran with this verse from Surah Al-Ma’idah, “This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed my favor upon you and have approved of you Islam as a religion.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:3) Alhamdulillah, all praise and thanks belong to Allah

Since the time of the Last Sermon, Islam has grown to a universal religion that is practiced by nearly 2 billion people throughout the world. Imagine if all of these Muslims, all of us, lived by the guidance found would be different than they are today. Now that you have been reminded about these lessons, the remaining question is - how can you and your family utilize them to live a better life in this world and to gain rewards for your intentions and efforts in the Hereafter?

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FIFA RANKINGS

Edited by: Duro Ikhazuagbe email:Duro.Ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

Super Eagles One of Top Seeds for 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

Ranked 6th best in Africa, 39th globally

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Following Nigeria’s improved rating in the latest FIFA Ranking released yesterday, the Super Eagles will be one of the top seeds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying tournament when the draw is staged on July 12.

The three-time African champions moved up a step in the June ranking released yesterday by FIFA to 6th in Africa and 39th in the globally ranking.

Already, the world governing body issued a statement insisting that FIFA Rankings will be used to seed teams for the 2025 FIFA World Cup draw next month.

In the latest ranking released, Morocco remained Africa’s top team as they are 13th in the world. Continental champions Senegal are second and rated 18th globally. Tunisia third in Africa are 31st in the world while Algeria are 33rd and Egypt 34th.

The other teams in the Top 9 include: Cameroon (7th), Mali (8th) and Cote d’Ivoire (9th).

As top seeds, Nigeria are expected to avoid all these teams as nine teams will represent Africa at the World Cup Tomé jointly hosted in USA, Mexico and Canada with an additional team also getting a chance to playoff for a spot.

But there are some teams outside the Top 9 like Ghana, who eliminated Nigeria from the 2022 World Cup, South Africa and Burkina Faso, who could pose a danger to the World Cup ambitions of the seeded teams.

In the month under review, the Eagles beat Sierra Leone 3-2 to qualify for the 2023 AFCON to be hosted by Cote d’Ivoire in January next year.

MASON MOUNT

Manchester United have agreed a deal to sign England midfielder Mason Mount from Chelsea on a five-year contract for £55m, plus £5m in add-ons.

Mount, 24, will be Erik ten Hag’s first signing of the summer as he looks to strengthen his side following United’s qualification for next season’s Champions League.

Chelsea spent £600m last season and needed to sell before 30 June to ease Financial Fair Play concerns.

Mount joined Chelsea aged six.

Chelsea had rejected United’s first three bids but talks between the two clubs resumed this week to resolve the impasse.

It is understood Chelsea preferred not to lose Mount but were unable to successfully negotiate a new contract with his deal set to expire next year.

Mount, who has scored 33 goals in 195 appearances for Chelsea since making his senior debut in 2019, missed the end of the domestic season with injury as the Blues came 12th - their lowest finish for more than 25 years.

COLEMAN

Seamus Coleman has signed a new one-year deal with Everton until the end of June 2024.

The Republic of Ireland right-back, 34, was appointed club captain in 2019 and is the Toffees’ longest-serving current player.

He has made 409 appearances for Everton since joining from Sligo Rovers in 2009.

Coleman will begin his 15th season at Goodison Park after he recovers from a knee injury sustained in May.

“Everyone knows how much Everton means to me which is why it is special to sign this new contract and continue to play for this great club,” said Coleman.

“From the moment I joined more than 14 years ago, the support my family and I have had from our fans and everyone around the club has been amazing and I never take for granted just how fortunate I am to represent Everton.

“That has included the honour of wearing the captain’s armband in recent years.”

The Toffees narrowly avoided relegation last season, finishing just two points above the drop zone

Super Eagles climbed up one Step Super climbed up one Step on the rung in the latest FIFA ranking on the rung in the latest FIFA released yesterday. Now, they are released Now, are going to be one of the seeded teams to be one of the seeded teams for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers for the 2026 World

Akwa Utd, Sporting Lagos Unveiled as Naija Super 8 Wildcard Teams

Akwa United and Sporting Lagos have been named as wildcards teams for the Naija Super 8 finals, to be held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos between July 7 and 16.

The two wildcard entrants were announced during the Naija Super 8 draws, broadcast live on SuperSport on Wednesday night.

The draws were conducted by Super Eagles legend, Victor Ikpeba, and scorer of the best goal at the just concluded Naija Super 8 play-offs, Okon Ini-Obong of Bendel Insurance.

Sporting Lagos was drawn with current Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) champions, Enyimba, Remo Stars and Katsina United in Group A, while Akwa United will slug it out with 2022 NPFL champions, Rivers United, North-East representative Yobe Desert Stars and Lobi Stars from the North-Central in Group B.

Each of the teams will be mentored at the tournament by Super Eagles and NPFL legends, Victor Ikpeba, Ike Shorunmu, Julius Aghahowa, Tijani Babangida, Mutiu Adepoju, Victor Ezeji, Jonathan Akpoborie and Garba Lawal.

The top two teams in each group will go into the semi-finals, with the winners proceeding to the final.

Clubs will earn N3 million per match at the group stage, with semi-finalists also earning an additional N3 million for qualifying. The runners-up will earn N9 million, while the winners will go home with N25 million.

All Naija Super 8 matches will be broadcast live on SuperSport Football (DStv ch 205 & GOtv ch 61).

Naija Super 8 is organised by Flykite Productions in partnership with MultiChoice Nigeria and sponsors, MTN, Hero Lager, DStv, GOtv, SuperSport, Moniepoint, Pepsi and Custodian Assurance.

Enyimba

Remo Stars

Katsina Utd

Sporting Lagos GROUP B

Rivers Utd

Yobe D’ Stars

Lobi Stars

Akwa Utd

NFF to Hold World Cup Send-Forth for Falcons on Saturday

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) will on Saturday organise a Send-Forth dinner for the World Cup-bound Senior Women National Team, Super Falcons, ahead of the team’s departure from the country to participate in the 9th FIFA Women’s World Cup finals taking place in Australia and New Zealand, 20 July – 20 August this year.

Wife of the President, Senator (Mrs) Oluremi Tinubu will lead a choice cast of eminent political chieftains and top government functionaries, which will include the Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Sports and Youth Development, Alhaji

Ismaila Abubakar and his counterpart in the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.p

A good number of the playing body, as well as technical and administrative officials, are expected alongside the hierarchy and rank and file of the NFF, led by the President, Ibrahim Musa Gusau and the General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi.

The event at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja will also attract corporate chieftains, members of the diplomatic corps and a range of football stakeholders.

On Sunday, the nine-time African champions will depart the shores of Nigeria for a 15-day camping programme in Australia, before they

enter into camp for the tournament proper, with their base at Brisbane – which is also venue for two of their matches in the group phase.

Nigeria’s first match of the finals is against Canada, at Melbourne’s Rectangular Stadium, on Friday, 21 July, before clashes with co-host nation Australia and Republic of Ireland on Thursday, 27 Julyand Monday, 31 Julyrespectively, at the Lang Park in Brisbane.

Australia and New Zealand 2023

will be the biggest-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup finals in history, as it welcomes 32 teams – same number as featured in the men’s finals in Qatar last year. It is also the first to be hosted by two countries, and is

the first-ever FIFA senior competition to be hosted by two countries in two different confederations: Australia is in the Asian confederation while New Zealand is in Oceania.

Nigeria’ captain Onome Ebi will be one of the oldest players at the tournament, at 40, alongside Brazil’s Marta and Canada’s Christine Sinclair. The three women will be featuring in their sixth FIFA Women’s World Cup tournament.

Twenty-four hours before the SendForth at the Transcorp Hilton, the Australian High Commission, courtesy of the Ag. High Commissioner, Her Excellency Leanne Johnston, will host the Falcons to a dinner at the High Commission in Abuja.

Naija Super 8 Playoffs best goal awardee, Okon Ini-Obong of Bendel Insurance (left) and former Super Eagles forward, Victor Ikpeba during the Super 8 Draw Ceremony in Lagos... last night

BACKPAGE CONTINUATION

THE IMPERATIVE FOR ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS IN AI ADOPTION

our lives, they will inevitably shape societal norms, behaviours, and values. Hence, we must ensure these systems are designed and implemented to uphold and promote ethical standards, safeguarding human rights, privacy, and equality.

It is also essential to foster a culture of transparency and accountability in AI development and deployment. As AI systems often operate as ‘black boxes’, their decision-making processes can be opaque and difficult to understand. Encouraging transparency can enhance

trust in AI systems, while accountability mechanisms can ensure that those who misuse AI or cause harm through its application are held responsible.

In addition to ethical guidelines, we need robust educational and awareness programmes to ensure individuals and organisations understand the ethical implications of AI. This will help in the responsible use and development of AI and enable informed public discourse on AI ethics and policy.

Finally, multi-stakeholder collaboration

FCT AND 25% ELECTORAL VOTE THRESHOLD

serve as a source of national pride and symbol of modernity for black people worldwide. A new capital city in Abuja deliberately located inland and distinct from the congested and traffic-heavy urban landscape of Lagos, the military believed, would establish a modern and prestigious metropolis, simultaneously banishing the conspicuous remnants of British colonial influence in Nigeria. This reinforced the notion of a new, independent Nigeria that had firmly arrived as a legitimate member of the “Newer World.”

The second significant motivation behind the military’s choice of Abuja was the concept of an administrative framework known as the FCT. Beyond the evident fact that the FCT does not possess the typical characteristics of a Nigerian state, lacking an elected Governor but instead having an appointed Minister of the FCT, there is a less known yet crucial aspect of “national unity and ethnic neutrality”.

As I wrote years ago, “It is common knowledge that Nigeria is a multi-ethnic country …and that the country has been riffed by ethnic rivalry from its inception. Lagos, obviously, is a Yoruba land and with such a lop-sided ethnic mix (Yoruba, 72.2% Igbo,15.4% Edo, 3.17% and Hausa, 2.05% in 1963), it was felt that the city, as capital, is inimical to the spirit of national unity, as it could never be a place where all Nigerians could lay claim to every available right, privilege and resource on an equal footing. This could only be achieved in a sort of no-man’s land where no one ethnic group predominated.”

The just concluded May 2023 gubernatorial elections in Lagos confirmed this fundamental truth about the Nigerian polity. In the weeks and months leading up to that election, the prevailing discourse revolved around the question of who are the “real owners” or “indigenes” of Lagos and which individuals or groups possessed a more legitimate right to influence and shape the city-state’s future political trajectory.

The strategic location of Abuja—an attempt to make it equi-polity-distant for all

Thus, the founding fathers of Abuja in the 1970s and 1980s embarked on a social re-engineering endeavour with the goal of achieving three objectives related to national unity and cohesion. Firstly, they aimed to strategically locate Abuja at the geographical heartland of the country. By doing so, they hoped that both government and development would be brought closer to the governed., . This approach aimed to ensure that citizens from all parts of the country had relatively equal access to the capital city in terms of physical distance.

Additionally, it is worth noting that one of the underlying motivations for the establishment of Abuja was a desire to address the concerns of the northern elite for conducting the nation’s affairs from a capital that was not located so far away in the perceived hostile southern region.

The question of who owns Abuja and making it a place for all, on equal footing?

Secondly, another key objective pursued

by the military proponents of Abuja was to establish a territory that would provide equal rights and opportunities to all Nigerians, devoid of any specific regional or ethnic affiliations. To achieve this strategic objective, the military regime made a series of ‘deliberate and courageous decisions’ regarding the FCT.

They carefully selected a central area in Nigeria that had relatively low population density and limited development. This selection was crucial in creating a neutral ground where every Nigerian would be treated equally and have the same rights. In response to this, the military government claimed full ownership of the entire FCT area, granting the federal government complete control over the land. Unlike in any of the other 36 states of Nigeria, the federal government possesses 100 per cent monopoly control over the land in the FCT.

Thirdly, and significantly, the military decided to compensate and physically relocate all indigenous populations from within the FCT. Approximately 600 villages predominantly inhabited by farmers and potters belonging to the Gbagyi or Gwari ethnic groups, had to be swiftly resettled between 1976 and 1991. Where relocation of the indigenes proved costly, the military government simply decided to excise those parts from the FCT, as can be observed by examining the map of the FCT (Figure 2), where one can

is key to ensuring ethical AI adoption. Governments, businesses, academia, civil society, and individuals must all play a role in shaping the ethical norms and standards of AI. This inclusive approach can ensure that the benefits of AI are broadly shared, and its potential harms are mitigated.

In conclusion, while AI offers enormous potential benefits, its adoption brings significant ethical considerations. By developing clear ethical guidelines, fostering transparency and accountability,

promoting education and public awareness, and encouraging multi-stakeholder collaboration, we can harness the power of AI while minimising its risks. This is not just the best way forward – it is the only way forward.

•Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu is the Group Managing Director/CEO of Zenith Bank Plc and Chairman of the Body of Banks’ CEOs in Nigeria. This opinion was first published in the Zenith Economic Quarterly Vol. 19 No. 2 April 2023, in his column “CEO Insight”.

of 1999, deemed it appropriate to uphold the same principles and institutionalize in the political fabric of the country the “broad official aims for the new capital,” including among others:

“To provide for a physical symbol of national unity, and of Nigeria as a symbol of Pan Africa unity; and To provide a physical expression of the ideal constitutional democratic government.”

They had envisioned FCT/Abuja as a place where ethnic considerations would not dictate political power and where the genuine essence of Nigerian polity could emerge unhindered.

Conclusion – FCT/Abuja as electoratebarometer of the nation’s true pulse and spirit

It is hoped that this article has provided some insight into history on the FCT/ Abuja that many Nigerians may not know, along with how this relates to the constitutional issue about the 25% threshold of voters in the FCT/Abuja. To understand this debate, one must decode the reasons behind its establishment and the great lengths to which successive Nigerian military rulers (1975-2007) went to create a special identity for the territory and enshrine it in the 1999 Constitution.

It is this article’s thesis that the outcome of the February 2023 presidential election in FCT/Abuja validates the foresight of the Generals who envisioned and implemented the FCT project as a deliberately designed “neutral microcosm” of Nigeria, where ethnicity did not trump all else—a kind of legitimising “litmus test” of the ability of an aspiring candidate for the highest office in the land to appeal to and garner threshold support from diverse segments of the population.

notice a distinct “V” shape at the top. This cutout represents the removal of the present-day Suleja town and its sizable indigenous population from the FCT. Situating FCT/Abuja within the political and democratic framework of the new Nigeria

During the civilian administration of Shehu Shagari (1979-1983), significant construction work began in Abuja. However, the bold and visionary decisions to build Abuja, along with meticulous planning and the allocation of substantial resources for its groundbreaking and full-scale implementation, were made under Generals Murtala Muhammed and Olusegun Obasanjo (1975-1979). It can be argued that Abuja represents one of the most remarkable and ambitious endeavours in political and social re-engineering for nation-building undertaken by the Nigerian military. Subsequent military rulers - Muhammadu Buhari (19831985), Ibrahim Babangida (1985-1993), Sani Abacha (1993-1998), Abdulsalami Abubakar (1998-1999), and Olusegun Obasanjo (1999-2007) - demonstrated increased commitment in terms of political support and financial resources allocated to the project.

Considering the foregoing historical context of the capital relocation, it is reasonable to assume that the military, while formulating the Nigerian Constitution

Until such a time that Nigerian political leaders can harness our rich multi-ethnic and cultural heritage into the positive force for change that it is, an emphasis on obtaining at least 25% of the votes in FCT/Abuja as a constitutional requirement may serve as a necessary barometer for both measuring and safeguarding the nation’s true political pulse in ideals of national unity and democracy.

As the only “ethnically neutral zone” of the country, with above average income, voter education and awareness, and security atmosphere relatively free from voter intimidation and vote suppression, it logically follows that the legitimacy of any individual aspiring to lead a diverse and significant country like Nigeria should be questioned, if they fail to garner at least 25% of the electoral votes from this special territory. The voice of people in the FCT must not be taken lightly (i.e., not among the 24 ‘states’ mandated by the constitution), or without factoring in its historical context and raison d’etre. For both the generals and civilians alike, FCT symbolizes true unity, representing a shared national identity about the progressive Nigeria everyone wants.

•Morah received a PhD from the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, in 1990 with a dissertation on the establishment of Nigeria’s FCT.

INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu

NERC to Electricity Discos

“We’ve not determined how much (tariff) it will be. Definitely, there will be an increase but not in July...So we have a number of options to try to see how to manage it, and we’ve also asked the Discos to come too, let’s sit down and talk because it’s not something you just fix. There needs to be a way for everybody to agree how to communicate the message to the customers and then, even for the government too to be aware” –Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), faults Discos’ unilateral tariff  hike.

The Imperative for Ethical Considerations in AI Adoption EBENEZER ONYEAGWU

Professor Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum (WEF) aptly characterised the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) as the widespread integration of digital technologies into everyday life. This ongoing revolution is marked by a significant convergence of the physical and digital worlds, powered by widespread connectivity, virtual reality, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and cloud computing. Among various technological innovations contributing to the 4IR, many consider AI to be at the heart of this disruption.

The swift adoption of AI is reshaping the global economy, permeating virtually every sector and altering how we learn, work, trade, socialise, and access public and private services and information. In the private sector, business leaders are utilising AI capabilities to drive growth, encourage innovation, and enhance productivity. According to the International Data Corporation (IDC), global investment in AI systems exceeded $50 billion in 2021,

mainly directed towards research and development, and is projected to reach $110 billion by 2024. Several nations have established AI strategies in the

public sector, encompassing investment, incentives, and talent development, to improve public services and advance their capabilities.

While AI adoption accelerates at an unprecedented pace with substantial potential benefits, rising concerns over its social, economic, and environmental impacts stemming from unethical design, inappropriate application, or misuse cannot be overlooked. The disruptive changes brought on by AI adoption instigate immediate and future concerns about its effects on data privacy, surveillance, job security, inequality, human psychology, and bias and discrimination. This highlights the necessity for ethical considerations in AI adoption across businesses and governments to prevent these unintended negative consequences and risks.

Encouragingly, several public entities and international organisations across countries are providing or working on guidelines for ethical AI development and adoption. These entities include the US National Artificial Intelligence Advisory Committee (NAIAC), the

ERASMUS U. MORAH

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (OECD) AI expert group, the European Commission’s High-Level Expert Group on AI, and the UK Parliament’s House of Lords Select Committee on AI. Similarly, private sector companies leading AI development, like Microsoft and Alphabet, have released guidelines for ethical AI development. However, such efforts must be replicated at the national level, especially for countries like Nigeria that have yet to formulate such regulations. Establishing a clear and fitting AI regulatory framework will ensure organisations consider the implications of AI systems for stakeholders and make decisions with potential effects in mind. Moreover, organisations should commit to responsible AI practices in response to the increased stakes around AI adoption.

Indeed, the urgency for ethical considerations in AI adoption cannot be overstated. As AI systems become more sophisticated and integrated into

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FCT and 25% Electoral Vote Threshold

On Saturday, February 25, 2023, Nigeria conducted an election for the position of President, which was widely regarded as the most fiercely contested in the country since 1999. On March 01, 2023, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Bola Ahmed Tinubu, candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), as the winner and President-elect. On May 29, the Chief Justice of Nigeria swore him in as the Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces and 16th president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. While the reaction of the international community was mixed, the two major opposition parties, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP), took their dissatisfaction to the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal in Abuja in petitions challenging the announced outcome of the presidential election.

Their core argument revolves around the

President’s alleged failure to secure “not less than 25 per cent of the votes cast in each of at least two-thirds of the States of the Federation, AND the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja,” as mandated by the constitution (capitals added). They contend that this constitutional requirement was not met in the elections.

The challenge to the February 25, 2023 presidential election results has revived a well-known constitutional dilemma around the intended meaning of the phrase “and FCT” in the aforementioned constitutional clause as distinct from “including FCT” or “plus FCT.” While there may be disagreement on the precise interpretation, it seems generally agreed that the intention was not to exclude the FCT from the constitutional requirement.

If indeed the framers of the constitution intended “and FCT” to mean “plus FCT” or “FCT specifically,” the opposition would be justified in challenging INEC’s declaration of an APC victory. If the interpretation

leans towards “including FCT,” then INEC’s result would fulfill the specific constitutional requirement, especially considering that the 1999 Constitution also acknowledges that the FCT can be treated as a state.

If the former, then this raises the fundamental question of why the framers of the 1999 Constitution would grant such a special right or privileged status to citizens of Abuja and the FCT that voters in other administrative units in the country do not enjoy.

To unravel the “and FCT” conundrum, it is important to examine what the founding fathers of the 1999 Constitution, all military personnel, had in mind when they decided earlier, in 1976, to build a new capital city on virgin land and set it up as a special federal capital territory. This article analyzes the historical context and the public policy considerations that drove the establishment of Abuja as a FCT, in order to inform the ongoing national

debate and decision-making concerning the 2023 presidential election petition process.

The Founding Fathers of the FCT/ Abuja

Among the various reasons identified for the decision to construct Abuja, two factors stand out prominently. Firstly, there was the notion of “national pride.” As Africa’s most populous country and one of the wealthiest due to its abundant natural resources (further bolstered by the oil boom and petrodollars of the 1970s), Nigeria was seen by both its citizens and the international community as the “black giant” of Africa and potentially a global leader.

The military, as the founding fathers of Abuja in the mid-1970s, believed that Nigeria was destined for greatness. They aspired to build an ultramodern city that would rival Western capitals and

Continued on page 31

Founder and Executive Chairman of WEF, Professor Klaus Schwab