FG: Samoa Agreement Enabled €1.7bn Grants to Nigeria for Projects
Seriki Adinoyi in Jos
President Bola Tinubu yesterday hailed the officers and men of the Nigerian Army, describing them as the pride of the nation for their resilience and professionalism.
Speaking at the grand finale of the 2024 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) held at the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army in Jos, Plateau State, Tinubu declared that the Nigerian Army had never failed the country.
Represented at the occasion by the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, the president told the Army that Nigerians must be safe in their homes, markets, places of work, and on the highways.
Tinubu said: “There is no doubt, that you represent the pride of the nation; an institution with history; an institution that has never failed Nigeria.
“Your charge now is not only
to address misinformation on the Samoa Agreement in Abuja…. yesterday
Biden: Only God Can Convince Me to Quit Presidential Race
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
United States President, Mr. Joe Biden, has said nothing that will make him consider quitting the presidential race except God.
There has been mounting pressure from within the Democratic Party on Biden to step aside, after a shaky debate performance with Donald Trump, the presumptive nominee of the Republican Party.
After a shaky performance at the presidential debate with former President and Republican candidate, Donald Trump, on June 27, there have been calls for Biden to step aside.
Despite some Democratic officials and donors suggesting he step aside for a younger candidate following a poorly received debate performance against Trump, Biden remained defiant.
He attributed his debate struggles to exhaustion and a cold, asserting,
“I don’t think anybody’s more qualified to be president or win this race than me.”
Biden also dismissed criticisms that he is too old and feeble to run for president for a second time, after the White House said he is not backing down from the race despite growing concerns.
During the interview, Biden sought to dismiss fears about losing ground to Trump, describing the race as a “toss-up” according to pollsters. He dismissed the notion of stepping down, saying, “If the Lord Almighty came down and said, ‘Joe, get out of the race,’ I’d get out of the race. The Lord Almighty’s not coming down.”
At a rally in Madison, Wisconsin, Biden appeared more energetic, directly addressing the debate aftermath. “Ever since then, there’s been a lot of speculation. What’s Joe going to do?” he said. “Here’s my answer. I am running and going
to win again.”
Biden’s rally performance was in stark contrast to the debate, where he had several moments of forgetfulness. “I see all these stories that say I’m too old,” he said, defending his record. “Was I too old to create 15 million jobs? Was I too old to erase student debt for five million Americans?”
The rally and interview come at a critical juncture for Biden’s campaign, with significant pressure from within the Democratic Party.
Reports suggest that House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has scheduled a meeting to discuss Biden’s candidacy, and several House Democrats have publicly called for him to step down.
Despite this, no senior Democrats have formally requested his withdrawal. Biden’s campaign is planning a vigorous response, with Vice-President Kamala Harris and First Lady Jill Biden set to campaign in swing states.
“I mean if the Lord Almighty
came down and said, ‘Joe, get outta the race’, I would get outta the race.
The Lord Almighty’s not coming down. I mean, these hypotheticals. I don’t think anybody is more qualified to be president or win this race than me.
“Look, I’m running again because I think I understand best what has to be done to take this nation to a completely new level. We are on our way. We are on our way.”
“I see all these stories that say I am too old.. was I too old
to create 15 million jobs? Was I too old to erase student debt for five million Americans? Do you think I’m too old to beat Donald Trump?” he asked. Senator Mark Warner is reportedly considering forming a group to urge Biden to withdraw, reflecting deep concerns within the party. Meanwhile, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has urged Biden to “carefully evaluate” his candidacy, though she affirmed her commitment to defeating Trump.
ON ARMY DAY, TINUBU HAILS SOLDIERS, SAYS NIGERIAN ARMY IS PRIDE OF THE NATION
to protect your country but to do what is right and just at all times.
“The Nigerian Army remains one of the most patriotic and selfless elements of our nation. It embodies people who have volunteered, sacrificed, fought, and died so that the nation would live in peace. What can be more patriotic than to lay down one’s life for the sake of the nation?
“The Nigerian Army has made and continues to make huge sacrifices to keep us safe.
A statement issued yesterday by the commission noted that Komolafe spoke during a visit by the management of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to the NUPRC's headquarters in Abuja.
Komolafe highlighted the crucial role the NUPRC played in regulating and supervising Nigeria's upstream petroleum sector, emphasising the commission’s focus on promoting transparency, efficiency, and sustainability through a robust regulatory framework.
According to him, the commission's efforts have facilitated investment, enhanced operational standards, and maximised the socioeconomic benefits derived from Nigeria's commonwealth.
He noted that combating corruption required a multifaceted approach, to which the commission was deeply committed, leading to the implementation of several initiatives to promote accountability and good governance.
The award of petroleum licences through open competitive bids, Komolafe said, has enhanced transparency and eliminated partiality and favouritism.
He added that the transparent approach has instilled confidence in investors and stakeholders, fostering a ‘corruption-free’ environment in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
In addition, he said the establishment of the beneficial ownership register, as mandated by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), would provide valuable insights into the ownership structures of entities operating within the upstream petroleum sector.
According to him, this has helped enhance accountability and prevent illicit financial flows.
“The commission is also in the process of gazetting a code of conduct for operators in the sector to ensure adherence to ethical practices, with penalties for non-compliance.
“The NUPRC has also taken steps to reduce human interference in its permit processes, successfully decreasing incidents of bribery by 70 per cent through digitising permits and licensing processes. The implementation of the oil and gas industry service permit portal allows for transparent and expeditious processing of permits.
“Furthermore, the commission recently launched the ‘Host Comply’ platform to enhance the administration of the Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT). This initiative ensures that host communities benefit directly from petroleum operations and
simplifies the administration, reporting, monitoring, and management of development trust activities.
“In February 2024, the commission inaugurated an anti-corruption unit to ensure that its operations are conducted with integrity and in compliance with regulatory standards,” the statement stressed.
Komolafe, commended the ICPC for its pivotal role since its inception in 2000, lauding the agency for its efforts in investigating and prosecuting corrupt practices across various sectors, safeguarding public resources, and promoting ethical conduct throughout Nigeria.
In his remarks, ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Aliyu, noted the establishment of a special investigation unit within the commission, underscoring the NUPRC’s efforts at transparency and efficiency.
Highlighting initiatives such as the metering system and Host Comply, Aliyu assured NUPRC of ICPC's unwavering support in the fight against corruption and urged the members of staff to support leaders with integrity to enhance Nigeria's global image.
Meanwhile, the NUPRC has announced a strategic partnership with an Argentine tech company, Galileo, for the reduction of gas flaring in the oil and gas industry in Nigeria.
The collaboration, the commission said, will leverage innovative modular technology to support the Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme (NGFCP).
At the event, Komolafe said that the programme not only benefits the nation but also offers substantial advantages to investors, aligning with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) mandate to pursue the Gas Flare Act.
NUPRC’s partnership with Galileo, he said, was a strategic move, given the technology company’s vast potential to contribute to the commission’s objective of reducing the flaring of gas.
“Already the NUPRC has established a College of Awardees, an interactive team comprising financiers, awardees, and technology producers. This team will work together to ensure the success of the NGFCP.
“To date, the NUPRC has issued 49 awards aimed at eliminating 500 million standard cubic feet of gas (scf) from flaring. The college of awardees will meet periodically, both virtually and physically, to facilitate ongoing collaboration and progress tracking,” the statement said.
“Security challenges increased in the last decade and a half, the Nigerian Army has risen to the challenge to keep Nigeria safe.
“l am aware that you are now deployed in all states of the Federation making sacrifices daily in a bid to secure Nigeria.
“To paraphrase Winston Churchill, never in the history of Nigeria, has so many owed so much to so few.
“As your Commander-in-Chief, my administration is committed to building a well-equipped, and truly professional army that will remain the pride of the nation.
“We are committed to providing you with all that you need to enable you to fulfil your constitutional responsibilities,” Tinubu said.
He recalled that he had approved the payment of Group Life Assurance for all members of the Nigerian Army who died in the line of duty.
“To heighten your combat efficiency and dexterity, I also
Union (EU), its 27 member-states, and the 79 member-states of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) signed an agreement in Apia, the capital of the Pacific Island country of Samoa, referred to as the ‘Samoa Agreement’.
Speaking yesterday at a joint media briefing with the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, on the controversy surrounding the agreement, the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Atiku Bagudu Abubakar, again clarified that none of the articles of the agreement showed that Nigeria had recognised Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Queer (LGBTQ) rights.
He said Nigeria wouldn’t enter into an agreement that was antithetical to the constitution as well as the religious and cultural sensibilities of the heterogeneous people of Nigeria.
The economic planning minister explained that about 200 areas of cooperation were contained in the agreement signed by Nigeria.
He said a survey indicated that over 5,000 water, sanitation, energy, education, health, and other micro projects were executed in about 4,800 communities in Nigeria throughout the agreement.
The minister also clarified that the document did not indicate that $150 billion was to come to the country.
He described the Samoa Agreement as a veritable instrument for Nigeria’s development cooperation with the EU beyond aid, noting that the OACPS – EU Partnership was one of the most diverse and multifaceted development pacts in the international system.
The minister said the partnership between Nigeria and the OACPS
approved the purchase of attack helicopters and other necessary equipment and combat enablers for you to carry out your assignments more proficiently and effectively.
“Judging from the excellent parade and the display I have watched this morning; I am convinced that the Nigerian Army has justified the trust reposed in them for the defence of the territorial integrity of Nigeria.
“I feel proud as your Commander-in-Chief as I watch the array of equipment and your dexterity in handling them. I see the eagerness and pride on the faces of the young men and women as they showed their commitment to defend the country.
“We live in a complex and ever-changing world and our army must continue to evolve to meet the new challenges of the changing world. I am told that you spent a part of the Army Day Celebration holding lectures and brainstorming sessions on the evolving complex and uncertain security situations.
“It is good and proper that you did that so that you can be better prepared for the evolving challenges. As the world changes, our security architecture must also change to meet up with the new threats.
“Nigerians must be safe in their fields, on our highways, in our markets, and in their homes,” Tinubu explained, adding that the Nigerian Army is the backbone of the security architecture that would
dated back to the Georgetown Agreement of 1975, which brought together countries in Africa the Caribbean, and the Pacific for the establishment of a framework for trade and development cooperation with the European Union (EU) as one of its objectives.
He said the OACPS in 2018 launched the processes for negotiation of a successor Partnership Agreement ahead of the expiration of the Cotonou Agreement in 2020.
According to him, it was at its 107th Session in Lome, Togo, that the OACPS Council of Ministers adopted a Negotiating Mandate and appointed the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Togo, Prof. Robert Dussey as the Chair of the OACPS Central Negotiating Group (CNG).
He noted that the objectives of the new partnership were to contribute to the attainment of sustainable development in all OACPS countries through strengthened and deepened political and economic partnership.
He added that the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning (FMBEP) in close collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and Ministry of Justice duly followed up on the negotiation of the Samoa Agreement in September 2018 and confirmed that the outcome was in line with the global conventions, which Nigeria ratified.
The minister said the views of stakeholders were sought at the Inter-Ministerial Meeting on Nigeria – ACP/EU Partnership on March 28, 2018, at a sensitisation Workshop on Negotiation of the OACPS – EU Post Cotonou Agreement on September 18, 2018, and at a seminar on the New Framework and Instruments of the European
ensure this security.
“You must sustain the progress made so far, and evolve strategies to ensure that violent groups do not overwhelm peaceful and lawabiding Nigerians.
“As you take direct action against violent groups, you must remember to conduct yourselves in a manner to reflects your professionalism.
“I would like to encourage you to continue to work closely with your sister services, other security agencies as well as your fellow countrymen and women,” Tinubu added.
In his speech, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Taofeed Lagbaja said: “The Nigerian Army remains committed to its mission statement, which is ‘To Win all Land Battles in Defence of the Territorial Integrity of Nigeria, Protect Her National Interests and Accomplish other Tasks in Aid of Civil Authority.”
He said: “To this end, we are continuously engaged in preparing ourselves for this onerous duty by honing our skills and competencies for this task.
“The Nigerian Army under my watch is committed to improving our operational effectiveness to meet the ever-changing violent and complex threats to the nation,” Lagbaja said.
Lagbaja described the Nigerian Army as a highly professional and potent force of 161 years.
Speaking on the welfare of soldiers, Lagbaja noted the launch
Union Development Cooperation held at the Reiz Continental Hotel in Abuja on March 8, 2024.
He said at the event for the signing of the new Partnership Agreement in Apia, Samoa on November 15, 2023, 47 out of 79 OACPS countries endorsed the Agreement, while Nigeria endorsed the agreement on June 28, 2024, ahead of the June 30, 2024 deadline for the Parties at the OACPS Secretariat in Brussels, Belgium.
He insisted the Samoa Agreement was a vital legal framework for cooperation between the OACPS and the European Union, to promote sustainable development, fight climate change and its effects, generate investment opportunities, and foster collaboration among OACPS member states at the international stage.
“The European Union agreement is a public document which we will also maybe either provide the link or print out for members. Also, it explains that the 27 member- countries themselves have differences in some areas of the cooperation. So, you can imagine what it was with 79 other countries that signed the agreement.
That is why the agreement provides a proposal where a country, each country, not just Nigeria, can issue a declaration, clarifying some basis on which it is signing. For example, one of the obvious ones, I will make the declaration available as a public document that was presented along with it.
“We didnt offer it because of concerns about misrepresentation, about LGBT, for example. We are clear that we will see it. But I give an example of what we are worried that because of the way Europe is moving to clean energy, we don't
of the Affordable Housing for All Scheme (AHOOAS) aimed at providing subsidised housing for officers and men of the Nigerian Army.
He said: “Over 500 apartments have been built for the men and women of the Nigerian Army who have subscribed to the AHOOAS scheme, with a portion specifically reserved for soldiers disabled in the line of duty."
He also highlighted the Army's successful war against bandits, the crushing of Boko Haram terrorists drastically, and the reduction in the attacks on farmers by herdsmen.
With the acquisition of two helicopters and numerous battle enablers, the Army has successfully contained bandits’ activities in the North-west, reduced Boko Haram terrorism, and curtailed farmerherder conflicts. We are focused on the ultimate goal of achieving the total elimination of all threats to our dear nation and its people within the shortest practicable time,” Lagbaja explained.
“We have completely aligned ourselves with the directive of the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, that the Armed Forces and other security agencies should decisively deal with all security challenges facing the country. “We will continue to conduct ourselves in a manner that reflects us as a committed and professional force,” Lagbaja added.
want to sign something that limits our capacity to develop our oil and gas sector clearance,” Bagudu said. Also speaking, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Idris, expressed outrage at the level of reckless reporting and statements by some media organisations and individuals that border on national security and stability, threatening that the federal government would lodge a formal complaint to the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN) and also use every lawful means to seek redress in the court of law.
The minister accused a national newspaper (not THISDAY) of recklessness by falsely accusing the government of signing the Samoa deal to promote LGBTQ in the country.
"We found that despicable and wicked because the allegation is nowhere in the document signed. Surprisingly, the paper put forward no evidence nor provided the agreement allegedly signed to prove their point.
"The baseless and sensational story unfortunately formed a basis for khutba (sermons) by some of our respected imams who were misled by the story thereby raising tempers.
"On the part of the government, we continue on the honourable path of civility by restraining ourselves from taking self-help or draconian measures. While past governments clamped down on the media for infractions much lower than this, we are however toeing the path of civility and the rule of law," Idris said.
He noted that insidious and inciting publications by the newspaper in recent months had come across as nothing but a deliberate effort to brush the government with a tar.
REMEMBERING BANKING CONSOLIDATION…
L-R: Governor of Kwara State, Abdulraman Abdulrazaq; Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Governor of Anambra State Chukwuma Soludo; Representative of former President Olusegun Obasanjo/ former Governor of Cross River State, Mr. Donald Duke; Author of the book, Mr. Ray Echebiri; Professor Akpan Ekpo; and Deputy Governor, Financial System Stability, Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Philip Ikeazor, at the unveiling of ‘The Power of One Man: How the Soludo-Engineered Consolidation Transformed Nigerian Banks to Global Players’ in Lagos…yesterday
Nationwide Blackout as Power Grid Collapses Fourth Time in 2024
Sanwo-Olu: Power sector critical to Nigeria’s economic growth
Nigeria’s electricity grid collapsed for the fourth time around yesterday afternoon, throwing the nation into a total blackout.
This is coming as the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has described the power sector as a critical factor in economic development.
At 6.07 pm yesterday, power generation had dipped to just 57 megawatts, a significant fall from the
almost 4,000mw recorded earlier at about 8am, according to a THISDAY review of data from the Independent System Operator (ISP), an autonomous arm of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN).
A statement was still being expected from the TCN last night.
In May, TCN claimed that it had succeeded in reducing grid disturbances and collapses in Nigeria by as much as 76.47 per cent.
The company added that there
were 105 incidences between 2015 and April 2024.
A review of available information showed that the power plants contributing to the grid began to shut down from around 2pm, declining to 2,797.16mw.
It further shrank to 1,020.08MW at around 3pm before drastically falling to 0.80MW by 4pm.
Reacting to the incident, some power distributors notified their customers that the system failure
was a result of the grid collapse.
The companies, however, stated that they were working with the TCN to restore electricity as soon as possible.
On its part, the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) said: “Please be informed that the power outage being experienced is due to a system failure from the national grid at 3:10pm today, affecting the power supply to our franchise areas.
“Rest assured, we are working
Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso Not Going Back to ECOWAS, Insists Nigerien Leader, General Tiani
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The military leader of Niger Republic, General Abdourahamane Tiani, yesterday insisted that his country, along with her neighbours - Mali and Burkina Faso, have “irrevocably turned their backs” on the West African bloc, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
He disclosed this in Niamey, the capital of Niger Republic, at the opening of a summit between
the three Sahelian nations, which pulled out of the larger group earlier this year.
“Our people have irrevocably turned their backs on ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States),” Tiani said.
The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, had on Thursday, lamented that despite several efforts being made by the regional bloc to bring the three countries back to the fold, they were not showing any sign of returning
to the group.
While speaking at the opening ceremony of the 92nd Ordinary Session of the Council of Ministers of the bloc, in Abuja, he said ECOWAS was yet to establish a framework for negotiation with the authorities in the three Sahelian countries on their decision to withdraw their membership from the Community.
On January 28, the three military juntas in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger announced they would leave the ECOWAS.
“Despite our entreaties, in the form of softening of sanctions, invitation of the governments to technical meetings, and request for meetings, we have not yet gotten the right signals from these Member States,” Touray said.
A divided West Africa hosts two presidential summits this weekend – one in Niger between leaders of the Sahel region’s military regimes, followed by another in Nigeria on Sunday with leaders of a wider economic bloc.
ASUP Alleges Plot to Destroy Polytechnic Education, Kicks against New Scheme of Service
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
Nigerian polytechnic teachers under the auspices of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) have accused high-ranking officials of the federal government of working against the survival of polytechnic institutions in the country.
At the end of its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja, the union resolved to give a 15-day ultimatum to federal and state governments to suspend the implementation of the contentious aspect of the reviewed scheme of service for the institution or face industrial unrest.
The union said the document approved by the Head of Service of the Federation as a Scheme of Service for polytechnics, was highly
injurious to the interest and growth of professionals in the sector.
In the communique issued at the end of the NEC meeting in Abuja, ASUP said the document contained significant and fundamental deviations from the document prepared by stakeholders in the sector under the supervision of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).
ASUP accused the Head of Service of the Federation of implementing measures capable of killing polytechnic institutions in the country.
In the communique titled, ‘Contentious Document on Schemes of Service for Polytechnics’ delivered at the NEC meeting of ASUP, the union’s National President, Shammah Kpanja, said the document
approved as Schemes of Service for Polytechnics did not reflect the outcome of series of consultative engagements between the NBTE and stakeholders for over six years.
The communique states: "Following a critical review of the document by the NEC of the union, and in pursuit of our union’s commitment to the advancement of the interest of members and the polytechnics in Nigeria, the following resolutions were made.
"In view of the fact that several provisions in the document fell short of the expected standards as earlier observed, our union is hereby issuing a 15-day ultimatum to proprietors of all public polytechnics for the owners of the document, NBTE, to suspend implementation of the identified provisions until the
requisite amendments are effected.
"The ultimatum is with effect from Monday, July 8, 2024. At the expiration of the 15-day ultimatum, the union’s NEC will reconvene to decide a specific and legitimate course of action to address the issue.
"Zones and chapters of the union are to prepare members for necessary action within the 15 days ultimatum through congresses, peaceful protests, and media campaigns on the issue".
Kpanja said the approval route for the reviewed scheme of service, which gave rise to significant and contentious alterations, is legally questionable, adding that the role of the Office of the Head of Civil Service of The Federation (OHCSoF) as approving authority, is unaccepted.
with the relevant stakeholders to restore power as soon as the grid is stabilised.”
On its part, Kaduna Disco stated: “We regret to inform you that the power outage being experienced in our franchise states is due to system collapse of the national grid.
“The collapse occurred at about 3:10pm, hence the loss of supply on all our outgoing feeders. Power supply shall be restored as soon as the national grid is powered back. Our sincere apologies for any inconvenience.”
In its ‘notice of general system collapse’, the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company PLC (EEDC) informed its customers of a general system failure, which it said occurred at 15:09 hours yesterday afternoon.
“This has resulted in the loss of supply currently being experienced across the network. Due to this development, all our interface TCN stations are out of supply, and we are unable to provide services to our customers in Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo states.
“We are on standby awaiting
detailed information of the collapse and restoration of supply from the National Control Centre (NCC), Osogbo,” the company said. However, at about 7pm , THISDAY observed that power was being gradually restored in some parts of Abuja.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State governor, Sanwo-Olu has described the power sector as a critical factor in economic development.
The governor who spoke at the weekend during a visit to the Power House, office of the Minister of Power, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, added that no development would take place without the sector.
Addressing some of the ministry's directors who received him, the governor charged them to further improve their performance.
“The power sector is critical for economic turnaround and the development of the country, you must therefore constantly improve on your performance”, a statement by the minister’s spokesman, Bolaji Tunji, quoted him as having said.
Remi Tinubu: Nigerian Women Should Lead Nation's Food Security Campaign
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has advised Nigerian women to spearhead the food security campaign in the country.
The First Lady gave the advice yesterday while unveiling her vegetable garden, which she planted to encourage first-time women farmers to join the ongoing ‘Every Home A Garden Competition.’
Mrs. Tinubu, who has planted seven vegetables, including spinach, water leaf, bitter leaf, ewedu, lemon grass, scent leaf and okro, said a little effort on the part of every individual would go a long way in ameliorating food insufficiency.
"This little garden will be able to provide healthy vegetables enough for my household and I would definitely be able to let some of my staff have as well. The solution to any problem lies
in everyone contributing their own quota to getting that solution. As a leader I must show example and plant my own garden,” she said.
She encouraged first-time women farmers all over the country to join the competition by planting a garden in their homes so that the produce will be sufficient to feed them and their neighbours. According to her, "this will also enhance communal living and help drive the food security campaign of the Federal Government. The vegetables are medicinal and the garden is to lead by example for other women to embrace smart gardening”. She showed off the garden to the Wife of Imo State governor, Mrs. Chioma Uzodimma, and wife of the Minister of State for Defence, Mrs. Aisha Matawalle. ‘Every Home A Garden Competition’ is open to first time women farmers all over Nigeria.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
WE SHARE IN YOUR GRIEFS…
L-R: Mr. Frank Uwugiaren; Deputy Managing Director, THISDAY Newspapers, Mr. Israel Iwegbu; Mrs. Rita Uwugiaren; Editor Nation's Capital, THISDAY, Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren; Special Adviser (Media) to Minister of National Planning, Mr. Bolaji Adebiyi; President, Nigerian Guild of Editors, Mr. Eze Anaba; and Osamudiamen Uwugiaren, during the burial ceremony of Chief Uwugiaren Enabulele, in Benin City…yesterday. KINGSLEY ADEBOYE
Tinubu to Public Servants: Be Accountable to Citizens
President Bola Tinubu has implored Nigerian public servants be accountable to the citizens. He urged them to always be guided by the fact that the nation's public institutions are not personal enterprises, stressing that as public servants, they are employees of the Nigerian people.
Tinubu who made the observation yesterday during
the Nigeria Excellence Awards in Public Service (NEAPS) held at Banquet Hall of the State House, Abuja, restated his administration's determination "to creating an environment where merit is rewarded, and where every public servant feels valued and motivated to give their best".
This, he said, is not just about the awards ceremony, but about embedding a culture of recognition and reward in the ethos of the
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt and David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
The Rivers State Commissioner of Police (CP), Olatunji Disu, yesterday ordered operatives to raid hideouts domiciled by cultists, including hotels across the state.
Also, the Anambra State Police Command has warned against the planned celebration of Cult Day in the state today.
Disu’s directive, according to the state police command, was aimed at preventing cultists from holding initiations scheduled for today nationwide and also forestalling possible attacks and bloodbaths by rival cult groups in any part of the state.
The command said it got information concerning a planned nationwide celebration of its Founder’s Day by a dreaded cult group ‘Neo-Black Movement’ also known as ‘Aye’ or ‘Black Axe’.
The command’s spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, stated this in a statement issued yesterday in Port Harcourt.
The state police command cautioned the public against potential cult-related activities across the country today.
The spokesperson of the command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed that intelligence reports indicated that the confraternity intended to initiate innocent victims into their group and potentially engage in clashes with rival cults.
“We have received information about the Neo-Black Movement (NBM), also known as Aiye or Black Axe, which plans to commemorate their Founder’s Day nationwide.
“The vent, code-named Aiye
Day or 7/7, is scheduled to be observed in all states of the federation, especially in institutions of higher learning.
“The command is aware of the antecedents of the confraternity, notorious for killings on campuses, inter-cult clashes, and other criminal activities of a violent nature,’’ she explained.
Iringe-Koko said that intelligence reports also suggested the group was plotting to disrupt public peace from their strongholds and on tertiary campuses across the country.
“The ceremony could lead to counter-cult activities, inter-cult violence and other associated violent crimes in and around tertiary institutions in Rivers.
“It might provide ample opportunity for the forced initiation of innocent victims, as well as crimes such as rape and armed robbery.
“Consequently, the Commissioner of Police in Rivers, Olatunji Disu, has directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) and tactical team commanders to conduct pre-emptive and responsive raids.’’
The police image maker emphasised that the pre-emptive measures would target cult hideouts, high-risk areas and hotels that could serve as meeting points for cult leaders.
She added that police operatives had been instructed to prevent the planned event, arrest suspected cultists and bring them to justice.
“Police area commanders, DPOs and tactical team commanders are to put in place visible and effective patrol strategies, closely monitoring all tertiary institution campuses and public places to intercept cult members.
country's public service.
The President who was represented at the event by Vice President Kashim Shettima, noted that some loopholes were still being exploited by those saddled with the nation's trust despite the institutional measures put in place to prevent any form of irregularities in the public service.
Delivering the President's speech titled, "Honouring the Heartbeats of Public Service," the Vice President stated: "More than ever, our public service must live up to its expectation as a public trust where every official must account to the people, and ours is to create an ecosystem where they not only stand out but stand apart from those who sabotage us.
"Even though we have set in place institutional measures to forestall any form of dysfunction in our public service, there are still cracks often exploited by those given the trust of the nation. But
what we must never get tired of doing is reminding ourselves that our public institutions are not personal enterprises, and for that, each of us is an employee of the Nigerian citizen."
Underlining the significance of the Nigeria Excellence Awards in Public Service (NEAPS), a private sector initiative in partnership with the office of the Secretary to Government of the Federation (SGF), Tinubu gave the initiative his full support, saying it is strategic to inspire the bulk of the nation's workforce, "set benchmarks, and create a ripple effect of positive change throughout our society".
According to him, "reward and recognition are the very markers of every thriving institution, and indeed, nation," even as he noted that "the essence of any successful entity, whether a private enterprise or public institution, lies in its ability to honour those who work to uphold its values and drive
its progress.”
Earlier in his welcome address, the SGF, Senator George Akume, said NEAPS, a private sectordriven initiative, recognises and rewards innovation, purposeful leadership and hard work by exceptional individuals and organisations in the country's public service across all levels of government and the private sector.
He explained that the process of selecting the distinguished honourees was based on empirical facts and figures that are verifiable.
The 44 persons that clinched the Nigeria Excellence Awards in Public Service include: Retired General Abdulsalami Abubakar (Peace Building award); Senate President, Godswill Akpabio (Parliamentary Excellence award); Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas (Parliamentary Excellence award); Chief of Staff to the
President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila (Leadership and Administration award), and Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Senator Ibrahim Hadejia (Administrator par Excellence award).
Governors Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, Seyi Makinde of Oyo, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa, Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara and Peter Ndubuisi Mbah of Enugu were recognised for interventions in specific sectors in their respective states.
Others include: Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso (Monetary Policy Reforms award); President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote (Industrial Revolution award); and Founder/Chairman of Zenith Bank, Chief Jim Ovia (Lifetime Achievement in Banking award), among others.
Report: Unemployment Responsible for Take-off of 51.6% of Informal Businesses
Says
informal sector contributes over half of Nigeria’s GDP
A report has stated that unemployment motivated 51.6 per cent of business owners in Nigeria’s informal sector to start their ventures.
The report also indicated that businesses in the informal economy contribute over half of Nigeria’s gross domestic product (GDP), with the bulk of them (72.3 per cent) hitting revenues of more than N1 million monthly.
The 2024 Informal Economy Report by Moniepoint, which was made available at the weekend, also said that based on data from over two million businesses in Nigeria, 35.9 per cent of individuals started businesses because their formal employment was not providing enough income.
According to the Moneypoint report, only 2.8 per cent of these businesses were started out of passion, and 3.8 per cent were inherited.
The report further revealed
that more than half of the informal economy’s population is under 34 years old, with the largest group (43.1 per cent) aged between 25 and 34.
It further explained that this age group is followed by those aged 35-44 years, who represent 28.9 per cent of informal business owners.
It also pointed out that younger individuals aged 18-24 years account for 14.4 per cent of these businesses, highlighting a significant participation of the youth in the informal economy.
The 45-54 years age group comprises 10 per cent of informal business owners, while those aged 55-64 years and 65 years and over constitute smaller proportions of 2.8 per cent and 0.6 per cent, respectively.
Also, women account for only 37.1 per cent of the informal economy population in Nigeria, with men dominating the sector at 69.9 per cent.
The report read in part: “Nigeria is home to approximately 40 million
MSMEs, of which almost 90 per cent are in the informal economy.
“The informal economy, also known as the shadow economy, comprises businesses that are typically described as untaxed and unregistered. And it is all around you: your family, neighbours, and even friends who have side hustles to supplement their income. This report weaves critical data, insights, and expert perspectives to illuminate and help you understand Nigeria’s shadow economy.”
The report further pointed out that the monthly profit distribution of businesses in the informal sector in Nigeria shows that a vast majority of these businesses earn relatively low profits.
It showed that approximately 90 per cent of these businesses make less than N500,000 monthly profit, with only a small fraction earning over N2.5 million. Specifically, 79.4 per cent of businesses report monthly profits
of less than N250,000. This is followed by 10.3 per cent of businesses earning monthly profits between N251,000 and N500,000, indicating a slight increase in profitability for a small portion of businesses. Further, up the scale, 6.6 per cent of businesses have monthly profits ranging from N501,000 to N1 million. A smaller fraction, 2.3 per cent, report monthly profits between N1.1 million and N2.5 million. Only a very small segment, 1.3 per cent, have monthly profits exceeding N2.5 million. The report also revealed that eight out of 10 businesses in the informal sector have been operational for less than five years.
It showed that retail and general trade, alongside food and drinks, account for over half of the value of Nigeria’s informal economy, retail and general trade represent 38.4 per cent of the sector, while food and drinks account for 15.2 per cent.
Festus Akanbi in Lagos and Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja
HAPPY WEDLOCK…
Soludo: 2005 Banking Sector Consolidation was a War
Abiodun: Soludo was not an accidental CBN governor
Dike Onwuamaeze and Kayode Tokede
The Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, yesterday disclosed that the 2005 banking sector consolidation exercise was like a war, stressing that he received 19 threatening messages, which forced him to send his children into exile abroad after attempts were made to kidnap them in their school in Kwara State.
This is coming as the Governor of
Ogun State, Mr. Dapo Abiodun, said that Soludo was not an accidental central bank governor, adding that Soludo was also a testament to former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s knack for identifying quality staff.
Soludo, who was the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) between 2004 and 2009, revealed these at the launch of a book in Lagos titled ‘Power of One Man: How the Soludo Engineered Consolidation Transformed Nigerian Banks to Global Players,’ which was
written by a veteran journalist, Dr. Ray Echebiri.
He said the consolidation exercise of 2005 was a major revolution that transformed the banking sector forever and enhanced its capacity to finance the private sector for national economic growth and development.
Soludo said: “We went through hell, and three-quarters of my hair disappeared during that period. It was nothing short of a revolution.
“The organised labour, NLC, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria,
NACCIMA, bank’s labour union - all rose against it. All kinds of things were thrown into that war.
“I remember those days when we spent weeks here in Lagos trying to midwife mergers among strange bedfellows.
“This was the disruptive change, the revolution that has changed the Nigerian banking and financial system forever.
“The major problem of the Nigerian banks was that they needed to capitalise to be fit for purpose.
FG Unveils New Regime of Mining Rates to Boost Sector’s Reforms
The federal government, through the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, has announced a new regime of rates for the mining sector to enhance the ease of doing business and consolidate ongoing reforms.
At a press conference yesterday, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, stated that the review underscored the federal government's commitment to increasing revenue from solid minerals to enhance service delivery and bolster mining's contribution to economic development.
Under the new regime, investors applying for a Mining Lease licence will pay N3 million, while Small Scale
Mining Lease (SSML) applicants will pay N300,000 for the first two cadastral units.
The cost to obtain an Exploration Licence (EL) is N600,000 for the first 100 cadastral units. A Quarry lease now attracts N300,000, while a reconnaissance permit is N300,000.
The new regulations introduced in consultation with industry stakeholders, were to discourage speculation and address the paucity of funds limiting the federal government's capacity to improve ease of doing business in the sector.
The new rates, which affected 268 items in the industry, include an annual service fee of N31,500 for the first time; N260,000 for a Small Scale Mining License (SSML); N500,000 for a Quarry
Lease; and N1,250,000 for firms operating with a Mining Lease.
Following the renewal of licences, the rates for the respective categories would be N42,000 for an Exploration Licence; N420,000 for a SmallScale Mining Lease (SSML); N1,500,000 for a Mining Lease, and N1,100,000 for a Quarry Lease.
Other services affected by the new regulations include mineral title applications of the Mining Cadastral Office (MCO), alongside the transfer, enlargement, surrender, and consolidation of mineral titles.
According to Alake, the new regulations seek to maximise royalties from critical minerals like lithium and gold to boost the nation's revenue base and
contribute significantly to economic development.
In the new rates regime, Lithium ore (Lepidolite) at the current market value of N600,000 per tonne attracts an N18,000 royalty per tonne; lithium (Kunzite) with a current market value of N3 million per tonne attracts a N90,000 royalty per tonne, while lithium ore (Spodumene) with a current market value of N316,667 per tonne attracts a N9,500 royalty per tonne.
The rates review also affects services rendered by the Mining Cadastral Office (MCO) and the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency (NGSA). He disclosed that comprehensive details of the new rates regime will be posted on the ministry's website.
You cannot be talking about private sector-led development without a financial system that can finance the private sector. That for me was like a slogan.
“So, we had a decision to make: Either to go on patching or decide that this house has cracked down to its foundation and needs to pull it down and start from scratch. That was the decision that we faced. We decided that this house had to be pulled down and built from the ground.
“When we raised the capital base from an equivalent of $15 million to the equivalent of $200 million, there was a screaming headline that declared it impossible.
“Some bankers took advertorials declaring it impossible. And the war began,” he explained.
Soludo said former President Olusegun Obasanjo should be appreciated for standing his ground and giving the policy implementation his full support against all odds.
He said: “It was a war and this is where we must celebrate the ‘One-Man,’ (Obasanjo).
“We had made the statement that the train had left the situation. But what if the president himself, under pressure from all sides, began to call you that ‘this thing is too much. The heat is too much. Everyone is complaining. Can’t we differ this or stretch the time?’
“A chairman of a bank, a professor, approached Obasanjo that this cannot work. But Obasanjo told him that
if they cannot merge to meet the capital requirements, then let the bank go.”
Soludo pointed out that “what the policy did was to kick-start a race to the top. What we did was take people who were used to playing in an office space to a football field where they could play the ball as high as possible and run as far as they could go.
“And after playing on that field, if anybody wants to take them back to playing in that tiny office, they will resist it. That is exactly what happened.”
Speaking during the book presentation, Obasanjo, who was the Chief Guest of Honour, identified himself as the “One-Man” because he was the coach who assembled the team of the board of the governors of CBN and handed over the captain’s band to Soludo.
Obasanjo, who was represented by the former Governor of Cross River State, Mr. Donald Duke, warned of the danger of returning to the era when one person, or few individuals, would own a banking institution, insisting that Nigeria must learn from history.
The Governor of CBN, Dr. Olayemi Cardoso, who was the Principal Guest of Honour, said that Soludo took a bold decision for the common good of the country 20 years ago when he announced the banking consolidation exercise on July 6, 2004, “and we are here today talking about that.”
Fubara: We Won’t Be Distracted, Seeks Support for Good Governance
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
Won’t be Tolerated in Benue
Gov Alia Reads Riot Acts to Bandits, Says Terrorists
George Okoh in Makurdi
Benue State Governor, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia, has declared that his administration had exhausted the elasticity of its patience with the armed bandits hiding in forests and consistently disrupting the peace of the people of the Sankera axis of the state, saying he would no longer guarantee the olive branch he severally extended to them in the past.
The governor, who expressed sadness over the recent events that happened in the Ukum Local Government Area (LGA) of the state, which left his government with no choice but to declare a curfew in the area, said he would not sit back and allow anyone or a group to frustrate the peace of the state and destabilise his government. Alia stated this during a live
broadcast to the people of the state at the weekend.
Gunmen had on Tuesday night attacked Ayati village in Ukum LGA, killing six people.
This led to a peaceful protest in Zaki-Biam on Wednesday, which gave room for hoodlums to destroy several properties.
The governor, who described the killings as senseless, extended his sympathies to the families of the victims of the attacks, assuring the people of the local government area that he had listened to their cries.
“I assure you that I have listened. The mayhem caused by these heinous acts of violence has not gone unnoticed, and I stand with you in condemning these atrocities. Full military intervention has been ordered in the area,” he added. He said he had already sent his
deputy, Mr. Sam Ode, who had visited Ukum LGA to carry out an on-the-spot assessment of the scenes of destruction, insisting that the destruction of the public property only served to compound the challenges and divert resources that would have been used to address the root causes of the crisis.
“Let me emphasise that while we empathise with the pain and frustration felt, we must channel our energies towards constructive actions. Destruction of public property and chaos only serve to compound our challenges and divert resources that could be better used to address the root causes of these issues.”
The governor reiterated his administration's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all the residents of the state, disclosing that
he had intensified efforts, collaborating with the security agencies, to bring the perpetrators of violent and criminal acts in the state to justice.
He promised that in the coming days, his government would set up a commission of inquiry to investigate the remote and immediate causes of the mayhem in Ukum, adding that more actions would be taken to demonstrate his unwavering commitment to bring the retrogressive activities in the area to a total end.
Governor Alia, however, appealed to the good people of Sankera and its environs to remain calm and exercise restraint, urging them to work together with his government to rebuild and restore peace in their communities, especially as he was committed to addressing their concerns with urgency and diligence.
Rivers State Governor, Mr. Siminalayi Fubara, has insisted that nothing would distract his administration from giving the people the best to improve the quality of life in the state
This is coming as the factional Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, has applauded the Court of Appeal’s judgment that nullified his expulsion and that of 24 other members of the assembly.
Fubara spoke yesterday shortly after inspecting the premises and structures of the Zonal Hospital, Degema Town in Degema Local Government Area.
The governor noted the absence of a befitting healthcare facility in the area but said that the right steps were being taken to address the situation.
Fubara emphasised that his administration was giving greater attention to issues of healthcare, education, and agriculture to enable people to access quality services from the key sectors.
The governor said: “We are here
this afternoon, just like what happened yesterday and if you could remember, I said part of our areas of concern, going forward, will be healthcare services.
“And yesterday, I did mention that we were on inspection to check the Bori Zonal Hospital covering that particular senatorial district, and will also go and see those in Degema, Ahoada, and Omoku.
“But we are here in Degema today to assess the level of work ongoing. As you can see, we don’t have a befitting and standard healthcare facility here. And that is why we need to put this place to make it standard.”
The governor added: “Part of the areas that have just been explained to me on my visit this afternoon is the area earmarked for staff quarters - doctors and nurses - areas that will be used to develop a modern mortuary and a laundry because a medical facility must have a standard laundry.
“So, they have also shown me what they are doing, and the foundation for the laundry that is also almost completed,” he added.
Folalumi Alaran in Abuja
L-R: Director, Mensa Group Indonesia, Mr. Jonathan Budi Sudharta; Chairman, Orange Group, Sir Tony Ezenna; Director, Orange Group, Mrs Lizzy Ezenna; and General Manager, Export, Mensa Group, Indonesia, Mrs. Yulia
P Hidayat, at the traditional wedding ceremony of Adaobi and Ugochukwu Ezenna in Hanover, Maryland, USA…recently.
08038588469 Email:festus.akanbi@thisdaylive.com
Fidelity Bank: Targeting Strategic Growth Plan with Public Offer
Being the first quoted bank to open its public offer this year ahead of the banking sector recapitalisation directive of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Fidelity Bank is already enjoying massive support on the back of its streak of impressive performance, reports Festus Akanbi
Recently, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) released new guidelines on the minimum capital requirement for banks operating in Nigeria. This ranges from N50billion to N500billion depending on the type of licence held by the bank. In total, approximately N4.14trillion is expected to be raised between now and March 31, 2026.
Bookmakers said factors like speed, strategy, and good calculation will determine the chunk of the gains that will be accrued to individual investors and the banks as the investing community gets set for the reinvention of the 2005 banking consolidation exercise.
This is why the ongoing Fidelity Bank Plc’s N127.10 billion capital raising initiative at the capital market has continued to draw reactions from the investing public who admitted that Fidelity Bank is already counting the gains of its proactive measures.
While some other banks are still deliberating on what to do to raise their capital, Fidelity Bank, which had announced its desire to shore up its capital well ahead of the CBN’s announcement, is now on the verge of having its N127.10billion capital target fully realised.
Analysts said the bank is banking on its stream of impressive performance to woo potential recent review has shown that Fidelity Bank outperformed all major market indices for measuring returns in the Nigerian stock market.
Marketable Performance
Nigerian stock market showed that investors in Fidelity Bank have earned more than 507 per between May 31, 2019, and May 31, 2024. Fidelity Bank’s share price rose by 507.14 per cent over the period, representing an average annual capital gain of 101.43 per cent. This benchmarks, including the banking sector. and an average annual gain of more than 100 per cent, the return analysis implies that investment in Fidelity Bank is more attractive than securities such as government and corporate bonds; real estate investment and mutual funds among others.
These returns underscore Fidelity Bank’s immense value as a stock for all times, help-
The bank’s CEO, Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, disclosed that the funds would drive regional expansion, technological transformation, and deliver value to shareholders and customers.
Strategic Growth Plan
Stating that the proceeds from the capital raising exercise would be instrumental in achieving its strategic growth plan, OnyealiIkpe said the funds will be deployed to drive the following growth aspiration, business and regional expansion within and outside Nigeria, and growth our earning base and lastly, it will help us to increase our capacity to support our customers.”
The bank’s management would not want to be caught up in the looming frenzy, thus
Addressing the investing public at the NGX,
the bank’s chief executive reiterated the commitment of the bank to delivering impressive returns to shareholders and supporting the growth of the Nigerian economy.
A Proactive Business Plan
She explained that the new capital raising by Fidelity Bank was driven by its proactive business expansion plan having secured shareholders’ approval to raise new equity funds as early as August 2023. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) directive on new minimum capital was released in March 2024.
She assured that with its groundswell of support from enthusiastic shareholders, customers, and stakeholders, the bank is on course to achieving the N500 billion new minimum capital doubt, as one of the biggest banks in Nigeria. deployed to drive, business growth and regional expansion.
“We will strategically expand our footprints within and outside Nigeria to serve a broader customer base and unlock new market opportunities.
“Secondly, we will have what we call technological transformation. We are committed to leveraging proprietary technology to improve customer service.”
From the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) to stockbrokers, investors, and customers; the N127.1 continued to receive unreserved recommendations, with industry thought leaders citing the performance of Fidelity Bank in its core banking operations and as a quoted company at the stock market.
billion ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at N9.25ing 10 billion ordinary shares of 50 kobo each to the general investing public at N9.75 per share.
Shareholders’ Nod
President, of the Association for the Advancement of Rights of Nigerian Shareholders (AARNS), Dr. Faruk Umar, said the performance of Fidelity Bank over the years has been very encouraging.
According to him, the bank has a very good corporate governance structure that reassures
investors of the safety of their investments.
He pointed out that the successful acquisition of Union Bank UK was a testimony to the
National Coordinator, Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria, Mr. Boniface Okezie, said investment in Fidelity Bank has proven to be all positive for investors, with good immediate returns and long-term capital appreciation.
According to him, a good investment serves the dual purpose of helping the investors with a good stream of income and preserving longterm value.
“I will take my right issues in Fidelity Bank, considering the bank’s performance over the years. It has been delivering delivered excellent returns to investors. We’ve not regretted putting our hard-earned money in the bank. That is the reason why I’m going to reinvest more into the bank for further income into my pocket because we are seeing higher dividends from the bank year in and year out. That is what average investors look out for before making and foremost,” Okezie said.
The Doyen of Stockbrokers, the oldest practisthe bank has good records going for it with its
dividend payments.
According to him, the bank is known to the market as a good investment, with evident records of impressive returns and corporate responsibility.
Chairman of the Association of Securities Dealing Houses of Nigeria (ASHON), Mr Sam Onukwue, who recalled the founding days of Fidelity Bank in 1987, said he had watched Fidelity Bank sustain a commendable growth trajectory over the years.
Onukwue, also managing director of Mega Equities Limited, said Fidelity Bank’s history of performance underlines the strength of its management, noting that the bank has proven to be able to keep investors’ trust.
In its 2023 full-year Audited Financial Statements, the bank reported a 131.5% growth in
According to the results, the bank grew Gross Earnings by 64.9% YoY to N555.83 billion, driven by 81.6% growth in Net interest income which increased from N152.7 billion to N277.37 billion. representing a 112.9% annual growth.
year with strong double-digit growth across key income and balance-sheet lines. Our performance in 2023 is an attestation of our capacity to deliver superior returns to shareholders despite the before tax grew by 131.5% to N124.3bn from N53.7bn in 2022FY, leading to an increase in Return on Average Equity (RoAE) of 26.5% from 15.6% in 2022FY.”
that the bank grew Net interest income by 81.6% to N277.4bn driven by a 55.5% increase in asset yield throughout the year. The average funding cost dropped by 20bps to 4.4% due to increased low-cost funds that grew from 83.6% in 2022FY to 97.4% in 2023. The combination of higher asset yield and lower funding cost led to an increase in Net Interest Margin (NIM) of 8.1% from 6.3% in 2022FY.
Fidelity Bank has consistently paid dividends of 60 kobo per share, Fidelity Bank would be paying investors a total dividend of 85 kobo per share for the reporting period, a 70.0% increase compared to the 50 kobo per share paid to its shareholders in the previous year.
A branch of Fidelity Bank
Nneka Onyeali
GIVE ANIOMA STATE A CHANCE
Anioma will serve the strategic interest of the Igbo nation, argues HAROLD OKWUCH
I
The mood of the country seems to in Nigeria are making efforts, of the injustices that the south east zone of the country has them all is the imbalance in the distribution
To ensure that this imbalance does not become a permanent feature of the Nigerian Federation, some concerned members of the National Assembly are taking steps to bail the south east in particular and Nigeria
beginning to witness bills and applications before the National Assembly for the Whereas some south east legislators may see the possible opening as an opportunity to put forward their agitations for their dream states, something more pragmatic and more enduring has come up to fill the
south state such as Delta to seek to fill the the catch here, and that is the beauty of the matter, is that an Anioma State to be created
will not be part of the south south, rather, it will become part and parcel of the south
The thinking behind this plan is not The real deal in the arrangement is that the their kith and kin in the eastern region of commendation for coming up with this idea
represents Delta North in the Senate has The people are looking forward to this arrangement that will integrate them with is issuing forth from the Ndokwas and the Ukwuanis, the agitation for Anioma state is not throw away the baby with the bath
should think about this before they commit Outside Delta State, it is important to take a Just like the bill for Anioma State, some the creation of Orlu and Etiti States out of the additional state being proposed for the The demand for Orlu state, just like that of them the right to push their case to the front need to be strategic in their thinking in this What should be paramount here should
Agitations for Orlu and Etiti States, when placed side by side with the demand for that will come with the arrangement cannot arrangement will also help the south east This, no doubt, will bring about accelerated
For those who may not know, the integration of Anioma State into the south east, when created, will be a significant first are scattered in at least ten states of the the south east are a bit reluctant to identify
Anioma, they will like to join the mainstream that will be buoyed into action by Anioma
THE ENUGU COURT JUDGMENT
PATRICIA C. EDEH reckons that the sentencing of Bright Ngene is wrong
The legal community in Enugu State was on June 28, 2024, jolted by the Ngene, by Magistrate Emmanuel Dominic Onwu without an option complaint by a faction of the Akwuke Town Area about the lodging of N15m belonging to the community into the bank account disburs ement of N11m from the funds to a contractor who constructed the community’s
union’s leadership that resulted in an embargo was taken to use the lawyer’s account for the union’s urgent matters until the matter was
“The magic of this trial is that the same townsmen who made the complaint
Chief Lucky Chukwu, a lawyer who was once a member of the Enugu State House of Assembly and later the state Commissioner
Chukwuemeka John Okereke, the lead without the trial magistrate allowing him to the legal team he led were dismissed before fellow lawyers in the presence of journalists in
has produced the likes of Justice Daddy World Court; the honorable Justice Augustine Nnamani of the Supreme Court, a former Federal Attorney General and Commissioner
Town Union who was jailed alongside Many in Enugu read political meaning and Ewoh guilty by association, argues Chijioke Ogbodo, a famous Enugu-based broadcaster who hails from Nkanuland like both Ngene and Ewoh and is familiar Ewoh’s imprisonment is an attempt to
Ngene was the Labour Party candidate for the Enugu South Urban Constituency in the Enugu State House of Assembly
Ngene, of the Peoples Democratic Party candidate, the Court of Appeal ruled that a rerun election be held in eight polling
House of Assembly constituencies held Labour Party winner in 14 and the PDP held three weeks earlier won two of the
Conducting the election in the eight units in the Enugu South Urban constituency has, first rerun was scheduled for February 3, officials were accused of secretly writing the PDP candidate in cahoots with the PDP organizations, and political party
Mahmood Yakubu, had to suspend the Enugu State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr Chukwuemeka Joseph Chukwuemeka, an Abia State indigene, and the Enugu South LGA Electoral
As if to add to the mystery of the speedy trial and judgment, there was an unusually The security men came in two Armoured
judgment on a gubernatorial election that you can see this kind of armada in court premises”,
a former President General of the Akwuke
Mrs Elizabeth Agwu, the Anambra State PDP boycotted the election at the 11th hour and instead resorted to smashing then rescheduled to June 8, 2024, and surprisingly the Enugu State REC and the Enugu South LGA EO who were
of gross misconduct against them were mandated to conduct the third attempt at
MrsEdehwritesfromEnugu.
OkwuchiwritesfromAbuja
Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
CRITICAL ISSUES IN THE LAGOS FLOOD
The Lagos State government should step up its campaign to rid the drains of filth
The almost 10-hour torrential rainfall in Lagos and some parts of Nigeria on Wednesday presented an ominous sign of the pain and distress that residents of most cities are bound to witness in this rainy season. The reason is simple: There is no deliberate plan designed or being implemented at any level of government to protect vulnerable people, particularly those living in low lying lands or near riverbanks. This is despite repeated warnings. In April this year, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) gave a broad outline of the quantity of rain to expect across the country. That provided enough time for the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to avoid needless deaths and destruction of property and to prepare for adaptation. Obviously, there has been little or no sensitisation, as well as advisory information passed to the people. Now, Nigerians must contend with the fear that the increase in country may worsen the ravaging cholera outbreak. According to the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the cholera outbreak has resulted in 63 deaths and 2,102 suspected cases as of last Wednesday. Meanwhile, NiMet had earlier in the keep people safe. “The rains may be delayed in some states, but the coastal areas would still
lost almost all its wetlands to housing developers, experienced even with the lightest rainfall. Wetlands are those spectacular water catchment areas that hold
Not too long ago, there were wetlands on both sides of the Lekki-Epe road and on the Lagos-Ikorodu and everywhere else.
These wetlands were home to marine life, birds visit, are all gone. The downside is that storm water that
In Lagos, most of the canals are silted and unlike in the past, they were not cleared this year. It therefore came as no surprise that they could not cope during the flash floods last Wednesday, as the storm water overflowed, carrying solid wastes into homes, schools, roads
SUNDAY NEWSPAPER
EDITOR DAVIDSON IRIEKPEN
DEPUTY EDITORS FESTUS AKANBI, EJIOFOR ALIKE
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
Considering the rise in sea level, there is also the possibility that water from the Atlantic Ocean is seeping into the Lagos Lagoon instead of the other way round. Drainages in housing estates near the lagoon are taking in water and are unable to discharge into it. That this phenomenon played out last the Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab. “The tidal level for the Lagoon was up to the extent that the rainwater was not able to discharge for about one or two hours into the Lagoon and sea. That was what happened,” he explained while tendering apologies to Lagosians for their plight.
and generate a strong force, should be cleared, and subsequently kept free. These and other measures must be taken to minimise our individual and collective vulnerability,” the agency stated in April.
There are no indications that NiMeT’s prediction was taken seriously in many states. In Lagos, for instance, most of the canals are silted and unlike in the past, they were not cleared this year. It therefore came as no surprise that they could not cope during
homes, schools, roads and other structures in the neighbourhoods. It is noteworthy that Lagos has
THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
The situation is worsened by the bad habits of some of the residents who dump their solid wastes in drainages homes.
inevitable, but it could drain itself naturally and this is where the wetlands come into play as they serve as buffer and retention places until the water is able to abuse of the state’s urban and regional planning laws, as shanties and illegal structures sprout at every conceivable space. With little or no consideration for the safety of occupants in times of emergencies, property owners cherish and value the revenue from the shops more than the lives of the residents.
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LETTERS NIGERIA’S UNENDING STRUGGLE WITH ELECTRICITY
In all frankness, Nigeria’s electricity crisis is a stark reminder of her chronic inability to address critical infrastructure needs. That we are not taking the issue seriously is just another Nigerian debacle which, if not resolved, may catalyse unintended consequences. The botched privatization of the power sector, marred by a lack of technical expertise and plagued by cronyism, has failed to deliver on its promises. Instead of ushering in a new era of reliable power supply, Nigerians are still grappling with the same old ‘padi-padi’ problems that have held us back for decades. Of course, that’s why we keep seeing the same Egyptians we had left many decades ago! To avoid exacerbating this prevailing illusion, we must rethink our approach and prioritize competence over connections. Nigeria’s electricity generation is grossly growth and global competitiveness. Despite
142 years of global electricity generation, Nigeria’s output remains abysmally low, struggling to reach 10,000 megawatts for its large population. For perspective, a city like power its districts, with estimates suggesting over 40,000 megawatts to rival global hubs like New York, Singapore, or Johannesburg. Addressing this energy gap is crucial for the country’s development.
If we had been as serious, Nigeria ought to have prioritized alternative energy sources, like solar power. While previous governments’ efforts were commendable, the country could have done more. With abundant raw materials and a large market, Nigeria could have become panels, generating billions in foreign exchange and reducing electricity costs. This would have created sustainable jobs and stimulated economic growth. With the creation of the
access to credit would have made it easier developing our renewable energy sector, we more sustainable future.
The Gujarat Hybrid Renewable Energy
again, how did we get here? In Nigeria, there are places in the North that are so hot that we could have had solar farms that can generate electricity. However, the country’s energy development is hindered by a constitution that prioritizes internal consumption over exportoriented production. This has led to a system characterized by state-funded privileges, parasitic elitism and patronage politics. Clientelism, corruption and lack of political will are also part of the party. Regrettably too, organized labor has limited influence in
this context. Since it was not involved in the privatization process, its input to resolve “this deeper crisis of values” is zero! Gone were the days of the 1950s and 1960s when Nigeria was a productive powerhouse. According to the 1961 UN Yearbook, the Nigerian Ports Authority ranked 7th globally in efficiency. Then, Nigeria was a significant exporter of commodities like cocoa, rubber, palm oil, and groundnuts. If the country had maintained this momentum, what Nigeria would have been is that, by now, she would have diversified her economy and developed a robust rubber industry. This could have led to significant exports of tyres to major car manufacturers in South Africa, Japan, and the UK, potentially generating billions of dollars in revenue annually.
OLASEINDE OLUSOLA BUILDING A PERFUME EMPIRE
In his over three-year journey in the perfume business, Olaseinde Olusola has evolved into an authority on luxury niche perfumes. His stores now proudly showcase premium brands from various corners of the world, marking a significant departure from the fame he once garnered in the aughts. He tells Vanessa Obioha about his plans to build a perfume empire
Niche Perfumes are Like Artworks, They Tell Great Stories
On a recent Sunday afternoon, Olaseinde Olusola strolled into his Seinde Signature Salon de Parfum store at Lagos Oriental Hotel, exchanging pleasantries with his team. The conversation veered toward the successful flash sale, where customers seized the opportunity to acquire select luxury niche perfumes for a flat rate of N100,000.
This enticing offer served as the perfect giveaway to usher in the new year, coinciding with the company’s third ‘scentiversary’ where lucky winners will embark on a memorable trip to Milan, Italy, for an immersive perfume experience.
Surpassing expectations, the flash sale sold more than the initially advertised 200 luxury perfumes, and Olusola contemplated extending the sales. He finally gave the green light for an extended sales period.
In his over three-year journey in the perfume business, Olusola has evolved into an authority on luxury niche perfumes. His stores now proudly showcase premium brands from various corners of the world, marking a significant departure from the fame he once garnered in the aughts. Last April, he partnered with renowned nose and grandmaster scent creator Christian Provezano to launch the CP and Sospiro brand in the Nigerian market.
During the telecommunications boom, Olusola was a dominant player through his S&S Wireless telecommunications company. He was rolling in money, and even had a convoy that accompanied him anywhere he went. This portrayal stands in stark contrast to the casually walking man who entered earlier. He was the Dangote of that era, commanding respect with nearly everyone at his beck and call.
Despite his wealth during that time, Olusola maintained a modest lifestyle, eschewing extravagance. For instance, he was not particularly fond of parties, choosing to attend only those hosted by close friends or family.
“I’m not one of those Yoruba boys who look for parties to attend every weekend. I see parties as a waste of time, a breeding ground for gossip,” he shared with me on this sunny Sunday afternoon in his exquisitely scented office. A lingering incense fragrance filled the air as cases of expensive wines and perfumes majestically perched on the tiled floor. They are testaments to his partnerships with luxury brands, serving as gift cases for various occasions.
He is not a fan of native outfits either, even though he was wearing one. “I wore this because a friend dragged me to attend an event later today.”
His regular attire is just smart casual. No jeans, no suits.
Olusola reached the nadir of his life when a substantial business deal went awry. Despite heavy investments in a franchise from a telecommunications company, the venture failed to materialise. On top of that, he grappled with the fallout from the defunct Spring Bank.
According to him, he had taken an overdraft facility of N150 million from the bank but later uncovered overcharges and arbitrary interest rate increases, amounting to a staggering N47.1 million after a thorough investigation by his consultants.
What ensued was a legal battle between him and the bank such that the anti-graft agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) intervened.
And just like that, his once luxurious life became a distant mirage. For several years he could not do anything. People said many negative things about him. Some said he stole money, and even at parties, he was discussed openly as if he was invisible. In 2011, Olusola emerged victorious in the legal case, dispelling the rumours.
During this challenging period, Olusola found a renewed relationship with Almighty God.
“I gained a lot during that experience. I was able to see life in the proper perspective. And a lot of things we see do not exist.”
He revealed that he was on the verge of becoming a pastor before his wealth dwindled. Back then, he dutifully contributed lofty offerings and tithes, believing it was the path to a righteous life in the kingdom of heaven.
“I thought that as much as you give is as
much as God answers you.”
But when he encountered his problem, he could not comprehend why he would face such a difficult situation.
“Even the GO I was giving money every month simply wrote a letter saying that we are praying for you, and since that time, nobody ever asked about me.”
As he studied the word of God, Olusola realized many profound truths and revelations. His conclusion? Many sermons preached in churches today are misleading. Now, he is at a place of peace and joy with his Maker. This, he believes, is the true meaning of Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:33: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
“Only one gospel singer talked about this and that’s Ron Kenoly in his song ‘Righteousness, Peace and Joy.’”
Olusola has been entrepreneurial since his days as a student at Yaba College of Technology, where he studied Graphics Arts. Even then, he showcased his enterprising spirit, crafting logos for brands and influential personalities, including billionaire Folorunsho Alakija. In his second year, he purchased his first car, and by graduation, he had established both a laundry company and a graphics and design firm.
“I can’t sit in an environment and be idle. I find solutions to problems.”
His entrepreneurial spirit proved invaluable during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. Since 1982, Olusola has been collecting perfumes, a pastime he once thought was a fetish.
“Initially, I just bought perfume for fun. It makes me happy. I like it when people comment on my perfume.”
Like many Nigerians who entertained themselves via social media to kill the ennui during that period, Olusola scrolled through Instagram. To his surprise, he stumbled upon pages dedicated to perfumes, with enthusiasts referring to themselves as fragheads. This revelation dispelled his notion that he was an olfactory alien, realising
We want to build our stores in such a way that it is the most comprehensive (he didn’t want to use this word) perfume store you have ever been to in the world. The structure we have in place now is in such a way that we do not sell beyond what is sold abroad.”
in Lagos, Abuja, and Warri.
“My passion for perfume collection has translated into business. I no longer have a collection.”
For Olusola, perfumes are akin to artworks, each telling a unique story. For instance, he talked about Eshu, a fragrance crafted by Thai perfumer Prin Lomros.
“Eshu in Yoruba language means the devil. We all know the characteristics of the devil: crafty, deceitful and all sorts. Now someone actually created a perfume that behaves that way. It sorts of exudes such characteristics.”
He gave another example of perfumes made from semen which according to the creator was an homage to the creation of human life.
that his love for perfumes was shared and understood by a community.
Inspired by these pages, he began displaying his collection, confident that he had more. At the time, he had over 1000 bottles of perfumes. The response was overwhelming, with people reaching out to him eager to witness his impressive collection.
As excited as he was about this, a little problem lurked in the corner. All his perfumes were stored in a cabinet in his bedroom and there was no way his wife would allow a stranger into their private chamber.
When the first fraghead visited, he undertook the herculean task of navigating the stairs to show off his collection. Eventually, his wife relented, allowing the fraghead into their bedroom to witness the extensive array of perfumes.
“We spent the whole day in my bedroom,” he said. As the demand to see his collection increased, Olusola built a cabinet and relocated most of his perfumes to another section of the house.
Sundays evolved into gatherings of fragheads at his home. While contemplating how to accommodate the increasing crowd, he conceived the idea to establish a perfume museum at the Lagos Oriental Hotel. The museum proudly showcased a myriad of niche luxury perfumes, including the Quelques Fleurs perfume worn by the late Princess Diana on her wedding day.
The shelves of the museum no longer showcase the array of fragrances as people began purchasing them. Generous in sharing his passion, he gave away bottles of perfumes, such as the memorable gesture of distributing 58 bottles on his 58th birthday. This year was no different as he marked his 62nd birthday. Over N100 million worth of perfumes will be given away to lucky customers for 365 days, starting from May 8, 2024 to May 8, 2025.
His platform also attracted other niche brands seeking entry into the Nigerian market. Now, he proudly oversees retail stores
“The niche perfumes go a whole lot of length to create a story. You can see perfumers creating fragrances from different parts of the world like the Romanian who created the perfume Osun after the Osun god known for fertility. He has never been to Nigeria before but he read about it and built different characteristics to reflect that.”
Olusola further explained the distinction between designer perfumes and niche perfumes, drawing a parallel to an original painting versus a reproduction of that painting.
“Designer perfumes are mass produced while niche is for a select few and much attention is paid to the materials used compared to designer’s.”
Initially, like many Nigerians, Olusola believed the quality of a perfume was solely based on its scent. However, over the years, he gained a deeper understanding that it extends beyond just the smell. His expertise in niche perfumes even led to an invitation to Milan, the city known for its “noses,” to speak on the subject. Despite his knowledge, the lack of understanding of the perfume industry posed challenges for Olusola, making it difficult to secure loans from banks.
His future plans include having more retail stores and three perfume experience studios across the country.
“It’s going to be a lounge-like perfume studio where people can have a unique olfactory experience as well as relax and have good conversations.”
The ultimate goal is to build a perfume empire. “We want to build our stores in such a way that it is the most comprehensive (he didn’t want to use this word) perfume store you have ever been to in the world. The structure we have in place now is in such a way that we do not sell beyond what is sold abroad.”
He is lucky to have his daughter integrated into the business from a younger age. Now his son is hoping to do the same but he must first get a green light from the human resources department. Olusola is meticulous about ensuring things are done correctly, as evidenced by proudly displaying his son’s employment letter, awaiting his golden signature.
Olusola
HighLife
Olalekan Adebiyi: The Roadmaster
When genius peaks, every gesture of it returns to be basics, looking extremely simplistic. Such is the case for Olalekan Adebiyi, the founder and CEO of LaraLek Ultimate Constructions. Presently, he stands out in Nigeria’s construction sector for his remarkable ability to deliver extraordinary projects with a quiet efficiency that speaks volumes.
Despite the competitive landscape of Nigerian construction firms, LaraLek Ultimate Constructions remains unparalleled, largely due to Adebiyi’s strategic leadership and hands-on approach. His focus on endurance and practicality over flashy designs has earned LaraLek a reputation as one of the most dependable indigenous contractors in the country.
What distinguishes Adebiyi from his peers is not just his technical prowess but also his humility. He prefers his work to speak for itself rather than engaging in boastful claims. This modesty, combined with his commitment to excellence and economy, has garnered trust and repeat business from satisfied clients across Nigeria.
Adebiyi’s impact extends beyond road construction. Recently, LaraLek played a pivotal role in the renovation of the National Assembly complex in Abuja. This further cemented his company’s versatility and capability in handling large-scale, prestigious projects. Adebiyi’s knack for building robust frameworks and delivering on complex projects has earned him accolades from the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE). This recognition has only strengthened his unconventional path to success and his innate talent for construction management.
In Lagos, LaraLek’s footprint is everywhere, including in transformative projects like the 10-lane Oshodi-Murtala Muhammed International Airport Road and the Ayobo-Ipaja Road. These have all significantly improved transportation infrastructure in the city. In some ways, they show the kind of progress that Adebiyi has helped bring to South-west Nigeria. With his work at the National Assembly complex as proof of work, many eyes are trained on Adebiyi and his LaraLek Ultimate Constructions. Given his track record of delivering beyond expectations and a commitment to continuous improvement, Adebiyi will likely continue to set new benchmarks in the construction industry, reinforcing his status as the unrivalled ‘Roadmaster’ of infrastructure development.
with KAYODE ALFRED 08116759807, E-mail: kayflex2@yahoo.com
...Amazing
famous Alison Madueke: A Battle for Name, Legacy
Some people think that names are not very important. Such people need to book a meeting with retired Rear Admiral Alison Madueke who currently stands resolute, seeking to reclaim his name from the shadows of scandal cast by his ex-wife, Diezani Alison-Madueke.
Social media is currently agog over Madueke’s impassioned appeal to the court to prevent Diezani from using his first name (Alison) and surname (Madueke) following their dissolution. Their marriage, once a symbol of union, dissolved amid allegations and trials that have besmirched Madueke’s reputation.
Despite their legal separation in 2022, Diezani continues to wield the Madueke name, facing extensive legal proceedings in Nigeria and the UK for alleged corruption. The Admiral, renowned for his service in the Nigerian Navy, argues that Diezani’s use of his name poses a significant risk to his legal and financial standing. Thus, his plea to the court.
According to Madueke, it perpetuates a false perception of their relationship, thereby tarnishing his reputation. To this end, his legal team has formally requested Diezani to revert to her pre-marital surname (Agama) and publish notices of her name change in national newspapers in Nigeria and the UK to mitigate further reputational damage.
On one hand, Madueke’s plea before the court symbolises his determination to protect his name and legacy from being further entangled in the fallout from his ex-wife’s controversial tenure as Nigeria’s Minister of Petroleum. But it also represents his quest to restore honour and shield his reputation in his post-military life.
As the courtroom drama unfol ds, folks are exchanging opinions on the rightness of Admiral Madueke’s appeal. However, the narrative demonstrates the complexities faced by individuals whose reputations are intertwined with public figures embroiled in controversy.
Ibrahim Sini: A Fine Officer to Emulate
Many find it difficult to make sense of morality in times of economic hardship. In street parlance, “person wey never chop no fit see road.” But Ibrahim Sini walks a different path. In fact, given his strong sense of virtue, it is not far-fetched to say that he is charting a new course for uprightness in Nigeria.
Indeed, Superintendent of Police (SP) Sini’s story of rejecting a bribe of N150 million is a stirring tale of integrity. When Lagos businessman and founder of Platform Capital, Akintoye Akindele, allegedly attempted to corrupt the investigation against him with this substantial bribe, SP Sini stood firm and refused.
Rejecting a bribe of that magnitude, especially in the current economic climate, must have been a challenging decision. However, SP Sini chose integrity and peace of mind over personal gain, adhering to the core values of the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) and maintaining the integrity of his family name.
This act of uprightness has not gone
Bella Disu: Carving a Legacy Beyond Inheritance
With her spine erect, stiffer than a crowbar, Bella Disu stands out among corporate giants in Nigeria. She is no longer just the daughter of billionaire Mike Adenuga, but a formidable force in her own right. Disu’s journey is marked by courage, purpose, and a relentless drive to create an enduring legacy of excellence.
As CEO of Cobblestone Properties and Estates since 2011, Disu has transformed the company into a powerhouse in real estate development. Under her leadership, Cobblestone has completed 12 projects and has seven ongoing ones. Each of these reflects the brilliant lady’s meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality.
But it doesn’t stop there. Bella’s portfolio includes iconic landmarks such as Bella’s Place, The Mall, Ile-Oja at Opebi, and Sisi Paris. It is these developments that truly showcase her ability to blend aesthetic elegance with functional design, setting new benchmarks in the industry.
In the past, Disu was only well-known for a handful of roles. These include her
chairmanship in Abumet Nigeria and a NonExecutive Director role at Julius Berger Nigeria Plc. However, regarding her consummate grasp of strategic diversification and organisational growth, much of the credit was given to the giant strides she made in the telecommunications industry as the Executive Vice Chairman of Globacom.
This is gradually changing. Her iconic landmarks demonstrate her to be more than just the ‘business-minded’ daughter of Dr. Adenuga. With her achievements in real estate, alone, she is almost qualified to be placed on the same level as her genius father.
Disu is also a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment. She founded the SheGlows Programme to nurture female leaders at Globacom and successfully created a supportive ecosystem for women to thrive.
Through the Bella Disu Foundation, she is spreading love and humanity. Disu also contributed to the Alliance Française Mike Adenuga Centre in Lagos, a project commissioned by French President Emmanuel
unnoticed. SP Sini’s conduct has resulted in national acclaim, bringing pride to the NPF and inspiring many Nigerians. His decision has been celebrated as a pillar of hope in the fight against corruption, demonstrating that it is possible to remain true to one’s values even in the face of great temptation.
In recognition of his exemplary conduct, SP Sini was recently honoured with a plot of land in Abuja. This gift was presented by FCT Police Commissioner CP Benneth Igweh on behalf of friends and associates of the police officer. According to Igweh and others at the event, it was the least they could do to show their appreciation and admiration for Sini’s actions.
Sini has set a new tone for integrity within Nigeria. His actions have shown that there are still officers within the NPF who are professional, ethical, and committed to meaningful policing. By rejecting the bribe, SP Sini reinforces the belief that the Force is still an institution with good people, capable of upholding the law with honour and integrity.
Macron.
Gradually, she is catching up to her father, relying on nothing but ambition, resilience, and an indomitable spirit.
Bishop Kwakpovwe Celebrates Wedding Anniversary with Wife
Bishop Chris Kwakpovwe, the esteemed publisher of the renowned Christian devotional “Our Daily Manna,” recently celebrated his wedding anniversary with his beloved wife, Rev. Mrs. Flora. This milestone marks almost three decades of love, partnership, and shared devotion to faith and family. Given how marriages end faster than a sneeze these days, the marriage of the Kwakpovwes is a pillar of strength for Christians in Nigeria. Since their union, Bishop Chris and Lady Flora have inspired many individuals and homes. Their marriage is a good example of unwavering commitment and shared dedication to spreading the Gospel through
their shared ministry. Together, they have built a legacy of faith and service.
Bishop Chris is the more popular of the couple, being a revered author and speaker. He is best known for his impactful daily devotional “Our Daily Manna,” which has touched countless lives globally. However, the reason he has come this far is that Lady Flora has been a steadfast support. Reflecting on their journey on the wedding anniversary, Bishop Chris expressed deep gratitude for his wife. “Almost three decades of marriage to my beautiful wife Flora has been a blessing beyond words,” he said. “Together, we have faced challenges and celebrated victories, all while holding steadfast to our faith.”
Lady Flora echoed his sentiments, highlighting
Disu their journey of love, laughter, and God’s grace. “Chris has been a loving husband and a devoted father to our children,” she said. “As we celebrate this milestone, I am reminded of God’s faithfulness in our lives and the incredible journey He has taken us on.”
It has been an incredible journey indeed, especially for those who have kept up with them since they started Manna Prayer Mountain (MPM) Ministry Worldwide. They have also spearheaded philanthropic initiatives such as Mercy Week and the Dream Centre, providing medical aid and support to the less privileged. With the Kwakpovwes, love and marital commitment have gained a familiar face. Truly, they are inspiring many with their story.
Kwakpowe
Sini
Why Gov. Oyebanji is Very Loyal to Kayode Fayemi
Nigerian State governors are not often the biggest fans of their predecessors. Whenever a scapegoat for economic stagnation is wanted, the predecessor’s name is usually thrown into the mix. But not so with Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State. For him, his predecessor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, is one whose name must be hallowed.
Governor Oyebanji recently openly expressed his deep admiration and loyalty towards his predecessor, Dr. Fayemi, marking a strong contrast in the often tumultuous relationships between governors and their precursors.
At a recent event in Abuja celebrating the achievements of Mrs. Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, Governor Oyebanji described Dr. Fayemi as his lifelong mentor and “boss for life,” emphasising the profound influence and support he continues to receive from him.
During the event, Governor Oyebanji
waxed merrily about Fayemi. He did not blush when he decorated the latter with fangirl precision.
Amazingly, Dr. Fayemi has also been vocal about his successor. Readers might recall how he took his time to commend Governor Oyebanji’s administration during the commissioning of the AdoEkiti bus terminal last year, citing visible achievements and effective governance initiatives. He stated that he was very satisfied with Oyebanji’s performance, especially how the latter continues to affirm the progress he envisioned for the state.
The seamless transition and collaborative efforts between Governor Oyebanji and Dr. Fayemi reflect a shared commitment to genuine governance and development in Ekiti.
Lagos Lawyer, Gboyega Adetunji, Delves into Agriculture, Floats Abundish
Genius often comes with preparation.
Gboyega Adetunji, a renowned legal practitioner based in Lagos, who has embarked on a transformative journey into agriculture with the launch of Abundish, exemplifies this. Adetunji’s revolutionary farm-to-table service is set to redefine how Nigerians access fresh, highquality, and healthy farm produce.
From his perspective, Abundish is not merely a business but a movement aimed at empowering farmers, supporting local economies, and providing consumers with fresh produce while reducing food wastage.
The innovative platform offers a subscription-based model, allowing customers to customise their experience and receive curated selections of seasonal produce delivered conveniently to their homes.
Adetunji really struck gold with this idea. His career trajectory is proof that he has diverse talents and is in relentless pursuit of excellence.
Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), has found himself at the centre of a political and economic storm. But with this trouble comes unexpected friends.
The Confederation of All Progressives Congress Support Groups (CASG) is one of the handful that have taken up arms with Kyari to fight sneaky adversaries that are asking for Kyari to be fired. According to the group, the calls for Kyari’s removal are not driven by genuine concerns but by individuals whose illicit wealth sources have been blocked by his actions.
The higher-ups of CASG are very passionate about defending Kyari. According to them, the enemies of the NNPCL boss are desperate to replace him with someone more amenable to their personal interests, after which they would then disregard the well-being of the NNPC and Nigeria.
Kyari’s troubles began when the matter of fuel prices plunged in Nigeria, leading to unreasonable and unusual hikes in price and scarcity. Going by CASG’s narrative,
With his Bachelor of Law degree from Obafemi Awolowo University, the man has served in various capacities, including as a Legal Officer and Investigator with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and as the Managing Partner at ASALAW LP.
But there is more to Adetunji. He has a strong entrepreneurial spirit, which led him to cofound Addictool, a startup focused on helping individuals manage their social media usage. Now, with Abundish, Adetunji is breaking new ground in agriculture, challenging the notion of mediocrity often associated with Nigerian enterprises.
By every indication, Adetunji’s foray into agriculture with Abundish proves that he can transcend traditional boundaries and make a significant impact across diverse fields. Whether it is as a legal expert or an agricultural innovator, the man is clearly deeply committed to excellence and community development.
Kudos to Mohammed Bello-Koko
of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), is one such person. He has been instrumental in transforming the nation’s maritime sector since assuming office in February 2022.
Under Bello-Koko’s leadership, the NPA has emerged as a leading calvary of efficiency and transparency, earning accolades as the most committed agency in driving government reforms. This commitment is proved true by the NPA’s achievement of 100% in implementing over 63 reform activities, significantly enhancing operational effectiveness across Nigerian ports.
One of the pivotal reforms initiated under Bello-Koko’s stewardship is the reduction in export processing time from an average of 10 days to a swift three to five days. This move has greatly boosted Nigeria’s competitiveness in global trade and is one of the highlights of BelloKoko’s proactive approach to streamlining processes and enhancing the ease of doing business within the maritime sector.
Bello-Koko’s strategic vision extends beyond immediate reforms to long-term
Who is After Mele Kyari?
Governor Mohammad Bago of Niger State has been making waves, particularly in the area of food security. Bago’s recent speech at the 2023 annual Leadership Newspaper Conference and Awards held in Abuja garnered significant attention online. He had one clear message: Nigeria must harness its agricultural potential to achieve economic freedom and eradicate poverty.
infrastructure development and capacity building. Spearheading initiatives like the reconstruction of key port complexes and the establishment of new deep-sea ports, he has helped to position Nigeria for sustained economic growth and enhanced trade facilitation.
Bello-Koko’s tenure has also pushed revenue generation up high, with the NPA’s revenue increasing significantly from N361 billion in 2022 to N501 billion by the end of 2023. This is all thanks to his adept management of financial resources and commitment to fiscal prudence amidst global economic challenges.
What about Bello-Koko’s role in clearing decades-long traffic gridlocks at Lagos ports? This feat has improved logistics and paved the way for increased export activities. In this respect, the man is aligning closely with President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies that emphasize infrastructure development and economic revitalisation.
Kyari’s transparency and efforts to block sources of illicit wealth within the company have made him a target.
But the issues are quite deep, especially considering the tactics used by Kyari’s alleged opponents. First, there is the fact that they have launched a sponsored campaign against him, one in which they accuse him of sabotaging local refineries, including the Dangote Refinery.
Second, there is also the matter of Kyari being painted as an obstacle to national interests. In this area, Kyari stands accused of being both tribalistic and rottenly corruptible. The fact that he wears the confidence of President Bola Tinubu does nothing to nullify this allegation.
This is only the most recent of Kyari’s many challenges. Perhaps, being in the eye of the storm frequently shows how well he is working. Although, in all honesty, the ongoing fuel price and availability issues have worsened the situation for Kyari. Is there really a group of individuals plotting his downfall or is this just happenstance? Perhaps, time will tell.
In his speech, Bago emphasised two points. First, Nigeria cannot achieve true economic independence without leveraging its agricultural strengths. Second, Nigeria has the capability to feed its population and even export surplus produce. With both of these points, Bago urged Nigeria to embrace its agricultural heritage and move away from dependency on external aid.
Governor Bago’s commitment to food security is not just rhetoric. He has laid out an ambitious plan for Niger State to become a model of agricultural productivity. By June 2025, the state aims to deliver and distribute around 150,000 metric tons of grain, surpassing the federal government’s promise of 42,000 metric tons.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to cultivate one million hectares of farmland, including a 50,000-hectare fully irrigated food production hub. The state has already procured over 500 large-capacity tractors, thousands of pieces of irrigation equipment, and substantial quantities of fertilisers, herbicides, pesticides, and fungicides.
Bago’s vision for Niger is rooted in a historical understanding of Nigeria’s economic development. Before the discovery of crude oil, the nation’s regions thrived on agriculture, with revenues from groundnuts, cocoa, and palm oil funding significant infrastructure projects. The governor clearly aims to revive this model, recognising that agriculture has a unique capacity to generate employment and wealth.
Calmly and gradually, Governor Bago is leading a revolution in food security in Niger. In more than one way, he is setting an example for other Nigerian states, one that encompasses productivity, self-reliance, and the importance of agriculture in economic development.
Oyebanji
Bago
Adetunji
Mohammed Great things are happening in Nigeria, thanks to the good work being put in by some foresighted individuals. Mohammed Bello-Koko, the current Managing Director
Babajide Sanwo-Olu: The Noah of Our Time
My brother, at this stage, I think you should start reading the scriptures again. Specifically, that portion which described how Noah built the Ark. With this kind of flooding in Lagos, I think your government should start considering building a giant Ark for us to be running into any time it rains. I tell you, this is no longer a joke and no amount of government rhetoric or statements can alleviate the real fear that these floods are causing. It was even reported that a pupil was carried away by floods. Don’t know how true this is, but it is very possible seeing the magnitude of the floods in some parts of the state.
Now, the fault is not only on the government but also on some of us who blocked drainages and built illegal structures all over the state and when the government moves to crack down, we will shout – oh they are destroying Igbo people’s houses. But when the flood comes, both Igbo people, and Yoruba people, and Egun people, and Ibibio people, and
IG EGBETOKUN, YOUR POLICEMEN ARE SUFFERING
My dear egbon, ejo ma binu si mi. I had to start this with small Yoruba begging. Since this is the allconquering tribe, make I cowardly use their them language beg. Abeg, my elder brother, your people are suffering, I swear. The conditions of service and with which they operate from are really very appalling. When I see policemen on the road, I used to be moved with pity to stop and just hug them. These people are the most disciplined people in this country I swear. Bankers have not seen anything and they will be doing fraud. Imagine that First Bank banker who stole N40billion, compare him with the average policeman, with poor pay, terrible work conditions, danger to self in the line of duty, yet no real insurance or welfare cover and the man is standing on the road with a rifle still doing the job?
everybody suffers. I think the contract for the Ark be given immediately to the Chagoury because na only them this government sabi, and they should locate the Ark at the highest peak of the state near the Lagoon so that once the rain starts, we all run in and lock ourselves and when the rains stop, we send one APC dove to fly out, and if it returns we remain where we are and if it does not return, we know it is safe to go out.
I know these APC people now o, when they finish building the boat, they will now start asking us to show party ID cards before we enter and that means that people like us fit drown o. At least, they can build a small canoe tied to the big Ark so that those of us with no card or those who voted Rhodes abi wetin be that him name will hang on the canoe for dear life.
Mr. Governor sir, we can’t be helpless. If we cannot stop the floods, let’s build the Ark. Simple.
The temptation to redress his situation is more than tempting and yet we have recorded less than 20% of the workforce either indicted for misdemeanour and the rest. I swear the Nigerian police force is simply the best in the world. Kai.
The other day, I saw a video of a policeman showing us their living conditions somewhere in Lekki. It was horrendous. He complained bitterly about the SUPO Admin who will seize their allowances when they complain. He showed us how he mopped water from his room and showed us his wet mattress in an uncompleted building.
Sir, please just stop whatever you are doing now and look at the issue of police welfare. I do not know whose job it is, whether it is yours or the Police Service Commission, whatever it is sir, please just stop and look.
For one, all the money you guys collect for police reports - I hear it
is now N40,000 from N5,000 - can be used to build better barracks, increase pay, and better welfare conditions. Please, my brother, don’t vex and come and catch me o. I am just begging you on behalf of your men and women, the suffering is too much. Kai. I really pity them.
OLAYEMI CARDOSO: STILL ON THE FMDQ MATTER
The greatest CBN Governor of our time, I hail you. Well done for the vigorous fight you are putting up against the forex. The thing is pushing you and you are pushing it and the thing is just doing “jangrover” all over the place. Well done sha, you are trying. But let me bring to your attention this little matter of the FMDQ. Shebi you know them, FMDQ? The place is a major player in our debt markets careening off trillions of naira worth of transactions daily. Now the problem is that CBN
is on the Board. In fact, your Deputy Governor is the Chairman. Wonderful abi? Well, I have heard that at the start, the CBN gave it a lot of support in its birthing, hence the prime position it is playing in the space. But bro, it is 11 years after and the baby don get pubic hair, it’s time to go.
The CBN as regulator cannot be a player in the same market. I even hear that the CBN is now a major problem inside that FMDQ. So sir, it is time to go. I think as the astute professional that you are, you should look very closely at this matter with a view of withdrawing from the FMDQ so that the place can breathe abeg.
CBN’s involvement at the board level of the place is suffocating and against all liberal market rules. If the SEC doesn’t have the teeth to bite, you should use some small common sense and do the right thing. CBN, just go. Thank you.
Sanwo-Olu
Cardoso
Ighodalo
Egbetokun Edgar
ASUE IGHODALO, STAND TALL
As I was submitting this column, the news filtered out that a Federal High Court has nullified the primaries that brought Asue Ighodalo to the very much coveted position as the PDP candidate in the upcoming Edo State gubernatorial elections.
My initial reaction was shock but I later calmed down because I have been assured by those who are legal experts that this ruling cannot stand.
So my brother, keep your head up and keep the flag flying because the race is not meant for the weak hearted which is a term you cannot use to describe this ‘blackman’. Meanwhile, I hear that members of the APC on the other side are jubilating and they should, because if this stands, then a very strong contender may have been pulled from the race.
But like I said, this will not stand as I have it on good authority that the ruling will be challenged and that spirits are high in the Ighodalo and PDP camp.
Make we dey watch, na series no be skit.
Thank you.
OLU JACOBS LIVES
During the week, some rodents came up with the very mischievous news of the wrong passing of this great screen legend. But thankfully, the news was discounted by his extremely beautiful wife, Joke. How people will just sit down and send out this kind of message beats me. They once did it for the great Nnamdi Azikiwe who was “killed” many times before his time, and now someone is so much in a hurry to let Olu go.
He will not. God will keep him till his appointed time. He has been a blessing to generations, such a sweet gentleman. I have met him severally and he has continued to be a beacon of inspiration to a whole industry.
It is because of his kindness that God gave him such a wonderful wife, the immortally beautiful Joke Silva. Yes, God has blessed him and I pray for God to bless me like this, I swear.
You will live long sir, don’t worry.
PATIENCE JONATHAN: NO DISTRACTIONS PLEASE
Mbok which hole did Patience Jonathan just come out from o? Does she think we are doing a social media skit now? Things are now in a very precarious state that we cannot afford to be distracted by the rhetoric of a comical ex-First Lady. Who will even want to see her back in the saddle? What exactly is she being remembered for apart from the barely literate rants of a mother in Israel type?
Surprisingly, the present First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu has carried herself with so much dignity and respect. She is earning my respect, I swear. She is unobtrusive, engaging when she needs to be and variously apologetic. Yes, she is very concerned with Nigeria and Nigerians and anytime she comes out, she is pleading, begging for time and understanding and this is why I am beginning to like her. In contrast, Patience was an irritantsorry for such strong language. But that is the truth, she bullied the nation and positioned herself as
OLA OLUKOYEDE: LOOK BEHIND YOU
Bro, let’s stop playing boju boju. I tell you, this your job is very easy o. It’s just that you are not seeing it from the way you should see it. So, this your latest statement that when you see some files, you wonder how Nigeria is still standing is something that even we on the roadside already know.
Let me tell you something, just disguise and enter any government office in this country and see what is happening. Your mouth will open and flies will enter. See my brother, the issue is not if you open a file. The issue is for you to target and look behind you and catch one big elephant and that is all. Look at the Presidency, look at the President, look at the leadership of the National Assembly, look at the headship of the military, Navy, and police and just catch one big fish and you
will see everybody will calm down.
Write a letter to President Tinubu and tell him you want to ask him some questions about how he has run the country financially since he took over, write Akpabio and say you need to understand some expenditures, go to the Judiciary and you will see what will happen to corruption in Nigeria. Your job is not to open files and shout “mo gbe.” If you have mo gbe, what do you want us to do now? Be very courageous, be lion-hearted and just take this my advice. If you cannot even try Tinubu make he no slap you, just do Shettima or Gbaja or even that Wike, just one letter of invitation and you will see how everybody will calm down in Nigeria. Just try it, if it does not work, come and call me a bastard, I swear.
the mother of all even though she lacked the intellect to play the role. She gifted us with so many comical lines, the best remembered being “There is God o,” amongst other such inanities.
Mbok, go back to bed, breakfast will soon be ready. Thanks.
WALE OYEDEJI: A ‘NOVA’ WAY TO GO
Let me quickly congratulate this great financial mind. Wale Oyedeji’s Nova Merchant Bank has just announced that it is going commercial, meaning that they have transmuted from wholesale banking to real retail and universal banking. Wale joined Nova on the back of a very rich and prestigious banking career and has quietly worked very closely with the great chairman, my big egbon Philip Odozua, to build a unique type of institution. For this, I will say well done.
The market has for some time now been very expectant of this move because of the about six merchant banks in operation. They, in my sound estimation, seem to be the only ones that seem to be wellgrounded. The only other one that would have given them a run for their money, FBN Quest, I hear is up for sale. The others are just there, pity-putting and retuning figures that are a little better than those of microfinance banks operating out of Oyingbo market.
Well done guys, let me even do a shout-out to my people at Nova – Emmanuel Onokposa – I hope I spelt it well, and Aramide Awosanya who was with me at Habib Bank and has had one very colourful banking career that has taken her to UBA, GTBank and Wema before Nova. Well done guys.
TIWA SAVAGE: SEND ME THE N100M I am in shock o guys. I have just read that Olamide rejected N100million for a verse in Tiwa Savage’s new song. A verse ooooooo, N100m for a verse. Is this what these people pay themselves and I am here writing a 4,000-word column and my editor, the great Davidson will be asking: “Duke, where is your page? My brother Davidson, please if you do not see my page, I dey Tiwa house dey hawk my verse o.
Tiwa, my darling, I am on your side, ask Azuka. That time that guy who called himself your hubby was doing all that thing, I was praying for you and I have been very loyal to you. I swear, I did not even look at that your tape more than five times.
I swear, I looked at it only five times and deleted it. So please, my verse is massive.
Please, go and listen to Michael Jackson’s Liberian Girl, the last verse na me. Let’s do this deal and I assure you of a Grammy, try me. Thank you. My number is at the top of the page, please call me o.
DUKE OF SHOMOLU @ 55
My people, it was my birthday on Thursday. As usual, I raised about N3m for widows and generally just hid in my house before people that I had broken their hearts come for my big head.
Thanks for all the support, prayers and well wishes. The best you can do for me is to come and see ‘Gowon,’ my new play. I really beg, we have to pay school fees you hear. Thank you all my fans and God bless you all.
Olukoyede
BOOK REVIEW
Writing For Media – Where is the Money?
Reuben Abati
Iwas drawn to this book almost instantly by its title. –Writing for Media and Monetising It.AzuIshiekwene,theauthor,andIhavebeen colleaguesandfriendsfordecades,wehave spent more or less the same stretch of time in this business of reporting and analysing society and other people’s life and times, and here comes Azu sending me a book in which he talksabouthowourhustlecanbemonetized.Isthere somethingAzuknowsthatIdon’tknowandinthisour businessofbeingfriends,hehasbeenmakingmoney ontopofourheads,andhehasbeenkeepingthesecret tohimselfuntilnowthathethinks,hecansharesome ofthetips?Hehasbeenkeepingsecrets?Thespeed withwhichIrushed,touseacommonphraseintothe book is imaginable. My discovery is that the title is misleading. Azu is a vintage, tested editor, a master ofheadlines-castingandcrafting-somethinghehas done for more than 30 years. He got me hooked. With a catchy title he gets you into the story, and he leads you on. He knows the game. So, catch the reader’s attention, a precious commodity in journalism and then peel the story, layer by layer in an onion-peeling fashion. In terms of procedure, this is what Azu Ishiekwene does in this book. For the benefit of the ordinary enthusiast, journalism is not a money-making machine for the reporter, the editor, the producer or the cameraman, especially in a country like Nigeria where due to the general dispossession of the economy, media owners are strugglingtopaysalaries,thebusinessenvironment is hostile, and there is no deliberate, informed and conscious effort on the part of government to connect culture to the development process and providenecessaryincentives.Eveninothercountries whereculturalpolicyappropriatelycentresthemass media and the freedom of information, journalism is a profession driven by commitment, the urge to be heard and to make a difference and a readiness to learn, and re-learn continuously.This is the actual thrust of this publication.
Nonetheless, Samuel Johnson in a famous selfdeprecatory statement once said that “No one but a blockhead ever wrote except for money… but his art.” Pablo Picasso, the painter said he did not want to be saddled with material worries “like a pauper”. He wanted a lot of money. It is not only Picasso to whom money appeals, we all want money, but Azu Ishiekwene’s “Writing for Media and Monetising It” is more than that: he strikes a balance between opportunitiesavailabletothewriterintheageofdigital adaptation, but this is more a book about the art and craftofjournalismitselfinanageoftransition,covering abroadrangeofissues:personaldevelopment,voice andstyle,impactwriting, thelaw,managingthesocial media and its discontents, journalism in the age of ArtificialIntelligence,brandingandself-reinvention. Thebookisenrichedbythemanyvoicesthatitprojects: this is not just Azu Ishiekwene speaking to us: we are offeredexamplesandthevoicesofotherjournalists acrossthespectrumofprintandsocialmedia,making the book all the more relatable, delivered in a classic, precision writing style. Azu writes in an economic fashion; his style is concise.
Itismostrefreshingtohearthevoicesinthisbook, across generations of the likes of Farooq Kperogi, Sam Omatseye, Fisayo Soyombo on social media responses, and how to manage feedback and trolls (Chapter8,atpp.71–76);AbimbolaAdelakunandRuonaMeyeronbranding(Chapter12,atpp.110–117); the examples of Linda Ikeji, Abdusalam Idris,Tunde Ednut and Adeola Fayehun (Chapter 13 – Making Money, at pp. 125 -128); ProfessorToyin Falola and Tunde Odediran on self-reinvention ( Chapter 14, at pp.141–151),andthemoreextensiveconversation with Dele Olojede and Toyosi Ogunseye in Chapter 15 titled: “In life, luck – and God matter” focusing on “twoicons,differentjourneys”.Thebookis259pages long, with a total of 15 Chapters and one appendix. The book does not cover the subject of ethics – an oversight in my view, given the many issues about rights,wrongsandprofessionalismincontemporary journalism practice, and how ethical issues are constantly foregrounded in the media ecosystem, and whereas the book closes with an appendix, viz: the Competition and Consumer Act of Australia 2021, there could have been a longer reflection on media content and legislation in Nigeria given the big challenge that this also currently poses as well. ButImustsaythatthisisabookthatIhaveenjoyed verymuchandthoroughlytoo.Oneofmypetworries hasbeenthede-linkagebetweentheuniversitiesand polytechnics,raisingquestionsabouttheteachingof journalisminNigeria,andparticularlythecurriculum. In other jurisdictions, those who teach in journalism schools are mostly persons who have been experi-
encedpractitioners,leadingawardwinnersandwriters who are on the faculty because they know, and they have been on the rough and tumble field of practice. This is not necessarily the case in Nigeria. I stand to becorrected,butIdaresaymostofthescholarswho teachjournalisminmostofourinstitutionsofhigher learningarepersonswhohaveallthedegreesbutthey have never been in a newsroom, or have ever had a microphonepinnedtotheirchests.Manyofthemhave never even written a letter to the editor worthy of publication,andyettheychurnoutstudentswhoare very smart at quoting Marshall Mclluhan and a long listofdeadtheoristsbuttheycan’twriteaparagraph, nordotheyknowastorywhentheyseeit.Theirteachers do not know any better. Azu Ishiekwene’s book wakes me up afresh to this worry, and the fact that the book serves an important purpose. It is written by a practitioner, who has risen to the very top in the practice,offeringtutorialstothewould-bejournalist and the old hand who needs to re-invent and adapt. Our journalism schools in Nigeria are too far away from the field. Journalism should be taught by those who have been on the field, and perhaps the same principle should be applied in other professions as well, to establish the proper linkage and transition between school and the world of work.
Azu Ishiekwene, the author of this book, was once a part-time volunteer lecturer of journalism at the University of Lagos and the Nigeria Institute of Journalism, Ogba, Lagos. Volunteer, you see? Not always about the money. It is his type that should be teaching the art of writing and journalism, and that is precisely what he does in this work: adding to the bibliography on the desirable linkage between the town and gown, between theory and practice. In this regard, this book acquires yet another significance. It is standard practice, elsewhere, for accomplished journalists to write and publish, to move beyond the limitationofthenewsroom,anddocumenttheirexperiences,observations,reflectionsinapermanentform. Theytransmutefrompersonswhocapturehistoryin a hurry into authors who write history about society, individualsandthepracticeitself.Thisisrefreshingly a growing trend in Nigeria which should be encouraged, with journalists putting their thoughts and experience in more permanent form. Before now, Azu Ishiekwene had published The Trial of Nuhu Ribadu. This then, is his second offering in this line of business. He belongs, beyond the newsroom in theenterpriseintheclassofanemergent/emerging class of Nigerian journalist-authors – to name a few: AkogunTolaAdeniyi,ChiefOlusegunOsoba,RayEkpu, Dan Agbese, Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi, Sonala Olumhense, Olatunji Dare, Dele Olojede, Dare Babarinsa, Kunle Ajibade,OlusegunAdeniyi,SamNdah-Isaiah,Sunday Dare,BolajiAbdullahi,WaziriAdio,AkpandemJames, Sina Oladeinde, Okey Ikechukwu, Magnus Onyibe, Dele Momodu, Lasisi Olagunju, Azuh Arinze, Simon Kolawole, Muskiliu Mojeed,Wale Adedayo, Sina Kawonise,FestusAdedayo, AbimbolaAdelakun…quite a long list as it were, reiterating the links between journalism and authorship, academia and practice, and how in reality the cross-fertilization enriches an on-going conversation about the human enterprise. To all intents and purposes,Writing for Media and Monetising It is essentially conceived as a training manual for the young journalist or writer, and a refresher manual for the older hand at the craft who is caughtbetweentheoldandthenew,inaseasonwhere innovationsandphenomenaconstantlychangeatthe speed of light due to the intense and form-changing patterns enabled by technical reproduce-ability in all spheres of human endeavour.
Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com
ARTS & REVIEW ARTS & REVIEW
A PUBLICATION
From Across Two Cities, a Fraternal Handshake…
A recent exhibition in Abuja lifted the veil on two contemporary Nigerian artists’ celebration of their African roots while signposting their current and future artistic tendencies. Okechukwu Uwaezuoke reports
Surely, a joint exhibition of the works of two contemporary Nigerian artists, bound—as the organisers seem to have highlighted—by “a shared passion for figurative representa- tion and a continual obsession with colourful palettes,” could not have gone unnoticed and unsung by the Abuja art scene’s cognoscenti!
Though art events are often shortlived in collective memory, an inevitable question will nonetheless persist: what could have inspired the two kindred spirits, Timi Kakandar and Obi Nwaegbe—one from Lagos’ vibrant exhibition circuit and the other rooted in Abuja’s artistic hub—to join forces for this common aesthetic venture?
The reminiscences of that exhibition, which was held at Ashanti Gallery from June 7 to 12 and was titled Expressions of Form, dredge up the remarkable synergy between two artists bound together by an over five-year “technical relationship.” Through the event, for which Christine Girlach—a stalwart of Abuja’s art scene and the founder of the gallery, which is said to be “one of the oldest surviving galleries” in the federal capital city—duly takes the credit, the artists regaled the Abuja art public with their unique perspectives on the beauty and complexity of the human experience.
Undoubtedly, both Kakandar and Nwaegbe, despite their shared appreciation of their African identities, profess a belief in the limitless pos- sibilities of human existence, both in terms of its depths on the physical and emotional levels. Even if the subjects and content of their works vary, their heritage unquestionably informs their ideology. This is especially evident when they engage in issues revolving around human equity and fairness, ingenuity, diversity, and other social and economic concerns.
Not too long before this exhibition, Nwaegbe’s solo exhibition, titled Inspired Visions and held in another gallery in same Life Camp area of Abuja, reaffirmed this “Africanness,” especially when it borders on the resilience of the human spirit in his bid to overcome existential trials. Also, despite his proclaimed attempt to ret urn, not unlike the proverbial prodigal son to his conceptual roots, his proclivity for figurative expressions continues to assert itself like a theme song of his studio practice.
This is an attribute that he shares with Kakandar, whose fixation on women’s hairstyling has become almost legendary. Kakandar, since his graduation from the University of Port Harcourt in 1999, has never hidden his fascination with the human figure. For him, they have been portals for delving into the challenges, social political issues, and, sometimes, the
joys that are associated with living and working within the African space. Additionally, there is a strong intensity of vivid, unprocessed hues and expressive lines that give each of his works a presence that captivates the observer. Perhaps this is what distinguishes his paintings, which seem to be much sought- after worldwide. This could also be why, even after his six solo exhibitions and over 30 group exhibitions within and outside Nigeria so far, the fascination for his works has not waned while his Pied Piper-like followership
continues to grow.
The artist, like in past exhibitions, encourages visitors not to overlook the importance of hair styling in African and African Diaspora culture. He specifically mentions the traditional African comb or pick, referring to it as a mark of status, tribal connection, and religious views, as well as having ritual functions. He cites, for instance, the decorations of the handles of these combs with objects of status, such as the headrest, human figures, and motifs that reference nature and the traditional spiritual world as examples. There is, of course, the 20th-century political and cultural message of the clenched fist, in a nod to the Black
Power salute, which decorates the handles of these combs.
In the exhibition Expressions of Form, Kakandar’s contributions depict black African women with hand-woven hairstyles, which are supplemented by traditional African-carved haircombs suspended precariously from dramatically placed swirls of banded woven hair. The concept of displaying them hanging loosely is his method of criticising the current generation of Africans’ apathy towards their culture. Meanwhile, the vibrant detailing of Nwaegbe’s offerings suggests that he intends to bring the psychology of music alive. He pushes for a more in-depth look at musical aesthetics in African art as a way to better comprehend the rhythms of modern urban life. Nigeria’s independence era saw a creative flourish, with artists embracing a variety of instruments to help form the continent’s musical character. Genres such as juju, highlife sounds, and afrobeat dominated the airwaves, with great musicians making their imprint. Fela Kuti’s revolutionary spirit, despite being restricted by the mainstream media, found expression in his unofficial venues. Nwaegbe’s most recent works bring a new theme, blending his abstract figurative style with the rhythm of musical aesthetics while continuing to educate and celebrate African consciousness.
Expressions of Form affirms the artists’ celebration of their African roots and indicates their current and future artistic tendencies, even if it has been documented, as concluded in the annals of the Abuja art scene.
A visitor contemplating one of Kakandar's paintings
Nwaegbe explaining one of his paintings to a visitor
INTERNATIONAL
One Year of PBAT as ECOWAS Chairman: The Dilemma of another Year of Tchiani-PBAT Confrontation
On Sunday, 9th July, 2023 President BolaAhmed Tinubu (PBAT) was unanimously elected the Chairperson of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Bissau, Guinea Bissau, one of the two Lusophone Member States of the ECOWAS. On 9th July, that is, in two days’ time, it will be one year of PBAT as the primus inter pares of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government. In the same vein, the Nigerien leader, Brigadier General Abdourahamane Tchiani, who was Commander of the Presidential Guards when he ousted President Mohammed Bazoum, took over power on July 26, 2023 and will also be marking one year as the leader of the Conseil national pour le sauvegard de la patrie (National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland), which the ECOWAS and the French President, Emmanuel Macron, refused to recognise. A Tchiani-PBAT confrontation is likely if, reportedly, PBAT continues as ECOWAS Chair in 2024-2025.
Continuation is welcome for many reasons. First, the initiative to form the ECOWAS was Nigerian and was implemented in collaboration with Togo. Since the inception of the ECOWAS on 28 May 1975, Nigeria has generally accounted for about one-third of the ECOWAS’ assessed dues. Nigeria has been playing active parts in the development of the organisation. However, in 2023, the foundation for partial dismantlement of the ECOWAS was laid under the chairmanship of PBAT. The ECOWAS Treaty was reviewed in Cotonou, Benin Republic, on 24 July 1993, meaning that the review will be 30 years old this month, and yet, the ECOWAS is increasingly still found wanting. Consequently, PBAT needs to be given the opportunity to re-polish Nigeria’s and ECOWAS image. Secondly, PBAT is a strong proponent of development of democracy and, particularly, true federalism. His dream of possibly taking the advantage of the ECOWAS to consolidate democratic values in Nigeria is yet to be realised. In fact, all that he declared as a newly elected ECOWAS chairman are still far from being accomplished. Therefore, and without any whiff of doubt, there is nothing wrong in seeking another year of service. However, there is the challenge of how to manage the next one year of both PBAT’s order and Tchiani’s counter-order to prevent the encounter emanating from it from resulting into another disorder.
First One Year of PBAT
The first one year of PBAT as ECOWAS chairperson was largely fraught with the intention to promote the development of democratic culture, nationally, regionally or plurilaterally. He wanted to be seen as a genuine agent of democracy in various ramifications. His first year was also fraught with ECOWAS’ zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of government in the ECOWAS region. His personal animosity for dictatorial, military rule in Africa was necessarily exacerbated with the July 26, 2023 coup by Brigadier General Tchiani.
Earlier, Mali had recorded two coups within one year and ECOWAS could not prevail on Mali in spite of its politico-economic sanctions. While still finding a way out, the Burkinabe coups followed. And as if these coups were not enough, the Tchiani coup also reared its ugly head in Niger. All of these gave a basis for PBAT to want to take the bad end of the stick.
And true enough, he did take the bad end of the stick. As clearly noted in an Aso Rock press release (vide ehouse.gov.ng), PBAT made it clear that threats to regional security were destabilising and should be quickly taken more seriously. As he put it, ‘on peace and security, the threat has reached an alarming level, and needs urgent actions in addressing the challenges. Indeed, without a peaceful environment, progress and development in the region will continue to remain elusive. In this regard, we must remain committed to the utilisation of all regional frameworks at our disposal to address the menace insecurity.’
What is noteworthy about this statement is that it was made on July 9. 2023, that is, about 16 days before the Niger coup. Besides, it was made about 43 days after his inauguration as Nigeria’s Number One Citizen. And perhaps more importantly, in the strong belief that the ECOWAS had the necessary wherewithal to do battle with
the putschists and easily win, PBAT noted in his post-appointment statement that ECOWAS security architecture ‘covers a wide range of areas that involved kinetic and non-kinetic operations, including preventive diplomacy.’ Most noteworthy, PBAT said ‘there is also the Regional Plan of Action on Fight against Terrorism 2020-2024, as well as the operationalization of the ECOWAS Standby Force on Fight Against Terrorism.’
It was against this background that PBAT promised to ensure he, along with other Heads of State ‘immediately harmonize these plans and mobilise resources, as well as the political will towards the actualisation of the initiatives. As terrorists do not have boundaries, we must work collectively to have an effective regional counterterrorism measure.’ It couldn’t have therefore been surprising to know that PBAT expressed ‘unalloyed commitment to provide the necessary leadership with dedication to serve the interest of the Community.’
PBAT was willing to do his best but the environmental conditionings would not enable: destructive strategic miscalculation, domestic hostility in Nigeria, the court case instituted by Kayode Ajulo, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, and Professor Bola A. Akinterinwa at the ECOWAS Court against PBAT, ECOWAS et al to prevent any military assault on Niger Republic, etc. The ECOWAS gave a 7-day ultimatum to Niger to release President Mohammed Bazoum and return to constitutional democracy or face the wrath of the ECOWAS as a collective. The ultimatum was
Grosso modo, the continuation of PBAT’s chairmanship of the ECOWAS is really a desideratum for three main reasons. First, Nigeria should not be remembered as being the initiator of the regional organisation and also be remembered for the disintegration of the same ECOWAS under the leadership of a Nigerian Chairperson. PBAT should continue to do the necessary to amend. Secondly, the breakaway of the ASS countries is consistent with the regional and sub-regional integration processes provided for in Article 1 (d) and (e) of the 1991 Abuja Treaty Establishing an African Economic Community. Consequently, the ASS is legal and legitimate. The challenge for PBAT is how to manage the ASS as a sub-region and still as a constitutive member group of the ECOWAS. In this regard, the ASS countries cannot but still come back sooner or later but subject to their not being seen or treated as underdogs. Thirdly and most importantly, the strategic miscalculation of giving a 7-day ultimatum to Niger has the potential to be a source of greater strength for the ECOWAS. It affords the opportunity to rejig the ECOWAS Standby Force, to strengthen the anti-terrorism fight, and to see more clearly henceforth. The dilemma of the next one year, however, is how to reconcile ECOWAS interests with foreign interests. PBAT is at the epicentre of all these questions and should be allowed to find answers to them
considered by the ASS as very offensive, very illegal, and very unacceptable. The ECOWAS Treaty, originally and as amended, did not provide for threat and use of force in settling disputes. In fact, what was considered most annoying was the perception of the ECOWAS, and particularly PBAT, as being used as a tool to fight Niger Republic with which Nigeria has the warmest ties in the neighbourhood. The damage to the relationship appears to have been damaged beyond immediate diplomatic repair in the immediate. The statement of Omar Alieu Touray, the President of the ECOWAS Commission since 2022, lends much credence to this observation.
At the recently concluded 92nd Ordinary Session of the Council of Ministers on Thursday, July 4, 2024 in Abuja. President Touray noted that, since January 24, 2024, when Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger gave notice of their withdrawal from the ECOWAS, several efforts had been made to appease them but to no avail. In the words of President Touray, ‘despite our entreaties, in the form of softening of sanctions, invitation of the governments to technical meetings, and request for meetings, we have not yet gotten the right signals from these Member States.’
Additionally, The Gambia-born Touray also had it that ‘it has become evident that changes in the international system, which is significantly affecting our Member States, are playing a role. To this end, we are proposing a Special Summit on the Future of our Community to examine the developments in the world and their impact on our community to rethink our integration in terms of governance, relations with external partners, our Community norms and values, and approach to emerging.’
From PBAT’s policy intendment to President Touray’s observation of recalcitrant attitude of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to re-join the ECOWAS, there is no disputing the fact that the last one year of PBAT as ECOWAS chairperson is a failure. For three countries to withdraw their membership of the ECOWAS, regardless of the rationales, is a manifestation of a big failure. Although the failure can still serve as a catalyst for a more quickened integration, the one year of PBAT raises many issues of governance and survival. First, should the ECOWAS not begin to promote more of subregional integration? This question is raised in light of Article 1(e) of the 1991 Abuja Treaty Establishing the African Economic Community which provides for the establishment of sub-regions? The ECOWAS already has the Alliance of Sahel States (ASS/AES) region to contend with. Even though Chad and Cameroon are geo-politically located in the Central Africa region, shouldn’t PBAT begin to think of Nigeria and her immediate neighbours as a second sub-region to be created? In other words, rather than begin continental integration from the regional level, why not begin from the sub-regional level? Nigeria, Benin, Togo and Ghana can also constitute a sub-region. Rather than seeking to confront the ASS sub-region, there is the need for re-strategy for PBAT as Nigeria’s and ECOWAS’ leader. Thirdly, Article 1 (d) of the 1991 Abuja Treaty divided Africa into five regions while Article 1(e) enables the creation of sub-regions out of the regions. The current thinking of African leaders is that the Caribbean should be considered as the sixth region of Africa. This point cannot be ignored in Nigeria’s foreign policy calculations. Again, even though PBAT became the ECOWAS Chairperson in July 2023, the ECOWAS did not record any major achievement at the economic development level before then. The final communiqué of the 64th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority done on 10th December 2023 in Abuja, Nigeria admitted our observation: ‘notably the regional growth rate slowed to 3.7% in 2023, compared to 3.9% in 2022, annual average inflation peaked at 20.0%, compared to 17.3% in 2022 and public debt deteriorated further to 48.8% of GDP, compared to 36.8% of GDP in 2022.’
Besides, the launch of the Eco currency was postponed until the 65th Session of the ECOWAS Authority. In fact, on regional peace and security, the Authority only noted the ‘continued challenges of insecurity and instability in the region that have been engendered by terrorism, violent extremism, transnational organised crime, as well as ‘Unconstitutional Changes of Government.’ If there was not much to say about economic transformations and containment of violent extremism and insecurity in 2023, what about the first half of 2024 and the following one year?
Tchiani-PBAT Confrontation, 2024-2025
As noted earlier, there is nothing wrong in PBAT’s aspiration to continue to chair the ECOWAS Authority, but for as long as the quest will not place a heavier financial burden on Nigeria. There is nothing to suggest that there will not be heavier burden for PBAT to carry. First, the ECOWAS military Chiefs of Staff have recommended that supporting Member States in fighting terrorists and containing threats to constitutional changes of government would require two options: establishing a 5,000-strong brigade at an annual cost of $2.3bn or deployment of troops on demand of $360m annually (aljazeera.com). Whatever is the choice, there is always a financial burden to carry.
Secondly, there is likely to be direct confrontations between Niger and Nigeria. This is because all the ECOWAS’s diplomatic engagements aimed at pacifying the ASS countries have been to no avail as of now. The recalcitrance may be due to the consideration that neither Nigeria, in particular, nor the ECOWAS, in general, is in position to stop the expanding the Sahel-based terrorist groups from reaching the coastal states.
Tchiani
Editor: Ejiofor Alike
IN THE ARENA
SMS: 08066066268
email:ejiofor.alike@thisdaylive.com
The Return of Suicide Bombings to Borno
Michael Olugbode writes that both the federal and Borno State governments should provide support for the security agencies to tackle the Boko Haram group before the orgy of suicide bombings returns to other states
Any assurance that Nigeria had defeated the Boko Haram insurgents was obliterated last week when the group, notorious for their cruel attacks, struck again with multiple suicide bombings in Gwoza, Borno State.
The attacks, which left behind a trail of tears, sorrow, and anguish, resulted in the deaths of at least 32 people and left over 100 others with various degrees of injuries.
Gwoza, located in the southern part of the North-east state, was once the emirate headquarters of the insurgents, who at that time, killed the traditional ruler of the hilly town.
Boko Haram has caused over 60,000 deaths since 2009. However, suicide bombings by the insurgents had ceased until last week’s incidents, which have fuelled fears that the reign of terror might have returned.
Though former President Muhammadu Buhari inherited the war against insurgency from the previous administrations, his promise to defeat the insurgents and end insecurity in the country largely accounted for his victory in the 2015 presidential election.
Before Buhari was elected, abductions, killings, burning of houses and suicide bombings by Boko Haram had spread from the North-east to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) with one bombing incident recorded in Lagos State.
Though Buhari’s government succeeded in eradicating the group’s attacks in the FCT and also substantially reducing its activities in the North-east, his administration, however, gave birth to bandits who embarked on killings, abductions, and cattle rustling in the North-west, and other geopolitical zones.
Despite the Buhari-led federal government’s repeated claims that it had degraded and confined the group to Borno State alone, massive attacks continued to be recorded.
Between 2018 and 2021 different officials in the government and security agencies had at different times claimed that the group had been ‘defeated’, ‘technically defeated’ or ‘decimated.’
For instance, in 2019, the then Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed, told the country that the military had “successfully defeated” the insurgents. He however said the country was facing a fresh crisis, which he called a “global insurgency.”
He also said that “a faction of Boko Haram has
aligned with the global terror group, ISIS, to form ISWAP, the Islamic State of West African Province. In other words, ISIS now has a strong foothold in West Africa – with Nigeria at the forefront of the battle against them.”
Subsequently, the then Chief of Army Staff, LtGeneral Tukur Buratai (rtd) also said the terrorist group had been defeated but that the Nigerian military was fighting an international criminal gang known as ISWAP.
He said ISWAP was a group of international criminal organisations that were exploring the loopholes created by the breakdown of law and order in some neighbouring countries to perpetrate criminality in the West African sub-region.
But while they were making these claims, not only were residents of Borno State and soldiers, including senior military officers, frequently killed and maimed, communities were also being razed down.
Personnel of other security agencies were also being ambushed, killed or maimed.
Signs of the return of bomb attacks by the terrorists in the state emerged in March when two labourers reportedly lost their lives in bomb explosions at two separate construction sites in Dikwa Local Government Area of the state.
The first bomb blast reportedly occurred at Koi-
be Primary School in the state, while the second improvised explosive device (IED) exploded and killed another construction worker at a different site on the outskirts of Koibe.
Two weeks later, two people were injured after an IED, strapped to a suspected suicide bomber, detonated near a mosque in Biu Local Government Area of the state.
Given these occurrences, the renewed suicide bombings last week should be a cause for concern for the people of the state, the federal government, and the security agencies.
It is not enough for President Bola Tinubu’s government to always resort to the Buhari government’s rhetoric that the terrorists’ attacks were a clear manifestation of the military onslaught against them and the success achieved in degrading their capacity to launch offensives.
Before and after he was sworn in on May 29, 2023, Tinubu had pledged to prioritise security and effectively tackle the menace, adding that the economy cannot thrive in an insecure environment.
“I shall increase security personnel and better equip them. Advanced air and ground surveillance technology will identify, track and attack the criminals until they are utterly defeated,” he had declared.
POLITICAL NOTES
Despite these promises, data from various sources showed that over 600 people were killed under the present within 45 days.
According to data analysed by the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR), at least 2,336 people were killed in various violent attacks within the first three months of 2024.
Many Nigerians attribute the high cost of foodstuffs in the country to the inability of farmers to go to their farms during last year’s farming season when the current administration was already in charge. Kidnapping for ransom and crude oil theft have also not abated despite the government’s false claims.
Reacting to the latest suicide bombings, former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, warned the federal government not to allow the North-east region to slide back into terrorism and extreme violence.
In a post on his X page, Atiku condemned the attacks, saying the upsurge in terrorist attacks was due to the government’s “lacklustre posture” to hold firmly on the frontlines.
“It is unfortunate that much of the pushback that had been achieved against the Boko Haram terror sect is being cancelled, owing mainly to the government’s lacklustre posture to hold firmly on the frontline. It is thus important to call on the federal authorities to wake up to their responsibility and to make sure that the North-east does not slide back into a theatre of terrorism and extreme violence,” he submitted.
On its part, the Borno State Government, through the state Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Usman Tar, said the attacks were not a failure of intelligence, adding that the attackers mainly exploited the state’s porous borders to carry out the attacks.
“It is not an intelligence failure. It is an error that we did not see coming. If terrorists want to attack and they use a particular route that you don’t know, what can you do? As you know our boundaries are porous internationally. Even our local boundaries are porous,” Tar said.
This is why the federal and Borno State governments need to give the security agencies every support necessary to tackle Boko Haram’s activities in the state. Allowing the resurgence of suicide bombings in Borno State and the entire North-east in the face of the banditry and security challenges in the North-west, North-central, South-east, and South-south regions would threaten national security.
Can Wike Decide Kingibe’s Fate in 2027?
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike’s recent boast to stop the reelectionofSenatorIretiKingibe,whorepresents the FCT in 2027 was not only a violation of the fundamental rights of the residents of the FCT, but a potential threat to free, fair and peaceful elections.
Wike was responding to an earlier claim on ARISENEWSChannelbySenatorKingibethatFCT residentswerenotimpressedwithhisperformance.
But responding to Kingibe, the minister vowed that the senator would not return to the Senate in 2027.
“Ichallengethatlegislator;ifyouareverypopular, in 2027 come and run under Abuja; we will fail you. Do you think that what happened last time will
happen again? It will not happen again. Luckily for me, I am the FCTMinister now. So that is my territory and I’m not afraid,” Wike threatened.
In an uncouth language, the minister also advised the federal lawmaker to hug a transformer if she was angry for the ‘praises’ being showered on him for his performance as minister.
“If you don’t want to or you are angry about that, go and hug yourself on a transformer,” Wike said.
Critics are wondering if it is not the sameWike that losttoAtikuAbubakaraspresidentialcandidateofPDP, losttoDr.IfeanyiOkowaasvicepresidentialcandidate?
But for massive rigging, did he not lose his state that he bestrode like a colossus, to Labour Party (LP) in 2023. Or is he not aware that even Tinubu lost his state to LP, and that he also lost in FCT?
They allege that his threat to Kingibe suggests that the 2027 general election will not be free, fair and transparent in the FCT.
An activist lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, was quoted in the media as saying thatWike can’t decide for the residents of the FCT because “FCTis not Rivers State, where election results are written with guns.”
According to one of Wike’s critics in Rivers State, even President BolaTinubu, whomWike claims to support, cannot openlydeclarethatanelectedofficialwillnotreturntooffice. HearguedthatonlytheresidentsoftheFCTcandetermine the fate of the senator in the 2027 election.
“Wike needs to be called to order fast before he sets fire on the FCT, which has the potential to spread to other states and threaten our democracy. Nigerians should learn from the raging fire in Rivers State,” he added.
Wike
Tinubu
BRIEFING NOTES
Unmasking Potential Users of 844 Rifles Imported into Nigeria
Unlike the previous cases where importers of light weapons and their accomplices in the Nigeria Customs Service were jailed, Ejiofor Alike writes that the customs should collaborate with the Department of State Services, police and other intelligence agencies to unmask the potential distributors and users of the 844 assorted rifles imported by persons supplying weapons to criminal elements, in order to address Nigeria’s security challenges holistically
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) last Monday announced a major victory against the war on illegal proliferation of light weapons in the country with the interception of nine containers bearing offensive items, including arms, ammunition, illicit drugs and second- hand clothes with total duty paid value of N13.915 billion at Onne Port in Rivers State.
The Comptroller-General of NCS, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, who disclosed this at a press briefing in Onne, River State, said one of the containers, a 40-footer with numbers: MAEU165396, which originated from Turkey, contained 844 units of rifles and 112,500 pieces of live ammunition with total duty-paid value of N4.171 billion.
The seizure of the 844 rifles and 112,500 pieces of live ammunition was not the first time NCS recorded a major victory against the influx of arms into the country.
On September 6, 2017, the NCS had intercepted 1,570 pump action rifles at Terminal B1, of the Tincan Island Port, Lagos.
In April this year, a Federal High Court in Lagos, convicted and sentenced two businessmen, Ifeuwa Christ and Ayogu James, to two years imprisonment on each of the eight counts, for unlawful importation of the 1,570 pump action rifles.
Justice Ambrose Lewis-Alagoa who handed down the sentence, however, ordered the convicts to pay paltry N1million on each of the eight counts, as a fine in lieu of the jail term, following the plea bargain agreement reached between the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and counsel for the two convicts, Yakubu Galadima.
Apparently explaining the perceived liberal sentence, Justice Lewis Alagoa held that the sentence was because the convicts were first-time offenders and the fact that they had been in custody for three years.
The interception of 661 pump action rifles imported from Turkey at Apapa Port in Lagos State on January 22, 2017 was also another major achievement by the NCS.
The then Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) of NCS, Col Hameed Ali (rtd) had an-
nounced that the agency had arrested three men identified as Oscar Okafor, Mahmud Hassan, a retired customs officer, and Sadique Mustapha for the unlawful importation of 49 boxes containing 661 pump action rifles, which were concealed in a container conveying steel products and other merchandise goods.
The container, which was cleared at the port with the aid of two compromised NCS officers, was on its way to an unknown destination, before it was intercepted at Mile 2-Apapa Expressway by the operatives of the FOU Ikeja.
Alli said the arms originated from Turkey and routed through China before they were smuggled into Nigeria and
falsely declared as steel doors.
Subsequently, the NCS declared two of its officers - Abdulahi I., an assistant superintendent of customs (ASC), with service number 44483, and ACIC Odiba Inah, with service number 133386, wanted over the incident.
The federal government had in August 2017, arraigned five men - Mahmud Hassan, Oscar Okafor, Donatus Achinulo, Matthew Okoye, said to be at large, and Salihu Danjuma, for the importation.
In December 2021, Justice Ayokunle Fajji of the Federal High Court in Lagos convicted and sentenced Hassan, and two others to 16 years imprisonment for the unlawful importation of the 661 pump-action rifles.
The two other persons convicted alongside Hassan were Okafor, Achinulo and Mahmud’s company, Hassan Trades Limited, while the fifth defendant, Matthew Okoye, was at large.
The court, however, acquitted and discharged Danjuma of all the charges.
The court also ordered the forfeiture of the properties of the convicts, including Hassan Trading Limited, to the federal government.
The 844 rifles and 112, 500 ammunition intercepted last week, Adeniyi said, were concealed using various items such as doors, furniture, plumbing fittings, and leather bags.
The duty-paid value of the single container was N4.171 billion.
He, however, disclosed that three suspects had been arrested in connection with the seizure.
Barely 48 hours after the seizure of the 844 rifles, the NCS intercepted a cache of arms and ammunition valued at N270 million at the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA) in Lagos, while one suspect was in custody.
The 55 pieces of unassembled Jojef Magnum (Tomahawk) semi-automatic shotgun, which were intercepted at the cargo section of the MMA, were also imported from Turkey
Those involved in the illegal importation of light weapons into the country are the major drivers of the nationwide insecurity and should be tried for terrorism and treated as bandits and terrorists, and not just as importers of illicit items.
The sentencing of the importers of rifles to five or 16 years of imprisonment is not enough
NOTES FOR FILE
punishment for the suppliers of weapons to armed robbers, unknown gunmen, bandits and other terrorists.
Light or liberal sentencing of the importers of rifles won’t deter potential importers.
Also, while the NCS needs to be commended for the great feat, it needs to collaborate with the Department of State Services (DSS), the police and other security agencies to establish the actual destination, potential distributors and end users of imported weapons will continue to encourage the distributors, middlemen and small-scale arms dealers in this evil trade.
The NCS should address all these concerns in the current case of the importation of 844 weapons by gathering intelligence from the importers to unmask all those involved in the business chain, including the end users.
That’s the only way to uproot the main drivers fuelling insecurity in the country.
It is reassuring that the NCS last Thursday said it had continued to engage member countries of World Customs Organisation (WCO) to tackle the menace of importation of illicit arms and ammunition into Nigeria.
The National Public Relations Officer, NCS, Abdullahi Maiwada, made this known at a news conference organised by the Strategic Communication Interagency Policy Committee (SCIPC), in Abuja.
SCIPC is a committee of the spokespersons of the military, police, intelligence and response agencies.
The committee was set up by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), while the conference was hosted by the Nigeria Police Force.
Maiwada said the Comptroller-General, NCS, had promised to resuscitate the MoU between Nigeria and Turkey Customs Administration, on how to curtail the menace of smuggling of small arms and light weapons into Nigeria.
He also said the NCS had recently signed an (MoU) with the General Administration of China Customs.
While monitoring the importers and origins of imported arms and ammunition, the NCS, DSS, police and other intelligence agencies should identify all the parties involved in the sale and use of these illegal weapons for prosecution.
El-Rufai Has Come to Judgment
This is not the best of times for former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, who recently sued the state House of Assembly over the allegation by the lawmakers that his administration embezzled N432 billion.
The former governor had gone to the Federal High Court in Kaduna to file a fundamental rights enforcement case against the state House of Assembly, complaining that the committee denied him a fair hearing.
However, El-Rufai’s critics alleged that he also notoriously violated the rights of others as governor. One of his critics who spoke to THISDAY, alleged that the former governor showed flagrant disregard of court orders.
He expressed surprise that the former
governor ran to court to seek redress.
For instance, he alleged that in October 2017, an Abuja High Court ordered ElRufai to pay one Audu Maikori the sum of N40million as damages over his illegal arrest and detention but the governor allegedly refused.
According to him, when he eventually appealed the decision , the Court of Appeal in June 2020, affirmed that the state government was wrong and ordered N10.5million be paid to Maikori, but the former governor again flagrantly refused to pay.
He also alleged that in July 2019, a Kaduna High Court ruled that El-Rufai and his ally, Jimmy Lawal, should ‘maintain status quo’ over a revocation plan of land belonging to Alhaji Umar Karaje at
Dankande Industrial Area, but they ignored the court order and seized the said land.
The former governor was also accused of demolishing Durbar Hotel, owned by the family of the late General Sani Abacha in January 2020, and revoked the C-of-O while the case was pending in court.
A Kaduna High Court eventually ruled that the demolition was illegal when the damage had already been done.
In May 2023, barely 72 hours to the expiration of his tenure as governor, El-Rufai was accused of deploying bulldozers to demolish Gbagyi villa, a popular residential neighborhood in Kaduna against subsisting court judgments. Eight persons allegedly lost their lives to the demolition exercise.
He expressed the shock that El-Rufai who disrespected the courts could rush to court to enforce his fundamental rights.
El-Rufai
Adeniyi
ENGAGEMENTS
Give Us Biden
All it has taken to expose the porous underbelly of American democracy is one bad debate night by an 81 year old incumbent president. President Joe Biden fared poorly in his first CNN debate for this election season. A combination of cold, jet lag and old age troubles made him a bit nervous and uncollected. He was lost in the middle of sentences and seemed to forget his lines on familiar subjects even those where he has excelled as president.
More destabilising perhaps was the fact that he was sharing a debate podium with a known serial liar, habitual bully and unashamed demagogue. That combination in an electoral opponent is enough to unhinge any honest contestant. But even at that, Trump’s negatives are what should have prepared Biden to come fighting. But he did not. He frequently landed weak blows and a miserable thud each time he tried to put up a fight. The strategy of treating Trump with kid gloves as, at best, a spoilt child did not work and never works in politics. Biden was restrained, meek and a bit uncollected. Trump was his usual blustery, hectoring and serially lying self. He won the debate not by repenting from Trumpism but by repeatedly punching a weakened Biden. In the end, supporters and opponents of the sitting president agreed that he was hardly at his best that Thursday night.
Concern about Biden’s bad showing at that debate has refused to go away. Concern among supporters has grown into anxiety and even division among Democrats. The Democratic Party is riled and divided. Some would like Biden to quit the stage and yield place to a younger candidate with a better chance of defeating Donald Trump in the November elections. A solid core of Democrats led by majority of governors still believe Biden is their best bet in the circumstance.
Others including of course Biden’s immediate family and his core supporters insist that notwithstanding the bad debate night, Biden is their best bet. He is a tested hand. He has experience, track record and can be trusted by allies and respected, if not exactly feared, by adversaries. After all , he had out- debated and defeated Trump in 2020. He is best suited to do it again than would a totally new hand so late in the day.
The Republicans, especially Trump and his diehard devotees, are triumphant. They see Mr. Biden as a man weakened by age, unstated infirmity and incremental incapacity especially in unscripted situations. They are silent on the fact of Trump being nearly of the same age bracket as Biden.
On the whole, it is bad enough that America is now faced with a presidential choice weighed down by geriatric concerns. It is a binary choice between two ageing men whose competitiveness has been reduced to a comparison between two geriatric health records. It is even worse that both parties have become so limited in their leadership options that they seem stuck with a choice between a convicted blustering old crook and a tired good old man. Biden’s debate performance means so much because of the peculiarities of American democracy and society. America is a nation built on an ideal, on a creed of equality of the people and the rejection of monarchical absolutism. A creedalnation that covers such a wide area of territory can best be forged through effective communication. At first, it was radio that forged that communication link. But radio was constrained by voice and sound. The advent of television completed the link by adding images to voice, giving birth to the television nation. People as far flung as from Boston to Alaska , from Washington DC to North Dakota could now hear and see common images of their political leaders and other key influencers.
America’s is an image and television driven democracy. The political contest in America thrives on big marketing, advertisement and image engineering. Over time, television and the media have come to overwhelm American politics with their influence to the extent that the political persona has become something of a pseudo celebrity. The culture of stardom and celebrity created by Hollywood and the music industry have come to rub off on politics, luring the politician into the limelight of celebrity culture. The ability to appear on most major channels and networks, to out- talk your opponent and reduce the urgent needs of the nation to a marketing selling point have become the deciding factors in whom the electorate votes for. The political star that must sell should wear the correct tie colour, be made up by make-up artists, rehash the catch phrases of the moment and appear to be on the side of Joe the plumber and Jane the housewife. In all of it, the ability to convince, to play the salesman at short notice has become a major indicator of preparedness to lead America.
A candidate who has all the ideas on how to sustain America’s greatness but fares poorly on the television screen may end up being just “the best president America may never get”. On the contrary, the smooth talker, the guy who has an uncanny ability to combine some substance with celebrity appeal stands a better chance of moving into the White House to lord it over America and, by implication, the entire world for a good four years in the first instance.
Therefore, Biden’s recent bad debate night meant a tragedy for America’s television image driven politics. This is why the options have narrowed to whether Biden should stay in the race or take a dignified exit. Either option is no easy route. If he were to quit, the Democratic party will be jolted into finding a substitute barely five months to the election. The possibility that the substitute will find his or her feet so readily and quickly and be in a strong position to defeat Donald Trump is slim. That option effectively means that the Democrats would be ready to lose the election just to make the point that they opted for a younger, more vibrant candidate.
In the alternative, keep Biden in the race and try to fix his lapses and the degradations of old age on his electability. This requires a closer management of the optics of his campaign events, better preparations and more indepth homework on Trump’s weaknesses especially his compulsive lying and liberty with facts. The chances of a Biden win can are better if he stays in the race. But of course, those opposed to his staying on are more concerned about the energy and style of governance that he will lead if he secures a second term. In that regard, his experience and mature knowledge of people should equip him with good men and women to pull off a credible administration.
Those who wish Biden well are either genuine supporters or people who live with a mortal fear of the catastrophe of a second Trump presidency. People are genuinely concerned about the future of democracy in the hands of a lover of dictators and a self declared autocrat. Worse still, Trump’s looming threat to the international order is likely to tilt the balance in favour of the forces of authoritarianism. A man who openly admires Vladimir Putin, Xi Jiping, Kim Jung Un etc cannot be placed in the White House without overturning the world order.
Elsewhere in other political cultures, a mere one night of television debate would not mean so much. Take Nigeria for instance. We run a UStype presidential system with a cloned constitution along the same lines. But we hardly subject our presidential candidates to any verbal or intellectual rigour. Our presidential candidates do not have to debate with each other. They do not have to have any mastery of the most urgent national issues. They do not have to reel out statistics of the national economy of other vital statistics. They only need to be the choice of some party, loosely defined. In 1999 when the military was handing over to a civil democracy, the two front runners for the presi-
dency were Olusegun Obasanjo for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Olu Falaye for the Alliance for Democracy (AD). At the height of the campaigns, the idea was floated that there should be a television debate between the two. Somehow, neither party was enthusiastic about the debate. Time was allowed to elapse and the debate never took place. In Buhari’s two terms as civilian president, there was no debate between him and any of his opponents. Both Atiku Abubakar and Goodluck Jonathan may have been willing to debate with Mr. Buhari but the latter was not there for any debate. He lacked the capacity to string sentences together. He lacked any demonstrable knowledge or conviction on whatever were the raging national issues of his time. No one knows what he knew or did not know about anything and everything.
A reclusive and aloof man of few words and scanty ideas, Mr. Buhari was not the type to talk his way to power. He knew only how to cobble together an alliance of strange bed fellows to forge a winning alliance. Power was his means and end as well. In power, he feasted on the combined ability of his devotees and staffers to do most of the talking in no coordinated manner. What was important was that he was in power and at the helm.
As late as the 2023 presidential election campaign season, the matter of debates among the candidates was toyed with but dropped like hot potato. While Mr. Peter Obi and Abubakar Atiku were inclined to engage in open debates and media sessions, not so with Bola Tinubu. In fact, the campaign season witnessed Mr. Tinubu at his most controversial and incomprehensible. At campaign events, he was quoted as uttering gibberish, a point that fuelled speculations about his exact health condition. People who heard him uttering “Bulaba; Baba blu… Bulaba...” could not make out what language he was speaking. The obvious conclusion in street corners and bars was that the man was suffering from some mental health conditions that had affected both his comprehension and elocution.
When he showed up to present his agenda at the Chatham House in London, he could hardly answer any question. Instead, he lined up party faithful and supporting cronies on his entourage as the ones who would answer questions on his behalf since he preferred ‘team work’.
Eventually, there was no debate between Mr. Tinubu and any of the other major candidates. There was not even a face-to- face interview between Tinubu and anyone or medium of note. But when the election results were announced, Tinubu, the man who said practically nothing to any one, was declared the winner over and above the other two who spent mental energy dissecting the nation’s problems and urgent challenges.
Therefore, the favourite Nigerian presidential candidate cannot be a television hero or media celebrity. Yet Nigerians have shown more than passing interest in the America’s presidential elections than other nationals. It may be a subliminal celebration of what we long for but do not yet have.
Tinubu
Biden
GIVING BACK TO THE SOCIETY…
L-R: Assistant Chief Engineer, Lagos Continental Hotel (LCH), Mr. Rasheed Shomefun; Audit Manager, 11Plc (formerly, Mobil Oil Nigeria Plc), Mr. Wilboard Nwosu; Group General Manager, Continental Hotels, Mr. Karl Hala; former Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Alhaji. Lai Mohammed; Assistant Director, Sales and Marketing, LCH, Caroline Obasa; Director, Rooms, LCH, Cuthberga Onuoha; and Team Lead, Office of Career Development Services (OCDS), University of Lagos (UNILAG), Mr. Ayodele Shittu, at an interactive session with UNILAG students on hospitality industry’s career prospects at the university in Akoka, Lagos…recently
Multinational Firm Mulls $172bn Investments in Nigeria’s Mining, Agriculture, Energy Sectors, Others
A multinational company, Nigeria
Backbone Infrastructure Limited (BINL), has announced its intention to invest $172billion to develop various infrastructure sectors in the country.
This investment, utilising alternative financing options, will be allocated to mineral resources, energy, agriculture, housing, and transportation sectors for the next 22 years, a statement by the company said yesterday.
The Group Chief Executive Officer, Henry Owonka, said the company with foreign partners was seeking approval for a joint venture model to facilitate its planned investment in the country.
Owonka emphasised that the company intends to align with the current administration’s infrastructure plan, highlighting that a consistent influx of investment, as proposed by the company, is preferable to isolated investments by other investors
Cooking Gas Stakeholders Urge FG to Discourage Importation of Cylinders
Ejiofor Alike
Stakeholders in the gas industry have urged the federal government to reverse the zero per cent import duties placed on the importation of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders, to discourage importation and encourage local producers.
The various stakeholders spoke at the just-concluded 2024 Nigeria Oil and Gas (NOG) conference in Abuja.
On her part, the Group Managing Director (GMD) of Techno Oil Limited, Mrs Nkechi Obi urged the government to restore the initial 40 per cent import duties, to discourage importation.
“We need policy reversal on that to encourage local producers.
“The unofficial explanation we are getting from some customs officers is that the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), which the government wants to encourage its usage in Nigeria, has the same Harmonised System (HS) code with LPG.
“So, the import benefits placed on CNG equipment eventually affected LPG equipment; that is why they were tied together on the zero-import duties.
“Harmonised System codes are commonly used throughout the import and export process for the classification of goods.
“For me, we don’t produce CNG cylinders in Nigeria because
it involves advanced technology but we produce LPG cylinders here.
“For us to produce CNG cylinders, we have to change one or two machines, and we expect the government to encourage us to upscale our technology to 32, which we are planning to do,” she explained.
Obi urged the federal government to separate LPG HS code from that of CNG, to ensure that importers of LPG pay higher import duties, while the government continues with its efforts to make CNG affordable in the country with zero import duties.
“The previous government protected those producing cylinders, so that import will not overshadow local production; they did that to encourage local manufacturing but when this government came into existence, policy changed.
“We only enjoyed that policy for six months before it was scrapped and replaced with the new “zero-import duties” policy.”
She argued that if the government’s policy continues to kill LPG cylinder production, it will be very difficult for local producers to enter into CNG cylinder production.
Also speaking, an Economic Expert, Dr. Chijioke Ekechukwu, said efforts should be geared towards encouraging local manufacturers of LPG cylinders, for the growth of the country’s GDP.
especially in the mining sector.
He said: “What we are looking for is for us to structure our program of investment, we are not looking for a sovereign guarantee which will deplete the foreign reserves but innovative ways to collateralise those natural resources that the country has in abundance. The president has
verbally approved our request.
“The company expressed its interest in investing in a range of commodities. We are seeking approval for a joint venture model because in that way we can draw more investors not only in the country but also outside the country. Because when you have a joint venture
with the government, it’s better and that’s what we are seeking rather than for them to just issue land to us.”
The CEO stating plans for the mining sector noted that the company is ready to invest $4 billion, “to explore mineral resources but we need data and that is also one of the offers we
proposed so that we can bring in our expertise and help the government obtain accurate data and then we can explore those minerals. This partnership will help the government plan to reduce dependence on crude oil. We are also doing this across all the ministries because it’s a $172 billion investment drive.”
Adeboye: No Amount of Anointing Can Fight Sexual Temptation
Segun James
The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has declared that no amount of anointing can fight sexual temptation.
Adeboye added that he was still wary of sexual immorality despite his ‘anointing’ and years in the ministry.
He said despite his age, he ran faster than before to avoid any form of sexual temptation.
The cleric also warned ministers of the gospel to be wary of sexual immorality and the erroneous belief that their ‘anointing’ could help them withstand any temptation.
He stated these during a sermon at the just concluded Ministers and Workers’ Conference of RCCG Americas 1, which consists of North, Central and Caribbean with the theme: “The Glory Ahead”.
During the sermon shared on his YouTube page at the
weekend, Adeboye noted that Samson, who was a judge in Israel, fell into sexual immorality, despite the anointing over him.
He said: “Somebody says, at your age, why are you still running? I run faster than before because the closer you get to the finishing point, the more careful you must be.
“Some of you can say, ‘Daddy, what are you saying, are you still running?’ I run fast.
“‘With all your anointing?’
Does anointing turn your body to stone? Samson was anointed. Single-handedly, he killed a thousand soldiers. A woman finished him. I hope the boys are listening.
“You can say, ‘Is anybody still interested in an 82-year-old man?’ She is not interested in you but interested in putting an end to all the great works God has done through you.
“You see that woman smiling at you everywhere you go, she is there smiling, and she is not
Dele Momodu Intervenes in Davido, Sophia’s Battle over Child’s Custody
Sunday Ehigiator
Renowned journalist and uncle to Sophia Momodu, Dele Momodu, has weighed in on the ongoing custody battle between his niece, Sophia, and popular musician, David Adeleke, better known as Davido, over their nine-year-old daughter.
In a statement released yesterday on his Instagram account, Momodu expressed his disappointment and surprise at the turn of events, revealing that
he had previously been unaware of any custody issues between the two.
Recounting his efforts to facilitate an amicable resolution, including a video call with Davido and Pastor Tobi Adegboyega, as well as his discussions with Davido’s father, Dr. Adedeji Adeleke, Momodu emphasised that the issues at hand were primarily related to financial support and accommodation for the child, rather than joint custody.
According to him, “My
opinion is that the absence of camaraderie between David and Sophia has caused this debacle. I have cautioned repeatedly that their daughter must not be allowed to suffer or be treated like a second-class child. David’s global status makes this imperative.
“Sophia allowed David access to their daughter provided she has her nanny around 24/7. The nine-year-old herself made this request and I believe this should be favourably considered and
accepted. My grandniece had been released to go out with her cousins on several occasions.
“The governor’s daughter, Nike, was at Sophia’s house with the governor’s grandson last Christmas Day, even though there wasn’t ample notice and she still granted access.
“Two months ago, the governor’s son, Sina Rambo, requested a play date between the kids and Sophia rented out a children’s place in Victoria Island for them to spend hours together.
Senate, House Committees on Works Suspend Investigative Hearing
The Joint Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Works have suspended their proposed Investigative Hearings on the “Non-completion of the 15km Eleme-Onne section of the East West Road and the absence of Reynolds Construction Company (RCC) on site and the “Termination of contracts by the Federal Ministry of Works on the dualisation of Obajana Junction to Benin” earlier scheduled for Monday 8th July, 2024.
on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi, disclosed this in a statement they jointly signed in Abuja.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Barinada Mpigi and the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee
The statement titled: ‘Update on investigative Hearing’ reads: “Due to factors beyond our control, including time constraints and the need for further verification, we are obliged to postpone
the investigat ive hearing as earlier announced.
“The committees regret any inconvenience or harm that may have been caused by the publication.
“The investigative hearing, is hereby suspended and the list of construction companies published earlier is hereby withdrawn.”
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
THE TRUMP TEST FOR AMERICAN DEMOCRACY BACKPAGE CONTINUATION
me. I have become a dispassionate onlooker. I worry about the return of Trump mainly because many developing democracies look up to the US for inspiration and now they have bad examples to learn from. I was having a little discussion with someone who tried to justify some nonsense in Nigeria by saying “it happens even in America”. Before now, “in America” meant something good, something enviable. Role-modelling is nothing strange in the human society, whether at personal or national level. We compare systems and services and try to challenge ourselves to be as good as others. In my previous article, I compared the UK bureaucracy with that of Nigeria and challenged the government to reform our system.
Trump represents everything the typical African politician stands for: lack of values, disdain for accountability, emotional manipulation of voters, cheap propaganda and grandstanding. Ahead of his election as president in November 2016, Trump rode on anti-Islamic sentiments (he promised a travel ban on Muslims from some countries), racist messaging (“take back America” apparently because a black president, Barack Obama, was in office for eight years) and misogyny (he spoke condescending to a female interviewer and questioned if she was on her period). This was not the “in America” that I used to read about. In times past, he would have lost the election. No, he won.
During a pre-election debate with Mrs Hilary Clinton, he openly asked Russia to hack her e-mail. Ages ago, that was enough to cast him out of the presidential race or
CONVERSATIVES CRUSHED
The Labour Party, led by Sir Kier Starmer, has comprehensively defeated the Conversative Party in the UK general election. The manner of the victory was so chastening it could be termed a humiliation. I think the Tories paid the price for the scandal-ridden reign of Boris Johnson. The message from British voters was more like “enough is enough” or “anyone but the Tories”. It reminds me of the Change campaign of 2015 in Nigeria which was “anyone but Jonathan”. However, Starmer has been mostly ambivalent on critical policies regarding tax, immigration and healthcare. I won’t be surprised if Britons are on his neck by this time next year. He should enjoy the euphoria while it lasts. Politics.
ignite voters’ revolt. No, he won. He was accused of sleeping with a porn star. He did not deny it. He was accused of saying he loved to grab women by their privates. He did not deny it. It appeared the more dirt was raked up about him, the stronger he became in the presidential race. His eccentric support base continued to grow and he kept saying the basest of things, tinged with fake news. Many saw him as an embarrassment to the US, but it mattered little as he got the strategic votes that he needed from his likeminded fans.
Being president did not mellow him or refine his character. He continued to say outrageous things, some blatantly racist. He described COVID-19 as “Kung Flu” — in obvious reference to its suspected Chinese origin. On national TV, he proposed ingesting Dettol as a treatment for COVID — right in front of disease experts. He was recorded allegedly asking for votes to be manipulated in the State of Georgia to help him overturn Biden’s haul in the 2020 presidential election. When he lost to Biden, he blatantly refused to concede, instead assailing the integrity of the ballot by insisting — without proof — that the election was rigged. That is exactly what a typical African politician would do.
Things only got worse. By convention, American states give all their electoral college votes to the candidate that wins in a state. Trump tried to break the tradition as his strategists sought to get some states won by Biden to split their votes. The height of it was on January 6, 2021 when the presidential results were to be ratified by US Congress
at the final stage of the processes ahead of Biden’s inauguration. Trump’s supporters attacked the US Congress. Vice-President Mike Pence had to be smuggled out of the chamber. On social media, Trump described the political thugs as “patriots”, further hurting the emotions of families who lost loved ones in the unprecedented attack. Out of office, Trump has had to face numerous criminal charges, including for fraud and paying hush money. He has been found guilty in both cases and there is still one more pending on the January 6 attack on the Congress. However, there is no law in America than bars a convicted felon from running for president. The laws were made probably under the assumption that convicted felons would not entertain the faintest thought of contesting. In the America of yore, a candidate would drop out of the race on moral grounds — even if there is no legal justification for it. That was what “in America” used to mean to me. But Trump, like a typical African politician, is testing the limits of the law.
If Trump is returned to the White House, it is not just that the credentials of American democracy will be endangered. It is not just that the stock of rabble rousers will rise. It is the cheap excuses and dangerous motivation it will offer the anti-democracy elements in Africa and other regions of the developing world that I worry about. We saw how President Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil tried to copy from the Trump playbook during his tenure. We saw how his supporters attacked federal government buildings in
And Four Other Things…
THE LGBTQ+ QUESTION
In Nigeria, most of those who make initial comments on a national issue and stir longlasting controversies often have two things in common: ignorance and mischief. The hysteria over the Samoa Agreement is my latest evidence. Nowhere in the agreement is any country mandated to apply LGBTQ+ rights. Yet, the internet has been in a frenzy. Many commenters have not read one word of the agreement. I know that 2027 politics has fully commenced but I think our politicians and their supporters should spare a thought for the peace of this country. In any case, we banned same-sex relationships in 2013 and there is yet no evidence than our lives are now better. Remarkable.
BOKO BACK?
When you say it is peace and safety, then a sudden destruction descends. Suspected Boko Haram terrorists suicide-bombed funeral and wedding ceremonies in Gwoza, Borno state, last weekend, killing dozens and injuring hundreds. Suicide-bombing had ceased for a while and we focused our energies on fighting insurgency — which is more conventional and territorial. But terrorism is tricky as the element of surprise is always there. Soft targets are always vulnerable. Are the insurgents so well cornered now that they are forced to change tactics? Are we entering a new phase in this war? Whatever it is, the security chiefs must return to the drawing board. The war is not over. Evidently.
WOLE SOYINKA’S FULL AND WHOLESOME HARVEST
the country or on the continent in terms of output, versality and aesthetic depth.
He has dozens of plays ranging from radio plays like Camwood on the Leaves; to the plays easy enough to make it to secondary school literature reading lists like The Trial of Brother Jero, The Lion and the Jewel, Jero’s Metamorphosis; to adaptations of Western and Greek classics like Opera Wonyosi and Bacchae of Euripides; to satirical plays like Kongi’s Harvest, Madmen and Specialists, Before the Blackout, and A Dance of the Forests (which was also the official independence play in 1960); to artistic and philosophical plays like The Road, The Swamp Dwellers, The Strong Breed; and to his timeless classic, Death and the King’s Horseman.
His prose, especially his novels, is not the most accessible to the average reader, but Soyinka is primarily a playwright with poetic sensibilities. In 1986 when he became the first African to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, the Nobel Committee broke the news this way: “This year’s Nobel Prize in literature goes to an African writer, Wole Soyinka (from Nigeria) …who in a wide cultural perspective and with poetic overtones fashions the drama of existence… He has a large and richly varied literary production behind him and is in his prime as an author.”
If the decision to award him the Nobel Prize rested on one work (the prize is usually for a body of work), then it has to be the one described by the Nobel committee as follows: “Death and the King’s Horseman is in the nature of an antique tragedy with the cultic sacrificial death as theme. The relationship between the unborn, the living and the dead, to which Soyinka reverts several times in his works, is fashioned here with very strong effect. Soyinka confirms his position as a centre of force in drama.”
Given Soyinka’s virtuosity in drama, it is understandable that some of his acolytes call him our own WS (for William Shakespeare which anyway shares same first letters with
Wole Soyinka). Post-Nobel, Soyinka has been busy writing plays, essays, memoirs, poems, articles and letters. But he has always shared his dedication to his arts with persistent struggles for freedom, justice and progress in Nigeria and beyond. (Beyond Abacha, he gave grief to other African dictators like Mobutu and Bokassa). For Soyinka, it is not enough for the artist to produce profound and socially-conscious art, the artist must also be personally involved.
Here too, it is difficult to find many artists who have taken on the mantle of activism
the Brazilian capital after he was defeated in the 2022 election — a clear imitation of what the Trump thugs did in the US. Such “in America” modelling is a threat to the rest of the world.
In truth, American democracy has been suffering body blows for a while — long before the Trump adventure. The judiciary is highly partisan, exemplified by the Supreme Court judges who hardly reach verdicts on the basis of justice but rather on political and religious biases. The 2000 presidential face-off between George W Bush and Al Gore was settled by the Supreme Court justices based on their partisan leanings, not the facts of the case. The court has just granted some immunity to Trump — awarding him a get-out-of-jail (pun unintended) bonus. Meanwhile, Congress impeachment proceedings are hardly guided by a moral compass but fundamentally by partisanship.
Truth be told, democracy is facing a crisis globally. But it has been mostly about representation and accountability. Citizens are disenchanted with their representatives and think the current system is not serving the people well. A Trump comes along and rides the waves. Still, the Trump crisis is in a league of its own. It is about character. He has no shame. The Leader of the Free World — as Americans love to call their president — could be a convicted felon who is fully sold to Machiavellianism. In a country like Nigeria where democracy advocates are struggling to promote ethics as a core requirement for leadership, expect the shameless politicians to imitate Trump.
NO COMMENT
Mr Amos Daniel, a 36-year-old driver, recently confessed to journalists that he stole his employer’s car on his first day at work and then testified in his church that he just bought a car. “I was employed as a driver. The first day I was employed, I stole my madam’s car to go and give testimony in church that I have bought a car and it is what God has done for me,” he told the media after being arrested by the police. Imagine the full volume of “Hallelujah!” in the church after his testimony. In many churches today, the evidence that you are serving a “living God” is cars, houses and bank account balances. But to steal a car and then testify in church thereafter is another level entirely. Wonderful.
Region, for which he was detained and charged but set free for want of ironclad evidence. At the beginning of the civil war two years later, he undertook a perilous journey to the breakaway Eastern Region to attempt to avert a full-blown war and the death and destruction to follow, an endeavour for which he was arrested and put in solitary confinement for two years. He went on self-exile between 1971 and 1975. His 1983 album and two of his books (The Man Died and Requiem for a Futurologist) were banned at some point. His house and possessions were thrashed by those that Abacha had sent after him. It is conceivable that those who shot Alhaja Kudirat Abiola on the streets of Lagos, killed Pa Alfred Rewane in his bedroom, shot Chief Alex Ibru, a serving minister, and shot at Pa Abraham Adesanya were not planning just a courtesy call on the Nobel Laureate. They probably would have made an attempt on his life too if he had not had a quick conversation with his legs.
and put their freedoms, livelihoods and even their lives at risk as much as Soyinka has done. At some point, some may be misled to actually think that Soyinka got the highly coveted Nobel for his activism. Of course, some of his actions, statements and choice of words stir controversies. But he cannot be accused of not taking a public and sometimes dangerous position on issues dear to him.
In 1965, when he was a 31-year-old, there was the mystery gunman that replaced the recorded tape of the premier of Western
Wole Soyinka has given more than his fair share not just to the development of arts and letters but also to the unending quest for a good society. He has the Nobel to show for his first preoccupation but physical and psychological scars to show for the latter. Unfortunately, Nigeria has remained stubbornly far from the good society. But that is not because Soyinka has not done his bit and is not because his generation, contrary to his famous expression is wasted one. Fashioning and sustaining the good society will always be a work-in-progress.
For about seven decades, Soyinka has been at the barricade. That’s more than enough sacrifice for one man. It is left for the rest of us to keep pushing the boundaries, in our various ways. As the cancer survivor, hunter, wine connoisseur, author, activist and national treasure joins the rare club of nonagenarians, he deserves our special felicitation and gratitude. He has mine.
Soyinka
Afenifere to FG
“Enough lives have been lost. Enough properties have been destroyed. It is high time that a stop must be put to the fear and uncertainty that now characterise our lives.” – Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and socio-political organisation, Afenifere, expressing concern over the resurgence of insecurity in the country.
SIMON KOLAWOLE
The Trump Test for American Democracy
Igrew up being made to understand that everything about the United States of America was a model to the rest of the world. “In America” was a constant recourse in public discourse — whether we were talking about democracy, constitutionalism, federalism or public accountability. Anything American was the best for the world. It was one country where every detail of the life of a top public official, or an intending one, was examined by the media and the public. It was one country where if the president or governor was accused of impropriety with evidence, the next line of action was resignation. Even a stained presidential or governorship candidate would withdraw from the race.
I recall, as if it happened yesterday, the case of Senator Gary Hart in the run-up to the 1988 presidential election. He was rated as the frontrunner in the Democratic Party. Suddenly, rumours started popping up that he was having an extramarital affair with Donna Rice, a young activist. Although he flatly denied having liaisons with her and there was no concrete evidence beyond circumstantial facts, Hart had to withdraw from the race amid the unrelenting media scrutiny. The impression I got, even as a teenager with negligible understating of politics and political intrigues, was that America was
a country where ethics actually mattered in the choice of public officers.
Let’s say the American democracy of today is not what it used to be and the adventure of President Donald
WAZIRI ADIO
biggest, if not the biggest, threats it has had to navigate in centuries. As Americans prepare for the 2024 presidential poll, the whole world is watching how they will handle the “Trump Test”, which I would vaguely describe as when a rabble rouser, or — to be charitable — a non-conformist urinates on an established democratic order. Every system — be it political, economic, social or technological — must undergo its own crisis or face a litmus test at some point in time. It is a fact of human evolution. We cannot avoid or prevent it. We only have to navigate it.
The US situation is complicated by the fact that Trump’s opponent, President Joe Biden, is apparently not in a good state of health. He is 81. If he wins, he will be 82 when he starts a second term in January 2025 and will be 86 when his tenure ends. He is already the oldest to be sworn in — he was 78 in 2021, beating the record set by Trump who was 70 when he was inaugurated in 2017. To be clear, Biden’s problem is not his age. It is the uncertain state of his health, both physical and mental. His performance at the CNN debate, where he said many things that even his most loyal supporters admitted they could not comprehend, set off an alarm bell in his corner. This can’t be downplayed.
With Biden’s refusal to withdraw from the
race — something we used to say only of a typical African leader who would prefer to be referred to as “late president” rather than “former president” — he appears to be putting personal interest first. Ageing is a normal human process and it is nothing to be ashamed of, strictly speaking. He can argue that while he has indeed had his moments, he has not broken any law — either legal or moral — and he can still hold his own. That is probably why he is insisting on remaining in the race despite his poor debate outing and unflattering stand in the opinion polls. It is now left to 160 million American voters and 538 electors to determine his fate. Trump is currently favoured to defeat Biden in the November 5 election. And that really worries me. I will explain why — it has nothing to do with my political bias. Personally, I have become so disillusioned with politics, home and abroad, that I am no longer passionate about any party or candidate. In Nigeria, the mindless killing of nine youth corps members by a political mob in Bauchi in the 2011 general election killed something in me. I just can’t get over it. This has been worsened by the perennial deceit upon deceit in the Nigerian political games. I can’t deal. Abroad, the rise of far-right wingers and conspiracy theorists disheartened
Wole Soyinka’s Full and Wholesome Harvest
In early July 1994, a group led by late Chief Bola Ige and Mr. Odia Ofeimun put together a week-long and an elaborate series of events at the National Theatre, Lagos, featuring staged plays, book readings, seminars, live music and exhibitions, tagged ‘The Soyinka Festival.’ The festival was organised to mark the 60th birthday of the man it was named after and to celebrate his prodigious creativity and contributions to literature and culture.
However, the man being celebrated declined to attend or to associate with the festival because he said ‘a noxious cloud’ had settled on the country, which made it difficult for him to find a justification to celebrate his first landmark birthday after achieving global acclaim.
On 24th July 1994, the man organised and led a different kind of event. It was called ‘A Walk for Justice,’ a march on the streets of Lagos against the early signs of what would become the most brutal episode of military dictatorship in Nigeria. He walked past the security officers that had come to stop him, and led a group of marchers from Yaba to Tafawa Balewa Square, where he dramatically brought out and smashed his national honour, declaring that no one deserved a national honour in a country
with no justice.
Some of the marchers were tear-gassed around Oyingbo. One of the marchers who inhaled the noxious gas was Tai Solarin, the social critic who was 78 at the time but had decided to come out to ‘walk a step of two’ with his younger ally. Solarin, who was asthmatic, was later taken to a hospital where he was treated and discharged. But two days after, the septuagenarian fell while descending the steps of his austere home in Ikenne, Ogun State, and was declared dead at the hospital. The lead marcher visited the widow and the two children of his fallen comrade, paid a special tribute at the grave in an open field, and vowed not to give up the fight.
He did not.
Four months later, the 60-year-old had to flee the country on a motorbike and in a disguise as agents of the murderous regime closed in on him. In exile—the second time he would be forced to leave his beloved homeland—he became a major torn in the flesh of the General Sani Abacha government, writing, speaking, marching, leveraging his global status and rich diction against the regime to devastating result. Even in exile, he had to move about in disguise and had to constantly watch his back. The junta later charged and tried him for treason,
in absentia, and sentenced him to death.
The events that I have relayed above, largely from my recollection as a reporter who covered some of these events, are just a few slices from the sacrificial life of Professor Oluwole Akinwande Soyinka who will turn 90 on Saturday, 13th July. It can be argued that there is still not much to celebrate about Nigeria, even when whatever is going on today pales considerably when compared to the climate of repression of three decades ago. (It needs to be said that the space we have today is made possible by the enormous sacrifice borne by people like Soyinka.)
There is definitely something to celebrate about turning 90 in a country where life expectancy is 56 years. And definitely, there is a lot to celebrate because this is not just another random person that is one the few lucky ones to live till 90. This is Wole Soyinka, a man who has dedicated most of his art and life to fighting the good cause when he could conveniently have kept to his craft or just minded his business or even collaborated with the ruiners of the land, as many did at the period, and found convenient justifications for. (And it must be said that the majority did not put their lives and livelihoods on the line and did not have to be in the line of fire of military
dictators. Even Abacha wasn’t going after everyone, a reason why most Nigerians didn’t bear the brunt and some of them and their offsprings do not appreciate what those on the frontline went through and some even long for the return of the military.)
Minding his business or sitting on the fence would have been unlike Soyinka. It would have been distinctly out of character. So, it is fitting to toast a man who has put his prodigious talent and agency at the service of society and is blessed, despite the heavy cost of the exertions, to live to 90 and is still on his feet.
Writing is his main vocation, and through this he has brought critical global acclaim to himself, his country and to the black race. There are very few artists—living or dead—as rounded as our own WS. Playwright, poet, novelist, essayist, actor, director, filmmaker, memoirist, translator and even singer/song writer (‘I Love My Country’, released with Tunji Oyelana and the Benders in 1983), Wole Soyinka has an artistic range that eludes most. His real forte, however, is drama. This is where he towers above the rest. It is difficult to find anyone who comes close to him either in
