S&P: Dangote Refinery Capable of Solving Nigeria’s FX Problems, Catalysing Economic Devt
Refinery managers reaffirm plans to commence petrol production this July Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja International financial analytics corporation, S&P Global, has described the 650,000 barrels per day (bpd) Dangote Oil Refinery
and Petrochemicals company as capable of resolving Nigeria’s foreign exchange issues and its huge pressure on the local currency. S&P Global, headquartered in Manhattan, New York City, disclosed this during an onsite visit to the Dangote Refinery Continued on page 5
at Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos as part
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TCN Says Grid Fully Restored after Nationwide Blackout, Blames ‘Tripping’ of Generator
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) yesterday said it had fully restored power
nationwide, about 24 hours after a system collapse led to a blackout all over the country. Nigeria’s electricity grid collapsed for fourth time this
year on Saturday afternoon, with power generation dropping to as low as 57 megawatts at 6.07 pm, a significant fall from the almost 4,000mw recorded
at about 8am the same day. A THISDAY review of available information had shown 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 around 3pm before drastically falling to 0.80 by 4pm.
On the latest occurrence, some power distributors notified their customers that the system
After Re-emerging ECOWAS Chair, Tinubu Charges Members to
Meet Fiscal Contracts
Says Nigeria'll lead by example, fulfil its financial commitments Offers nation's counter-terrorism centre for use by entire region Canvasses unity, innovation to boost regional economy Abiodun congratulates president on re-election
ECOWAS SUMMIT....
the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of States and Government held at the conference centre, of the Presidential Villa, Abuja...yesterday
L-R: President of the Republic of The Gambia, Adama Barrow ; President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; President of ECOWAS Commission, Omar Touray; President of Guinea-Bissau, Umaro Sissco Embalo Back row (L-R): President of Senegal Bassirou Diomaye Faye; President of Liberia, Joseph Boakai; Vice President of Ivory Coast Tiemoko Meyliet Kone and President of Sierra Leone, Julie's Maada Bio at the 64th Ordinary Session of
GODWIN OMOIGUI
declares Uzoka-Anite: Informal Sector Key to Growth, Plagued by Regulatory Complexities, Others
Era of lip service to SMEs over, SMEDAN boss
James Emejo in Abuja
Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, has said despite being the lifeblood of Nigeria's economy, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are currently constrained by regulatory complexities, limited access to finance, and high production costs, among others.
Uzoka-Anite made the assertion at the weekend in Abuja during the lunch of the Informal Economy Report 2024.
Director General, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Mr. Charles Odili, declared at the same event that the era of lip service, on the part of government, to development of small businesses was now a thing of the past.
Uzoka-Anite said the sector had the potential to drive job creation, rural industrialisation, and innovation, adding that its significance extends across various sectors, contributing substantially to national development.
She said the MSMEs sector played a pivotal role in the implementation of President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope agenda.
The agenda focuses on six key pillars, including improving ease of doing business, policy development, increasing access to financing and global markets, driving investments, and boosting job creation.
She said despite the obstacles, the federal government had initiated key interventions to empower small businesses, including the N200 billion presidential palliative
programme, which offered grants to nano businesses and low interest loans to MSMEs.
Other interventions include the State Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (SEEP), providing affordable credit to micro enterprises, and the conversion to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks for goods transportation, among others.
Uzoka-Anite said while addressing key challenges and leveraging strategic partnerships, these initiatives aimed to unlock the full potential of the country's informal sector,
and drive economic diversification and sustainable growth in line with Tinubu's vision for national development.
In his own remarks, Odili said small businesses remained the engine of the economy, and served as the pistons providing momentum.
He said the vast majority of the country's 40 million small businesses resided in the informal sector, which accounted for millions of jobs in the economy. He said ensuring their survival and growth remained crucial for poverty elimination,
rural industrialisation, and the enhancement of livelihoods – three core mandates of SMEDAN. The SMEDAN director-general stated that government’s regulations used to be challenging for SMEs "but no more".
AFTER RE-EMERGING ECOWAS CHAIR, TINUBU CHARGES MEMBERS TO MEET FISCAL CONTRACTS
me and the ECOWAS Commission, where necessary.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, yesterday, called on member-states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to fulfil their financial obligations to the organisation to enable it to effectively tackle security challenges in the sub-region.
Tinubu spoke in Abuja at the 65th Ordinary Session of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, where he was re-elected Chairman of the community’s supreme institution.
The Nigerian president’s mandate was extended following the decision of the leaders to ensure continuity and consistency in meeting targets on security, reconciliation, and development.
He was first elected to the position in Guinea-Bissau on July 9, 2023.
In his acceptance speech, Tinubu said he would focus on consolidating the virtues of democracy and upholding the interest of the regional body, which will clock 50 years in 2025.
He appointed President of Senegal, His Excellency, Mr. Bassirou Diomaye Faye, and President of Togo, His Excellency, Mr. Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, as Special Envoys to Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Republic, three countries which announced their withdrawal from ECOWAS in January.
Tinubu stated, “I have appointed the President of Senegal, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, to please, become our Special Envoy to Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Republic, along with the President of Togo, Faure Gnassingbé, to do around the clock work with our brothers in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger Republic, and to coordinate with
“I have accepted to continue the service to the great members and the great minds that are committed to democratic values and our journey in the region.
“I will continue to serve our interest and build on democratic values and the structure that we inherited.”
The Nigerian leader stressed that reasonable financial resources were crucial to operationalise the ECOWAS Standby Force (ESF) and combat terrorism, banditry and violent extremism in the region.
He called on member nations to honour their financial obligations to enable ECOWAS to meet the expectations and recommendations of its Ministers of Defence and Finance.
According to him, fulfilling these commitments would help stabilise the region and counter insecurity.
Tinubu said, "By meeting their financial commitments, ECOWAS member states will demonstrate their dedication to regional security and cooperation, enabling the community to better address the security challenges facing West Africa.
“Let me underscore that a peaceful and secure society is essential for achieving our potential, move to operationalise the ECOWAS Standby Force (ESF) in combating terrorism.
I must emphasise that the success of this plan requires, not only strong political will, but also substantial financial resources.
"We must, therefore, ensure that we meet the expectations and recommendations set forth by our ministers of Defence and Finance in order to counter the insecurity and stabilise our region. Member-states must make extra commitment on providing resources for stabilising the region.
"To this end, I urge ECOWAS to leverage on the capability of the
TCN SAYS GRID FULLY RESTORED AFTER NATIONWIDE BLACKOUT, BLAMES ‘TRIPPING’ OF GENERATOR
failure was as a result of the grid collapse, but stated that they were working with the TCN to restore electricity as soon as possible. The last incident happened in April this year.
However, the TCN in a statement announcing the restoration of electricity nationwide, argued that the incident was not a total grid collapse, but a partial disturbance. It further maintained that there had been three grid disturbances, rather than four, explaining that only one was a total grid collapse.
“The Transmission Company of Nigeria hereby states that there was a partial disturbance of the grid at about 15.09 hours yesterday (Saturday) July 6, 2024.
“The system disturbance, which brings to three the partial grid disturbances, with one total disturbance this year, is suspected to have been triggered by the unexpected tripping of
three units of a power generating station.
“This suddenly removed 313mw from the grid, causing system instability that led to the loss of bulk supply to a section of the national grid,” the statement signed by the General Manager, Public Affairs of the company, Ndidi Mbah, stated.
It added that the System Operator (SO) reacted to the sudden drop in generation which led to a dip in frequency, by ‘islanding’ a section of the grid which included the Ibom Power Station through which the company continued to feed Uyo, Aba, Itu, Eket, Calabar, even when the other section of the grid had no supply.
“Also, the operators commenced grid restoration efforts immediately after the incident. At about 21.57 hours yesterday (Saturday), the entire part of the grid that was affected by the day’s incident was successfully restored,” the transmission company said.
Centre (NCTC), which is widely acknowledged as one of the best on the continent.
"The Nigerian government has decided to declare the NCTC as a regional centre to enable all ECOWAS member states benefit from capacity building and other related opportunities it offers.
"Your excellencies, dear heads of state, I urge those of you with time to visit the centre before your departure and assess first-hand the facilities and the capabilities of NCTC."
The Nigerian president also advised ECOWAS member-states to unite and develop innovative approaches to unlock the region's economic potential and promote prosperity.
He acknowledged the economic hurdles hindering progress and stressed the need for partnerships, investment, and infrastructure development.
The president stressed the importance of a conducive business environment to stimulate growth and build resilience against external shocks.
Commenting on the financial challenges facing ECOWAS, he urged member-states to comply with the protocol on community levies to ensure adequate resources for the organisation's programmes, assuring them of Nigeria's commitment not to default on its own finance commitments.Tinubu declared, "Nigeria, under my leadership, is
committed to leading by example by remitting its collected levies to the organisation."
He said, "I’m also fully aware of other challenges confronting our region, especially the economic hurdles that hinder our progress, to elevate our people from poverty to prosperity.
“It is imperative that we unite as a community and develop innovative approaches to unleash our vast economic potentials. We must continue to identify and develop partnerships that promote investment in key sectors and promote regional trade.
"Furthermore we must invest in our infrastructure and cultivate a conducive business environment to empower our community to stimulate growth and build resilience against external shock. Together, we can pave the way for a prosperous future for all ECOWAS countries.”
Earlier, President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, said the region had proven that democracy was alive, given the recent successful transitions in Senegal, Nigeria, Guinea Bissau, Sierra Leone, and Liberia.
“We look forward to the consolidation of this trend in the region as we prepare for a major election in Ghana later this year," Touray said.
He, however, warmed that the region was still being confronted with multidimensional challenges, which seemed to overshadow its
modest achievements.
Touray said, “Our region is still confronted with multiple interlocking threats, including existential works. This include climatic and manmade crisis, leading to terrorism and violent extremism and food insecurity. Livelihoods continued to be threatened by illegal and unsustainable exploitation of our land, forest and marine resources.
“Governance deficit and marginalisation have strained social contracts, engendering bitter rivalries and unhealthy competition. To complicate the situation, our region has become the arena of geo-strategic and geopolitical rivalries and the theatre of misinformation and disinformation that engenders mistrust among and within communities and undermine social cohesion."
He revealed that the commission had commenced preparation towards the 50th anniversary celebration of ECOWAS.
Touray said the commission was proposing a Special ExtraOrdinary Summit on the future of the community.
He stated, "It is, however, important to note that we will be celebrating our golden jubilee in a context marked by geostrategic and geopolitical rivalries that have not spared our region.
"We must, therefore, be proactive in our response to these developments. It is for this reason that the commission is proposing a Special Extra-Ordinary
Summit on the future of our Community.
"The honourable ministers have considered this proposal and instructed that a memorandum be submitted for your consideration."
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun said the re-election of Tinubu as Chairman of ECOWAS was an attestation of his leadership qualities.
In a congratulatory message to the president, Abiodun said Tinubu’s re-election reflected the unwavering confidence reposed in his leadership by the region.
According to him, since his first election two years ago, Tinubu has laid a solid framework for the future integration of the sub-region as well as fostered security among the people. Abiodun praised the president for showing statesmanship by the way he handled the recent violent change of government by three member states, noting that this averted what could have been a serious crisis in the region.
The governor stated, "Under President Tinubu's guidance, ECOWAS has made remarkable strides in fostering economic integration, promoting regional peace and security, and enhancing cooperation among member states.
"His dedication to advancing the interests of the West African region has been evident throughout his first tenure, and we are confident that his reappointment will further accelerate the progress achieved thus far.”
DANGOTE REFINERY CAPABLE OF SOLVING NIGERIA’S FX PROBLEMS, CATALYSING ECONOMIC DEVT
of its sovereign credit ratings assessment of Nigeria.
The team from the international rating agency was accompanied by officials from the Federal Ministry of Finance.
S&P noted that the largest single-train refinery complex in the world would bolster Nigeria's oil sector and, more importantly, also have a positive impact on its growing economy.
Director and Lead Analyst, Sovereign and International Public Finance Ratings, S&P Global Ratings, Ravi Bhatia, who led the delegation to Lagos, said Dangote refinery would transform Nigeria into a net exporter of petroleum products.
He added that the transformation was expected to boost revenue generation and alleviate the current pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves.
“It is a very impressive facility, able to process 650,000 barrels a day, when in full capacity. It is the largest single-train refinery complex in the world. It came out quite quickly.
“Nigeria is a big exporter of crude but has issues with importing refined fuels. So, there is a gap in the market where crude can be refined in Nigeria, save money that way, and potentially save some foreign exchange. This will be positive for the economy in the medium
term. It looks positive from our assessment,” Bhatia said after an over four-hour tour of the facility.
Also, in a chat with the media, Vice President of Oil and Gas at Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), Devakumar Edwin, who led the team during the tour of the facility, reiterated that by harnessing Africa’s abundant crude oil resources to produce refined products locally, the company aims to catalyse a virtuous cycle of industrial development, job creation, and economic prosperity.
He also revealed that, as earlier promised, the company will start the production of premium motor spirit (PMS), this month (July).
Noting that products from the $20 billion facility are of high quality and meet international standards, Edwin said it can meet 100 per cent of Nigeria's demand for petrol, diesel, kerosene, and aviation Jet, with surpluses available for export.
The S&P team commended the President of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, for integrating advanced technologies and quality control measures, including a state-ofthe-art Central Control Unit ensuring smooth automation of operations.
Other members of the team of the international ratings agency
included the Associate Director, Sovereign Ratings, Maxmillian McGraw; Director, Corporate Ratings, Omegu Collocott; Senior Analyst, Bank Ratings, Charlotte Masvongo, and Director, Financial Services, Samira Mensah.
Currently operating at 350,000 barrels per day capacity, Edwin said the refinery is slated to scale up to at least 500,000 barrels per day capacity by July/August, commencing the refining of petrol and ultra-low sulphur diesel.
He noted that the refinery, designed to process a wide range of crudes including various African and Middle Eastern crudes, as well as US Light Oil, conforms to Euro V specifications.
In addition, he said that it is designed to comply with US EPA, European Union (EU) emission norms, the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) emission/effluent norms, and the African Refiners and Distribution Association (ARDA) standards.
While noting that most refineries were built by foreign companies, he said it is a thing of pride that a Nigerian company designed and built the world’s largest single-train refinery complex while acting directly as its own Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractor.
The refinery, he is, also incorporates a self-sufficient marine facility capable of handling the world's largest vessels.
“The refinery can produce the best quality products in the world, Euro V grade. It is one of the energy-efficient refineries and it is highly environmentally friendly. It is sophisticated with a high level of automation. The largest single train refinery in the world is 100 per cent designed, engineered, and constructed by a Nigerian company as EPC contractor,” he said. Nigeria, one of the world’s leading oil-producing countries, exports all its crude oil for refining and subsequently imports refined products due to a lack of operational refineries. It is estimated that Nigeria imports at least 50 million litres of petrol per day to meet domestic demand.
According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in its foreign trade statistics for the fourth quarter of 2023, Nigeria spent approximately N12 trillion on the importation of petroleum products in 2023, including Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol.
It stated that this figure marks an 18.68 per cent increase compared to the N10 trillion spent on fuel imports in 2022.
Uzoka-Anite
Nigeria National Counter Terrorism
Deji Elumoye, Michael Olugbode in Abuja and James Sowole in Abeokuta
CHURCH SERVICE TO CELEBRATE BEATRICE EKWUEME AT HER 90TH BIRTHDAY...
L-R: Sir Ogo Ekwueme, Neville
Ohanaeze,
Factional NNPP NEC Affirms Six Months Suspension of Governor Yusuf, Kwankwaso’s Expulsion
Announces dissolution of Ahmed’s NWC Kano chairman urges Tinubu to fix Nigeria before things get out of hand Says Bayero's Yoruba bloodline fuelling Kano emirate crisis
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The National Executive Committee (NEC) of factional New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has affirmed the six months suspension of Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf and the expulsion of Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso from the party.
The resolution of the party was contained in a communique issued yesterday and jointly signed by Umar Jibril and Omolara Johnson, following the NEC meeting held on May 27. NNPP stated that the decision
of its Board of Trustees to call to order the erring national officers of the party was in accordance with the constitution of the party.
The party also announced the dissolution of the National Working Committee (NWC) led by Mr. Ajuji Ahmed and Mr. Dipo Olayokun as Acting National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively.
It said in the communique, “The appointment of Dr. Agbo Gilbert Major and Comrade Oginni Olaposi Sunday as the National Chairman and National Secretary was confirmed
and unanimously adopted.
“The recommendations of the Fact-Finding Committee (FFC) and the Conflict Resolution Committee (CRC) on the Continuation of the six months’ suspension of Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State and expulsion of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso from New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) were unanimously affirmed.
“The constitutional provision and recognition of the office of the founder of New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) was reiterated and a vote of confidence was unanimously
passed on the founder – Dr. Boniface Okechukwu Antebonam.
“That Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should as a matter of urgency update the record of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to reflect the emergence of the leadership of the National Working Committee (NWC) led by Dr. Agbo Gilbert Major as National Chairman and Comrade Oginni Olapos Sunday as the National Secretary.”
The party said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)
90% of Diesel Sold in Nigeria’s Filling Stations Illegally Refined, Alleges Tompolo’s Surveillance Firm
Says oil coys secretly patronise communities in N’Delta Notes refineries abroad complaining no more stolen crude from Nigeria
A company owned by former Niger Delta warlord, Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo, Tantita Security Services (TSS) Ltd., has alleged that up to 90 per cent of refined diesel sold in Nigeria’s filling stations is ‘brewed’ by local communities in the Niger Delta.
The firm, which was contracted by the federal government in 2022 to embark upon oil surveillance activities in the region, following the massive fall in crude oil production, stated that almost all the oil companies patronise those who illegally refine the country’s crude.
The Executive Director, Operations & Technical, Tantita, Capt. Warredi Enisuo, who spoke during a panel session at the just concluded Nigeria Oil and Gas (NOG) summit in Abuja, therefore argued that the communities must focus consistently
when the progress of the oil industry is discussed.
The panel was themed: “ Exploring Nigeria’s Content Solutions to Meet Energy Demand.”
Enisuo argued that the reason that cheap, illegal diesel was no longer available, more or less, was because of the work that Tantita was doing to stop oil theft in the Niger Delta, insisting that oil communities must no longer be ignored.
“Why is there no scarcity of diesel (right now)? There is scarcity of PMS (petrol). The story is simple. Most of the diesel you buy is brewed (refined) by the communities.
“ Don't let any fuel station deceive you, 90 per cent of the diesel in fuel stations are produced by the communities. It will also interest you to know that even the oil companies, they patronise the local diesel refineries. Don't let anybody deceive you.
“But they do it illegally and behind the doors. So, as we go with the local
content, the board has a lot to do with people with this skill and character. I'm not too sure how much your act has done to establish infrastructure, but to be honest with you, we might need to focus more on the communities,” Enisuo emphasised.
According to him, until host oil communities are educated, given affordable and adequate health care and are seen as key stakeholders in the oil industry, the issues currently besetting the oil sector may be prolonged.
“The reason why the price of diesel is high today is because of the work of the private security companies like my company, because we have been able to somehow cut down on a lot of the business, a lot of the illegal refining going on. That is why you see the cost of diesel going up.
“Let the communities take on the responsibility of ownership, a sense of belonging. This is why we are making progress. If you give them that sense
of responsibility, you should not forget what happened in Niger Delta. But if you put them somewhere where you feel you can outsmart them...these guys will out-greed you,” he argued.
On how to start tackling the challenge, the top Tantita executive argued that building standard educational institutions and health institutions in the creeks is one way, while there should be massive reorientation of host oil communities.
To drive the conversation, he noted that government at all levels must take the lead, while the local content board as the regulator, and the oil companies must follow.
He explained that the government must do everything to stop the temptation to sell crude illegally to foreign refineries, pointing out that the company receives calls on a weekly basis from foreign refiners complaining that they no longer get feedstock because of the surveillance activities by Tantita.
Petroleum Tanker Drivers' Group Dismisses Lagos Delegates’ Election
Addeh
The protracted leadership dispute within the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) branch of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) appears far from over, with some aggrieved members dismissing the election held on July 3.
The factional PTD led by its National Chairman, Lucky Osesua, at the weekend described the
election which was conducted by the opposition in Lagos as a Kangaroo exercise, characterising it as null and void. He declared that the other faction went against the judgement of the National Industrial Court (NIC) of May 29, 2024 by the action of July 3.
Speaking in Abuja, alongside his Deputy, Dayyabu Garga and Humble Power as well as others aggrieved members, Osesua
declared that his group did not recognise the election, prompting it to hold its separate election.
Osesua described his group's position as a liberation struggle, stressing that they were law abiding persons who have prepared for all the consequences their actions for the liberation of the PTD.
“The court ordered NUPENG to forthwith put the process for the new election in motion by constituting an all-inclusive electoral
and caretaker committee, as ordered in the judgment in Suit No. NICN/ YEN/14/2022, who shall conduct the election within four months from the date of this judgment.
"But, NUPENG, on May 31, 2024, released once again discriminatory and selective election guidelines to favour their preferred candidates. The is against the judgement of the court, not equitable, unfair, unjust, and against natural justice.
should be supported with all necessary information and documents on the petition against Kwankwaso, Kawu, Ajuji, Buba Galadima, Olayokun, and the defunct NWC on the N2.5 billion nomination fees and camping fund fraud.
NNPP stated that its 2022 constitution as amended remained sacrosanct with the flag and logo of the party.
It stressed that the national headquarters of NNPP was situated at Will and Plaza, Wuse Zone 4 Abuja, saying no other parallel office shall be in operation as the national headquarters.
In a related development, NNPP urged President Bola Tinubu to, as a matter of urgency, address the
Continued on page 40
Fuel Scarcity: Petroleum Marketers Blame ‘Logistics’ as Long Queues Persist in Abuja, Environs
Ex-depot price hits N715 per litre, IPMAN begins negotiations with NNPC, Dangote
The long fuel queues in Abuja and environs continued at the weekend, with many filling stations still shut, while the few that had the product sold for as high as N700.
But petroleum marketers blamed transportation ‘logistics’ for the disruption in supply, stressing that the problem was currently localised to Abuja and parts of the north due to the inability of fuel tankers to have unimpeded movement to the affected areas.
National President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Abubakar Maigandi, told Arise Television, THISDAY’s broadcast arm at the weekend that although there was availability of the product, getting it to Abuja and surrounding states was becoming difficult.
He stressed that the hiccups experienced by drivers the previous week, due to bad road conditions were responsible for the scarcity in Abuja and a number of other states in the north.
His position also aligned with that earlier expressed by the Executive Secretary of the Major Energy Marketers Association (MEMAN), Clement Isong, who blamed the development on supply chain disruption.
He said the recent rainfall across the country, especially in Lagos, made it difficult for trucks to lift products, saying there was a thunderstorm at the depots.
Maigandi stated that ex-depot prices had also hit N715 , compared to previously lower prices that IPMAN members bought the product.
“That is why you have been seeing that in Lagos there is no queue, it's only in Abuja. And that one is because of the logistics challenges in terms of transportation from Lagos to Abuja,” Maigandi assured.
However, the long queues have continued unabated, from the NNPC mega station on the Gwarimpa axis of the Zuba-Kubwa Expressway to Conoil and Total filling stations directly opposite the headquarters of the national oil company in the Abuja city centre as well as Salbas filling station at the Dei-Dei end of the Zuba-Kubwa expressway.
On Sunday in Zone 1, Conoil, as well as Total filling stations opposite the NNPC headquarters in Abuja, did not have the product. It was the same story at NNPC, Mabushi, Zuba, Niger State at AYM Shafa, NNPC outlet on Arab Road, Kubwa, Nyanya, Nasarawa State, among others. The situation was the same at stations owned by AA Rano, Mobil, NIPCO, and Ardova Plc.
While the NNPC Mega Station still sold petrol for N617 per litre, but with queues over one kilometre, roadside black marketers were seen making brisk business, with some stations like A.A. Rano and NipCo selling for as high as N690 per litre. Black marketers sold petrol in 10 litre plastic containers for between N10,000 and N11,000, while fuel queues around the Jabi, Lugbe and Kubwa areas were crowded out. Opposite the headquarters, black marketers were selling a litre for N1,000, while some NNPC acquired stations along the Kubwa expressway had no fuel.
Uchendu, HRH Igwe Anugwu, Prof Laz Ekwueme, Beatrice Ekwueme, Victor Umeh; Chief of Staff to Anam bra state governor, Ernest Ezeajughi, Vice President of
Darmian Okeke; Casmir Nwafor, Chief Ben Ezeibe, after church service at the Cathedral Church of Goo d Shepherd ... yesterday.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Emmanuel
in Abuja
WEDDING INTRODUCTION CEREMONY...
L-R: Managing Director, THISDAY Newspaper, Mr Eniola Bello; former Attorney-General and Minister of Justices, Chief Bayo
As the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) continues to gravitate towards maximising its quest for financial inclusion, a new report shows that only 11 per cent of businesses in the informal sector of Nigeria’s economy save in the conventional banks.
The report also revealed that 39.5 per cent of players in the informal sector used digital banks, 47.5 per cent saved through contributions and cooperatives, while 2.3 per cent applied other savings mechanisms.
The "Informal Economy Report 2024" was anchored by Moniepoint Inc., in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Industry Trade and Investment, and Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN).
The report said businesses in the informal market contributed over half of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). It disclosed that cooperatives and group contributions formed the bulk of informal businesses’ savings, as many of them felt “closer to home” with such savings mechanism.
"A close next option is digital banks (39.5%), and least frequently, traditional banks (11%). Their choice could be due to a lower entry barrier entry, and potentially higher returns," the report said.
It explained that about 1.3 per cent of businesses in Nigeria’s informal economy earned above N2.5 million monthly.
It stressed, "Our data at Moniepoint shows that women own 37.1 per cent of businesses in this sector.
half of Nigeria’s informal economy at 53.6 per cent .
"Businesses you’d typically find in this category include neighbourhood shops, restaurants, supermarkets, and others that sell ‘daily necessities’.”
Providing further insight on the informal economy, the report stated that unemployment was the most common reason for starting an informal business.
Others were construction (4.3 per cent), agriculture (6.2 per cent), food and drinks (13.4 per cent), IT/ electronics (6.1 per cent), fashion (8.1 per cent), beauty and personal 6.9 per cent, and others (11 per cent).
In terms of value, oil and gas stood at 9.6 per cent; healthcare 2.2 per cent; construction 5.6 per cent; education 1.6 per cent; and IT/electronics 6.9 per cent.
economy were often identified by the fact that they did not pay taxes, the reality was that taxation just looked different to them.
"For them, taxation comes in the form of market levies, which most of them pay,” the report said.
Peter Uzoho
In the push to promote the use of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) as a cleaner and more cost efficient source of fuel for cooking in Nigeria, Butane Energy Limited and its joint venture partners, the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) have set timelines for the completion and inauguration of additional LPG plants sited in four northern states. With the 100-tons LPG plant in Katsina already working, the company said the Kaduna plant would be inaugurated by end of this month or beginning of August, and Bauchi plant for unveiling between September and October this year while that of Kano would be operational by first quarter of 2025.
In an exclusive project update interaction with THISDAY, the Executive Chairman of Butane Energy Limited, Mr. Isa Inuwa, said the plan to construct another LPG plant in Abuja is on course as the company has already imported all the equipment needed for the construction and is currently working to acquire land.
Butane Energy was set up in 2017 as an LPG storage, trading and marketing company with distribution assets in the Northern part of Nigeria, with equity investment from the NCDMB, in line with the agency's drive to catalyse local firms that are invested in adding value in the country's oil and gas industry and linkage sectors.
According to Inuwa, the five
plants have a total storage capacity of 1000 tons while the company has a combined transport capacity of about 180 to 200 tons for movement at anytime using trucks.
He explained: "We are commissioning Kaduna facility at the end of this month or beginning of August. In fact, I just wrote a letter to NCDMB informing them that we are commissioning and that they should come and participate like they have done in the past. And I also wrote that they can choose whoever they want to come and commission.
"For Bauchi, we hope to do the commissioning in September or beginning of October, we are currently constructing.
"For Kano, we will start construction around October and by first quarter of 2025, we will commission it by God's grace. For all our projects, we have all the equipment on the ground. We have imported everything.
"For Abuja, we have all the equipment on ground but we don't have a plot of land yet."
He said while waiting to begin construction of the Abuja plant, the company is working towards securing an already existing plant on lease around the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to start trading cooking gas ahead.
By the first quarter of 2025, the executive chairman said Butane Energy would have at least four of its own plants and one on lease running to further help in making LPG available to users. Butane Energy, NCDMB to Unveil Four More LPG Plants in Northern States
"These data show that the informal economy represents a crucial avenue for women’s economic empowerment in Nigeria and across Africa, despite challenges in equity.
"Our data shows that almost 58 per cent of Nigeria’s informal workforce is below 34 years old. The largest group, making up 43 per cent, is between 25 and 34. The second largest group of young people, 35 to 44-year-olds, represent 28.9 per cent of the sector in Nigeria.
"This youthful energy offers a tremendous opportunity for socioeconomic transformation through innovation, entrepreneurship, job and wealth creation.
"By transaction value in naira, retail and general trade, alongside food and drinks, accounted for over
However, it stressed that while unemployment was the leading motivation for starting a business among men, insufficient income from more formal employment was the higher motivation among women It found that the South-west (including Lagos) had the largest volume of businesses in the informal economy, at 30.8 per cent.
The zone was followed by Southsouth (19.9 per cent); North-central (16.8 per cent), and South-east (13.2 per cent).
The North-west stood at 12.8 per cent, while North-east maintained the rear at 6.6 per cent.
By volume, the informal economy had oil and gas at 2.7 per cent, health care (2.8 per cent), art and creatives (2.9 per cent), casual use (3.0 per cent), professional services (4.0 per cent), and education 4.1 per cent.
Agriculture was at 4.6 per cent; beauty and personal 3.9 per cent; retail and general 38.4 per cent; food and drinks 15.2 per cent; and others 8.9 per cent.
Retail and general trade had the highest number of informal business owners, the report said, adding that the lifespan of most informal businesses is under five years.
On the sources of credit for the informal sector players, the report stated that approximately half of businesses in the informal economy accessed credit from family and friends. It explained that traditional banks accounted for just 12.2 per cent of their funding, loan apps/platforms offered 15.1 per cent; family/friends 70.7 per cent, and other sources 20 per cent.
The report pointed out that although businesses in the informal
According to the report, almost nine out of 10 of these “businesses say they have paid some market levies in their lifetime. 65.1 per cent pay these levies regularly, 23.6 per cent pay sometimes, and only 11.3 per cent do not.
"For many of them, these levies are paid to local councils and bodies, which determine how much and how regularly they are to pay. Businesses that do not pay their levies risk losing their goods and/or having their businesses closed by these local councils.
"The amount these businesses pay in taxes varies based on location and size. Those factors can affect their taxes (or levies), which can range from N3,500 to as high as N15,000 yearly.
"Taxation is one of the key areas used to define the informal economy, as most of these businesses typically do not pay taxes. However, our research pointed in a different direction regarding Nigeria’s informal economy."
Access Holdings Commences N351 Billion Rights Issue Subscription
Kayode Tokede
Access Holdings Plc has opened subscription for its N351 billion rights issue today.
This followed the approval it secured from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the commencement of the rights issue. Access, which is one of Africa’s leading financial services groups, noted that the approved rights issue offers 17,772,612,811 ordinary shares of N0.50 each at a price of N19.75 per share to investors.
The offer will be issued on the basis of one new ordinary share for every two existing ordinary shares held as of Friday, June 7, 2024, the bank said.
The offer for subscription will be for a period of five weeks and close on Wednesday, August 14, 2024.
Access Holdings stated that this marks a significant milestone in
the group’s previously announced capital raising programme, which aims to generate up to $1.5 billion.
The rights issue, it pointed out, is strategically structured to bolster Access Holdings' financial position, and support ongoing working capital needs, adding that, it will also provide funding for organic growth across its banking and non-banking subsidiaries.
Acting Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc, Bolaji Agbede, stated that, “The commencement of the Rights Issue subscription is an important step in our growth strategy and capital raising plans, reinforcing our financial strength, and accelerating our strategic ambitions. However, this execution is more than a capital raise; it is a pivotal process that will propel us towards our goal of becoming one of the top five financial institutions in Africa by
2027. We are confident that this exercise will solidify our position as a market leader and drive sustainable growth for years to come.”
At a recent signing ceremony, Agbede in a statement, disclosed that: “The Rights Issue is a significant step in delivering our 2023-2027 strategic plan. The additional capital will enable us to maximise emerging opportunities and deliver long-term value to our shareholders.”
The lead issuing house for Access Holdings’ rights issue is Chapel Hill Denham Advisory Limited, while Atlas Registrars Limited will serve as the registrars to the offer.
“Shareholders are advised to contact their stockbrokers for more details about the offer,” the bank added in the statement.
Access Holdings added that it remains committed to its strategic vision of expanding its footprint and delivering exceptional value
to all its stakeholders.
“The successful execution of this rights issue will further solidify the group's position as a leading financial services provider in Africa and beyond,” the bank added in the statement.
Now operational in 22 countries across the globe, with 15 in Africa, Access Holdings has established itself as one of the continent’s most trusted performers over the last 20 years. The Group reported robust financial results for the year ending December 31, 2023, with a 335 per cent increase in pre-tax profit to N729 billion and an 87 per cent surge in gross earnings to N2.59 trillion. A final dividend of N1.80 kobo per every N0.50 kobo ordinary share for the 2023 financial year, was paid to shareholders, representing a 28 per cent increase from the previous year.
Ojo;
Olubunmi;
groom's father, Mr Kunle Daniel Olubunmi, during the wedding introduction ceremony of their children in Lagos... yesterday.
ABAYOMI AKINYELE
SHETTIMA PRESENTS PUBLIC SERVICEAWARDS TO MBAH AND ALAKE...
Flooding: NEMA Activates Operational Offices Nationwide to Support States
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Director General, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs Zubaida Umar, yesterday announced that the agency had activated all zonal, territorial and operation offices nationwide in furtherance of its proactive flood risk management.
A statement by the Head, Press Unit, Manzo Ezekiel, said that this was with a view to working with
the States Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) within their area of responsibilities to carry out rescue operations and conduct assessment of the situation. The NEMA zonal, territorial and operation offices are located in Lagos, Ibadan, Ekiti, Abuja, Minna, Jos, Enugu, Owerri, Port Harcourt, Edo, Uyo, Kano, Sokoto, Kaduna, Maiduguri, Yola and Gombe.
At the headquarters, NEMA also operates a toll-free emergency contact
line: 0800CALLNEMA (080022556362) in addition to all its social media platforms through which feedback from members of the public can be received nationwide, the statement added.
Consequently, NEMA search and rescue officers, the agency said, have been deployed across the states and providing the much desired support in coordination of rescue operations with SEMAs and other stakeholders at recently flooded
areas and communities.
The agency is also conducting rapid assessment to determine any further assistance that may be required in the impacted communities.
The rescue efforts by NEMA is in addition to the ongoing sensitisation and awareness activities being carried out to alert the public of the predicted flood for necessary actions to be taken to avert negative impacts, Ezekiel added.
Mbah Bags National Infrastructure Development Award
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has bagged the Distinguished Award for Infrastructure at the Nigeria Excellence in Public Service Awards (NEAPS) for his impactful road infrastructural interventions in the state.
Mbah, who had a penultimate week, also received a presidential award for his contributions to Micro, Small, and Medium Scale Enterprises at the 2024 National MSMEs Awards by the Office of the Vice President, was bestowed with the NEAPS award at the Aso State House, Abuja, at the weekend.
This was even as President Bola Tinubu charged public servants to live up to their expectation as a public trust, saying NEAPS, an initiative of the private sector and the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation was strategic to inspire the bulk of the nation's workforce, "set benchmarks, and create a ripple
effect of positive change throughout our society".
Speaking to newsmen after the award ceremony, Mbah, who appreciated the organisers for recognising his administration’s effort in the area of infrastructural development, however, said he would not rest on the successes for which he was honoured.
His words: “First of all, we are grateful to the organisers of this NEAPS event and the OSGF. We are very grateful that our modest efforts in revamping our roads are gaining some recognition. So, for us, the award is a mark that we are doing the right thing.
“However, as I said earlier, success abhors complacency, and this is going to only spur us to do even more. So, as we leave here today, we are going to hit the road to ensure that all our roads in Enugu State are paved, both the rural roads and the urban roads.
“As you are probably aware,
besides the initial 71 urban roads already recorded, and the ongoing major inter-local government roads, some of which will equally serve as gateways to our neighbouring regions, we are commencing work on 80 other roads. In addition, we are targeting at least 10km of roads in every of our 260 electoral wards.
“So, our work is far from being done. This is just going to give us the kick we need to hit the road, doing much more.”
President Tinubu, in a prepared speech entitled, "Honouring the Heartbeats of Public Service," and delivered by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented him at the event, regretted that some persons saddled with the nation's trust were exploiting some loopholes despite the institutional measures put in place to prevent any form of irregularities in the public service.
He nevertheless congratulated the awardees for distinguishing themselves in service to the people.
“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,” he said.
According to the President, 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.
He further said that, "Our labour force remains the ultimate reflection of our principles, as practised by men and women who rise every day with a commitment to building a better future for all citizens. We therefore owe these silent architects of our national progress more than just a debt of gratitude".
Musawa Celebrates Cultural Exchange at ‘Blue Africa’Exhibition
Nigeria’s Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has hailed the cultural exchange between Nigeria and Spain, highlighting the shared histories and creative expressions that unite the two nations.
The minister made this known at the unveiling of the "Blue Africa: Stories Woven in Indigo" exhibition which took place at the Nike Art Gallery in Abuja at the weekend.
On Wednesday July 3, the Director General of NEMA, Umar, the statement said, was in Anambra State on flood advocacy where she discussed with the state government as well as religious and community leaders on measures to avert and mitigate against flood in the state.
NEMA said that the state often record severe flooding annually, explaining that she had also previously visited several states and stakeholders across the country on the same mission with plans to continue with the advocacy.
As part of its pre-rainy season flood prevention advocacy, the agency said if engaged the media in
the placement of flood sensitisation jingles and held emergency coordination forums with critical stakeholders to prepare them for the predicted disaster. The agency said it had soon after the flood prediction written all state governments with the list of local governments that are at risk and outlined actions required to be taken also to avert or mitigate against the disaster.
“A number of states that heeded the advisory from NEMA have acknowledged their early actions matched with the warnings and NEMA responses that have made lots of differences.
Rotary Club of Abuja Records Major Achievements
The Rotary Club of Abuja, Ministers Hill, has announced a series of remarkable milestones which includes, Overall Best Club of the Year, Club of the Year in Zone 2, Best Performing Club in Foundation Giving and Best Performing Club in Polio.
Others are Plus Fund Club with the Best Performing District Officer, Club with the Highest Donor to Polio Plus Fund, Club with Highest Donor to the Foundation and Club with the Best Assistant Governor of the Year.
Also, the club's charitable contributions totalled over $147,000 to the Rotary Foundation, enriching global humanitarian initiatives.
celebrated by Rotary International, District 9125.
“The club extends sincere appreciation to the District Governor and the esteemed members of the award committee for their invaluable recognition.
"In addition to these prestigious awards, the club's commitment to sustainability and community impact was highlighted by earning the 2nd Best Club in Supporting the Environment award and the 2nd Best Joint Club in Maternal and Child Health award, a project area they are calling for well meaning Nigerians and organisation to support.
"The Rotary Club of Abuja Ministers Hill proudly achieved the esteemed Rotary banner as a 100 per cent Giving Club to The Rotary Foundation and Every Rotarian Every Year.
The exhibition was coordinated by the Embassy of Spain, Nigeria, in collaboration with the National Museum of Anthropology and Mamah Gallery Spain, the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy, and Nike Arts Gallery in Nigeria, Abuja It showcased the beauty and significance of indigo dye in African textile traditions, a system by the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Nkem Anibeze, said.
traditions, and creative expressions.
Musawa, who was represented by the Director of Entertainment and Creative Economy, Mrs Ugochi Akudo-Nwosu, described the exhibition as a journey through time and space and commended the Embassy of Spain for its dedication to cultural diplomacy. “This exhibition is a celebration of the profound cultural exchange between Nigeria and Spain, as well as the West African Sub-region. It highlights the rich tapestry of our shared histories,
“Blue Africa: Stories Woven in Indigo is more than just an exhibition of art; it is a journey through time and space, a dialogue between the past and the present. It showcases the intricate techniques and the profound symbolism of indigo dyeing, a craft that has been passed down through generations.
“The collaboration between the Embassy of Spain and the Nike Art Gallery is a testament to the power of cultural diplomacy. It underscores the importance of fostering mutual understanding and respect through the arts. I wish to commend the Embassy of Spain for its dedication to promoting
cultural exchange and for recognizing the value of Nigerian art and artists,” Musawa said.
The minister also recognised the contributions of Chief Nike Okundaye, a renowned artist and mentor, whose indigo works are featured prominently in the exhibition.
“ I am proud that a living human treasure, our distinguished mother and mentor Chief Nike Monica Davies Okundaye’s indigo works are a prominent feature at this exhibition hosted in her gallery. This exhibition also reminds us of the interconnectedness and diversity of our world, where the exchange of ideas and traditions
our societies.
In statement signed by its leader, Daniel Etameta, it said the exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication have set a standard of excellence to inspiring members to achieve greatness and make a lasting impact in the community and beyond.
Reflecting on this journey, he expressed gratitude for the heartfelt congratulations received, attributing the club's success to the collective efforts of a diverse and dedicated team of 40 professional volunteers.
He said: "A defining moment for the club came as it secured the coveted title of Number One Club in District 9125 for the first time.
This milestone is a testament to the club's steadfast commitment and diligent efforts recognized and
“They were also honoured with the Rotary International Presidential Citation and secured a district grant of $5,000, underscoring their commitment to excellence and service.
"Notably, the club's charitable contributions totalled over $147,000 to the Rotary Foundation, enriching global humanitarian initiatives. Rotarian Daniel Etameta exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication have set a standard of excellence, inspiring members to achieve greatness and make a lasting impact in the community and beyond," the statement added.
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
enriches
Vice President, Sen. Kashim Shettima (right), presents Distinguished Award for Infrastructural Development (Road) to the governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah (right), on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, during the 2024 Nigeria Excellence Awards in Public Service, NEAPS, at the Aso Presidential Villa, weekend.
Vice President Kashim Shettima (R) presenting the 2024 Public Service Award to Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dr. Dele Alake at the Conference Hall, State House, Abuja ... yesterday.
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com 08033025611 SMS ONLY
As Southeast Govs, Senators Move to Secure Kanu’s Release...
Governors of the five states in the Southeast region rose from a meeting in Enugu last Tuesday with a resolution to interface with President Bola Tinubu with a view to securing the release of the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu. Gideon Arinze reports
This is not the first time that Governors of the South East geo-political zone and other leaders of the region are demanding the release of IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. However, it is the first time that the Governors of Abia State, Alex Otti; Enugu State, Peter Mbah and Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, are taking part in making the demand since they assumed office on May 29, 2023.
Before now, some governors had demanded the release of the detained IPOB leader. In January, 2023, Governor Charles Soludo appealed to the Nigerian government to “unconditionally and immediately” release Kanu. In June 2023, Mbah also asked Tinubu to release him. However, these requests were not granted.
Kanu, who has been in the custody of the Department of the State Service (DSS) since he was rearrested in June, 2021 and repatriated to Nigeria from Kenya- is facing terrorism charges at the Federal High Court, Abuja which had ordered the IPOB leader’s arrest for jumping bail in 2017. He was first arrested in 2015 under the administration of former Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari.
It will be recalled that in October 2022, the Court of Appeal in Abuja, struck out the terrorism charges filed against Kanu by the federal government and ordered his release from the facility of the SSS after it held that the IPOB leader was extraordinarily renditioned to Nigeria, an action it described as a flagrant violation of Nigeria’s extradition treaty and also a breach of Kanu fundamental human rights.
About one week later, the government, through the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, appealed the court ruling and subsequently obtained an order at the Supreme Court staying its execution. In its judgment on the appeal on 15 December 2023, the Supreme Court reversed the lower court’s acquittal granted to Mr Kanu and consequently ordered the continuation of his trial at the Federal High Court, Abuja.
OTHER RESOLUTIONS
Apart from demanding Kanu’s release, the governors also reached several resolutions at the end of their meeting. In a communique presented by the Chairman of the Southeast
Governors’ Forum and the Governor of Imo State, Uzodimma, they also agreed to pursue regional security and economic integration of the region.
The governors further deliberated on the reviewed report of the South East Security and Economic Summit held in Owerri on 28th September 2023 and agreed to implement the aspects of the report about security and economic integration and affirmed its desire to put actionable plans on the key issues agreed.
VISIT BY OBASANJO, OTHER STATESMEN
Just before the meeting commenced at the Government House, Enugu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Commonwealth Secret General, Chief Emeka Anyoku, Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Majesty Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, and some elder statesmen met with the governors.
While the reasons for the meeting were unclear, Obasanjo was quoted on Wednesday as saying that it had nothing to do with the release of Kanu.
A statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, last Wednesday, said the regional development issues include that of security and infrastructure.
Others were economic and
cooperative/collaboration, which was meant to complement the national economic development agenda.
“The meeting with them was at my invitation and of Chief Emeka Anyaoku before their summit begins. The issue of Nnamdi Kanu was not on the agenda and was not discussed in my presence,” Obasanjo was quoted to have said.
After the meeting, the question remains whether or not the federal government will be willing to listen and let the IPOB leader go.
SOUTHEAST SENATORS FOLLOW SUIT
Barely 24 hours after the governor met in Enugu, the Southeast caucus of the Senate also visited the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi to negotiate for the release of Kanu.
The Senators, who were led by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, who represents Abia South Senatorial District told the AGF during the meeting that until Kanu is released from custody, peace will remain a mirage in the region.
Abaribe, who spoke on behalf of the caucus, shortly after their closed-door meeting with the AGF in his office in Abuja, was quoted as saying that the economy and social life in the Southeast had suffered a lot due to the continued incarceration of the Biafra nation agitator.
He spoke about the fact that the peaceful
Apart from demanding Kanu’s release, the governors also reached several resolutions at the end of their meeting. In a communique presented by the Chairman of the Southeast Governors’ Forum and the Governor of Imo State, Uzodimma, they also agreed to pursue regional security and economic integration of the region. The governors further deliberated on the reviewed report of the South East Security and Economic Summit held in Owerri on 28th September 2023 and agreed to implement the aspects of the report about security and economic integration and affirmed its desire to put actionable plans on the key issues agreed.
demands of the detained IPOB leader have been hijacked by hoodlums and hardened criminals leading to wanton killings of innocent people, including security operatives.
Abaribe disclosed that he had already met with Kanu at the headquarters of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Abuja last Monday, adding that Kanu had agreed to abide by any conditional release.
KANU SEEKS OUT OF COURT SETTLEMENT
At a court hearing in June, 2024, Kanu’s lawyer, Alloy Ejimakor, told a federal high court judge, Justice Binta Nyako, that his client was seeking to dialogue with the government to drop the treasonable felony charges against him.
Ejimakor was quoted as saying “In any proceeding, the court may promote reconciliation among parties thereto and encourage and facilitate the amicable settlement thereof” while he referenced section 17 of the Federal High Court Act.
The defence lawyer introduced the issue while moving an application objecting to the court’s jurisdiction to try the IPOB leader, who appeared in court from the State Security Service (SSS) custody in Abuja.
Ejimakor explained that his client would pursue an out-of-court settlement route if the court rejected his application challenging the court’s jurisdiction.
Responding, the federal government’s prosecuting lawyer, Mr Adegboyega Awomolo, told the court that he lacked the power to negotiate with the defendant on behalf of the government. Awomolo acknowledged that Mr Kanu’s lawyer earlier communicated his desire to seek an out-of-court settlement regarding the charges.
But he said he did not have the instruction of his client, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), to embark on any negotiation with the defendant over the charges. He said that, as a lawyer, he was only briefed to prosecute the matter.
Reacting, the trial judge noted that she had no problem with parties exploring an out-of-court settlement if they decided to. The judge urged Mr Kanu to approach the AGF, who is the proper person to negotiate with.
Mbah Uzodimma
Kanu
Governor Zulum’s Heart for the ‘Poor’
The path to fame and honour was never an easy one for Babagana Umara Zulum, who had to fight all odds to make it to the pinnacle of education and also find favour and providence with his creator who made him the governor of Borno State, but one thing that he has not forgotten is his humble beginning as he still find a heart for the poor, reports Michael Olugbode
Governor Zulum giving palliatives to the elderly
According to General Colin Powell: “There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure.” This perhaps depicts the character of Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum who once said he never had the luxury of being lazy, since he had to struggle all his life.
Zulum came from an humble background, in which he had to join his father in tilling the ground at a tender age in Loskuri village in Mafa LGA of Borno State.
He said: “Every day, I trekked for seven kilometers to reach my father’s farm from our home.” The boy Babagana combined farming with his education at both primary and secondary level. At “class five” in secondary school in Monguno, he began to fully cater for his education.
“From 1984 to around 1999 (16 years) I became a commercial driver of taxis, particularly Peugeot 404. At some point, I also drove buses carrying passengers to different villages, and neighboring states. At a later time, I drove commercial pickup trucks carrying firewood from forests. While working as commercial driver, I learned how to fix any vehicle I drove,” Zulum recalled his toil to be something in life.
In 1986, Zulum gained admission into Ramat Polytechnic in Maiduguri, owned by the state government, into the National Diploma programme to study Irrigation Engineering, and lived with relatives off-campus in Kofa Biyu, a densely-populated area. And his toughness in character was again tested as he testified that: “I trekked for eight kilometres from Kofa Biyu to Ramat Polytechnic and back whenever I had lectures. But I was already used to long walks all my life, as I couldn’t afford transport to school.
“Whenever I drove taxis and returned the vehicles to owners, I used what I got for my basic school needs. I later also became a commercial operator of grinding machine, and I owned one in Mafa, and during weekends I went there to serve customers.” With all these struggles he stopped at nothing to obtain his ND in 1988
In 1989, Zulum joined the Borno State Civil Service as an Assistant Technical Officer in the state’s Ministry of Agriculture. In 1990, he moved into Borno State Unified Local Government Service as Senior Field Overseer. But he had his sight set on bigger dreams. He said: “While working, the salary couldn’t cater for my needs and some dependants, so I continued commercial driving to augment my income,”
It was still as a commercial driver that in 1990, he secured admission into University of Maiduguri for a degree in Agricultural Engineering, and graduated in 1994. After three years, he again got admission into the University of Ibadan for an MSc in Agricultural Engineering.
He recalled that: “An experience after gaining admission in Ibadan will always remain memorable, as my registration was delayed for three weeks because I could not pay my registration fees. I didn’t have the money when I departed Maiduguri, but I believed I could get some work to do in Lagos. For three weeks, I lived in Alaba Rago working with commercial vehicles and there I raised the money for my tuition. I went to Ibadan, paid my fees and started. I graduated in 1998, returned to the civil service as a Senior Agricultural Engineer and later Principal Water Engineer.”
After obtaining a Masters Degree, Zulum said, he joined the University of Maiduguri in 1998 as an assistant lecturer. From 2005 to 2009, he obtained PhD in Soil and Water Engineering from University
of Maiduguri, rising through the ranks, at some point Deputy Dean and Acting Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural Engineering. He was subsequently appointed rector of Ramat Polytechnic in 2011 by Governor Kashim Shettima. His passion for education made him to achieve so much at Ramat Polytechnic and further sold him to the heart of Shettima who appointed him as the pioneer Commissioner for Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Resettlement.
He worked tirelessly traversing the nooks and crannies of Borno State to bring relief to those affected by the Boko Haram crisis, and shown forth like northern star as attested by his erstwhile boss, Kashim Shettima who said during his anointing of Zulum to succeed him that: “He neither bought a personal house nor a personal car for himself. He also came under attack from Boko Haram twice, but didn’t stop in his efforts to rebuild substantial parts of Borno.”
His toughness and dedicated made way for him to become the governor of Borno State as he was loved by the mighty and specially by the masses who saw in him a messiah.
Since he became a governor over five years ago, he has shown to be a man with great love for everyone in Borno, the indigenes and those that have come to seek living, he is in fact that friend of the poor. He had personally ensured the distribution of palliatives in all seasons at every nooks and crannies of the state.
He has evolved various housing policies to give comfort to all, he has evolved various loan schemes to assist businesses, he has commissioned public transportation scheme that make the harsh economic situation without pains. He has even assisted in ensuring those that came into the state can return during festivities to their family without pain and return back with delight with the project of getting free buses to transport people to the south of the country during Christmas season.
The military and security people working in the state are his friends as he had severally giving them mighty resource handshakes and he had given a piece of his heart to the family of the deceased heroes fell in securing the state.
Since his assumption of office in 2019, Zulum has never failed to consistently associated with the less privileged, his former constituency where he was schooled in the difficult economic hardship bedeviling many Nigerian less privileged people.
The governor driven by compassion and his genuine concern to assist the common people, had on different occasion while on visit to the hinterland of the state, ordered for the immediate halting of his motorcade just to assist locals walking long distance by giving them a ride in his convoy and also give them cash support.
Zulum passion to liberate his people from the shackles of poverty and education backwardness has led to rise in budgetary provisions and fund releases for the education sector and key ministries that are aimed at empowering the common people.
For the 2024 budget, the Ministry of Education was allocated the sum of N39 billion to carry out its activities- this effort , amongst others , has removed over a million out-of -school children off the streets of Borno and returned them to the classrooms where their future are being positively molded to become responsible and productive members of the society.
“Out of 1.8 million out-of-school children in 2021, we have taken measures to reduce the number to less than 800. We’re still working assiduously to bring down the number,” Commissioner of Education, Science , Technology and Innovation, Engineer Lawan Abba Wakilbe said
No doubt, the more than a decade long insurgency in Borno State had led many children and their parents to flee trouble areas, thereby obstructing their education as massive destruction to education facilities across the state was evident .
At a recent function during a public lecture held at University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) which form part activities to mark the exit of the former Vice Chancellor of the Institution, Prof. Aliyu Shugaba after completing his five year tenure, Zulum didn’t mince words when he charged the sea of erudite scholars present at the occasion, majority of whom are indigenes of Borno State to think outside the box and collaborate to use education as tool for liberating the people of the state .
Zulum, who was full of emotion, apparently on a quick trip down his memory lane, revealed how he battled through plethoras of obstacles in his unquenchable quest to gain quality education that has since transformed his life to become a professor of soil and water engineering and currently serving his second term as governor of Borno state.
He said: “Coming from my background, I know how I suffered, where we do not have competent teachers to teach us in our primary and secondary school. I never thought I would be a professor, because both of my parents were not educated, nobody ever told me to do my assignment while in primary school, I was on my own.”
It was therefore not surprising when Governor Zulum recently released the sum of N4.8 billion as scholarship award to 524 postgraduate students from the state , including orphans and less privileged persons.
The scholarship award according to the governor is meant for foreign and local postgraduate students in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
In his usual touch of humanity and compassion towards the less privileged irrespective of ethnicity, tribe or religion governor Zulum during an early morning visit to a school in Maiduguri, the state capital had gifted a woman form the South East part of the country- a teacher in the school with the sum of N100,000 cash for always showing up early to her duty post. This announced the governor as a rewarder of not only the less privileged without demarcation of ethnic and religious lines but a staunch believer in hard work and dedicated service.
Also, recently, during a visit to launch grains given to the state by Federal Government , Prof Zulum, shortly after the occasion went towards the direction of the local guard on duty at the premises and immediately ordered that the sum of N500,000 be given to him - an amount that is more than his 12 month salary.
The 80 year Chadian local guard who had lived in Nigeria for over four decades and has over 20 Children was stunned by the governor’s gesture, he could not hide his feeling but continued to shout the praises of God and that of the
governor, stating that the gift would go a long way in ameliorating his financial challenges.
Furthermore, 63 year old Cecelia Joseph, a widow and mother of six children who was part of the one hundred thousand households that benefited from massive food support scheme carried out by the Borno State Governor, had praises for Zulum who had established the food support to ameliorate economic hardship being experienced by many vulnerable families across the state, including the likes of Cecilia whose husband, a commercial taxi driver was gruesomely murdered by suspected Boko Haram terrorists over ten years ago.
Cecilia since the demise of her husband, had continue to feed from hand to mouth with her six children. Though the blood of her husband was shed in Borno but the allure of the state added to the fact that she had no one ready to lessen her burden from elsewhere had kept her in Borno State. She said Governor Zulum is the first to have reached out to her with any form of assistance- through the food support, noting that “this will assist me and my six children immensely.”
Zulum had ordered that the food support should be given to all vulnerable residents irrespective of tribe , religion and political affiliations hence paving the way for Cecilia who hails from faraway Osun State, a devoted Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) member as well as other beneficiaries who are not indigenes of the state .
“I’m so grateful to Governor Zulum for wiping away my tears with this food support. But I would appreciate more support from the governor and other well meaning citizens for the education on my children. “ Cecelia who currently lives in a rented accommodation on the outskirts of Maiduguri , the state capital said .
Zulum had revealed during one of the many food distribution in the state that: “We have never distinguish between Christians and Muslims in our food distribution. What we’re doing is not partisan either, it’s not based on ethnicity or religion ; we advised the community to select one hundred thousand most valuable and bottom poor and this will go a long way in ameliorating the suffering of the masses “ While warehouses were being looted across the country during the # EndSARS protests, residents of Borno state were full of gratitude to Governor Zulum for always coming to their aid with his unprecedented distribution of food , cash and clothing to assist the less privileged.
Following the release of N2 billion intervention by the President Bola Tinubu led Federal government to cushion the effect of fuel subsidy removal Prof. Zulum had announced raising the number of households being targeted for palliatives from 300,000 to 400,000 households.
Each household according to the Governor, will be made up of six family members and multiplied by 400,000 which, by implication, moves Zulum’s new target to two million and four hundred thousand individuals.
“Governor Zulum has continued to stand in the gap for many of the less privileged people in Borno state “ Umar Ali, one of those that recently benefited from the food support scheme established by the governor.
Surely Zulum has not forgotten the days of going to bed without food in the stomach, days of toiling day and night to pay for school fees, but has the less privileged people of Borno State at heart.
PERSPECTIVE
For Good or For Malevolence, Choose
Michael O. Ovienmhada
In light of what we had always believed and thought of the United States as a country where no one was deemed to be above the law, the ruling that came down from one of the most powerful and most respected courts in history granting wide ranging immunity to Donald Trump looked very much like placing a bag of cement on one side of the scales of justice, whilst also ringing a bell that sounded like something coming out of a Pre-Magna Carta era.
The King is Infallible!
For all intents and purposes, one would assume, one thing that differentiates Homo Sapiens from other species is constant improvement of the species in sophisticated thinking. That ruling was in my view, anything but sophisticated. We might as well call back King George 111 to apologize to him for launching the American revolution. SCOTUS, 2024 will go down in history in as much infamy and derision as SCOTUS, 1857–Dred Scot vs Sanford. In that infamous decision, the Court held Inter Alia, that the US Constitution did not confer citizenship on people of Black African descent. This was even as the decision flew right in the face of those thoughtfully crafted lines: “We hold these truths to be self evident that all men are created equal.”
Let it be known that every decision of an otherwise revered court has ramifications that go deep into the ages. That Dred Scot decision was a huge precursor to the American Civil War that ultimately led to the Emancipation Declaration. It would take another 100 years for Black people to gain full rights as human beings in the signing of the Civil Rights and Voting Rights legislation, 1964 and 1965 respectively.
A future Chief Justice referred to Dred Scott vs Sanford as the Court’s greatest self-inflicted wound. Here’s my prediction—extreme actions breed extreme reactions. I would therefore not be surprised if a future president decides to absorb the Judicial Branch into the Executive Branch and turn into ashes, the age-old doctrine of Separation of Powers. Those who ride the Tiger more often than not end up in the belly of the Tiger.
Question: By this decision of SCOTUS, will the storming of the Capitol on January 6th 2020 go unpunished?
Long live freedom. Long live liberty. Long live common sense.
The Biden Debate Debacle
I wish Biden were not running. Period. But, he is, and no one around
him including his wife, his son or any other family member would dare to say anything about it to him. The reason is simple. The aura and glamor of office; Airforce One; The West Wing; The Resolute Desk; The Pomp; The Pageantry—-all of these things are too wondrous to leave behind even for a Two-Term President. We only need to look back in history to see tear-filled eyes of former occupants as they say their last hellos and goodbyes on Inauguration Day. No one should expect Biden to make a decision for the sake of the Democratic Party or for the sake of country. Biden will make a decision for Biden.
A Long Week for Laymen and Learned Men
And so, a High Court gave a ruling about a pre-election matter concerning delegates of the PDP who went to court to seek redress concerning the violation of their rights as delegates. The case which was filed in February was ruled on just last week, long after the Primaries had been held. This matter has inundated the airwaves since it came down a few days ago. I have read the 38-page document, line by line. As a plain educated man, I have always wondered why Judges specialized in obfuscation. I guess maybe it is the way they are educated—-to obfuscate so that ordinary people will continue to view
the Judicial Branch with a sense of mystery. Does the PDP have a duly nominated candidate in the 2024 election or not? The answer seems to depend largely on who is doing the answering. Matters of the law do not apparently fall in the domain of the pedestrian. We await as issues unfold on appeal—or is there no appeal? If there’s an appeal, why is there an appeal?
The Kenyan People Arise
Not since the era of the Mau-Mau in the days of the struggle against colonialism have we heard from the Kenyan people as we have authoritatively in the last two weeks. There is fire in the Safari. Young people are tired. They are demanding that government make a turn-around from catering for themselves to catering for the welfare of the people. Surprisingly, unlike many African governments, the President has responded with grace, class and candour. The people have now won the battle for their true independence from their true oppressors. The story of wastefulness in Kenya by public officials does not come close to the impunity with which our public officials in Nigeria hold the people in disdain. Is Kenya possible in Nigeria? Can Nigeria take a cue from Kenya and self-correct before Kenya comes to Nigeria?
Considering that Gen Zees are
united across the world, one would not be surprised to learn that they may already be organizing. For them, poverty stalks their lives as it is, and so, they have nothing to fear as there is nothing to lose. Those that have ears, let them hear.
Hunger Stalks the Land Still
Hunger in the land is real. How the poor feed and what they find to feed on remains a puzzle to solve. What do the poor eat these days? What can we do about it? Are solutions beyond us? Is our desire for greed too much for us to think of how to put out the fire that threatens to burn down everything? Do the rich who live behind steel gates, high walls and electric fences believe they are untouchable? Let us not forget that every rich person has many poor working for them. It is no longer hard for the poor to unite. Everyone has a phone.
The President can do something. Governors can do something. Let’s all face the bush with bulldozers, tractors, hoes, cutlasses, fertilizer and seedlings. Oh, I’m sorry. We cannot do that if we do not first solve the herdsmen problem. Does the 10th Senate have the guts?
Michael O. Ovienmhada. Author, Poet, Playwright, and Public Affairs Commentator. omeekey@hotmail.com
Biden
Trump
BUSINESS WORLD
AS AT JULY 5,2024
Kayode Tokede
As the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) continued to lure investors with high yield on government securities amid rising inflation rate, subscription to primary market or Nigerian Treasury Bills (NTBs) auction increased to N28.15 trillion in first half of 2024.
This represents about 157.11 per cent Year-on-Year (YoY) growth from N10.95 trillion in the first half of 2023.
With 14 NTBs auctions in first half year of 2024, the CBN offered amount stood at N3.69 trillion across the 91, 182, and 364-day tenors but it eventually settled for N8.49 trillion total sales as the CBN sustained its liquidity management approach in the financial sector.
NTBs are short-term government debt instruments issued by the CBN and it is one of the several ways
the government raises funds to bridge budget deficit.
The National Assembly passed a total budget of N28.80 trillion (including GOEs and project-led loans) into law December 2023, raising the budget higher by N1.30 trillion (Proposed Budget N27.50 trillion).
Equally, the NASS raised the budget for Capital Expenditure (+5.40 per cent to N9.18 trillion) and Statuary transfer (+26.5 per cent to N1.74 trillion), whilst lowering total non-debt recurrent expenditure (-11.6 per cent to N8.77 trillion and maintaining the budget for debt service (8.27 trillion).
Furthermore, deviating from the usage of CBN deficit financing, the FG announced that it settled N4.90 trillion of the additional securitised N7.30 trillion Ways and Means advances, approved by the Senate on December 30,
2023, using funds from NTBs and bonds issued earlier in the year.
However, local and foreign investors seem to respond positively to the double-digit interest rates on NTBs, as seen in the robust subscription rates, amid scarcity of foreign exchange and double-digit inflation rate.
With the inflation rate at 33.95 per cent as of May 2024, the central bank has increased its benchmark Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) to 26.25 per cent and it showed a stop rate on the 364-day NTB auction.
THISDAY investigation revealed that NTBs auction in the H1 2024 NTBs witnessed a gradual increase in the stop rates on 364-day offered by the CBN to 20.68 per cent as of June 2024 from 8.399 per cent the apex bank reported January 2024.
The 364-day NTBs recorded a significant increase in the period under review, accounting for
about 94.6 per cent of the total subscription.
Specifically, 364-day NTBs in H1 2024 attracted a huge subscription of approximately N26.63 trillion, with the CBN capitalising on this demand to offer and total sales of a whopping N2.68 trillion and N7.49 trillion, respectively.
Also, the stop rates on NTB have surged significantly from 2.44 per cent on a 91-day tenor bill, 4.22 per cent on a 182-day tenor bill, from the first auction in January 2024 to 16.3 per cent, and 17.44 per cent respectively from the last auction in June 2024.
The heightened interest in the NTBs signifies a keen investor appetite for higher interest rates, providing a solid anchor for the fiscal stability of Nigeria.
The CBN, under Yemi Cardoso, has increased the monetary policy rate (MPR) by 600 basis points so
far, from 18.75per cent to 26.25 per cent.
The apex bank’s decision to tighten monetary policy by increasing interest rates and auctioning larger volumes of NTBs is a strategic move to address several macroeconomic concerns.
Higher interest rates are typically employed to control inflation; they make borrowing more expensive, thereby tempering spending and investment, which, in theory, should reduce the upward pressure on prices.
Additionally, these higher rates tend to attract foreign investors seeking better yields, leading to an inflow of foreign currency, which can help stabilise and potentially strengthen the Nigerian Naira.
Experts expressed that the NTBs auction represents a move by the CBN to manage the country’s debt obligations and
address liquidity in the financial system, stressing that inflation rate is responsible for push in NTBs interest rate recorded in the H1 2024.
Commenting on the development, the CEO, Wyoming Capital and Partners, Mr. Tajudeen Olayinka said, “The essence is to encourage foreign inflows that could help improve dollar liquidity in the foreign exchange market and cause a moderation in naira exchange rate until the market attains equilibrium level. “I have no doubt that it was the most appropriate decision on the part of CBN and the government at this time. There’s a need to improve dollar liquidity that will eventually force domestic interest rate to moderate subsequently.”
The Nigeria Climate Innovation Center (NCIC) is advocating a shift towards a circular economy as a more viable alternative to the green taxation model proposed by the government for single-use plastics.
This was contained in a new report themed, “Positioning Plastic Waste Recycling as an Inclusive Catalyst for Unlocking a Sustainable Circular Economy in Nigeria.”
While calling for implementation of an actionable policy on Circular Economy over Green Taxation on Plastic Waste recycling in the country, it added that the
move will spur environmental sustainability and preserve the economy for clean production, smart agriculture, renewable energy, circular economy amongst others.
The report explored the potential of a circular economy for plastic waste management in the country, highlighting the limitations of green taxation and presents the circular economy as a more holistic and transformative solution.
Speaking at an interactive session with Journalist in Lagos, the Chief Operating Officer (COO), NCIC, Mr. Adamu Garba said, plastic waste has become a critical environmental concern in Nigeria,
adding that, rapid population growth and urbanisation have exacerbated the issue, with plastic waste posing a serious threat to public health, ecosystems, and the overall well-being of Nigerians.
Adamu said the traditional approach of green taxes, which use financial disincentives to curb environmentally harmful practices, is gaining traction even as he argued that the green taxes, while offering a regulatory mechanism, have limitations.
The NCIC further proposed a circular economy model that prioritises resource efficiency, reuse, and recycling. This approach,
according to Adamu, focuses on three pillars – designing products for recyclability, establishing efficient collection and recycling infrastructure and driving markets for recycled materials.
According to Adamu, by implementing these three pillars, the NCIC’s circular economy model offers a holistic approach to plastic waste management in Nigeria. “It not only addresses the environmental concerns associated with plastic pollution but also unlocks economic opportunities through job creation in waste collection, sorting, and recycling sectors. Additionally, it fosters a
more sustainable and resourceefficient future for the country” he said.
In addition, the NCIC’s proposed model takes a holistic approach, focusing on three key areas, as explained by Adamu. First, it prioritises designing products with recyclability in mind.
This involves using materials that can be easily reprocessed and creating products that are designed for disassembly.
Second, the model emphasises building a robust collection and recycling infrastructure. “This includes establishing convenient drop-off points and partnering with
waste management companies to ensure efficient collection and processing of plastic waste.
“Finally, the model aims to create a market for recycled materials. This can be achieved through government incentives for using recycled content and promoting research into new products made from recycled plastics,” the report said.. Adamu is optimistic about the model’s potential, highlighting its multifaceted benefits. “The circular economy can address environmental concerns by reducing plastic pollution and conserving resources,” he explains.
Raheem Akingbolu
DEEPENING PORT EFFICIENCY…
Minister of Marine & Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola (3rd Right); Managing Director Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mohammed B ello KoKo (3rd Left); Comptroller-General Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, (1st Right); National President Customs Officers’ Wives Association, Mrs Shakirat Kikelomo Adeniyi (Middle); Executive Director Finance and Administration NPA, Vivian Richard Edet (2nd Right); Executive Director Engineering & Technical Services ( 1st Left) and Executive Director Marine and Operations (2nd Left) during the commissioning of State-of-the-art
German Envoy Advocates Support for SMEs, Start-Ups
Nigeria has been urged to offer increased support to Small Scale Enterprises (SMEs) including startsups in the country, describing the as the backbone of any economy.
The Consul-General of the Federal Republic of Germany, Mr. Weert Borner, made this call recently during an event tagged, “The Nigeria-German Start-Up Exchange Dinner Reception,” hosted at the German Consulate Office in Lagos.
According to Boner, the impact of start-up and small enterprises in engaging human capital on a large scale by creating jobs has led to the growth of various economies across the globe.
While throwing light on why the
‘Visa
SMEs should be prioritised, he noted, “If you study both Nigerian and German economies, there is a kind of parallel in terms of using SMEs and starts-up to lift the economy.
“If you go into statistics, most companies that are creating most of the jobs or are offering most of the vocational trainings are not the big ones, they are the many small ones. And the startups are definitely part of it, there are many young, innovative people creating those business models for the present and the future.”
The German-Nigerian Startup Exchange Programme, the first of its kind, was conceptualised early this year between March and April when 10 entrepreneurs and founders from Nigeria went to Germany for
Brings Simplicity, Convenience to Booming Subscription Economy’
Visa, a world leader in digital payments has launched its Subscription Manager platform, which is a new all-in-one service for financial institutions to provide Visa cardholders with a simple, convenient way to track their subscriptions, all from the palm of their hands.
The launch is coming at a time when the global subscription market is on a steady rise, expected to reach a staggering $406 billion by 2025 Visa, in a statement, said as the trend of consumers
subscribing to services in sectors such as retail, food and more increases, so does the challenge of managing their payments.
The statement added that Visa’s new Subscription Manager streamlines key aspects of recurring payments in one place, allowing cardholders to see where their card details are stored, view which, recurring payments are attributed to their card, and stop recurring payments.
8 weeks. In return, 10 entrepreneurs from Germany also visited Nigeria.
According to Borner, the collaboration between the two countries is a win-win situation as the exchange programme provided insights for participants on how companies operate while broadening their horizon about possibilities, adding that listening to the testimonies of the participants
Group Business Editor
Eromosele Abiodun
Deputy Business Editor
Chinedu Eze
Comms/e-Business Editor
Emma Okonji
Asst. Editor, Money Market
Nume Ekeghe
Senior Correspondent
Raheem Akingbolu (Advertising)
Correspondents
Emmanuel Addeh (Energy)
KayodeTokede(CapitalMarkets)
James Emejo (Finance)
Ebere Nwoji (Insurance)
Reporters
Peter Uzoho (Energy)
Ugo Aliogo (Development)
Vice President and Head Visa West Africa, Andrew Uaboi, said in the statement that “Navigating through each platform’s unique terms can potentially lead to unnoticed charges, even after a subscription is cancelled. Our goal is to make this process simpler and ensure cardholders know exactly where their money is going, and when.
As consumer expectations for seamless, secure digital payments grow, it’s crucial for issuers to keep pace.”
The forthcoming Visa report supports this trend, revealing that 63 per cent of surveyed consumers are comfortable with a future that relies entirely on digital money. The rapid introduction of new digital financial tools and services is propelling this shift, with consumers increasingly turning to apps and mobile wallets to manage their finances. The same report also found that over half of the consumers surveyed have adopted the use of mobile wallets in just the past year, the statement further said.
indicated it was a successful collaboration.
In an exclusive interview with THISDAY, one of the participants and Managing Director, Phiozah Limited, Princess Echefu, an engineering service provider, was thankful to the organisers of the programme. “It was an eye-opener for us. You know when you are in a small pond, you think you are
doing so well. Now, going there, and seeing other startups and what they do, we learnt a lot. We were able to have meetings with other start-ups in some of their start-up hubs.”
Corroborating Echefu, Chief Executive Officer, Africa Medical Market Place, Augusta Okafor, who runs an e-commerce B2B platform that connects global medical manufacturers, suppliers and distributors across 54 countries, with the whole essence being to reduce avoidable deaths, said it has been quite an innovative experience. “The experience for starts-ups has strengthened our knowledge on how to do things better. And most importantly, there were situations of building bridges which are very impactful for what we do.”
Misconduct: NAICOM Threatens African Alliance Insurance with Punitive Measures
Ebere Nwoji
The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), over the weekend, issued stern warning of imminent regulatory punitive measures against African Alliance Insurance Plc for gross misconducts if it fails to amend its ways and stick to fulfillment of professional obligations.
In the first instance, NAICOM has summoned the Board of African Alliance Insurance Plc, a life insurance underwriter to its office in Abuja, and ordered it to attend to the barrage of complaints leveled against the company by its policyholders, immediately.
NAICOM disclosed this in a statement threatening, “Given
the heightened challenges, the company should expect further actions if it fails to address the issues within the timeline the company has been given.”
However, NAICOM did not specifically disclose the timeframe given to the board of African Alliance Insurance.
It was learnt that complaints by annuitants and insurance claimants against African Alliance Insurance Plc in respect of the company’s delay and/or inability to fulfill its obligations made NAICOM to act.
Also, NAICOM directed the board to immediately submit a turnaround plan for addressing the challenges currently faced by the company, which necessitated putting the company under the
Commission’s regulatory order.
The statement reads: “Following increased complaints by annuitants and insurance claimants against African Alliance Insurance Plc in respect of the company’s delay and/or inability to fulfill its obligations, the National Insurance Commission has given marching orders to the company to resolve and ensure settlement of outstanding claims.”
NAICOM summoned the board of African Alliance Insurance Plc to its headquarters in Abuja recently and ordered the company to settle outstanding payments due to annuitants and claimants.
“In addition, the Board of directors of the company was directed to immediately submit a turnaround
plan for addressing the challenges currently faced by the company which necessitated putting the company under the Commission’s regulatory order,” it stated.
The commission said given the heightened challenges, the company should expect further actions if it fails to address the issues within the timeline the company has been given. It was learn that the board of African Alliance Insurance has assured the commission that it would act on all the resolutions reached at the meeting.
NAICOM said it wishes to restate its determination to ensure fair treatment of all stakeholders, enforce professionalism and good conduct amongst its licensed operators.
CBN Urges FintechNGR to Establish Governance Structures for Regulatory C
Emma Okonji
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has advised Fintech Association of Nigeria (FintechNGR) to work closely with stakeholders to operate within regulatory provisions, facilitate compliance, and establish robust risk management frameworks and governance structures.
Deputy Governor, Financial System Stability at CBN, Philip Ikeazor, gave the advice while receiving a team of FintechNGR,
led by its President, Ade Bajomo, at the CBN headquarters in Abuja recently.
Bajomo led a team from the Association’s Governing Council to engage with the CBN and to chart the way forward in light of the recent developments in the Nigerian Fintech sector, aimed at strengthening the sector.
Receiving the Fintech team, Ikeazor commended FintechNGR’s active advocacy efforts that have significantly improved the
fintech ecosystem in Nigeria, and emphasised the need for the association to facilitate compliance, and establish robust risk management frameworks and governance structures.
“The Central Bank understands the critical roles of Fintechs in driving financial inclusion to the last mile. Our efforts are geared towards helping Fintechs become more attractive to investors and achieve greater success,” Ikeazor stated.
During the meeting, Bajomo noted that while stakeholders would strive to comply with regulatory requirements, they sometimes face challenges beyond their control. According to Bajomo, “The common understanding within our ecosystem is that compliance makes the environment safer for all to innovate, scale, and collaborate. FintechNGR will ensure the co-creation of a support structure with the CBN to enhance compliance.”
FMDQ Vice Chairman, Aku, Inducted as Associate Stockbroker
The Vice Chairman, FMDQ Group Plc, Dr. Jibril Aku, has joined the prestigious league of securities professionals, popularly called Stockbrokers in Nigeria, with his induction as an Associate Member of Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS).
Addressing the participants at the Induction Ceremony at the institute’s chamber in Lagos at the weekend, the President and Chairman of Council, Mr Oluropo Dada, described Aku’s induction as symbolic. According to him, it helps to elevate professional inclusion
and promote unity among the operators in the capital market community in Nigeria. He reiterated the importance of integrity in the securities and investment industry, aligning it with the principle of “My word is my bond” and advised Aku to uphold this standard in his new role.
He encouraged Aku to join some committees within the institute to leverage his extensive experience to advance the securities and investment profession in Nigeria. Dada applauded Aku for his excellent disposition tostudies
as a trainee stockbroker, saying despite his exalted position and accomplishments in the society, he passed the Institute’s professional examination.
Responding, Aku, expressed gratitude to the Institute. Hestated that he had the option of receiving the honorary CIS membership but decided to take the examination route to ensure that he is an active participant in the task of bringing the money and capital market together for more liquidity in the capital Market, describing this as the last stage that needs to
be achieved to increase liquidity in the capital market - a market with potential to be several times bigger than the banks in terms of volume and value of transactions.
“The curriculum of CIS is more weighted towards bonds and fixed incomes trading rather than equity but dealers are sitting on the equity side and ignoring the other side. The older ones might not want to convert but we have the younger ones and we should not let them go the way of the older ones. We have to find a way to create that bridge,” he declared.
Funke Olaode
Marine Crafts of the Nigerian Ports Authority in Lagos… rec ently
RSM AFRICA STAKEHOLDERS…
L-R: Similoluwa Awodeyi, Tax Consultant, Stransact Chartered Accountants Nigeria; Oluyinka Oluseye, Director, Support Services, Stransact Chartered Accountants Nigeria; Tayo Mabunmi, Senior Accountant, Stransact Chartered Accountants Nigeria; Eben Joels, Managing Partner, Stransact Chartered Acc ountants Nigeria; Ernest J. Nedder, Chief Executive Officer, RSM; Victor Athe, Partner, Tax & Strategy, Stransact Chartered Accountants Nigeria; Ruth Bankole, Senior Con sultant, Stransact Chartered Accountants Nigeria; Charity Obiyo, HR Manager, Stransact Chartered Accountants Nigeria; and Tunde Awopegba, Chief Technology Officer, Stransact Chartered Accountants Nigeria, at the recently concluded 2024 RSM Africa Regional Conference in Nairobi, Kenya
Guinness Reaffirms Commitment to Nigerian Market, Rewards Trade Partners
Raheem Akingbolu
In recognition of the vital role played by its trade partners across Nigeria, Guinness Nigeria, has concluded its fiscal year 2024 with a twoday business conference, awards ceremony and affirmation of its commitment to the trade partners and the market.
Managing Director of Guinness Nigeria Plc, Adebayo Alli, said this while speaking at the firm’s awards
ceremony themed, “GN Transformed: Breaking New Grounds,” which brought together trade partners for a two-day celebration in Lagos.
The event was also used to unveil its new mission for the coming year, tagged, “GN Transformed: Winning Differently,” and announcement of plans to launch new products that will resonate with Nigerians.
“Moving forward, we are committed to working closely with all our partners to create new and
exciting products that will resonate with Nigerians,” he said.
He added that the company’s aim is to cater to every segment of the market and ensure to deliver quality experiences at every price point in the next financial year.
He further expressed the organisation’s gratitude for the invaluable collaboration of its partners over the years and their indispensable contributions to
Guinness Nigeria’s corporate objectives throughout the fiscal year 2024.
“We want to sincerely thank you, our valued partners, for your incredible dedication to our business this past year. We know it hasn’t been smooth sailing, but your unwavering support has been instrumental,” Alli said.
The company also unveiled its new mission for the coming year,
Sylvester Idowu in Warri
Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) has bagged this year’s Best Exhibitor award at the 2024 edition of the Nigerian Oil and Gas (NOG) Energy Week conferences and exhibition held in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
Chevron, operator of the joint venture between the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) was adjudged the best exhibitor ahead of other companies that participated at the conference on Wednesday July 3, 2024.
This was contained in a statement issued by CNL General Manager, Policy, Government and Public Affairs, Mr. Esimaje Brikinn.
Brikinn stated that the award was presented by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri to the Chairman and Managing
Director of Chevron Nigeria, Jim Swartz, during the NOG closing gala dinner hosted by NNPCL at Transcorp Hilton Hotel. Chevron, at the event attended by dignitaries including government officials, regulators and captains of industry, reassured of the company commitment to supporting the social and economic development of Nigeria.
The statement further noted that CNL “desires to grow its business in the country”. Jim Swartz, in the statement, expressed appreciation to the organizers of the event for the award and noted that Chevron remains committed to its partnership with Nigeria in ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient operations in and delivering affordable, reliable and ever cleaner energy supply that is critical to the development of the Nigerian economy.
Chinedu Eze
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) said that its improvement of airport facilities, passenger facilitation and security has encouraged tourism in Nigeria.
The agency said that the drastic action taken by the Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku against touting at the airports has brought sanity and orderliness to the satisfaction of travellers.
Kuku identified some of these achievements when she spoke at the Wings of Change Focus Africa Conference (WOCFA) overseen by the International Air Transport
Chinedu Eze
Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), operators of the Murtala Mohammed Airport Lagos Domestic Terminal Two (MMA2), has announced that it would acquire first airport digital cold storage in Nigeria for preservation of perishable cargo.
Association (IATA) last week; held in Johannesburg, South Africa.
A statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs & Consumer Protection, Obiageli Orah, said FAAN has recently taken steps to make Nigeria’s airports safe and accessible by genuine tourists and travellers and has also made efforts to eliminate touting and other forms of criminal conducts around the airports.
FAAN boss also spoke on the recent creation of a dedicated Department for Cargo Services in the agency, as stakeholders emphasized the need for improvement of trade facilitation,
acquired to address the growing need to preserve perishable cargo that pass through the facility.
tagged “GN Transformed: Winning Differently.”
While introducing the mission statement for the 2025 fiscal year, Commercial Director of Guinness Nigeria, Olusanya Adesanya, said, “Guinness Nigeria does not win alone, we win with our partners, we win with our customers, we win with our consumers, and most importantly, we win with our communities. The new
mission reflects Guinness Nigeria’s commitment to innovation, customercentricity, resilience, sustainability, empowerment, and consistent growth.”
“This mission statement serves as a guiding principle for all of Guinness Nigeria’s activities, ensuring that the company remains a leader in the beverage industry while making a positive impact on society and the environment,” Adesanya said.
Nestlé Professional, the Out of Home business arm of Nestlé Nigeria and a leading provider of food solutions, continued its initiative to boost the local economy among food vendors in Nigeria through the Business of Food workshop in Sokoto. Now in its 8th edition, this empowerment program has transformed and equipped over 1,900 food businesses across seven states with essential skills and knowledge to enhance their businesses and increase their income.
Canteens, grillers, Maishais, and bukas play an essential role in serving low-income communities in Nigeria, making this one of the fastest-growing sectors catering to the needs of Nigerian consumers. Despite their importance in providing daily nutrition to bustling urban areas, these food vendors often lack the necessary support to thrive. The aim of the empowerment program is to
help them improve their businesses through networking, upskilling, and training on crucial aspects of the food industry, including culinary techniques, menu planning, customer engagement, and, most importantly, good hygiene practices.
Business Manager for Nestlé Professional in Nigeria, Mrs. Funmi Osineye, stated: “We are thrilled to bring this Business of Food workshop to Sokoto because we recognize that the business of food extends beyond preparing delicious meals. It involves a focus on nutrition, pricing, presentation, taste, and hygiene. Our goal is to support food vendors of all sizes by providing them with the knowledge and tools derived from our global insights and local experience. We are confident this will foster lasting change and growth within the local food vendor community, as witnessed in previous locations.”
The acting Chief Operating Officer (COO), Remi Jibodu who made this known recently said the storage system, which is the first of its kind in Nigeria, would be
Raheem Akingbolu
Qatar Airways Group has reported the strongest financial performance in its 27-year history, announcing record profits of $1.7 billion for its 2023/24 financial year.
The airline group reported historic net profits of QAR6.1 billion ($1.7 billion) during the 2023/24 fiscal, with a total revenue of QAR81 billion ($22.2 billion), representing an increase of QAR4.7 billion ($1.3 billion) – up six per cent compared to last year.
The Group generated a strong EBITDA margin of 24 per cent at QAR19.1 billion ($5.2 billion), around QAR1.2 billion ($0.3 billion) higher than the previous year, reflecting
“The aircraft belly cargo is subject to availability. An airline with full flight has a certain amount of cargoes it can carry. Sometimes, the airline cannot carry all the perishable cargoes and this would mean the person sending the cargoes would loss some money; this is often a problem.
“Secondly for those who want to spread their businesses to other states in Nigeria but they are skeptical because there is no cold
the business’s continued focus on customer experience, innovation, digitalisation and sustainability, resulting in streamlined, agile and fit-for-purpose operations across all areas.
This has created a strong platform for the future of the Group’s airline business which carried more than 40 million passengers during the 2023/24 fiscal, an increase of 26 per cent over the previous year.
As a result, passenger revenue increased by 19 per cent, with a capacity increase of 21 per cent driven by the airline’s highest-ever load factor of 83 per cent, offering a sustainable upsurge in market share.
Minister of State for Energy and
including air cargo facilities and infrastructure, cargo compliance, closer collaboration amongst African countries and Stakeholders as well as Cargo Specialized Training for stakeholders.
There was emphasis on digitalization of passenger processing and how the embrace of robotics technology by airports in Africa would help to give customers further experience of speed, efficiency and excellence. The use of technology to drive efficiency has been part of FAAN’s priority agenda under the present dispensation.
Making his input on the first day of the conference, the Minister of
storage to store their products, can now be confident that our digital cold storage would address these problems,” Jibodu said.
He said MMA2 is creating opportunity for people to do their cargo business seamlessly, adding that the preservation of products such as immunization materials, yogurts, meat amongst others would be done perfectly.
He assured that the new innovation would increase the number of people that do cargo related businesses and grow business
Qatar Airways Group Chairman, Saad Bin Sharida Al-Kaabi, said:
“This latest remarkable annual performance demonstrates Qatar Airways Group’s flexibility and resilience in successfully navigating a constantly evolving global travel industry, and indicates a strong and sustained rebound from the challenges faced by the sector in recent years.”
Qatar Airways Group chief executive officer, Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “These very strong financials are a testament to the ambition and clear direction that has informed the Qatar Airways Group’s progress throughout the 2023/24 financial year.
“Our continued focus on
Aviation & Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, emphasised the need for removal of visa restrictions to enable free movement of people and goods across the continent, stating that to achieve this, there is need to work with Foreign Affairs Ministers across Africa. The Minister equally made a case for adequate funding of air transport in Africa.
Also speaking at the event, IATA,s Regional Vice President, Africa & Middle East, Kamil Alawadhi called for pursuit of net zero carbon emissions by 2050, which constitutes part of FAAN’s recent programmes.
revenue for MMA2 at the same time.
“We are very particular about innovation, excellence and efficiency. These have been our guiding principles. Having operated as a terminal for 17 years, there are so many things we have pioneered in the industry. At this time, we are advancing our vision in Nigeria,” he said.
He disclosed that MMA2 recently set up an equipment management department in a bid to address pitfalls in infrastructure development at the airports.
profitability, efficiency and customer experience has been underpinned by a strategic programme of network growth and fleet expansion, resulting in the highest revenues and profit margins in the history of the airline. We also cemented our undisputed role as a key industry leader, maintaining our position as the airline of choice for millions of passengers worldwide.
“This incredible achievement is in no small part thanks to the collective endeavour of the entire Qatar Airways Group family who have worked tirelessly to achieve such stellar results. We must now use this as a foundation on which to build our continued success.”
Development Bank Shortlists Tech Innovators for Final Pitch
Emma Okonji
In furtherance of its strategic role of stimulating the growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria, the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) has held a pre-selection session to shortlist tech innovators who will be participating in the final pitch during the bank’s annual flagship tech event, called DBN Techpreneur
Summit, holding on July 10 in Lagos. The Techpreneur Summit 2024 seeks to promote and showcase investor-ready technology innovations within Nigeria’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, while providing access to a pipeline of investors and subsequently funding to qualified techprenuers. The theme for the DBN Techpreneur Summit 2024 is, ‘Catalyzing Tech Innovation: Empowering Entrepreneurs for Regenerative Growth.’
There were over 100 tech companies on the longlist of entries received for the pitch at the expiration of the timeline for submission of ideas. A panel of evaluators consisting of industry leaders held the pre-selection session to assess each submitted entry in line with the criteria and guidelines set for the participating innovators. At the end of the pre-screening, a total of 20 tech innovators drawn from across fintech, health tech, transport,
IOT and other segments scaled the hurdles to the final pitch stage. Commenting on the significance of the pre-selection process, Managing Director/CEO, Development Bank of Nigeria, Dr. Tony Okpanachi, said it was a very important stage to narrow the space for the best among equals to be determined, adding that it was also a cost and time-saving mechanism for both the innovators and evaluators. He said pre-selection is an opportunity for innovators to
enhance their chances of success in the pitch competition.
The DBN chief affirmed that by supporting MSMEs and tech innovators to grow and scale up, the Development Bank of Nigeria plays a pivotal role in unlocking the potential of micro and medium enterprises, as well as the tech industry in Nigeria and empowering them to contribute significantly to the real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth.
Affirming the importance of the
screening session, Managing Director of Addium Capital, Mrs. Comfort Aruosa-Osemwegie, stated that it was aimed at making the tech founders ready for potential investors, who will also be attending this year’s Techpreneur Summit. She disclosed that through a partnership between DBN and Addium, a private equity and venture capital firm, an exclusive Deal Room will hold within the summit and it will serve as a platform for techpreneurs to meet with potential investors directly.
FMDQ Vice Chairman, Aku, Inducted as Associate Stockbroker Dataleum Celebrates Award Win
The Vice Chairman, FMDQ Group
Plc, Dr. Jibril Aku, has joined the prestigious league of securities professionals, popularly called Stockbrokers in Nigeria, with his induction as an Associate Member of Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS).
Addressing the participants at the Induction Ceremony at the institute’s chamber in Lagos at the weekend, the President and Chairman of Council, Mr Oluropo Dada, described Aku’s induction as symbolic. According to him, it helps
to elevate professional inclusion and promote unity among the operators in the capital market community in Nigeria. He reiterated the importance of integrity in the securities and investment industry, aligning it with the principle of “My word is my bond” and advised Aku to uphold this standard in his new role.
He encouraged Aku to join some committees within the institute to leverage his extensive experience to advance the securities and investment profession in Nigeria.
Dada applauded Aku for his excellent disposition tostudies as a trainee stockbroker, saying despite his exalted position and accomplishments in the society, he passed the Institute’s professional examination.
Responding, Aku, expressed gratitude to the Institute. Hestated that he had the option of receiving the honorary CIS membership but decided to take the examination route to ensure that he is an active participant in the task of bringing the money and
capital market together for more liquidity in the capital Market, describing this as the last stage that needs to be achieved to increase liquidity in the capital market - a market with potential to be several times bigger than the banks in terms of volume and value of transactions.
“The curriculum of CIS is more weighted towards bonds and fixed incomes trading rather than equity but dealers are sitting on the equity side and ignoring the other side”.
Chinedu Eze
Dataleum, a global tech training and consulting firm, has achieved significant recognition as the Best Technology Training and Consulting Firm in Africa by World Business Outlook 2024. This prestigious award was granted to Dataleum following a thorough nomination and evaluation process led by their esteemed panel of judges.
The World Business Outlook Awards is a prestigious event
that recognizes industry excellence, exceptional leadership, outstanding success strategies, and global pr esence in the Business and Finance sector. These awards are renowned for honouring organisations that have demonstrated outstanding performance, innovation, and leadership in their respective industries. Winners are chosen based on extensive research, industry analysis, and feedback from experts and clients across different sectors.
HOMES & DESIGN
Riviera Heights, Epitome of Luxury Living in Lagos
MGE Realty Limited, in collaboration with Tami-Thames Limited, has launched its choice residential project, designed for luxury living, Bennett Oghifo writes
Riviera Heights is a new luxury residential development on Water Corporation Drive in Victoria Island, Lagos. This 12-storey luxury residential tower, crafted by the renowned architectural visionaries at Consultants Collaborative Partnership (CCP), promises to redefine luxury living in Lagos, setting new standards for elegance, comfort, and convenience.
Riviera Heights boasts a perfect synergy of aesthetics, functionality, and prime location within the heart of Lagos’ hospitality communities. Situated amidst the vibrant hub of beaches, cinemas, fine dining, and lounges, this exquisite development offers the ultimate urban lifestyle for residents and a compelling investment opportunity for those with a discerning eye for quality.
Residents entering Riviera Heights, will enjoy a contemporarily designed reception and lounge area that acts as a refined meeting place. Moreover, Riviera Heights boasts a wide range of amenities gathered at the Leisure Deck – a large outdoor area with green space to relax and unwind. Additional features also include a state-of-the-art gymnasium and a swimming pool for children and adults. This 40-units tower offers spacious, modern, and meticulously designed one, two and three-bedroom apartments with maid rooms that exude elegance and for those
who desire a larger living space, the four-bedroom maisonettes penthouses are the epitome of sophistication and comfort.
“Riviera Heights will undoubtedly become one of the most desirable addresses in Lagos,” said Richard Deniran, COO of MGE Realty Limited.
“We are delighted with the contribution of Consultants Collaborative Partnership (CCP), who have designed an exceptional addition to the ever-evolving skyline in the heart of Victoria Island. With exceptional amenities and direct views to Lagos beachfront, Riviera Heights presents an unmissable investment opportunity.”
The CEO of MGE Realty Limited, Bolaji Badejo, expressed similar enthusiasm for the project.
He said, “Riviera Heights is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence in the real estate industry. This development showcases the future of luxury living in Lagos.”
It is an investor’s dream project that transcends luxury and offers an unparalleled urban lifestyle experience. With the expertise of MGE Realty Limited, the backing of Tami-Thames Limited, and the creative brilliance of CCP, Riviera Heights is set to become a landmark in Lagos real estate.
MGE Realty Limited is a leading real estate company with a proven track record of delivering exceptional projects that combine innovation, quality, and sophistication. With a commitment to
excellence and a focus on customer satisfaction, MGE Realty Limited has earned its reputation as a trusted name in the industry.
Tami-Thames Limited is a dynamic and forward-thinking company that partners industry leaders to deliver premium real estate projects. With a dedication to creating lasting value and fostering growth in the real estate sector, Tami-Thames values integrity and quality.
Consultants Collaborative Partnership (CCP) is an award-winning architectural firm known for its cutting-edge designs and commitment to creating spaces that inspire. Their portfolio of innovative projects spans the globe, making them a trusted name in the world of architecture and design.
BUSINESS SPECIAL
Dupe Olusola: Projecting Nigeria’s Hospitality Industry
Kayode Tokede writes on the Managing Director/CEO of Transcorp Hotels Plc, Dupe Olusola’s impact on Nigeria’s hospitality industry and efforts to create value for shareholders
Since becoming the head of Transcorp Hotels, the subsidiary of Transnational Corporation in March 2020, Dupe Olusola has worked hard with the board and management to position Nigeria’s hospitality business in the global map, and improve on corporate earnings that has translated into dividend payout to investors.
Olusola is a dynamic, results-oriented leader with a track record of building profitable businesses and delivering superior performance. She has over 22 years of corporate experience spanning various sectors locally and internationally.
Appointed Transcorp Hotel boss during the COVID-19 pandemic, she has successfully led the company back to profitability and significant increase in revenue generation.
Under her visionary leadership, Transcorp Hotels has achieved impressive milestones and contributed significantly to its parent company.
The company between 2020 and 2023 financial year has grown its revenue to N41.44 billion, about 308.1per cent from N10.16 billion, and N9.48billion profit before tax in 2023 from a loss before tax of N8.9 billion reported in the 2020 financial year.
Profit after tax hits N6.25 billion in 2023 from a loss of N6.27 billion in 2020 as investors have felt the impact in profit generation over the last four years since she became the MD/CEO of Transcorp Hotels.
Specifically, the company that did not pay dividend in the 2020 financial year rewarded shareholders in the 2021, 2022 and 2023 financial years.
Olusola in a statement had noted that the company’s 2020 financial year performance was achieved through continued dedication to excellence, unparalleled guest satisfaction and a resilient spirit that defines its commitment to delivering exceptional service and stakeholder value.
“By strategically investing in innovations that align with our growth objectives, we continue to deliver these impressive numbers, beating our previous year’s records.
“Our considerable investment in our iconic Transcorp Hilton Abuja have been rewarded by significant increases in occupancy rates and guest satisfaction. We are continuing this investment, with our 5,000-capacity event centre purpose-built to host local and international entertainment, conference, and exhibition events.
“This new world-class facility located
within the premises of Transcorp Hilton Abuja is scheduled to open in the second half of 2024. I am immensely proud of the team’s dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence, in providing an unparalleled hospitality experience. We remain focused on our mission to continue exceeding expectations and setting new benchmarks in the African hospitality industry.”
The latest result and accounts of Transcorp Hotels showed that it broke the all-time revenue record in the first quarter (Q1 2024) ended March 31, 2024.
The company recorded N13.8 billion revenue in Q1 2024, about 72 per cent increase from N8 billion reported in Q1 2023.
our segments for continuous growth. Demand in our International Business Travel and leisure segments remained strong in Q1 2024, delivering an industry-leading revenue per available room (RevPAR) growth of 74 per cent and profit growth in excess of 844per cent.”
“We assure our stakeholders that we will continue to deliver exceptional value and leverage innovative tactics to rapidly expand our business portfolio.”
All these performances have contributed to her numerous awards and recognition home and abroad.
NUMEROUS AWARDS, AMONG OTHERS
She recently won the prestigious Africa Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF) Leadership Award at the 2024 edition of the forum holding in Windhoek, Namibia. AHIF is the premier hotel investment conference in Africa, attracting many prominent international hotel owners, investors, financiers, management companies and their advisers. According to organisers, Olusola’s award is in recognition of her exceptional contributions and leadership in the African hospitality sector.
“Olusola’s record is outstanding. She became the first female CEO of a N1 trillion company shortly after Transcorp Hotels ended the year as the best performing stock on the Nigerian Exchange. One has to admire her ability to inspire people and the innovative way she fought to retain guests when other hoteliers would simply have said they were fully booked,” said Matthew Weihs, Founder of AHIF. Under her leadership, the company has extended its offer; historically an awardwinning business hotel, the company’s flagship property Transcorp Hilton Abuja had since introduced leisure offerings, finding the perfect blend of business and leisure.
The company has also won over 40 awards since Olusola became Managing Director/CEO. She has won several personal awards, including CEO of the Year. Transcorp Hilton Abuja has elevated its status as the place to stay and to hold major events in Nigeria’s capital city. In November 2023, with banqueting enquiries exceeding capacity, Dupe set up marquees within the grounds of the hotel rather than turn away business. Olusola while commenting on receiving the Leadership Award said: “I am deeply honoured to receive the Leadership Award. This recognition is a testament to the incredible dedication and hard work of the entire Transcorp Hotels team.
“Together, we have navigated challenging times and emerged stronger, continually pushing the boundaries of excellence in hospitality. I am proud of what we have achieved and excited about the future as we continue to innovate, expand and deliver outstanding experiences for our guests.”
Also, she was appointed to Save the Children UK’s Africa Advisory Board. She will be bringing her philanthropy a wealth of experience in leadership, strategic development, and community engagement.
Olusola’s commitment to excellence and passion for transformative change aligns perfectly with Save the Children’s core values and objectives.
“Together, we have navigated challenging times and emerged stronger, continually pushing the boundaries of excellence in hospitality. I am proud of what we have achieved and excited about the future as we continue to innovate, expand and deliver outstanding experiences for our guests.”
In addition, from the profit & loss figures, the company’s declared N6billion profit before tax, representing 568 per cent increase from N911.6 million in Q1 2023, as profit after tax was at N5billlion in Q1 2024, about 844 per cent growth from N531 million reported in Q1 2023.
The company in the period under review, saw its occupancy grew to 82per cent in Q1 2024, up from 75per cent in Q1 2023.
Olusola said: “Our excellent first quarter performance marks the beginning of another great year for our company. We broke our all-time monthly revenue record in March, a demonstration of our commitment to excellence and superior performance.
“We leveraged opportunities across
Transcorp Hotels Plc, Transcorp Hilton Abuja and Olusola have been recognised on different global stages.
The awards include Booking.com’s Traveller Review Award 2023, Five World Travel Awards, World Luxury Hotel Awards and two Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards for Transcorp Hilton Abuja.
Transcorp Hotels also won the Brand Communicator’s Most Outstanding Hospitality brand while Dupe Olusola won the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards’ CEO of the Year 2023.
The company was awarded the Outstanding Employer of the Year 2022 by the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, and Olusola was named World’s High Rising Women Leaders Making a Difference in 2023 by the World Leader’s magazine.
Her extensive expertise and deep insights will be invaluable as the organisation continues its mission to create a sustainable impact for children across the continent.
Save the Children is the world’s leading independent organisation for children, dedicated to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive. With a presence in over 100 countries, Save the Children works to provide access to quality education, healthcare, protection from harm, and emergency response services.
As a member of the Africa Advisory Board, Olusola will provide strategic guidance and support to Save the Children UK, helping to shape initiatives that drive positive outcomes for children.
She is also a member of the Advisory Board of the Africa Hospitality Investment Forum and a member of the Board of Directors, United Capital Microfinance Bank.
Olusola
TGI Group Champions Green, Digital Job Creation for Sustainable Development
Oluchi Chibuzor
TGI Group, a leader in sustainability and innovation, is advancing its commitment to green and digital job creation as part of its strategic HR initiatives.
This was highlighted by the Director of Group Human Resources, TGI Group, Akinkunle Akinpelu during the, “Green and Digital Jobs: Expanding the Frontiers and Pragmatic Approach towards the Creation of Decent Jobs,” panel at the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) Summit in Abuja.
“TGI is deeply committed to sustainability, which is a core element of our HR strategy as well. In the past five years, we’ve hired
hundreds of young professionals worldwide to tackle environmental challenges. Our teams work on projects ranging from afforestation and water management to energy-saving initiatives,” said Akinpelu. He added, “TGI Group is also making significant strides in digital transformation. We constantly employ world-class solutions to overhaul our processes where necessary. This digital shift not only enhances efficiency but empowers a new generation of professionals bringing fresh solutions and perspectives.”
Akinpelu showcased the group’s efforts in generating renewable energy adding, “Our 250,000 metric tonnes
rice plant in Argungu, Kebbi State operates without fossil fuels. Also, we recycle rice husks to generate power. By 2025, several of our factories will tow the same line, thereby reducing carbon emissions and promoting cleaner air.”
The panel, which featured industry leaders including Mr. Olasunkanmi Adenuga, MD of Workforce Nigeria, Dr Afiz Oluwatoyin, DG Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Dr Vanessa Phala, Director, International Labour Organisation (ILO) Abuja, Dr Eugene Itua, MD of Natural Eco Capita, and Dr Emmanuel Okeleji, CEO Seamless HR, emphasized the critical role of green and digital jobs in Nigeria’s economic development.
Tolaram Appoints Adesuwa Ladoja as MD/CEO of Lagos Free Zone
The Board of Directors of Tolaram, one of Nigeria’s leading conglomerates, has announced the appointment of Adesuwa Ladoja as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of one of its subsidiaries – the Lagos Free Zone Company.
According to a statement issued by the Board of Directors to its stakeholders, the appointment is effective July 1, 2024. Adesuwa Ladoja takes over from Dinesh Rathi, who has been moved to the position of Group Finance Director, Tolaram.
“Ladoja brings extensive experience in infrastructure development and strategic leadership. She has been a key player in the development of the Lekki Deep Sea Port project, leading to its financial
close in 2020, the completion of its construction in 2022 and commercial operation in 2023. Her leadership and strategic vision have been critical to the project’s success.
“Adesuwa Ladoja, a Lawyer, started her career in general commercial practice and litigation as an Associate at Ajumogobia & Okeke. This was followed by over a decade at KPMG Professional Services, where she specialized in Tax, Regulatory, and People Services.
“She holds a Bachelor of Law degree (LL. B Hons) from Obafemi Awolowo University and a Master of Law (LL.M Hons) degree in International Business Law from King’s College, University of London. She is a member of the Nigerian
Bar Association and several other professional bodies and a notary public of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
“The board believes that her multifaceted expertise will be invaluable in driving the Lagos Free Zone Company’s growth and innovation agenda. Mrs. Ladoja said “I am honored to be given this opportunity, and I look forward to continuing the good work done by Dinesh and the team at LFZ in creating a unique industrial ecosystem which places sustainability and customer-centricity at its core. Lagos Free Zone with its integrated Lekki Port is the perfect illustration of what ease of doing business represents and we look forward to hosting more companies, “the company said.
Torrista Promises Thrills With Exclusive Ikogosi Offer
Torrista, an online tourism and hospitality platform has partnered with Glocient Hospitality Limited to provide nationwide discounted travel packages to Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Center in Ekiti State. This special offer is available excl usively on the Torrista website.
Ikogosi Warm Springs, known for its unique natural phenomenon where warm and cold springs flow side by side, offers visitors a captivating experience. Managed by Glocient Hospitality, the resort features quality accommodations, stunning natural scenery, and modern conference facilities.
This partnership aims to simplify travel planning and booking through the platform, www.torrista.com.ng. Visitors can expect top-notch amenities and exceptional service at Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Glocient Hospitality to promote Ekiti State,” said Head of Tourism Business at Sterling Bank, Mrs. Abiola Adelana,. “Our goal is to make this incredible destination more accessible and provide an outstanding travel experience for Nigerians.”
To celebrate this partnership, special travel packages and promotional campaigns will be launched, offering
tourists from across Nigeria discounted rate.
Speaking to the partnership, GM of Glocient Hospitality Limited, Mr. Lanre Balogun, said, “We are excited to partner with Torrista to showcase the unique beauty and heritage of Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Center. This collaboration allows us to offer unparalleled experiences and create lasting memories for visitors while promoting local tourism. To enjoy up to 15% discount and experience the wonders of Ekiti State with Torrista and Glocient Hospitality customers online.”
Winners Emerge in Spelling Genius Competition
Winners have emerged in the third edition of the Spelling Genius competition, sponsored by Twisco, which released close to N1 million for the winners to further drive their dreams and ambitions.
The competition, which held recently at the SUBEB Multipurpose Hall, Maryland, Lagos, brought together over 1500 students and instructors from primary and secondary schools (state and private).
The contestants vied to showcase their spelling skills at the competition aimed to enhance vocabulary and spelling skills for successful learning.
Twisco, known for nourishing big dr eams, awarded a total of N750,000 in prizes to the top three winners: N150,000 for the third place winner, N250,000 for the second place winner, and a grand prize of N350,000 for the first place winner.
Speaking to journalists
MARKET INDICATORS
at the event, Brand Manager, Beverage Category at Promasidor Nigeria, Lillian Omorenuwa, said they would not only help the children develop spelling skills and reading comprehension, but also bolster their confidence and communication skills in today’s digital era.
“At the heart of Twisco is empowering young minds; one word at a time. Yes. We have been doing this because the children are dear to us and we stand for their wellbeing,” Omorenuwa added.
Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).
L-R: MD/CEO, Amecron Nigeria Limited), Enyinna Onyegbule; MD, SNEPCo, Mrs. Elohor Aiboni; Deputy Governor, Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo; Deputy Manager, External Relations, NUIMS-NNPC, Mrs. Edith Lawson and Country Chair, Shell Nigeria, Mr. Osagie Okunbor at the commissioning of digital library center at Niger Delta University, Bayelsa State...recently
Agnes Ekebuike
Chams HoldCo Expands to Drive Profitability, Boost Shareholders’Value
Kayode Tokede
Chams Holding Company Plc, has embarked on corporate expansion to promote organic growth, boost earnings and deliver shareholder value.
Despite the inclement operating environment, the leading fintech company’s revenue increased to N9.6 billion in 2023, about 92 per cent from N5 billion in 2022 while the total asset closed 2023 at N18.99
billion, up 16.3 per cent from N16.34 billion reported in 2022.
Addressing the shareholders at the Company’s Hybrid Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the weekend, the Chairman, Sir Demola Aladekomo, explained that Chams HoldCo was poised to mobilize more funds for expansion in order to boost profitability.
“ Looking back on 2023, Chams Group can say that despite the challenging economic climate and obstacles
encountered at every turn, it persevered and introduced several cutting-edge digital solutions. Our share prices achieved its highest growth to N2.44. NGX recognized our shares as the second-bestperforming stock on NGX due to their stellar performance as frontline financial technology.
“One of our major plans for 2024 is the Fundraising. The funds generated will be rightly invested in the company to generate profit for the Group,
so our shareholders can start receiving dividends for their investments soon. We aim to increase the production capacity of CardCentre, which will lead to more profit for the Group. ChamsSwitch also projects a partnership with a financial institution to execute her partnership with UnionPay. Our subsidiaries have also laid down various plans for the growth and progress of the Group. It is sufficient to say that 2024 will be an outstanding year for the
Chams Group”, said Aladekomo. Corroborating him, the Group Managing Director, Mrs.Mayowa Olaniyan, noted that revenue generation potential of Chams Group, was boosted by digital solutions of its subsidiaries, especially for the Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs). “This is a clear testimony that their digital solutions are impressive, providing innovations that ease the administration of pensions in Nigeria through a seamless and secured remittance system
divulged from what was obtainable from traditional banking systems in the past. ChamsAccess continues offering other valuable services to its vast clientele, including cash management and cybersecurity solutions, which contributed more than 54% of Group revenue for the year.
ChamsSwitch Ltd continued to focus largely on the corporate customer business segments, e-commerce payments, remittances, and bank card processing.
PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF JULY 4/24
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NITDA TO ESTABLISH EMERGING TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH CENTRES ACROSS NIGERIA
Aiming to advance Nigeria’s technological landscape, the federal government, through the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has announced plans to establish research centers dedicated to emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain. These centres will be strategically located across the six geopolitical zones of the country.
During the IoT West Africa Conference in Lagos recently, NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, disclosed this ambitious plan while presenting a keynote address. Inuwa emphasised that this initiative aligns with NITDA’s mission to build a robust technology research ecosystem.
“We are establishing a special-purpose vehicle to look into these key areas and set up research centres targeting AI, IoT, blockchain, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), additive manufacturing, and robotics,” Inuwa stated.
He was represented by NITDA’s Director of Corporate Planning and Strategy, Aristole Onumo.
Beyond setting up these centres, NITDA is committed to supporting Nigerian startups that are innovating in the emerging technology sectors.
“We want to encourage development and provide innovation sandboxes to support those with ideas, helping them to create businesses and bring their products to market,” Inuwa added.
NITDA is also playing a crucial role in the federal government’s 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme, which aims to train and empower three million Nigerians with technical skills by 2027. Inuwa acknowledged that while some trained individuals might seek opportunities abroad, their contributions will enhance Nigeria’s talent exports and boost foreign exchange through increased remittances.
This strategic initiative marks a significant step towards positioning Nigeria as a leader in the global tech arena, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth through technological advancement.
META UNVEILS GAME-CHANGING MONETISATION OPTIONS FOR NIGERIAN, GHANAIAN CREATORS
In a landmark move set to revolutionise the digital economy in West Africa, Meta has introduced new monetisation options for content creators in Nigeria and Ghana. This strategic initiative aims to empower local creators, providing them with the tools to monetise their content and reach global audiences in over 30 languages.
With this launch, eligible creators can now integrate in-stream ads into their videos, earning revenue from pre-roll, mid-roll, image, and post-roll ads. Additionally, Facebook Ads on Reels will enable creators to monetise their short-form content, rewarding them based on the performance of their reels. To access these features, creators must adhere to Facebook’s Partner Monetisation Policies and Content Monetisation Policies and be at least 18 years old. A minimum follower count of 5,000 is required for in-stream ads.
Moon Baz, Meta’s Global Partnerships Lead for Africa, the Middle East, and Turkey highlighted the transformative potential of this initiative. “This expansion empowers creators in Nigeria and Ghana, setting a new standard for creativity worldwide and positioning Meta’s apps as a central hub for content creators,” Baz stated.
This development follows a significant visit earlier this year by Meta’s President of Global Affairs, Sir Nick Clegg, to President Bola Tinubu in Abuja. During the visit, Clegg announced Meta’s plans to introduce these monetisation features and celebrated the successful landing of a Meta-backed deep-sea cable in Nigeria, facilitated by an executive order from Tinubu.
The introduction of these monetisation options is expected to significantly bolster the digital economies of Nigeria and Ghana, offering creators unprecedented opportunities to monetise their content and expand their reach. As Meta continues to innovate, this move underscores the company’s commitment to supporting and nurturing the creative potential of African content creators.
The digital landscape in West Africa is on the cusp of transformation, with Meta leading the charge. Creators are poised to benefit immensely, marking a new era of digital entrepreneurship
TECH PERSONALITY OF THE WEEK
Silas Adekunle: Focused on Using MekaMon to Develop Robotics Education Ecosystem across Africa
and economic growth in the region.
LAGOS,
OGUN, KANO LEAD IN MOBILE SUBSCRIPTIONS AMID NIGERIA’S TELECOM CHALLENGES
The latest telecommunications data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) highlights significant disparities in mobile connectivity across Nigeria, with Lagos, Ogun, and Kano collectively accounting for 23% of the country’s total active mobile subscriptions as of Q1 2024. These states hold a combined 50.5 million active mobile lines, underscoring a stark regional imbalance.
Despite a nationwide drop in active mobile subscriptions to 219.3 million—a 3.3% decline from Q1 2023—Lagos remains the frontrunner with 25.9 million subscriptions. Ogun follows with 12.6 million, and Kano with 11.9 million. Meanwhile, Bayelsa, Ebonyi, and Ekiti lag significantly, recording the fewest mobile subscriptions at 1.6 million, 1.8 million, and 1.9 million, respectively. The disparity extends to internet connections. Lagos leads with 18.8 million active internet subscribers, followed by Ogun with 9.5 million and Kano with 9 million. Bayelsa, Ebonyi, and Ekiti again have the lowest figures, revealing a broader issue of unequal telecom infrastructure development.
Industry experts, such as Mr. Olusola Teniola, former president of the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), have voiced concerns about this imbalance. They attribute it to inadequate infrastructure, which leaves many rural and less developed areas underserved. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reported that approximately 40 million Nigerians lack access to telecommunications services due to over 200 access gaps in the ICT sector.
Highlighting the urgency of addressing these gaps, Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, emphasised the need for a comprehensive infrastructure overhaul.
He announced the government’s plan to establish a special purpose vehicle (SPV)
Silas Adekunle, a Nigerian inventor and technology entrepreneur, is the co-founder and CEO of Reach Industries and the founder of Awarri. Reach Industries, an early-stage startup, aims to augment scientists and make laboratories more efficient to better and faster tackle global challenges. Their intelligent platform, Lumi, leverages computer vision, voice recognition, and machine learning to capture and analyse operational data, acting as a true assistant throughout all stages of life sciences development, from research to production environments.
Adekunle first gained international recognition for creating the world’s first intelligent gaming robot and STEM education platform, MekaMon. In 2018, he partnered Apple, signing an exclusive distribution deal to sell his product in the United States and Britain. Despite the success, Reach Robotics, his previous venture, shut down in 2019, due to inherent challenges in the consumer robotics sector. The name ‘Reach Robotics’ was later adopted by Blueprint Lab in 2022.
Currently, Adekunle is focused on using MekaMon to develop the robotics education ecosystem across Africa and cloud infrastructure for industrial automation in the UK. His company, Awarri, aims to enable the development and adaptation of advanced AI and robotics technology in Africa. Since January 2020, Adekunle has been the co-founder and CEO of Reach Industries (RI), a company that helps developers quickly and securely implement the cloud infrastructure needed to remotely monitor, manage, and control robots, industrial automation, and IoT devices.
In recognition of his contributions, Adekunle was named to Financial Times’ list of ‘Top 100 Minority Ethnic Leaders in Technology’ and was selected for Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe 2018: Technology list.
dedicated to expanding Nigeria’s fibre optic network by an additional 90,000km, bringing the total coverage to 125,000km.
“This initiative aims to provide universal access to the internet, connecting over 200,000 educational, healthcare, and social institutions nationwide. By significantly boosting internet penetration to over 70% and reducing access costs by more than 60%, we aim to foster greater inclusivity and economic growth,” Tijani explained.
WAKANOW’S ROOMDE.COM PROMISES SEAMLESS USER EXPERIENCE
Wakanow Group has clarified that Roomde.com, its hotel and accommodation booking platform, is distinct from Wakanow Rest of Africa. While Roomde.com focuses on addressing the accommodation needs of travellers, Wakanow Rest of Africa handles all business operations outside Nigeria. This distinction highlights the unique functionalities of both subsidiaries within the Wakanow Group.
Roomde.com offers flexible booking options, competitive pricing, and 24/7customer support, solidifying Wakanow’s position as an innovator in the travel industry. Launched in Nigeria, Ghana, and the UK, Roomde.com is set to expand to other markets where Wakanow operates.
The Senior Vice-President, Product and Strategy, Wakanow, Gbolahan Salami, emphasised Roomde.com’s role in enhancing the travel experience through technology. “Roomde.comrepresents our commitment to leveraging technology to enhance the travel experience for our customers, both B2B and B2C alike. It offers a comprehensive solution to the perennial challenges faced by travelers in finding and booking accommodations,” he said.
Salami further explained that Roomde. com addresses the need for a convenient and reliable platform to search and book hotels online.
He said, “Roomde provides a user-friendly interface with access to a vast inventory of hotels, shortlets, apartments, conference rooms, event venues, and more, all in one
bucket and at competitive prices. The platform ensures transparency in cancellation policies and payment methods, providing travelers with peace of mind and flexibility in their booking decisions.”
Targeting individual and corporate travellers, travel agents, travel planners, and group travel organisers, Roomde.com caters to diverse preferences and needs, enhancing the overall travel experience for its users.
In a surprising development, KuCoin, a prominent global cryptocurrency exchange, has announced the implementation of a 7.5% VAT on transaction fees for its Nigerian users. This change, effective from July 8, 2024, was revealed in a post on the company’s X account. The new VAT policy applies exclusively to transaction fees, not the total transaction amounts. For instance, a user purchasing $1,000 worth of cryptocurrency with a 0.1% fee rate would incur a $1 transaction fee. The 7.5% VAT on this fee amounts to $0.075, making the net amount for the transaction $998.925. The tax rate will range from 0.1% to 0.05%, depending on the transaction fee structure.
This decision comes amidst increased scrutiny of crypto exchanges by the Nigerian government. In May, KuCoin had to shut down its peer-topeer platform due to regulatory pressures. This latest move affects Nigerian users who have completed their know-your-customer (KYC) registration, adding the VAT to transaction fees rather than the overall transaction volume. KuCoin urged its Nigerian users to review the update and adjust their trading strategies to accommodate the new VAT charges. Despite this proactive approach, KuCoin remains banned by the Nigerian government, leaving many stakeholders puzzled, especially given the lack of clear guidance from regulatory authorities. This policy shift underscores the ongoing regulatory challenges facing cryptocurrency exchanges in Nigeria, as the government seeks to exert more control over the rapidly growing digital asset market. The impact on Nigerian traders and the broader crypto community will be closely watched in the coming months.
AWARD CEREMONY FOR THE MASCOT DESIGN COMPETITION...
Peter Obi Urges Wives of Political Leaders to Emulate Beatrice Ekwueme
As Umeh, Ezekwesili, others extol wife of former VP @90
Gideon Arinze in Enugu Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has urged wives of political leaders in Nigeria to emulate the virtues of the wife of late former Vice President, Dr. Alex Ekwueme, Dame Beatrice, by standing by their husbands to ensure they lead with integrity and credibility.
Obi's counsel came as political and religious leaders across the Southeast extolled the virtues of Beatrice as she marked her 90th birthday.
Speaking during a ceremony organised in her honour yesterday, Obi said that Beatrice was a livewire of support to her husband while he served as vice president of Nigeria between 1979 and 1983.
British Council, Cambridge International Examinations Honour Exceptional Students
The British Council in Nigeria, in collaboration with Cambridge International Examinations, recently honoured outstanding students from various British Council Partner Schools across Nigeria for their brilliant performances in the 2023 Cambridge Examination.
At a ceremony held in Lagos, the students were awarded the prestigious British Council Recognition and Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards (BROCLA) for their remarkable performance in the June and November 2023 Cambridge International Education examination series.
The ceremony held annually, also recognised British Council Partner Schools that showcased implementation of the Child Protection Policy and the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy.
The British Council, in a statement after the awards, said: “These recognitions underscore the British Council's dedication to fostering safe and inclusive educational environments. 95 students from 37 British Council Partner Schools achieved the remarkable feat of obtaining the highest marks in Nigeria British Council Partner Schools in subjects such as Sociology, Information and Communication Technology and Business Studies.
“Seven students from three schools earned the esteemed 'Top in the World' honour. This award is granted to students who have obtained the highest marks in the world in a single subject. Additionally, 71 students received the 'Top in Nigeria' awards for achieving the highest standard mark in the country for individual subjects. Further accolades included 48 'High Achievement' awards and eight ‘Best Across' awards, recognising
students with the highest cumulative standard marks across multiple subjects.”
Lucy Pearson, Country Director, British Council Nigeria, adds, “Today, we celebrate outstanding learners and our collaboration with Cambridge International Education. Our work with British Council Partner Schools in delivering UK assessments and qualifications in Nigeria has been instrumental in helping individuals gain educational and professional development, positioning them for success in life and careers. We believe in providing young learners with access to world-class education and assessments.”
Deep Adhikari, Director Examinations, British Council Nigeria, emphasised the importance of EDI award, noting, “This award aims to minimise prejudice and discrimination based on protected characteristics. I congratulate the recipients for fostering a culture of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in their schools and for showcasing practical ways to integrate EDI into inclusive education.”
Juan Visser, Regional Director, Cambridge International Education said that the awards recognised the talent and commitment of both learners and staff.
Visser adds: “Congratulations to Cambridge learners who have worked so hard to achieve tremendous success in Cambridge exams. With the education you have from Cambridge and from your schools, nothing can get in the way of you achieving your dreams. Your Cambridge qualifications will no doubt open you to a world of opportunities. With an education that is trusted, recognised and truly International, you are all ready to make a positive impact in the world.”
His words: “Beatrice made sure that her husband served Nigeria credibly and with integrity. She has left an example that wives of political leaders today can learn by showing that public office is a platform for service and not an opportunity to do evil."
Earlier, during a church service held in her honour at the Cathedral Church of Good Shepard, Enugu, former Archbishop of Enugu Ecclesiastical Province, Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Emmanuel Chukwuma, praised Beatrice for her philanthropic gestures, noting that it was her contribution that the church
used to roof it's diagnostic centre.
Also speaking, the Senator representing Anambra Central, Victor Umeh, praised Beatrice for “remaining steadfast” since she lost her husband at 84 till now that she turned 90, adding that “we are hopeful that she will leave to celebrate more years."
“Many people have benefitted from her benevolence and she has remained very humble,” he said.
“She is a mother to all who has had a lot of influence in the life of her husband, she was the hand of her husband."
On their part, former Minister
of Education, Oby Ekwesili and former Minister of Information, Frank Nweke, described Beatrice as an epitome of quiet strength who had the capacity to get people working together.
“When we remember her husband, we cannot but remember her,” Ezekwesili said adding that “ She has held her family of 11 children and 25 grand children even after the death of her husband."
In a vote of thanks on behalf of Beatrice, Chidi EkwuemeOnyemeluke, one of her daughters, thanked all those who attended the birthday celebration while wishing
them journey mercies back home. In attendance at the ceremony were the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, former Minister of Information, Frank Nweke, former Ministers of Power, Barth Nnaji and Chinedu Nebo. Others were former Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Chukwuma Ozumba, former governor of Ebonyi State and senator representing Ebonyi North Senatorial district, Sam Egwu, former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili and former Minister of Aviation Kema Chikwe among other dignitaries.
Wigwe University Awards Full Scholarship to Mascot Design Winner
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Wigwe University has disclosed that Michelle Inwere, a student of Holy Child College, Ikoyi, Lagos has emerged winner of its Mascot Design Competition and has been awarded a full scholarship by the private tertiary institution.
Inwere’s creative and visionary mascot design, it said in a statement, stood out among numerous entries, showcasing her exceptional talent and dedication.
The school boasts of embodying Nigeria’s resilience, fearless culture, her values and her entrepreneurial
spirit as well as the African spirit of strength in numbers, teamwork and collaboration.
Founded by former Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc, Herbert Wigwe, Nigeria’s late progressive business leader, philanthropist and humanitarian, who died in an air crash earlier this year, the school is located in Isiokpo, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The school says it mixes the host state’s natural endowments with sustainable design principles to create an exciting harmony between its campus and its natural environment.
Obidigbo: Only Tact,
“Wigwe university is thrilled to announce that Michelle Inwere, a talented student from Holy Child College Ikoyi, has won the Mascot Design Competition and has been awarded a full scholarship.
“ This prestigious scholarship covers tuition & fees, and accommodation for her study duration, enabling Michelle to pursue her dream of studying Computer Engineering at Wigwe University,” the university stated.
Wigwe University stated that it will continue to support young talented Nigerians like Inwere and her ilk.
“We are incredibly proud to support and nurture young talents like Michelle and we are excited to welcome her to the fearless community,” said Prof. Miles Davis, Vice Chancellor Wigwe University. Inwere, along with her family, friends, and school administrator, the statement said, visited Wigwe University’s Lagos office to receive her prize and to meet some members of the team.
“Join us in congratulating Michelle on this remarkable achievement, she is set to join the incoming class of September 2024,” the school said.
Diplomacy can Guarantee Kanu's Freedom, not Confrontation
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
Igbo politicians have been advised to employ tact and silent diplomacy in seeking the release of the detained leader of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.
Businessman and elder statesman, Dr. Chike Obidigbo noted this in a press release he signed and made available to journalists in Awka, Anambra State capital on Sunday.
Obidigbo who had previously called for the release of Kanu said he has seen actions from politicians which looked like politicization of the call for his release, saying such
can only worsen the case.
He accused Igbo politicians of not acting with tact, but only aiming to be counted as those who are fighting for the release of the freedom fighter.
He said: “I am not comfortable with the way and manner our political elites are going about their quest for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
“The sense I make of the cheap scramble by Igbo politicians to be identified in the growing calls for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s freedom from prolonged and unjust incarceration is that they are merely playing to the gallery.
“It is obvious that President Bola
Ahmed Tinubu is not entirely the one holding Nnamdi Kanu. It was not even former President Muhammadu Buhari nor his erstwhile Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami SAN. All the AGFs, including the current one are mere legal officers for the government.”
He described Kanu's matter as a security issue, which requires the involvement of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu and heads other powerful security agencies, and also the British Government, if any success would be achieved.
He added that the president may
not have absolute power to release Kanu, even though he has the power to influence things if he so wishes. Obidigbo said: "The other powerful elephant in the room blocking Nnamdi Kanu’s freedom is the British Government. Kanu acted against British economic interest in Nigeria. "Kanu’s agitation was negatively affecting the government and people of Britain. Everything that Kanu said or did were done in Britain, being a British citizen. But they could not afford to arrest him on British soil, because of obvious and potential backlash."
L-R: Mother of the winner of Mascot design, Mrs Inwere Michelle; Prof. Jennifer Madden, Prof. Haris Doumanidis; winner of the Mascot Design competition, Michelle Inwere and Vice Chancellor, Wigwe University, Prof. Miles Davis, at the award ceremony for the Mascot design competition where she won a full scholarship to Wigwe University to study Computer Engineering,recently
MEDIA BRIEFING ON 2024 BAPTIST WORLD ALLIANCE...
SSANU, NASU Declare Nationwide Protest Tomorrow Over Withheld Four-month Salaries
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
Non-teaching staff of federal universities in Nigeria have resolved to hold a nationwide protest on Tuesday, 9th July, 2024, to draw attention to their grievances including non-payment of four months withheld salaries by the federal government. They also resolved to hold a national protest which will take place in Abuja on Thursday, 18th July, 2024, after which both unions will meet to announce a date when they will commence strike action.
In a circular dated July 4th, 2024, the university workers under
the auspices of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) said that government has not shown any convincing commitment on the payment of the withheld salaries and resolutions of other pending grievances.
In the circular addressed to all branch chairmen of NASU and SSANU in the university and inter-university centres and jointly signed by SSANU President Mohammed Ibrahim and NASU General Secretary Prince Peters Adeyemi the union said the
Court Orders former Humanitarian Minister, Sadiya Umar-Farooq to Account for N729bn
To provide list, details of beneficiaries
Wale Igbintade
Justice Deinde Dipeolu of the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has ordered a former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disasters Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, to account for payments of N729 billion to 24.3 million poor Nigerians for six months.
The court also ordered the former minister to provide the list and details of the beneficiaries who received the payments, the number of states covered, and the payments per state.
The judgment was delivered in June by Justice Deinde Isaac Dipeolu following a Freedom of Information suit number: FHC/L/CS/853/2021, brought by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project.
In his judgment, Justice Dipeolu held that “The former minister is compelled by the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act to give information to any person, including SERAP. I therefore grant an order of mandamus directing and compelling
the minister to provide the spending details of N729 billion to 24.3 million poor Nigerians in 2021.”
Justice Dipeolu ordered the minister to “provide SERAP with details of how the beneficiaries have been selected and the mechanisms for the payments to the beneficiaries.”
The judge also ordered the minister to “explain the rationale for paying N5,000 to 24.3 million poor Nigerians, which translates to five per cent of Nigeria’s budget of N13.6 trillion for 2021.”
The court held that “the minister did not give any reason for the refusal to disclose the details sought by SERAP. SERAP has reeled out the relevant sections of the Freedom of Information Act 2011 that the minister contravened and has, in line with sections 20 and 25(1) of the Act, prayed this Court for an order of mandamus to direct and compel the minister to provide the information sought.”
Justice Dipeolu dismissed the objections raised by the minister’s
Edo Govt, BRACED
counsel and upheld SERAP’s arguments.
Consequently, the court entered judgment in favour of SERAP against the minister.
Reacting to the judgment, SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, said the ruling is a victory for transparency and accountability in the spending of public funds.
He said: “This ground-breaking judgment is a victory for transparency and accountability in the spending of public funds.
“Justice Dipeolu’s judgment shows the urgent need for the Tinubu government to genuinely address the systemic allegations of corruption in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disasters Management and Social Development and other ministries, departments and agencies, as documented by the Auditor-General of the Federation.
“We commend Justice Dipeolu for her courage and wisdom and urge President Bola Tinubu to immediately obey the court orders.”
In the letter dated July 6, 2024, sent to President Bola Tinubu on the judgment, and signed by SERAP Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation asked him to direct the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disasters Management and Social Development and the office of the Attorney General of the Federation to immediately comply with the ruling.
The organisation also asked the President to order the release of the spending details of the N729 billion as ordered by the court.
It reads: “We urge you to demonstrate your expressed commitment to the rule of law by immediately obeying and respecting the judgment of the court.
“We urge you to direct the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disasters Management and Social Development and the office of the Attorney General of the Federation to immediately compile and release the spending details of the N729 billion as ordered by the court.
Commission Chart New
Course for Public Service Transformation
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin-City
In a bold move to address the challenges of today and chart a clear path of action for the future, the BRACED Commission, in partnership with the Edo State Government, hosted a strategy retreat for all Heads of Service of the BRACED an acronym for Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa-Ibom, Cross River Edo and Delta States, at the John Odigie-Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA) which ended at the weekend in Benin-City, capital of the state.
The Strategy Retreat themed "Leadership in the Public Sector: Strengthening Public Institutions," was inaugurated by Governor Godwin Obaseki.
In his opening remarks, Governor
Obaseki highlighted Edo State’s audacious institutional reforms and the transition from analog operations to E-governance.
He urged the heads of service to learn from each other and to strengthen public services in the region by leveraging technology, building capacity, and embracing new ways of working.
The retreat featured several notable and distinguished speakers who provided valuable insights and strategies for public service enhancement.
The chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission, Professor Tunji Olaopa, delivered an enlightening presentation on “Strategic Leadership in the Civil Service - Challenges, Opportunities,” followed by the convener Ambassador Joe Keshi,
who moderated a session with all the heads of service.
During this session, participants agreed to draft the “Benin Declaration,” a roadmap for public services in the BRACED States over the next three years.
Dr. Joe Abah explored the topic of “Harnessing the Power of Innovation in the Public Sector,” and keynote speaker Mr. Steve Oronsaye, former Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, gave a thought-provoking lecture on the “Role of Permanent Secretaries in Changing Political Dynamics.”
He shared practical insights and challenged public sector change leaders to transcend the known traditional bureaucratic skills and acumen to enable public servants navigate their roles as experts,
regulators and engagers.
Dr. Anthony Osa Okungbowa, Head of Service, Edo State, presented a forward-thinking paper on “Digitizing the Civil and Public Service in the BRACED Region – The Edo Story,” followed by practical insights from Issa Aremu, the Director General of the Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies (MINILS) in Ilorin, on “Building High Performing Teams and Teamwork in the Public Sector.”
This transformative strategy retreat was facilitated by the John Odigie-Oyegun Public Service Academy. Precious Imuwahen Ajoonu, the Director General of JOOPSA, anchored a crucial team bonding session, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and peer learning across the region.
Joint Action Committee (JAC) has decided to embark on series of industrial actions.
The circular directed that, "All branches of NASU and SSANU should mandatorily hold a general meeting on Monday, 8th July, 2024 to sensitize members on the insensitivity of government to our plights.
"A one-day protest should hold on Tuesday, 9th July,2024 at each branch simultaneously. Every branch should ensure that all members fully participate in the protest and the media is adequately mobilized".
The unions further stated: "It is also disheartening that the JAC was also at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and as usual, the minister of state was not on seat to receive us, as we were informed that she had an urgent call from the villa.
"The permanent secretary who stood in for her could not make any commitment on the issues raised.”
The unions said they met under
the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of NASU and SSANU on Thursday, 4th July, 2024, to appraise and take position on the current situation in respect of the withheld four months’ salaries and other grievances of their members in university and inter-university centres. According to the unions, the meetings they had with the Minister of Education and officials of National Universities Commission (NUC) failed to yield positive outcome Similarly, the unions said that they met with the Minister of Education; Minister of State for Education; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education; other top officials of the Ministry and National Universities Commission (NUC) but that unfortunately, government did not show "any convincing commitment on the payment of the withheld salaries and resolutions of other pending grievances of JAC of the two unions".
Food Security: AbdulRazaq Empowers 10, 000 Local Farmers in Kwara State
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
As part of a move to boost food security in Kwara State, the state governor and Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum, NGF, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, at the weekend empowered over 10,000 local farmers across the 16 local government areas of the state.
The governor said that, the affected local farmers would receive improved seeds, chemicals, and fertilizers during this farming season.
Speaking at the distribution of the 3rd batch of the support to the affected farmers in the state, Alhaji AbdulRazaq stated that the move is part of the administration’s efforts to encourage bumper harvest and promote food security.
The government had recently targeted 600,000 households, including smallholding farmers, in recent distribution of farm implements and other supports.
Governor said that farmers are the backbone of food security and sustainable economic growth.
According to him, “This administration is committed to addressing the challenges in the agricultural sector. Farmers are recognised as the backbone of food security and economic growth.
"Hence, a rigorous farmer registration process has been set up, ensuring that only genuine farmers benefit.
“The first batch of the Special Rice Intervention Programme assisted
3,400 real farmers with quality seeds, fertilizers, and agrochemicals, resulting in significant increases in rice production.
“With the second phase (FADAMA NG CARES), 600,000 beneficiaries are receiving support, including boats, seeds, agrochemicals, power tillers, and grinding machines. This initiative aims to make agricultural productivity more robust and widespread."
AbdulRazaq said the government is also committed to boosting livestock productivity and market access through its Livestock Productivity and Enhancement Scheme (LPRES) campaigns in the state.
“By supporting farmers, food security is ensured, jobs created, and economic growth is sustained,” he added.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Toyosi Thomas-Adebayo, for her part, said there are a lot of programmes the government has embarked upon to support farmers and improve farm yields in the state. She said that, the efforts have gone a long way to improve food production and reduce the prices of foodstuffs in the markets in the state.
Thomas-Adebayo however lauded the AbdulRazaq's administration for his purposeful leadership.
Abdur-rahman Akindele Ayuba, Executive Director, Centre for Community Empowerment and Poverty Eradication, who spoke on behalf of other CSOs, hailed the government for engaging them in all stages of the exercise.
L-R: General Secretary, All African Baptist Fellowship, Rev Ellias Apetugbo;President, Baptist World Alliance Dr. Tomas Mackey;President, Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Isreal Akanji; General Secretary, Baptist World Alliance, Rev. Elijah Brown; and Vice President, Finance and Investment, Nigerian Baptist Convention, Deacon. Abiodun Oloyede, at the media briefing on 2024 Baptist World Alliance in Lagos on Saturday ETOP UKUTT
ASSOCIATION OF CAPITAL MARKET ACADEMICS OF NIGERIA...
Atiku Decries Kidnap of Journalists, Others
Flays Police’s violation of citizens’ rights Says Nigeria is nation of law, order
Chuks Okocha in Abuja and John Shiklam in Kaduna
Former Vice President Atiku Abubukar has condemned the kidnap of two journalists and members of their families in Kaduna State.
Atiku also lamented the escalating state of insecurity in Nigeria, in a statement, yesterday, by his media adviser, Paul Ibe.
The presidential candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general election stated, "In these perilous times, the courageous sentinels of truth, our journalists, stand as beacons of light, unwavering in their duty to hold power accountable.”
He equally slammed the Nigeria Police for “blatant breach” of citizens’ rights and disregard for court orders, saying Nigeria is a nation of law and order.
The two journalists, their wives and two children were abducted at their residences in Danhonu community in Millennium City area of Kaduna. Bandits, said to be in large number, had stormed the residences of AbdulGafar Alabelewe of The Nation newspapers and AbdulRaheem Aodu
of Blue Print newspapers about 10:30pm yesterday and seized them.
Taofeeq Olayemi, a relation of Aodu, confirmed the incident on Sunday.
He said Alabelewe, Chairman of the Correspondents' Chapel of the Nigeria Union Journalists (NUJ) in Kaduna, was abducted alongside his wife and two children, while Aodu was kidnapped along with his wife.
The two journalists were said to be close neighbours.
Olayemi said the bandits shot sporadically before abducting the journalists and their families.
He disclosed, "Initially, they picked Alhaji Abdulgafar, his wife, three of his children and a girl staying with him. But the girl was later asked to return with one of the children and they went away with Abdulgafar, his wife and two children.
"They shattered their doors, windows and removed their window burglary after scaling the fence."
According to Olayemi, the bandits first broke into Aodu’s residence and picked him and his wife, leaving their sick daughter behind.
Olayemi added, "They entered Abdulgafar’s house through the fence,
forced his bedroom open and picked him, his wife and two of their children and left immediately."
He said by the time the community vigilantes arrived, the bandits had fled.
Kaduna State Council of (NUJ) condemned the abduction of the journalists and their families.
In a statement on Sunday, the council appealed to security agencies to swing into action with a view to rescuing the journalists and their families from the kidnappers.
The statement jointly signed by Asmau Halilu and Gambo Santos, chairperson and secretary of the state council of the NUJ, respectively, urged government at all levels to intensify efforts towards guaranteeing the security of lives and property of citizens at all times.
Atiku, who condemned the development, stated regarding journalists in Nigeria, "Yet, they find themselves besieged not only by the terror of abductors but also by a government that continues to assault their freedom through arrests and detention.
"Adding to this travesty is the kidnap of 78-year-old Mr Takai
Shamang, President and Founder of Gantys Aid for Widows, Orphans and Needy Foundation (GAWON) and former President General of the National Union of Electricity and Gas Workers (now known as the National Union of Electricity Employees) between 1982 and 1989."
The former vice president said, "Before then, Janet Galadima-Gimba, a customary court judge in the same Kaduna, had been abducted and released.
"But her sons are still in captivity, with the abductors reportedly making a demand of N150 million as ransom.
Elsewhere in Katsina, 75-year-old Hauwa’u Adamu, mother of the popular Hausa singer, Dauda Kahutu Rarara, or Rarara, as he is fondly known, was kidnapped on Friday.
"This despicable act underscores the dire state of our nation's security and the gross failure of our leaders to protect its citizens.
"These abductions are damning indictments of our leaders’ failure to secure the safety of citizens and an intolerable breach of press freedom (as it relates to the journalists).
"My thoughts and prayers are with
CJN to Swear in 12 New Judges of FCT High Court Wednesday
Alex Enumah in Abuja
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, would on Wednesday, July 10, swear-in 12 newly appointed judges of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT ). A statement by the Director, Information and Press of the Supreme Court, Dr Akande Festus, noted that the ceremony would hold at the Main Courtroom of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
The inauguration of the new judges is coming nearly two months after the National Judicial Council (NJC), at its plenary of 105th Meeting held on May 15&16, 2024, recommended for their appointments.
The new judges in order of seniority are Buetnaan Mandy Bassi from Plateau State; Ademuyiwa Olakunle Oyeyipo from Kwara State; Bamodu Odunayo Olutomi from Lagos State; Iheabunike Anumaenwe Godwin from Imo State and Odo Celestine Obinna from Enugu State and Hauwa Lawal Gummi from Zamfara State respectively.
The rest are Sarah Benjamin Inesu Avoh from Bayelsa State; Maryam Iye Yusuf from Kogi State; Ariwoola Oluwakemi Victoria from Oyo State; Lesley Nkesi Belema Wike from Rivers State; Ibrahim Tanko Munirat from Bauchi State and Abdulrahman Usman from Taraba State.
Army Honours Air Peace Chairman, Alex Onyeama, for Outstanding Support, Service
Chinedu Eze in Lagos and Ikechukwu Aleke in Abuja
The Chairman of Air Peace, Dr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema,has been recognised by the Nigerian Army with the prestigious award for "Outstanding Support/Service to the Nigerian Army" at the 2024 Nigerian Army Day Celebration. Onyema, who is known for his commitment to peace and reconciliation, spearheaded the end of violence in the Niger Delta during the restive campaign against oil production and recently introduced
Priority Boarding Policy for Nigeria’s military personnel – both serving and retired in the airline, as a way of honouring them for the huge sacrifices they make for the nation.
The event held at the Maxwell Khobe Cantonment in Jos, Plateau State, weekend, and in attendance were the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, and the Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas. According to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, the award was
in recognition of Onyema’s continuous use of his airline and other enterprises to contribute to the socio-economic development of Nigeria and his outstanding service to the nation and humanity in general.
When Air Peace was established in 2014, Onyema announced a special initiative, a rebate to support Nigerian military personnel. Officers of the Nigerian military were offered flights at a reduced fare of 10,000 naira.
In 2022, Air Peace further demonstrated its commitment to honouring military personnel by introducing a priority boarding policy
for military officers, acknowledging their invaluable service to the country.
"It is our way of saying thank you for all they are doing for the country," Onyema stated, highlighting his dedication to motivating and supporting the nation's military.
In September 2023, Onyema pledged to introduce rebates on flight tickets for retired officers of the Nigerian military during his conferment with a Doctor of Management Science Degree by the Nigerian Defence Academy at its 33rd Convocation Ceremony in Kaduna.
the families and friends of the abducted. I call upon the security agencies to act decisively and without delay to secure their release, but (also) to prioritise intelligence gathering and sharing."
Atiku slammed the Nigeria Police for “blatant breach” of citizens’ rights and disregard for court orders. He highlighted a worrying trend of journalists being arrested under the guise of the cybersecurity law for holding leaders accountable.
Atiku’s outrage followed the arrest and transportation of Yusuf Sheriff Banki from Abuja to Maiduguri, Borno State, in defiance of a standing court order.
Justice M. A. Madugu of the Bwari
Judicial Division had on June 13 granted an order restraining the IGP, AIG Zone 15, CP FCT, their agents, privies or anybody acting on their authority from arresting, intimidating, harassing and threatening Yusuf Sheriff Banki and his families pending the determination of the suit before the court. But the Nigeria Police acted in breach of the order.
Atiku was incensed by the Gestapostyle arrest, which he said flagrantly violated a valid and subsisting court injunction restraining the Inspector General of Police, the Assistant Inspector General of Police Zone 15, and the Commissioner of Police FCT from arresting Banki.
SON Mulls Review of Energy Consumption for Imported ACs to Improve Living Standard
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has announced that reviewing Nigeria’s Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for air conditioners will significantly improve the living standard on Nigerians and drive industrialisation.
The organisation stated that revising the existing standards to align with international benchmarks would enhance energy efficiency and promote climate-friendly air conditioners in Nigeria.
Assistant Director And Senior Group Head of the electrical electronic department at SON, Ismaila Lawal, made the assertion during a technical workshop for AC manufacturers, importers, assembly companies, installers and other stakeholders.
It was done in collaboration with Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and with financial support from the Clean Cooling Collaborative (CCC) in Nigeria.
He highlighted the importance of aligning Nigeria’s standards with international ones.
"We have participated at the international level where these standards are being reviewed, so we need to domesticate them in Nigeria. This ensures that whether the air conditioners are locally manufactured or imported, they meet the international standard.
"We review standards when there is a government policy change or advancement in technology. The old air conditioners consume a lot of energy and electricity and for the sake of energy management, we need to update these standards to ensure Nigeria is not left behind and not turned into a dumping ground.
"It is crucial to ensure manufacturers, importers, and all stakeholders comply with these standards once approved. This includes protecting the environment by regulating the refrigerants used in ACs," he added.
Discussing the implementation process of the revised MEPS for ACs, Lawal mentioned that the reviewed standards will be submitted to the SON DirectorGeneral, who will then present them to the SON governing council for approval.
Deputy Director of the energy transition and linkages unit at ECN, Samaila Zaku explained that the review of AC MEPS for Nigeria was driven by the impact of climate change and the role of energy in exacerbating it.
"ACs are significant energy consumers. Using efficient ones will reduce energy consumption and help save the environment," he stated.
The workshop aimed to create awareness among manufacturers, producers, importers and assembly companies about the revised standards.
L-R. Chairman, Senate Committee on Capital Market and Institutions, Sen. Osita Izunaso; Director General, Securities and Exchange Commission ( SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama; Chairman, SEC Board. Mr. Mairiga Katuka and President, Association of Capital Market Academics of Nigeria, Prof. Uche Uwaleke, during the 1st Annual Conference of the Association of Capital Market Academics of Nigeria in Abuja ... recently ENOCK REUBEN
GLOBACOM BUSINESS MEETING IN EKITI...
Edo: Appeal Court Didn’t Dwell on Defection, But on Jurisdiction, Says PDP Legal Adviser
Ighodalo files appeal Party insists smear campaigns against candidate in futility
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Despite the fact that the Certified True Copy of the Federal High Court, stated that its judgement did not affect the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Asue Ighodalo, in Edo State, the National
Legal Adviser of the party, Adeyemi Ajibade, has said the party would appeal the judgement for purposes of clarity.
He said the main purpose of the appeal was to avoid any ambiguity and a repeat of the Zamfara State episode that eventually enthroned
Bello Matawalle as governor in 2019.
The party's national legal adviser said the party would approach the appeal and supreme courts to clarify any doubt in the party's governorship primary in Edo State.
He equally said the party would approach the supreme court on the
decision of the court of appeal, as the appellate court only decided on jurisdiction and not on the substantive issues before it
In the same manner, the PDP governorship candidate, Asue Ighodalo told THISDAY that he would file appeal against the
judgement on Monday.
According to him, "to avoid any ambiguity, I will file my appeal against the Federal High Court judgement on Monday"
defection. There is a difference between jurisdiction and hearing the substantive case.”
Nabs Osun monarch, Chadian, youth corps member for drug trafficking
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have raided the Lagos base of alleged high-profile cocaine syndicate headed by a couple - Mmadu Agbakoba and Chinwe Agbakoba as well as their associate, Ifeoma Okoye, where large consignments of the class-A drug meant for export and local distribution - were recovered.
A statement on Sunday by the spokesman of the anti-narcotics agency, Femi Babafemi, said the raid carried out by a special operations unit of the agency followed months of intelligence gathering and surveillance on the syndicate notorious for packaging, distributing and trafficking of cocaine within and outside Nigeria.
Babafemi said the 54-year-old male Agbakoba was arrested at Ago Palace Way, Okota while his wife, Chinwe, 39, and associate, Okoye Ifeoma , 31, who doubles as their stash keeper, were nabbed at Plot 2205 Eugene Ndubisi Close,
Lilly Estate, Amuwo Odofin area of Lagos, all last Wednesday.
He said while seven parcels of cocaine with a total weight of 7.652 kilogrammes were recovered from Mmadu at Ago Palace Way, not less than one hundred and twenty-two (122) compressed pellets of the same drug weighing 2.42 kilogrammes were seized from the duo of Ijeoma and Ifeoma at Lilly Estate, bringing the total seizure to 10.1 kilogrammes valued at over N2.1 billion in street value.
In the same vein, NDLEA operatives in Benue State, last Thursday, intercepted a consignment of 350 grammes of cocaine at a check point along Enugu Road, Otukpo.
The illicit drug was concealed in an MP3 speaker sent as a waybill parcel. A swift follow-up operation at Flight Motor Park in Otukpo led to the arrest of the owner, 25-year-old Odeh Anthony.
Also, NDLEA officers on a stop and search operation along Ngurore – Yola Road in Adamawa State, last Wednesday, arrested a Chadian, Yves Ahmat Gali in a commercial bus
coming from Kano to Yola.
The suspect was found with a loud speaker used to conceal 20 compressed blocks, and nine plastic containers of Loud, a strong strain of cannabis weighing 5.2 kilogrammes.
In Kano, operatives last Wednesday arrested a youth corps member, Yusuf Abdulrahman, 25, at Corpers Lodge, Sumaila area of the city, with 1.25 kilogrammes of Loud, while in Osun State, the head of Akarabata Community in Ile-Ife, Ba’ale Ige Babatunde, 50, was last Friday, July, arrested with fresh cannabis plants that weighed 5 kilogrammes.
Babafemi said two suspectsMonday Ali, 49, and Jimoh Alewi, 37, were arrested when NDLEA operatives raided Ikota Forest in Ifedore Local Government Area, Ondo State, where a total of 42,500 kilogrammes cannabis was destroyed on 17 hectares of farmland while 73.5 kilogrammes of same substance was recovered for the prosecution of the suspects during a five-day operation that ended last Monday.
In Abuja, the FCT, NDLEA
operatives last Saturday arrested the duo of Sanusi Mamman, 28, and Usaini Ibrahim, 20, in a vehicle along Abaji- Gwagwalada road with 1,132 bottles of codeine syrup; 13,540 pills of tramadol; 50,000 pills of diazepam and 59 pills of rophynol. The suspects claimed they were bringing the opioids from Onitsha, Anambra State.
Babafemi said with the same drive, commands and formations of the agency across the country continued their War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitization activities in schools, worship centres, work places and communities among others in the past week.
Meanwhile, while commending the officers and men of the Special Operations Unit, Osun, Benue, Ondo, Kano, and FCT Commands for the arrests and seizures, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), noted their drug supply reduction efforts balanced with WADA sensitization activities while he charged them and their compatriots across the country to maintain the tempo.
NSSEC Partners American Mission on Exchange Programmes
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
The National Senior Secondary Education Commission (NSSEC) in pursuit of revitalising the Senior Secondary Education has partnered American Mission on teachers training, exchange programmes and curriculum enhancement. Other areas of collaboration include capacity building and institutional strengthening leadership training, research and innovation, policy development, language and cultural studies, as well as health and wellbeing.
Executive Secretary of NSSEC, Dr. Iyela Ajayi, while presenting his submission, highlighted that STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programmes will receive a robust improvement through the provision of resources, expertise, and technology that the partnership seems to give.
He said in terms of cultural exchange, the collaboration will implement student exchange programmes to promote cultural understanding and global citizenship, adding that these can be include
short-term exchanges, summer camps, and virtual exchange opportunities among others.
"These are workshops and seminars on modern teaching methodologies, classroom management techniques and sharing of best practices and innovative approaches as well as teacher exchange programmes where educators from both countries can observe and participate in each other's educational systems, fostering cross-cultural understanding and professional growth will be extensively explored.
"Technical support in developing inclusive education strategies to accommodate learners with diverse learning needs and facilitate academic exchange programmes that allow students to experience different educational environments, participate in joint projects, and build international networks," he said.
Also, the partnership, he said, will extend to data collection and analysis that will inform educational policy and practice and leveraging on data to identify areas for improvement and success stories.
Ajibade said the substantive issues were the defection of 25 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the propriety of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Edo State governorship primary election.
Specifically, the PDP National Legal Adviser said Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court Abuja overreached himself in the face of sections 84 (14) of the amended Electoral Act that stated that only aspirants that contested in the primary election could seek redress and not delegates.
On the Court of Appeal that ruled on the fate of the 25 members of the Rivers State House that defected to the APC, Ajibade who was Kwara State Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General said, "the ruling of the appellate court was on jurisdiction and not the substantive issue of
country's economic a\nd security challenges to prevent their escalation.
Kano State Chairman of the party, Hashimu Dungurawa, disclosed this on Sunday in Kano during a press conference in his office.
Dungurawa also criticised the president for allegedly channelling his energy to fuelling the lingering emirate tussle in the state, instead of focusing attention on fixing insecurity and the economy.
He stated, "It's a reminder to Mr. President that the country's future is at stake, and collective efforts are needed to address myriad of problems bedevilling the nation.
"This is a passionate plea for change to fix our ailing nation before things get out of hand, you should know this is also a collective heartfelt cry to address the country's pressing issues before they spiral out of control."
Dungurawa lamented how the prices of things, especially food items, skyrocketed beyond the reach of the common man, immediately after Tinubu assumed office May 2023.
On the lingering emirate crisis in Kano State, the NNPP state chairman
Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP),yesterday, said smear campaigns and frivolous litigations aimed to distract Ighodalo were all efforts in futility as he remained the undisputed choice of the majority of the people of Edo State. The PDP alerted that it was aware of a well-oiled plot by certain egocentric and overtly ambitious individuals to orchestrate a series of coordinated smear campaigns against Ighodalo being frustrated by his emergence as candidate, his overwhelming popularity across the State and the fact that he was already coasting to victory in the election.
In a statement by the National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, PDP said the party was aware of how angry and bitter individuals had been going around the courts and reportedly attempting to induce certain judicial officers to procure damaging rulings against our candidate.
frowned on Tinubu's perceived stance, saying his seeming laxity would surely work against his second term mission in 2027.
Dungurawa stated, "We are worried about the militarisation of Kano by the president because the emirate crises is giving him bad name while allowing those who are the henchmen in the tussle to roam about freely.”
He told the president, “Your perceived stance on the ongoing Kano emirate tussles would surely work against you in 2027 because if you think you can use it to gain ground in Kano, when the chips are down, you will realise your mistakes.
“If the president thinks he will use a few of his kinsmen in Kano, and benefit from the Bayero’s Yoruba lineage to continue to keep the deposed Emir, Aminu Ado Bayero, in the state, let him wait for 2027, we will show him that those people will not help him.”
Dungurawa appealed to Tinubu to do all he could to bring an end to the emirate debacle by ensuring that the deposed emir was taken away from Kano.
L-R: Regional Head, Corporate Solutions, Globacom, Mr. Debo Adefarasin; Ekiti State Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Akin Oyebode; Governor Abiodun Oyebanji; Enterprise Business Lead, Globacom, Mr. Niyi Odejobi; and Regional Head, Public Sector, Globacom, Mr. Adewale Adiatu, at a meeting of the Glo team with the governor in Ado Ekiti…recently
PRESENTATION OF AWARDS TO EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS...
L-R:
Regions,
Lukman: Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso, Others Must Collaborate to Defeat Tinubu in 2027
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Immediate past National Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Salihu Lukman, has called on former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, former governors Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso and Rotimi Amaechi, to team up in order to defeat the APC in 2027.
In a statement in Abuja, yesterday, Lukman also listed in the proposed merger, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, former governors Nasir El-rufai, Rauf Aregbesola, Kayode Fayemi and Ibikunle Amosun, among other political leaders. In the statement titled: “Future of Democracy in Nigeria”, Lukman said building the kind of united front capable
of moving Nigerian democracy forward required selflessness on the part of Nigerian political leaders.
Lamenting the current situation of the country, the former Director General of the Progressives Governors Forum (PGF), lamented a situation where APC as the ruling party in Nigeria promised to provide the needed leadership to fight
corruption but has legitimised higher level of corruption and ‘state capture’ virtually at all levels.
“What is the future of democracy in Nigeria? Is there any prospect that it can produce leaders who are responsive to national challenges? Being responsive is basically about ensuring that public expenditures are oriented to tackle challenges
Police: Suspected Bandits Are Ex-officers
Ikechukwu Aleke in Abuja
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), yesterday, confirmed that the suspects involved in the hijacking of a DAF SF Truck carrying 40,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), along the Ohodo-Opi Road in Igbo-Etiti LGA on May 29, 2024, were ex-police personnel.
Responding to a viral video footage of the crime, the Force Spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement, said the suspected bandits were dismissed
police officers.
According to him, the individuals were apprehended after a meticulous operation which led to the rescue of the abducted driver and motor boy.
He disclosed that among those arrested were former inspectors Otache Egbe, Abah Solomon and former Sergeant James Mamah.
"The investigation led to the recovery of significant exhibits, including two AK-47 rifles, 105 rounds of ammunition, and various security uniforms.
“The Police reassures that
the operation exemplifies the dedication of the Force to eradicating criminal elements irrespective of their previous affiliations."
The apprehended suspects, Adejobi said, had confessed to their crimes and were under investigation by the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), with ongoing efforts to recover the stolen PMS.
Noting that the suspects would soon appear in court for prosecution, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode
Egbetokun, emphasised the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to collaborate with all stakeholders in combating crime.
He also issued a stern warning to individuals engaging in criminal activities, stressing that the law would inevitably catch up with them, and justice would be served.
He therefore, urged wellmeaning members of the public to support the police in the efforts to maintain safety and security across the country.
facing citizens. What are the challenges facing Nigerians today?
“Poverty, unemployment, insecurity, drugs and substance abuse, millions of out of school children in the North, etc. Not to talk of the additional problems of inflation and the crash of the value of incomes especially in the last one year under the leadership of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Although some officials of the government of President Asiwaju Tinubu have attempted to explain the current hardship Nigerians are facing with reference to the bad economy inherited from the previous administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, the reality is that both are APC Governments.
“If anything, APC became very popular in Nigeria on account of the failings of the PDP. What were the failings of the PDP? The failings of the PDP are reflected in the same way today’s challenges are manifesting. If the truth is to be told, whatever was the failings of PDP in 2015, it was
less grievous than what it has become under APC in 2024.
“No doubt, former President Buhari had his problem as a leader. However, whatever was estimated to be his failure should be the shared responsibility of APC leaders in varying degrees, including President Asiwaju Tinubu. No leader of APC should attempt to distance himself/herself from the failure of the Buhari era, certainly, not President Asiwaju Tinubu.
“In one way or the other, APC leaders, without exception, are ‘beneficiaries’ of the Buhari era, just as some of them could claim to be victims. On balance, however, APC leaders benefited more from the Buhari era than being victims.
“At least electorally, former President Buhari made it possible for APC to defeat the PDP. Without former President Buhari, the defeat of PDP in 2015 would have been almost impossible, and by extension, arguably, would have been difficult, if not impossible for President Asiwaju Tinubu to become President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Nigeria’ll Continue to Assist in Development of African, Caribbean, and Pacific Countries, Says TAC DG
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
Director General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub, has said that Nigeria will continue to draw from its pool of abundant human resources to assist the development of African, Caribbean and Pacific countries and their people. The DG, gave the promise at the weekend in Abuja at a reception to welcome volunteers of the TAC Scheme, who had completed their two-year service in Uganda and The Gambia.
He also said one of the primary benefits of the scheme was to share the rare knowledge and experience the volunteers bring from the countries in which they have served with other Nigerians.
While commending the 14
returned volunteers on behalf of the federal government for making Mr. President and Nigerians proud by pursuing part of the delivery of the foreign policy objectives of the Tinubu Administration, Yakub said Nigeria, outside a number of the biggest nations of the world, remains the only nation that has for nearly forty years continued to uphold the technical assistance provided to ACP countries for free.
He said: “The United Kingdom has UKAid; the United States also has USAID and China, China Aid. In Nigeria here, we have the Nigerian Technical Aid. Each of the above has been used to aid the development of humanity in one area of life or another.
“For us, the Technical Aid Corps has been used to further
South-South cooperation in almost the last forty years in over forty countries and counting.
"In the past few weeks, we have continued to make deployments to different countries of the ACP States. In the weeks ahead, we will deploy to more of these countries.
“These ones who have returned have made the president and all Nigerians proud as we continuously see and hear of their achievements in the places they have served.
"A few weeks ago, we had cause to visit the Caribbean. In all our interactions with officials of governments in places like Jamaica, Belize, Guyana, Barbados and the like, the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps is highly sought after and has continued to wax so
strong that we have highlyplaced officials of government who have participated in the scheme.
“Who knows, we could have a president tomorrow in any of these recipient countries who had also been tutored by TAC Volunteers.
"In Jamaica today, such skills as the making and using of our craft and artifacts have become commonplace. As I speak, even our local batik, Adire, has been taught to Jamaican people by a TAC volunteer, who they do not intend that he returns to Nigeria.
“Today, the Jamaicans have Christened their own version of "Adire" and "Jadire" and are happy to share that cultural diplomacy with Nigeria.
"Our position, therefore, is that we must continue to
support our brothers in the ACP countries to be better. Even if for free or for a fee, as we at TAC are planning for skills in some areas of expertise, we will continue to deliver on the TAC mandate, seeing its benefits for the people we service and for the volunteers that return to the country with a lot of experience and impact in our lives."
Earlier, representative of the team leader of the batch of volunteers from Uganda, Prof. Airat Sulaiman, a development psychologist, who served at the Islamic University in Uganda, thanked the federal government for the opportunity to take part in the Scheme. She also commended the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps for performing beyond expectations in their provision of welfare and other timely
logistics to their Volunteers and revealed that some of the volunteers had been given employment in the institutions they had served.
Others, who also spoke among the volunteers, among whom were Dr. Chinwe Igiri, a PhD holder in Software Engineering, and Engr. Terseer Ako of the University of Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria, said the experience was worthwhile and that wherever they had served in the host countries had requested for them to be retained without first returning to Nigeria, against the terms of the TAC Scheme. Out of the 14 volunteers who had been awarded the Certificate of Participation in the TAC Scheme, 13 returned from Uganda while only one had returned from The Gambia.
Murray Keeler, Director of
British Council; Deep Adhikari, Director Examinations; Keshav Screedaran, Director of Examination; Tollani Alli Balogun, Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education; Chikodi Onyemerela, Director of Programmes, and Juan Visser, Director International Education, during the presentation of awards to exceptional students by the British Council in collaboration with the Cambridge International Examinations in Lagos…recently
ONE BAD YEAR FOR INCUMBENTS
way President George Herbert Walker Bush walked out of the White House in 1993. In last Thursday’s British elections, opposition Labour Party grabbed 412 seats in the 650-member House of Commons, an outright majority and a gain of 214 seats. The governing Conservatives lost 252 seats and were down to 121, the biggest slide in the party’s history. Several Cabinet ministers lost their seats, including former prime minister Liz Truss. Scottish National Party grabbed 9 seats, after a loss of 38, thus pushing their secessionist agenda to the backwaters, for now. While the new prime minister Keir Stammer has an extremely comfortable working majority in parliament, he is not a colourful or forceful politician in the mold of Margaret Thatcher, Tony Blair or David Cameron, not to mention Winston Churchill.
As people in France and around the world wake up on Monday morning, they will learn whether, for the first time ever, the far-right, anti-immigrant National Rally led by Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella has grabbed a majority in the French National Assembly, will anoint the next prime minister and cabinet and will throw President Emanuel Macron’s colourful and flamboyant presidency in reverse gear. It recalls to mind what happened in 1985, when French President Francois Mitterrand’s Socialist Party lost parliamentary elections and he had to do what Frenchmen called “cohabitation” with his arch rival, Prime Minister Jacques Chirac. During the 1986 football World Cup finals in Mexico City, when the French team won a crucial match, their coach made a joke out of his country’s political squabbles. He told reporters that he received messages from both the President and Prime Minister; “while the President congratulated us on our victory, the Prime Minister wished us success in our future match.”
Between the first-round vote won by National Rally and yesterday’s run-off vote, Macron’s party teamed up with strange bedfellows and dropped candidates all over the country in order to gang up against the far right. We will know by today if the gambit worked. Macron’s gambit should be a lesson to all incumbents not to do things in a huff. A month ago when National Rally won the most seats in European Parliament elections, its 28-year-old leader Jordan Bardella challenged Macron to call parliamentary elections. Within minutes of the call, Macron did so, and is probably regretting it by now.
Unlike Macron, the Islamic Republic of Iran’s clerical rulers did not call presidential elections in a huff. They did so because President Mohammed Raisi was killed in a helicopter crash. Dozens of people wanted to run in the elections, but the country’s powerful Guardian Council disqualified most of them. After two rounds of voting, Masoud Pezeshkian, described by Western media as the only “reformist” among the mostly conservative candidates, won the election with 30.5 million votes or 53.6% of the total. He defeated Saeed Jalili, said to be an “ultraconservative.” Pezeshkian might not be the preferred candidate of the clerical Establishment, but he is no pro-Western guy either, because he immediately went to the burial site of Imam Khomeini and paid homage. Although the president-elect is said to support making concessions regarding Iran’s nuclear program in order to ease some Western sanctions on the country, it is doubtful if he wants to change the country’s radical anti-Israeli and anti-US foreign policy posture, including massive support for Hamas, Hezbollah, Yemen’s Houthis, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and more recently, providing drones for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine.
The biggest of all looming incumbent troubles right now is for President of the United States Joseph Biden. Imagine, for a man who has been ruling for three and a half years and has won his [Democratic] party’s primary election contest, to suddenly be told that he should drop out of the race just before the party’s national convention to ratify his candidacy. It is the biggest humiliation for a US President in recent memory, the first time an incumbent is forced out of a re-election race since President Lyndon Johnson in January 1968. LBJ made a televised speech saying, “I shall not seek, and I will not accept, the nomination of my party for another term as your president.” It was caused by the disastrous Vietnam War. Young anti-war demonstrators dogged LBJ’s every step, heckling, “Hey, hey, LBJ! How many kids have you killed today?”
Biden’s case is simpler than that. The problem is his age, 81, and the visible signs of its effect on his gait and his cognitive abilities. After his performance in the first debate with Donald Trump, when he sounded weak and unsure and easily lost his train of thought, his partymen believe he will lose the election and also pull other party candidates down to defeat, hence the growing clamour for him to drop out. So far he says he won’t, but could change his mind soon.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu can be said to be placed squarely between the devil and the deep blue sea. On the one hand there is severe local and international pressure, not to mention hints by Israeli Generals, for him to end the Gaza war, not start another war in Lebanon, and agree to a deal with Hamas at least to bring Israeli hostages back home. On the other hand, two ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties in his governing coalition threaten to bring down his government if he agreed to such
THE GEO-POLITICS OF NIGERIA'S INSECURITY
religious zealots. The criminal colonisation of both regions for an extended period is horrible and disastrous. The political and traditional establishments of both geopolitical zones, led by the governors and National Assembly members, must band together, seek support from wherever possible, and bring this tragedy, which is economically strangulating and socially demoralising, to a stop. Tomorrow is too late.
Recent attacks have shown the ruthlessness of these criminals and demonstrated unequivocally the need for exorcising this evil madness from our communities. A pattern is beginning to emerge: shootand-run attacks on soft targets and targeting military/police personnel to instill fear in the people. Unknown gunmen, who were said to have been enforcing the sit-at-home directive of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), on May 21st opened fire on a military checkpoint in Obikabia junction in Aba, killing five soldiers. The response of the state government was decisive. The least we expected from the federal security apparatus was to fish out these culprits and use them to demonstrate the new vigor of fighting criminality posing as agitators. We seem to have lost this opportunity to prove a point. This applies to the recent twin bombing in Gwoza, Borno state.
In Ebonyi state a few weeks ago, gunmen invaded Ishieke Divisional Police Headquarters and started firing sporadic shots. They killed and maimed people, although the report shows that five of the gunmen were killed. Hours before the attack in Ebonyi, gunmen wreaked havoc in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State where they killed six people. A few days later, gunmen killed two police operatives and injured two others in Aba, the commercial hub of Abia state. Between 22 and 26 May 2024, a non-state armed group attacked communities in Gujba local government area in Yobe State. The incident displaced 732 households and resulted in three fatalities and 12 injuries. Among the affected were 2,720 children, 1,038 women, and 976 men. These incidences are ongoing, and the casualties are increasing daily. There is a need to quickly optimise the power of collaborative strategy between the federal security apparatus, emerging
a deal. Many say Netanyahu’s prolonging the war is because once it stops, he will face probes, almost certain defeat at the polls, prosecution for alleged corruption and very likely jail time. Plus, an international arrest warrant for the genocide in Gaza. The trouble dogging incumbents this year did not spare even the world’s biggest clergymen. Just like the Iranian Ayatullahs ended up with a not-so-desirable presidential election result, Pope Francis, Supreme Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, Bishop of Rome and Vicar of Jesus Christ, had a spat with a very senior officer of the church, former Vatican Ambassador to the United States Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano. Last Friday, the Holy See announced that Vigano had been excommunicated from the church for schism, its most drastic punishment. The Vatican said Vigano had refused to “recognize and submit” to the authority of the Pope, and had rejected “communion” with members of the Catholic Church and its authoritative teachings.
Vigano had, in 2018, called on Pope Francis to resign, saying the Pope knew about allegations of abuse of trainee priests carried out by former Archbishop of Washington, DC, Theodore McCarrick. A Vatican enquiry however cleared the pope of the allegations. Vigano sounded to me like a Nigerian politician; he recently said Francis’ election to the papacy should be considered “null and void.” He accused the pope of “heresy and schism;” accused the pontiff of supporting what he called “climate fraud,” and also condemned the pope for “backing Covid-19 vaccines and for promoting an inclusive, immigrationist, eco-sustainable and gay-friendly Church.” Phew! This is what Nigerian political parties call “anti-party activity.” If even the Ayatullahs and the Pope are not spared, which incumbent is safe anywhere?
regional architecture, state governments, and communities.
On the issue of historical injustices, especially in the southeast, unfortunately, the FGN since 2015 has not addressed the grievances; they just looked away. However, the elite of the southeast have realized that there is a need to change their strategy. One of the manifestations of this change in strategy is the resolution by South-East Governors, supported by members of the National Assembly from the zone, to approach the president to release Nnamdi Kanu. Governors of the South-East had earlier resolved to fight insecurity decisively in the region, individually and collectively, in partnership with the federal government of Nigeria and other stakeholders. Though the details of how they intend to fight insecurity are scanty, at least they have found their voice.
As Chief Security Officers of their respective states, governors must demonstrate significant commitment to confronting
perpetrators of violence and resolving core causes of insecurity in their states and, by extension, the geopolitical zone. The sign that governors appreciate the enormity of the challenge is there. The next logical step is to confront the monster from its root. The battle is not just kinetic in nature. It is a battle to win the hearts and minds of people, both the perpetrators and their victims. The perpetrators of these heinous crimes are often community members and are known to the local people.
The ideological prism which has held many people hostage to support the call for Islamic militancy or Biafra romanticism resonates with people who are disenchanted or dissatisfied with the existing system. This is rooted in deep-seated anger against a system they feel is holding them hostage and from perceived development. I am sure that when we put good governance and leadership that brings dividends of democracy such as economic and infrastructural development, social justice,
and the rule of law, the level of agitation will reduce, and people will have little reason to want to upturn the system. It is time the states addressed the interconnected concerns such as unemployment, poverty, bad governance, injustices, resource competitiveness, and the development of an inclusive society. Effective governance at the state and grassroots levels is critical to resolving the issue of extreme violence and criminality. Regional cooperation among states and between states and the center is beginning to bear fruit, albeit only in terms of psychological effect and public perception.
We must all work together, irrespective of geopolitical zones, to create a better future for the affected communities, states, and regions. Conflicts have their place in the agitation for change. However, as we see in these and other regions, permanent conflict will only reduce the affected areas to barbarism and put them further away from modernity.
Army Chief, Taoreed Lagbaja
WOMEN EMPOWERMENT ON THEIR MINDS...
L-R: Representative of the Special Assistance to the Lagos State Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Mrs Olujoke Ogunojemite; a beneficiary; Corporate Relations Director of Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr Rotimi Odusola; Lagos Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Mrs Bolaji Cecilia Dada; another beneficiary; Iyaloja-General of Ikorodu, Deaconess Busola Elizabeth Isikalu, and Sustainable Development Manager, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mrs Nike Onakoya, during the Guinness Nigeria Plan W programme in Ikorodu, Lagos…recently
Troops Foil Terrorists Attempt to Sabotage Electricity Infrastructure in Yobe
Ikechukwu Aleke in Abuja
The Nigerian Army, yesterday said that its troops deployed for counter terrorism operations in Yobe State, in collaboration with local hunters, have foiled vicious attempt by Islamic State West African Province (ISWAP), and Boko Haram terrorists to destroy high tension electric pylons near Kasesa Village at the outskirts of Damaturu town.
Nigerian Army also said the quick and decisive action of the troops and hunters prevented a potential catastrophe and safeguarded the electricity infrastructure in the region.
Previously, the Federal Government (FG), had said that its efforts to ensure steady power supply nationwide was being frustrated by terrorists who are vandalising critical power infrastructure in hard-
Oyebanji Unveils Multi-million Naira Palm Kernel Industry in Ekiti
Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti
Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has unveiled a new privately-owned 200 metric tons per day capacity palm kernel oil crushing plant in Ado-Ekiti with the assurance that the industrialisation plans of the administration would reduce unemployment, hunger and poverty in the state.
Performing the inauguration of A-Bamisil Palm kernel Crushing Plant located on Ijan Road in Ado-Ekiti, Governor
Oyebanji promised that his administration would play a supporting role for the businesses to thrive in the state, adding that his government views agriculture beyond food security but also as a business venture that would take the state to the next level of industrial and infrastructural growth and development.
He noted that the economic impact of the venture is enormous as it will generate the multiplier effects of job creation and increase production in the oil palm industry.
LP Targets over 400,000 New Members in Ebonyi
Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki
The Ebonyi State chapter of the Labour Party(LP) has disclosed that the party was targeting over 400,000 new members in its registration drives in the state.
The stakeholders of the party in the state noted that a united LP shall pursue with vigour the conversion and registration of new members into the party at the right and designated time.
In a communique issued at the conclusion of an expanded stakeholders’ meeting in Abakaliki which was convened by the 2024 Ebonyi South Senatorial candidate of the party, Hon. Linus Abaa-
Okorie and other members of the National Transition Committee, the party also resolved that the 2023 presidential candidate of the party, Peter Obi remains the national leader of the party.
According to them “the members of the National Transition Committee (NTC) of the LP, Chief Fidelis Nwankwo; Rt. Hon. Linus Okorie and Dr. Ezeh Emmanuel Ezeh convened the expanded stakeholders briefing with a view to informing members of the LP, Ebonyi State Chapter, about future political activities of the emerging LP including mobilisation of new members and registration.”
Heritage Energy Bags Award for Education Support
Heritage Energy Operational Services Limited (Heritage Energy), Operator of the OML 30 Joint Venture between NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL) and Shoreline Natural Resources Limited (SNRL) has bagged the Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE)/ African Child Foundation’s award as the Best Education Support Oil & Gas Company of the year.
Heritage Energy and her Joint Venture Partners were presented with the award for actively supporting education through its
OML 30 scholarships and Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES).
Highlighting Heritage Energy’s huge support for education over the years, it was disclosed that more than 11,000 scholarship payments of over N620,000,000 have been made to host community scholars between 2019 and 2023. Additionally, a total of 495 Nigerian university students have benefited from industrial training opportunities, receiving stipends over N65,000,000 cumulatively for the same period.
to-reach areas, especially the North-east.
It further noted that the damages had hindered the Transmission Company of
APC
Nigeria (TCN) from extending power to the affected areas.
In September 2021, the federal government had estimated the cost of vandalised transmission
equipment belonging to the TCN in Maiduguri alone, at N1.7 billion.
A statement by Nigerian Army said the troops, acting on credible intelligence, laid ambush for the terrorists and intercepted them while en route to the pylons in a suspicious vehicle.
Chieftain Urges Tinubu to Tackle Hunger, Starvation in Nigeria
Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon.Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to urgently address the issue of hunger and starvation ravaging the country to save the masses and provide them decent living.
Oyintiloye, while speaking with newsmen yesterday in Osogbo, said that Nigerians were hungry and living below the poverty line.
The APC chieftain said that due to the prevailing harsh economy in the country, many households were finding it difficult to have three square meals.
Oyintiloye also urged the president not to ignore the United Nations’ prediction that 82 million Nigerians, which is about 64 per cent of the country’s population, may go hungry by 2030.
He further said that the National Bureau of Statistics(NBS) data revealed that the food inflation rate in the country hit a record high 40.66 per cent in May, surpassing the previous month’s 40.53 increase Oyintiloye, a former member of the defunct APC Presidential Campaign Council (PCC), also said the common household food items were getting out of the reach of the common man due to the hike in prices.
Obazee Tasks Lawmakers on Corruption, Wastes in Govt Businesses
Wale Igbintade
The Special Investigator appointed by President Bola Tinubu, Jim Obazee, has urged lawmakers in the country to find a better way to address the corruption, inefficiencies and wastes in
government businesses.
Obazee, who spoke at the award ceremony of ThisNigeria, where he and four other eminent Nigerians were given awards, stated that lawmakers are expected to lead in ensuring that government ministries,
departments and agencies (MDAs) deliver on their mandates by freeing monies locked up by corruption, inefficiencies and waste in government business in order to better the lots of the citizens.
Speaking on the poor handling
of the distribution of palliatives by government, Obazee said: “We have State Assemblies just as we have the National Assembly, the lawmakers therein are to track down corruption, inefficiencies and wastes in government business.
Former Rivers Lawmakers Commend Fubara, Call for Peace
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Former members of the National Assembly from Rivers State have urged the political leaders in the state to uphold the rule of law and prioritize peace over personal interests.
They also commend Governor
Sim Fubara’s efforts to promote peace and development in the state.
The ex-lawmakers, who served in both the Senate and the House of Representatives at different times including the third Republic, made the appeal during a media briefing
after meeting with Governor Siminalayi Fubara in Port Harcourt.
A former House of Representatives member for Khana/Gokana, Bernard Mikko read the group’s communique.
He rejected calls for a state of emergency and the attempt to disrespect the constitutional terms of elected council chairmen.
“Regardless of our political affiliations, we stand united in our unwavering belief and conviction that the unity, peace, and progress of Rivers State are paramount and non-negotiable.
Insecurity :Ododo Vows Not Make Kogi Safe Haven for Criminal Elements
Ibrahim Oyewale inLokoja
As part of efforts to ensure safety of lives and property in Kogi State, Governor Usman Ododo, has vowed not make the state a resting home for the criminal elements.
The governor made this pledge while distributing security
equipment to the 1,050 local hunters under the Kogi State Vigilance Services across the 21 Local government areas of the State.
He restated his administration’s commitment to provide adequate security, stressing that as a responsible government, there must be adequate security of lives and property of its citizens. Ododo noted that it is the primary duty of the government to protect the lives and property of the people of Kogi State, adding if “we fail to protect our state, nobody will protect it for us.”
He tasks the local hunters to collaborate with other security agents to flush out all the criminal elements in the state. The governor commended the engagement of the local hunters during the recent rescue operations of the students of Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH) , Osara for their gallant efforts.
Four Cadet Pilots on PAP Scholarship Complete Type-Rating Programme in South Africa
The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro, has commended four cadet pilot trainees who have successfully completed the type-rating programme at the Sim Aerotraining Limited in Johannesburg, South Africa.
He give the commendation
while hosting four cadet pilot trainees- of the PAP, Lawrence Oliki, Kingsley Bassey, Osekporovwere Diamond and Crosby Otobo in Abuja, saying that the PAP Office will not relent in its determination to improve the manpower base of the Niger Delta.
He said this will be
achieved with quality vocational, educational skills and empowerment as well as agriculture, among others.
He stated this at the weekend while hosting four cadet pilot trainees of the PAP, Lawrence Oliki, Kingsley Bassey, Osekporovwere Diamond and Crosby Otobo, at Presidential Amnesty Office in Abuja.
A statement issued by the Special Assistant on Media to the Administrator, Mr Igoniko Oduma, yesterday said the cadet pilot trainees graduated on June 28, 2024 and received their certificates during the graduation ceremony at the aviation training institution.
Lawyer’s Petition Stalls Ruling in N156bn Debt Recovery Suit against Stallion Group
Wale Igbintade
Justice Akintayo Aluko of the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos last Friday suspended the reading of two rulings in an alleged N156,026,032,804.84 (billion) debt recovery suit following a letter by a Senior
Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Wahab Shittu, praying the Chief Judge to transfer the case.
Justice Aluko noted that the rulings over two different applications were ready and scheduled to be delivered same Friday, but that he was constrained not to proceed, pending the Chief
Judge’s decision on Shittu’s letter.
Some of the parties in the suit marked FHC/L/CS8/2074/2023 are United Bank of Africa (UBA) as Plaintiff, represented in the suit by Mr. Temilolu Adamolekun, against Stallion Nigeria Limited and its subsidiaries as defendants. Shittu is a counsel to the 1st, 2nd, 5th to 11th defendants, UBA is seeking to recover the N156 billion from Stallion Nigeria Limited and had appointed a Receiver over mortgaged properties of Stallion Nigeria Limited and its subsidiaries in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Kano, in line with the mortgage Deeds.
Irate Youths Kill Two Kidnappers in Kwara
Police arrest suspected ritualist
Hammed ShittuinIlorin
Irate youths in Shiya community in Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State at the weekend killed two dare-devil kidnappers who have been terrorising the people of the community for past few months.
In another development, operatives of the Kwara State Police Command at the weekend nabbed a suspected ritualist for allegedly trying to use a 10-year-old boy for money rituals in Ilorin, the state capital.
The angry youths were said to have also burnt the two exotic cars allegedly owned by one of the kidnappers, found at the house of the kidnapper.
It was gathered that the suspected kidnappers were said to have called one man in the town that he should make himself available at a place or else he would be kidnapped.
After the alleged threat on the man, the suspects were said to have kidnapped the man and demanded the sum of N20million ransom or else he will be killed.
Sources close to the town told journalists in Ilorin over the weekend that the kidnapped man was said to have told the kidnappers that he would not be able to pay the huge ransom because he had spent all his money on his wife who had travelled to Saudi Arabia for this year Hajji exercise.
It was learnt that the man was said to have begged them that he would only raise a sum of N10million for them, which they agreed. It was at this point that the suspected kidnappers told the man to tell his relatives to bring the N10million ransom to a place called Sandilo area on Benin Republic road in Shiya town around 12 midnight of last Thursday and put the money inside a drainage point in front of the filling station in the area.
Sources added that the relatives of the kidnapped man were said to have ‘marked’ all the N10million before they took the money to the place where they would collect the money.
Abia to Sack Workers over Fake Certificates, Age, Record Alterations
Abia State government has indicated that workers found culpable in the ongoing certificate and service records verification exercise would be sacked.
Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Mike Akpara, dropped the hint weekend while speaking on a radio programme, “Open Parliament” monitored in Umuahia on Family Love FM.
He said that about 6,000 workers were removed from government payroll in the previous verification exercise carried out to ascertain the actual number of civil/public servants on government employment.
The commissioner explained that government embarked on the certificate verification exercise following a discovery that there were cases of people that used fake certificates to secure jobs in the Abia civil service.
He also stated that there were rampant cases of age falsification and alterations of service records by civil servants in order to prolong their stay in government employment, thereby blocking the chances of creating jobs.
Akpara declared that those found guilty of involvement in malpractices would certainly be offloaded from Abia workforce as the present administration would not tolerate any malfeasance.
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
Zirkzee Ends Dream to Feature for S’Eagles after Debut for Netherlands
Kunle Adewale
Nigeria Football Federation's (NFF), hope to lure Dutch-Nigerian forward, Joshua Zirkzee, have ended up in futility, after the 23-year-old, become cap-tied to the Netherlands after featuring in their 2-1 win over Türkiye in the quarterfinal of the 2024 European championship
played at Olympiastadion Berlin on Saturday night.
Samet Akaydin gave Türkiye the lead in the 35th minute with a terrific header from Arda Güler's precise cross before the Netherlands drew level.
The equalizer came from another wonderful header from Stefan de Vrij in the 70th minute which came as a result of Memphis Depay's cross.
The Dutch would get the winner through an own goal from Mert Müldür after Denzel Dumfries had attempted to cross the ball into the onrushing Cody Gakpo who was
Chelsea Tables Players
London-based club Chelsea FC have increased their efforts to lure long-term target and Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen, to Stamford Bridge. According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea is prepared to include Romelu Lukaku and Cesare Casadei in a deal with Napoli to reduce the cost of acquiring Osimhen.
In December, the 25-year-old forward extended his contract with Napoli following a stellar season, committing to stay at the Diego Maradona Stadium until 2026.
Despite being linked with potential transfers to Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, and other elite teams, recent events have changed the landscape.
Earlier reports claimed Chelsea withdrew due to concerns about his injury history, PSG failed to attract his interest, and Arsenal was unable to afford his release clause. As a result, the Super Eagles star was expected to remain at Napoli.
However, recent reports confirm that the Blues are willing to proceed with the deal regardless. Lukaku is interested in a switch to join Antonio Conte at Napoli, while Osimhen is keen on a move to the English Premier League. While there have been no comments from Osimhen’s camp or Chelsea, this summer transfer window is anticipated to be one of the hottest, with Man United, Chelsea, and Arsenal set to lock horns for Osimhen’s signature.
Lagos to Commission Olympic-size Swimming Pool at Rowe Park
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced that the reconstructed Olympic-size swimming pool, warm-up pool, and a 250-seater spectator’s stand at Rowe Park Sports Centre will soon be commissioned for public use.
Speaking at the distribution of sports equipment to schools by the Lagos State Sports Trust Fund (LSSTF), the Governor praised LSSTF’s commitment to youth development through sports.
The Governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Bolaji Ogunlende lauded the management of LSSTF for their understanding of the place of sports in the overall development of the youths.
“Besides the equipment being distributed, the LSSTF has finally completed the reconstruction of an Olympic-size swimming pool, warm-up pool, and a 250-seater spectator’s stand at Rowe Park Sports Centre, Yaba. This project will soon be commissioned, and it is expected that the number of medals in swimming for the State will triple in future swimming competitions.
He added: “LSSTF has equally rehabilitated five outdoor sports courts and the construction of additional showers and toilets for our athletes at Rowe Park, Yaba. This facility is currently in use. All these are geared towards diverting the attention of the youths from
negative vices and grooming as well as developing future champions for our dear State.”
He, however, assured that “LSSTF is desirous of constructing sports centres in each of the Education Districts. The sign-off has been obtained from the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education in conjunction with six tutor generals in the education districts. The LSSTF is currently raising funds from donors for this project, whilst preliminary works are ongoing.”
For the Executive Secretary of LSSTF Olaposi Agunbiade, the projects and donations would not have been possible without the huge support from the Governor as well as donors.
Among the donors of LSSTF include Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority, Sterling Bank Plc, Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, LASACO Assurance Plc, Oke Oyerinde & Co, Guinness Nig. PLC, Akin Olawore & Co among others.
“Your generosity has enabled us to distribute all the sports equipment to public secondary schools across the six education districts, State Technical Colleges, and the five tertiary institutions in Lagos State. Your investment in our youth's future is invaluable. Your commitment to promoting sports development in Lagos State is truly commendable,” Agunbiade said.
initially given credit for the goal.
To protect his side's lead, the Oranje head coach Ronald Koeman, brought on Zirkzee for Xavi Simons for the final three minutes of the Duegame. to his short time on the pitch, the Manchester United linked forward was unable to exert his influence on the game with Türkiye pushing hard for the equalizer which eventually eluded them.
By coming on as a substitute in the competitive fixture, the 23-year-old has become cap-tied to the Netherlands and can no longer play for Nigeria.
Plumptre Expresses Disappointment Over Paris 2024 Olympic
Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre has shared her disappointment at not making Nigeria’s squad for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris due to an injury.
Plumptre, who was instrumental in Nigeria’s qualification for the Olympics by defeating teams like Cape Verde and Cameroon but was unavailable in the final playoff against South Africa, was left out of the 18-player squad selected by coach Randy Waldrum.
Her absence is due to fitness concerns following an injury she sustained while playing for her club, Al Ittihad, in March.
Despite undergoing surgery in April and working hard on her recovery, Plumptre has not regained full fitness in time for the Olympics. Expressing her feelings on X, she said, “Timings haven’t aligned to be in contention for the Olympic roster – a dream I’ve held since I can remember.”
She added, “Since having my surgery, I’ve worked in every area
of my life to be in the best position to recover, but one thing I’ve learnt is how to listen to my body!”
While on a personal note, it’s a shame to miss out, I cannot put into words my excitement and pride in knowing I’ll be watching my @ NGSuper_Falcon girls representing this flag on the Olympic stage.
Go well, girls! Naija to the world! (2/2)
— Ashleigh Plumptre (@ ashplumptre) July 6, 2024
Plumptre also expressed pride and excitement for her teammates, saying, “While on a personal note, it’s a shame to miss out, I cannot put into words my excitement and pride in knowing I’ll be watching my @ NGSuper_Falcon’s girls representing this flag on the Olympic stage. Go well, girls! Naija to the world!”
Meanwhile, the Super Falcons have started training since they arrived in Sevilla, Spain, last Friday to prepare for the Olympics.
Among the invited players, only 36-year-old goalkeeper Tochukwu
Rangers ‘Accept’ Multiple Offers for Cyriel Dessers
Rangers have accepted several offers for Nigerian striker Cyriel Dessers, Ibrox Noise sources have learned, as the hitman looks set to miss Rangers’ preseason trip to Holland from today. Dessers has been in attendance at preseason at Auchenhowie thus far, but with interest now hiking in his signature, Rangers
don’t want to risk losing out on the sale or him losing out on the transfer by getting injured in the Dutch summer camp, so it’s been deemed that he will not travel.
The fee is understood to be more than the £4.5m Rangers paid out, with sources suggesting it is into the £6m range, which would be a superb sale and Rangers’ best
post-2012 sale aside from the post-55 clutch including Bassey, Aribo and Patterson.
For the initial outlay of £4.5m, it’s a decent haul and could be set to increase further depending on how this Ibrox bidding war materialises.
He wasn’t a player who was accepted by Rangers fans en-masse, and there’s no point debating how right or wrong that was – he didn’t feel the love because it wasn’t there, and he is more than happy to move onto pastures new.
As for who the bids are from, all we know is Greece, Spain and France are among the nations credited with interested sides, we just don’t know what clubs.
Victor Osimhen
Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre
Joshua Zirkzee celebrates after Euro 2024 win with Netherlands on Saturday
Oluehi has previous Olympic experience. She was part of the squad that competed in the Beijing 2008 Olympics, although she did not make any appearances as Nigeria lost to Brazil, Germany, and North Korea.
The Super Falcons are holding a two-week training camp in Seville and will head to France on July 18. Nigeria will play in Group C, where they will compete against Spain, Japan, and Brazil.
MISSILE
Cooking Gas Stakeholders to FG
“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" -Techno Oil Ltd. GMD, Nkechi Obi, urges the FG to discourage importation of gas cylinders.
VIEW FROM THE GALLERY
One Bad Year for Incumbents
Every incumbent ruler around the world should say a prayer.
The year 2024 looks to be a big Waterloo for rulers all the way from North and South America to Europe to the Middle East, Asia and Africa. Imagine, one incumbent prime minister and his political party were thrown out of office last week in their party’s biggest defeat in 118-years. As we wake up this Monday morning, we are likely to hear that another president who took a gamble and called early parliamentary elections has lost big time and could be in for three years of uneasy “cohabitation” with his far-right opponents.
Yet another, this time conservative, clerical regime held run-off elections at the weekend, forced on it by the death of its president in a helicopter mishap. A reformist candidate was elected, throwing a spanner in the works for the conservative clergy. One president narrowly survived a military coup, had the offending General arrested, but his ruling party is still set to go down to defeat in elections. One president, touted to be the world’s most
powerful, is about to be driven out of his re-election race altogether because of a disastrous debate performance and a
growing public feeling that he is too old to serve a second term. Yet another, this time African, president has demonstrators in his cities’ streets demanding his resignation even after he made many policy concessions. And then there is one leader whose countrymen believe that he is fighting an interminable war because if he ends it, elections will be held, voters will throw him out, prosecutors will pounce on him on corruption charges and throw him into jail.
2024 is the worst year in recent memory to be an incumbent ruler anywhere. When Rishi Sunak became Britain’s first ever Asian Prime Minister two years ago, there was much gloating and back patting across Britain’s former colonies. One 1990s edition of Time magazine had the headline, “The Empire writes back.” It was about the effect that colonizing so many peoples around the world had on the English language. Rishi Sunak’s rise was like “The Empire rules back,” a post-colonial payback for Britain appointing Rajs, Governor Generals and Commissioners all around the world.
The Brits could not produce a successful
DAKUKU PETERSIDE
In the past ten years, the South-East and North-East geopolitical zones, more than other geopolitical zones, have been sites of experiments on insecurity and militia reign. Either terrorists, kidnappers, or militias were testing the will of the government to see how long it would take for a determined state to take charge, or it was just a playground of absurdity. The result is known. Political leadership and the elite failed the people irredeemably. Admittedly, insecurity on a national scale abhors partitioning. The factors at play in a place may owe their origins to factors emanating from a totally different region, but there is good reason to focus on the two zones.
In the two zones, the persistent violence had three distinct features: first, the impunity with which Boko Haram and its affiliates, and unknown gunmen have been allowed to operate; second, the helplessness of the residents; and third, the seeming indifference of the political elite. These defining features fuel existential anger among the people. Somehow, lately, it appears governors from both regions have found their mojo and
courage to rise to the challenge, and that deserves examination and commendation. The source of this new energy and focus is unknown. One thing is clear: the federal government has done its best to redeem the situation, but its best is not good enough. The federal government just did not know how to deal with the situation beyond a military-centric option, and the military deserves commendation for the successes they have recorded so far. Both regions have never been safe places for residents and businesses.
The connection between concrete development and the decimation of militia-led insecurity and related complications has long been established as a theoretical and practical fact. This has been lacking over the years in both regions. Save for a few cases, there has been a substantial disconnect between the people's development aspirations and the area's government. Actual development, especially education, helps fight violence, terrorism, and its like. Lately, we have begun to see development programs in a handful of states in both regions, which
impacts insecurity in the area. Besides, the people, too, are beginning to resist the domination of their areas by these non-state actors. Community leaders are now more involved in intelligence gathering. The locals have started organising themselves into quasi-security formations and are beginning to be the first resistance point even before the organised formal security apparatus of the state is involved. This calls for more synergy between the informal and formal security structures and systems in these areas for better operations.
Also, the people's sensitisation to the fact that these non-state actors purportedly fighting for unknown causes are not doing so for the collective interest of the locals. Instead, the locals in their various communities are the casualties of the needless violence and murderous orgies meted out on them. This new consciousness must be harnessed efficiently to the advantage of the communities. The fight against insecurity is becoming local, and interestingly, the public sphere and media framing the conflicts as banditry and criminality rather than a fight for freedom,
premier of their own in 17 years. Labour prime minister Gordon Brown went down in electoral flames in 2010. Tory PM David Cameron followed suit six years later after voters voted Leave in his gamble with a Brexit referendum. Mrs. Theresa May, who took over, struggled for three years to get the House of Commons to pass a Brexit agreement with the EU, in vain. British newspapers had banner headlines such as “DISMay!” when the Commons kept striking down her negotiated deals. When she called an election for June 2019, the opposition Labour Party rolled out a banner proclaiming, “June is the end of May.” Disheveled and disorganized former London Mayor and Brexit champion Boris Johnson, who succeeded May, was kicked out because he and his staff held parties when all other citizens were in strict Covid 19 lockdown. Liz Truss lasted only three months as prime minister in 2022, and in came Sunak, who last Thursday held his Indian billionaire heiress wife’s hand and strolled out of 10 Downing Street the
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The Geo-Politics of Nigeria's Insecurity MAHMUDJEGA
self-determination, or religious zealotry is helping matters. I sincerely think that even the perpetrators recognise the impact of this new approach and have turned to symbols of the state for their attacks to legitimise their acts as actions against the state when they are not.
There is a temptation to believe that the insecurity in the northeast and southeast is a scam and a cash cow for interested parties due to its persistence and nature. Additionally, there is a general belief that the security establishment deployed to secure the southeast has found collaboration with criminals and conflict merchants to exploit the separatist agitation. In the northeast, we also find that Sahelian jihadist insurgency had been increased by socioeconomic pressures from the most impoverished states in the nation.
The southeast represents a false agitation for self-determination, whereas the northeast's insurgency is neither ideological nor religious. Both cases involve ordinary criminals acting as agitators and
