Labour Party Kicks as Onanuga Accuses Obi’s Supporters
We're not involved in 'EndBadGovernance' protests, party insists Allegation orchestrated to arrest Obi, says media office INEC denies monitoring LP’s convention that produced Abure
Tinubu: My Administration is Determined to Ensure Food Security, Economic Growth
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu yesterday said his administration was determined to ensure food security and stimulate
economic growth across Nigeria. Tinubu spoke during the launch of the Yobe State Agricultural Empowerment Programme in Damaturu, the state capital.
Dangote Debunks
The initiative, which includes the provision of agricultural machinery and implements, was part of a broader national strategy to revolutionise the nation's agricultural
sector.
President Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, said the programme was at the heart of his administration's
ongoing efforts to enhance food security, create jobs, and diversify Nigeria's economy through agriculture.
The president stressed the critical
role of agriculture in national development and security, saying "food is the heart of security in
Continued on page 5
Ahmed’s Allegation of Substandard Products, Says His Fuels Better than Imported, Offers Proof
Challenges NMDPRA on its testing laboratories Says refinery to hit 550,000 bpd, 85% output this year Insists only five of 15 expected crude oil cargoes received from NNPC Analyst insists refinery can sell products at pre-commissioning stage
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, yesterday debunked the allegation by the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Farouk Ahmed that the petroleum products from his refinery were substandard, insisting that his products are better than imported ones.
Dangote, who provided evidence to back up his claim with test results of samples of diesel collected from two different filling stations and another one from his refinery, called on the NMDPRA to review its testing laboratory.
According to him, the testing at high sea, which the industry regulator largely relies on, cannot be trusted.
He further disclosed that his refinery will hit production of 550,000
L-R:
Representatives,
of Dangote Group; Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Speaker, House of Representative, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas; and Deputy Chief Whip of the House, Hon. Adewumi Oriyomi Onanuga, when the leadership of the House visited Dangote Refinery in Lekki, Lagos…yesterday
Deji Elumoye and Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Deputy Speaker, House of
Hon. Benjamin Kalu; President
THISDAY Alumni Shower Encomiums on Eniola Bello on His 60th Birthday
As the Managing Director of THISDAY Newspapers, Mr. Eniola Bello, clocks 60th today, THISDAY Alumni Association has joined other well-meaning Nigerians in celebrating the fearless veteran journalist.
The alumni, in a congratulatory message, said the celebrant's loyalty and unwavering commitment to THISDAY's values and vision have been exemplary.
In the message, which was jointly signed by its President, Dr. Tony
Onyima and Secretary, Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, the association stated that Bello's journey with THISDAY was a testament to his dedication and passion for journalism.
It pointed out that the managing director has since the inception of THISDAY been a beacon of integrity guiding the editorial direction of the influential newspaper organisation with a sharp, incisive mind and a deep-seated commitment to the truth.
It added that Bello's Eni-B column in THISDAY, which is
LABOUR PARTY KICKS AS ONANUGA ACCUSES OBI’S SUPPORTERS OF PLOTTING ANTI-TINUBU PROTESTS
the Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR) said the unsubstantiated allegation was being orchestrated to arrest Obi.
This is just as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has stated that it did not monitor the National Convention of the LP that took place on March 27, 2024, at Nnewi, Anambra State, which produced Mr. Julius Abure as the national chairman.
In a long post on his verified X handle, Onanuga yesterday accused Obi’s supporters of sponsoring the planned nationwide protests against Tinubu’s administration.
While listing the measures carried out by Tinubu’s government to address the cost-of-living crisis and ensure economic recovery, Onanuga alleged that the same individuals who hijacked the 2020 #EndSARS protests were behind the planned demonstrations, spreading hashtags like 'EndBadGovernance' and 'Tinubu Must Go.'
The special adviser also insisted that Obi should be held responsible if the protests turn into anarchy.
Onanuga further identified those he described as some key individuals, including a faceless internet radio station owner and a Labour Party chieftain, as being involved in the planned protests.
He warned that the protesters' call for "revolution" and "ending an elected government" was a “civilian coup” which amounts to high treason.
The presidential adviser urged security agencies to take action against those threatening the country's stability.
According to him, the protest planners were also the same people who instigated the destructive ENDSARS protest in Nigeria in October 2020, which was hijacked by IPOB.
“#EndSARS began as a genuine protest by youths against the Police Special Anti-Robbery Squad, notorious for its high-handedness,” he said.
He alleged that two years after #EndSARS, the IPOB and the gullible innocents joined the Labour Party in 2022 to support Obi.
Onanuga said he had been on the trail of one of the protest planners, who claimed to have an internet radio station, PTM100.88 Abuja.
He identified one FS Yusuf, a chieftain of the LP and another unidentified individual who goes by the pseudonym “Peter Obi's First
Son” on X, as some of the planners of the protest.
According to him, another individual holding the inscription` ‘Certificate Forger Not My President,’ with a photo of Obi as an inset is also one of the planners, adding that only Obi’s supporters will be talking about certificate forgery long after the Supreme Court dismissed the allegation.
Onanuga alleged that one of the posts contained a video showing a teenager, who is said to be in the North, printing T-shirts emblazoned with “EndBadGovernance in Nigeria 2024'.
He also disclosed that there was also a retweeted post by a failed and frustrated politician in Lagos State.
“In it, he (the failed politician) refers to his earlier post urging people ‘to identify APC members, sponsors, supporters, enablers, thugs, promoters, and appointees.’ The police and DSS ought to have arrested the man for making a brazen threat to political opponents," Onanuga added.
He also listed the federal government's efforts to address the cost-of-living crisis, including over 100 per cent increase in minimum wage, student loans, and palliatives such as food distribution.
Obi, LP Not Involved in 'EndBadGovernance' Protest, Party Insists
But in a swift reaction, the LP in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, said there was no truth in Onanuga’s allegation, describing the allegation as a figment of his imagination.
“We say that there is no truth in that and the tweet is just the author's figment of his imagination.
"Labour Party is known for being a very peaceful party and it has at several occasions asked its followers to follow peace at all times. We are not known as a lawless group as was evident in the aftermath of the last general election. It is therefore delusional for anyone to link our supporters to the planned protest. The Labour Party, Peter Obi and our supporters are not planning any protests.
marked by insightful analysis and fearless commentary, has consistently provided clarity in times of uncertainty and has enlightened the newspaper's teeming readers.
"On this momentous occasion of your 60th birthday, we, the members of THISDAY Alumni Association, extend our heartfelt congratulations and warmest wishes to you.
"As the Managing Director of THISDAY Newspapers
and a distinguished journalist, your loyalty and unwavering commitment to THISDAY's values and vision have been exemplary. Your journey with THISDAY is a testament to your dedication and passion for journalism.
"From the newspaper's inception, you have been a beacon of integrity, guiding its editorial direction with a sharp, incisive mind and a deepseated commitment to the truth,” the statement explained.
The association further noted
that Bello has throughout the years shown remarkable resilience and steadfastness while navigating the challenges of the media industry with grace and determination.
It maintained that Bello's leadership has not only sustained THISDAY's high standards but has also inspired a generation of journalists to uphold the principles of fairness, accuracy and ethical reporting.
According to the association, Bello's ability to mentor and nurture
young talents has left an indelible mark on the journalistic landscape and ensured the continued excellence of the newspaper. While reflecting on his contributions with immense pride and gratitude as he celebrates the milestone occasion, the association noted Bello's unwavering dedication to journalism, excellent leadership and profound impact on THISDAY, which has earned him a place of honour in the annals of Nigerian media history.
DANGOTE DEBUNKS AHMED’S ALLEGATION OF SUBSTANDARD PRODUCTS, SAYS HIS FUELS BETTER THAN IMPORTED, OFFERS PROOF
bpd of crude oil this year, equivalent to 85 per cent of its full capacity, explaining that the plant had only received five crude cargoes from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) since it started operating, instead of the 15 cargoes it had expected.
Speaking when the leadership of the House of Representatives led by its Speaker, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas took a tour of the 650,000-barrelper-day (bpd) capacity facility in Lagos, Dangote expressed doubts over the quality of laboratories used in testing the standard of fuels in the country.
To back up his claim, Dangote and his team tested samples of diesel bought from two different filling stations and another one from his refinery.
He admitted that when the refinery started, it was churning out diesel with a sulphur content of between 600 parts per million (ppm) and 650ppm, adding that it was the best quality at the time.
While stating that the quality of his diesel has improved as the sulphur content has reduced to 87ppm, Dangote added that by next Monday, it will reduce to 50ppm.
According to him, the sulphur content will further reduce to 10ppm by next month, insisting that no facility is currently producing better quality fuels than his refinery.
The President of the Dangote Group stressed that he just got results from an earlier sample, which was reading 32ppm.
Farouk had claimed that the diesel and jet fuel from the refinery were of lower quality than the one imported by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC).
“So, in terms of quality, currently... Dangote refinery as well as some major refineries like Waltersmith refinery, produce between 650ppm to 1,200 ppm. So, in terms of quality, their quality is much inferior to the imported quality,” Ahmed added.
However, results of samples of diesel collected from different filling stations and Dangote Refinery, which were taken in the presence of the lawmakers, showed that the sulphur content in the diesel from the two stations was much higher than the recommended level.
Representatives
regulator to come, whether Sunday or Monday and I can guarantee you that before they come here it will be even below 10ppm,” he stated.
Dangote noted that the sulphur content of the diesel bought from the two filling stations were over 1,800ppm and 2,600ppm, respectively.
He stated that testing at high sea, which the industry regulator largely relies on, cannot be trusted, stressing that oil traders can decide to write any figure to beat the system.
“The most important thing is to note that the imported ones they are encouraging, is the spec in the test, but in certain cases when you check, different results will show. This is because those people who have the lab have been told what to write,” he said.
He called on the House of Representatives to investigate the quality of diesel in the country, lamenting the damage being done to vehicles and engines by substandard products.
He also called on the House to investigate the quality of laboratories being used to test imported products and compare that with the one at his refinery.
Dangote informed the lawmakers that he was also open to independent testing of his refinery’s products as that would only attest to their quality while exposing the problem with some of the products being sold by other players in the sector.
Dangote dismissed monopoly claims, insisting that the Dangote Group did not receive any special incentive when the refinery was being built.
“I don’t know how we have this contradiction of two players representing the public and private sector.
“I think it is something we need to investigate further to find out if there are ulterior motives,” Abbas added.
Meanwhile, Dangote has also explained that the refinery will hit production of 550,000 bpd this year, equivalent to 85 per cent of full capacity.
Dangote said the refinery opted to increase crude imports due to insufficient domestic supplies, a Reuters report stated.
He explained that the refinery had only received five crude cargoes from the NNPC since it started operation earlier this year, instead of the 15 it had expected.
"That is why we went ahead and bought some Brazilian crude; we also got US crude. Anytime we go to IOCs (International Oil Companies) they say ‘go to brokers," Dangote said.
He added that brokers were charging a $4 mark-up per barrel of crude, the report added.
NNPC had in the past agreed to supply the refinery 300,000 bpd but it was struggling with low production and some of its crude was being exchanged for petrol imports.
In a related development, an oil sector analyst and the Co-founder as well as Chief Executive of Dairy Hills, Kelvin Emmanuel, at the weekend maintained that despite not being fully licensed by the NMDPRA, the Dangote refinery could churn out products at the pre-commissioning stage.
refinery for the past 12 months to ensure compliance, from mechanical to electrical processes.
Describing NMDPRA's position as a misrepresentation, Emmanuel stressed that a test for pre-commissioning doesn’t mean the refinery is not already in production. According to him, it simply means the refinery is not yet functioning at full capacity utilisation..
“This is a misrepresentation. Commercial refineries undergo seven stages of pre-commissioning. NMDPRA has officials who stayed with the refinery for 12 months to check the entire system from mechanical to electrical and monitor the processes.
“After six months of testing wet production, they issued them a Provisional Acceptance Certificate (PAC) for licence to operate. After 12 months, they issue them a final acceptance certificate for a licence to operate. That test is currently nearing 180 days for PAC.
“Wet production test for precommissioning doesn’t mean the refinery is not already in production, it means the refinery is not yet functioning at full capacity utilisation.
“The very fact that the condensation distillation unit has not fully gone into effect is the reason his diesel is currently producing 150-200 parts per million (ppm) in terms of sulphur content—that will drop to below 50 ppm when all the centrifuges come into operation.
Continued on page 12 every society."
“I want to plead with the
Also speaking, Abbas said going by the presentation and the contradictory claims, there was a need for an investigation.
Emmanuel, who aired his opinion in a post on X, stated that the NMDPRA has officials who should have monitored the
TINUBU: MY ADMINISTRATION IS DETERMINED TO ENSURE FOOD SECURITY, ECONOMIC GROWTH
"It is the foundation upon which we build our health, our well-being, and our economic stability. There's no way we are going to achieve our grand goals as a government, whether at the state or national level, until we support and empower our farmers," he added.
President Tinubu noted that apart from boosting agricultural output, the initiative also aims to engage more Nigerians in the nation's economic life.
He reaffirmed government's commitment to modernising the agricultural sector, including the livestock industry.
The President said the recently approved Ministry of Livestock
Development was intended "to improve livestock production in the country and to change the destiny and narratives of our livestock production."
Addressing the shift towards modern farming techniques, President Tinubu said, "each of us in this gathering must come to terms with the fact that the era of relying on rain-fed agriculture is gone. These machines are here to ease our practice of irrigation farming."
The launch of the agric empowerment programme also saw the President approving Yobe State's request for additional resources to support its agricultural ambitions. These include "mini-rigs for
tube wells, solar water pumps, agro-chemicals, power tillers, more fertilisers, and other farm implements to complement your irrigation scheme."
President Tinubu also addressed security concerns, assuring the audience that the government is "taking drastic measures to address the security challenges to make farmlands safe and accessible in every state of the federation."
Shettima also visited the Emir of Damaturu, Alhaji Shehu Hashim II Ibn Umar Al-Amin El-Kanemi, to convey President Tinubu's high regard for Yobe State and its people.
He praised Governor Mai Mala Buni's achievements, particularly in
agricultural investments, emphasising the potential for agricultural mechanisation in the state.
Responding, the Emir of Damaturu expressed gratitude for President Tinubu's support and appreciated the administration's efforts towards national progress.
Earlier, Governor Buni of Yobe State reaffirmed the state's support for the Tinubu’s administration, acknowledging the challenges faced by Yobe, particularly in the agricultural sector.
He said: "In spite of all the challenges, agriculture remains the major preoccupation of our people. With the improvement in security across the state, farmlands are now
accessible in almost all the local government areas."
The governor mentioned several government’s initiatives to revitalise agriculture, including an Agricultural Summit, the constitution of a Steering Committee on Revitalisation of Agriculture, and partnerships with organisations like the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
He added that the state government, in collaboration with the federal government, had established Livestock Development Centres to address farmer-herdsmen clashes and boost meat and dairy production.
Buni also noted the revival of the 2,000-hectare Lava Irrigation Scheme and the establishment of four Sesame
“It’s utterly disappointing that the NMDPRA chief, in trying to sell a narrative, will attempt to de-market the refinery and mislead the public,” the oil and gas sector analyst explained.
Seeds processing factories across the state.
"This state visit is no doubt a significant milestone as we launch the agricultural empowerment programme," he added. The items distributed include: 100 Zoom Lion Tractors, 10 IMC Double Cabin 4-wheel drive vehicles for extension service supervision, 200 motorcycles for extension workers, 300 sets of ox-drawn ploughs, 5,349 small ruminants (goats), 1,349 hand-push planters, 889 hand-push plough machines, 590 hand-push tiller machines, 4,202 solar-powered irrigation water pumps, improved assorted seeds, and 72,000 bags of fertilizer.
Test results of AGO samples were tested in the presence of the Speaker and members of the House of
Peter Uzoho
PAYING ROYAL HOMAGE…
Hashim II Ibn Umar El-Kanemi; and Yobe State Governor, Alhaji Mai Mala Buni, during the vice president's
IG Orders CPs to Mop up Arms, Ammunition from Circulation
Ikechukwu Aleke in Abuja
The Inspector General of Police (IG), Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered all the Commissioners of Police at the state commands to mop up arms
and ammunition from circulation in the country. Egbetokun also threatened to clamp down on buyers of stolen items in an undisclosed popular Abuja market that was allegedly notorious for trading
on stolen gold and pieces of jewelry.
The Force Spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, made this disclosure in Abuja while parading some of the arrested suspects currently being investigated by the police.
Adejobi also disclosed that no fewer than 1,284 suspects were arrested, 284 firearms recovered, and 97 kidnapped victims rescued in six weeks.
According to him, the Nigeria Police Force has continued to strive as
Ex-NNPC GMDs Meet Kyari, Want End to Oil Theft in N’Delta
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Former chief executives of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited yesterday met with the Group Chief Executive Officer of the national oil company, Mele Kyari, and called on the federal government to halt the massive oil theft going on in the country.
A communique issued at the conclusion of the meeting of the former NNPC Group Managing Directors (GMDs) at the CEO Forum in Abuja, quoted the ex-GMDs as calling on the authorities to punish those whose activities continue to hinder oil and gas exploration and production in Nigeria.
The document released by the NNPC was signed by Dr Jackson Gaius-Obaseki, Chief Chamberlain Oyibo, Funsho Kupolokun, Abubakar Yar’adua, Austen Oniwon and Andrew Yakubu, while the resource person was Abiye Membere, a former
Group Executive Director, Exploration & Production (E&P) of the NNPC.
“We empathise with the management team over the state of onshore operations with over 7,000 illegal refineries destroyed and over 5,000 illegal connections removed.
“We reiterate that any attack on crude oil and gas facilities as well as illegal refining are acts of criminality and economic sabotage. Therefore, all activities hindering oil and gas exploration and production in Nigeria must be sanctioned,” the group said.
The former CEOs further acknowledged that the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) had made provisions for the host communities’ development and also provided for sustainable funding and therefore asked that vandals and economic saboteurs should be stopped.
“We trust that government security agencies will do the needful and ensure that crude oil theft, illegal refining and activities of pipeline
vandals are stopped to allow for investment and growth of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector,” they said.
The group further expressed solidarity with the current leadership of the NNPC and what it said was the commendable efforts in advancing the company's strategic objectives across key sectors.
The forum said the meeting provided insights on NNPC’s transition post-PIA as well as the challenges and opportunities, explaining that members obtained insights into NNPC’s business activities in the context of global energy industry dynamics, strategic aspirations and operational updates.
“We also acknowledge with satisfaction the significant progress made in increasing crude oil and gas production, funding of upstream operations and investments, gas supply and infrastructure development for domestic and export, including Compressed Natural Gas
(CNG) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) delivery.
“These also include refineries rehabilitation progress and reduction in carbon emissions and commercialisation of Nigeria’s vast gas resources,” the former NNPC chiefs stated.
They encouraged the management team to continue advancing strategies to improve operations, grow portfolio, and manage talent.
They also lauded the continuation of the policy on recruitment, which they said took into consideration the principles of diversity and inclusion as well as performance-based career progression via a transparent process.
“We also noted that limited information is in the public domain on NNPC’s operations since transition to a private commercial entity. This has led to misleading commentary which we believe is not in tandem with the strides achieved by the company,” the group added.
Jonathan, Atiku, Otti, Ozigbo Eulogise Peter Obi at 63
Say Obi has demonstrated sincere patriotism, instilled hope in Nigerians
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Former President Goodluck Jonathan; former Vice President and presidential flag bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar; Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, and Labour Party (LP) chieftain and Anambra State governorship hopeful in next year’s election, Valentine Ozigbo, yesterday eulogised the LP presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, on the occasion of his 63rd birthday anniversary. In their separate congratulatory messages, the leaders stated that Obi had demonstrated sincere patriotism and instilled hope in countless Nigerians. Jonathan in his message poured encomiums on Obi, saying that the former Anambra State governor had demonstrated sincere patriotism, faith
and loyalty to Nigeria.
While commending Obi’s resilience and contributions to the growth of Nigeria’s democracy, especially in this Fourth Republic, the former president added that Obi had also served as an inspiration and a symbol of hope for many young leaders.
“You are a leader with a track record of selfless and dedicated service to our nation. As a businessman and politician, you have demonstrated sincere patriotism, faith, and loyalty to our country, which is inspiring and a symbol of hope for many young leaders.
“I commend your resilience and contributions to the growth of our democracy especially in this fourth republic. As one of the main opposition figures in our country, you hold a significant place in our collective quest for peace, sustainable development and posterity. I therefore
urge you to remain steadfast in your advocacy for probity, equity and justice through your passion, humility and exemplary lifestyle,”
Jonathan said.
On his part, Atiku also sent a congratulatory message to Obi whom he described as “my good friend, a dedicated patriot.”
Similarly, Governor Otti also lavished praise on the former governor of Anambra State.
In his words: “Happy birthday to a remarkable leader, brother and friend, Okwute. Your dedication, vision and unwavering commitment to the betterment of Nigeria continue to inspire all of us.
“Your leadership has not only illuminated the path for many but has also instilled hope in the hearts of countless Nigerians.”
On his part, Ozigbo described Obi as “a remarkable individual whose
dedication to good governance, leadership, and philanthropy has left an indelible mark on our nation and millions of people worldwide.”
According to Ozigbo, “Indeed, Obi is a phenomenal individual whose philanthropic efforts have continued to uplift the less privileged, providing hope, education, and opportunities for a brighter future. His commitment to social justice and inclusive growth resonates deeply with the values we all hold dear. His ability to prioritize the needs of the people and deliver tangible results remains an inspiration to us all.
“Being a leader par excellence and integrity personified, Peter Obi has become a Godsent revolutionary figure in Nigeria just as his life and work continue to inspire and motivate us to strive for a better future for all,” Ozigbo added.
police record the arrest of 307 armed robbery suspects, 296 kidnapping suspects, 301 homicide suspects, 176 rape/defilement suspects, and 204 suspected cultists.
The police also recovered 284 firearms, 6702 ammunition of various calibres, and 107 vehicles and also rescued 97 victims in the space of six weeks.
He said the Nigeria Police also apprehended a notorious robbery syndicate operating in the Jos-North/ Jos South region of Plateau State, putting an end to their streak of nefarious activities.
Adejobi explained that a syndicate with 16 members, nine of whom are involved in stealing motorcycles and tricycles around Jos Metro and parading themselves as police officers, using a fake ID and illegally confiscating motorcycles and tricycles from motorists, were among those paraded.
He said: "There is a cartel of people who are interested and who are experts in stealing gold in houses in Abuja. Before now, we have recorded more than five cases; similar cases of house break-ins, stealing, in most cases, armed robbery, because once they are armed, the case is armed robbery. So, they will go to people's
houses in Abuja, forcefully gain their entrance, and look for gold.
"And there's a particular market in Abuja that we are working on, and if possible, we would clamp down on that market because all investigations, all revelations tell us that these people are into this dirty business, and they are the ones receiving these stolen items from these bad elements. So, I'm sure our operatives are still spreading their tentacles to get to this market and to go after other members of this syndicate, or those who have ventured into this dirty deal of stealing and selling gold in Abuja".
The IG, he said, recently established the anti-money laundering unit at the force headquarters in Abuja, to leverage the already existing working relationship between the police and other anti-graft agencies.
"Also, in line with Interpol’s mandate to curb terrorism financing and international crimes amongst its member- -states, the IG has carefully selected trained financial and cybercrime experts to dominate the unit for efficiency and effectiveness. In the same vein, the Nigeria Police Force has taken the bull by the horns to amplify the efforts of the federal government in combating oil theft and economic sabotage," he said.
Bayelsa Community Shuts Agip’s Facility over Arrest of Leaders
Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa
The people of Ogboinbiri Community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State have shut down facilities operated by Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) over an alleged ‘unlawful’ arrest of their chiefs and youth president by the operatives of the Nigerian Police Force.
The police spokesman in Bayelsa State, ASP Musa Muhammed, had in a statement in Yenagoa, the state capital, confirmed the arrest of six suspects in the community over alleged violence and threats to oil and gas production.
But the protesting people of the community, including elders, youths, and women, displaying various placards, demanded the release of their chiefs and other leaders from police detention.
The community is embroiled in a leadership tussle, a situation that prompted some of the leaders to institute a court case.
It was learnt that when the leaders and youth president went to court
for a hearing on Friday, they were arrested outside the courtroom after the court proceedings.
As a result, the community decided to shut down the oil facilities, which have crippled the activities of NAOC in the area.
The community is demanding the immediate release of their chiefs, CDC Chairman and youth president.
Speaking shortly after the protest, a community member, Owei Jackson, said: “The state government should go and ask the oil company; they know that we are a peaceful people. Whenever we disagree with them, we settle it internally. So, the governor should also know that whatever kingship conflict we have, we can settle it internally.
“The matter is already in court, and they should allow the court to take a decision. We are not interested in whatever interest the government has in the matter but what we are demanding as a community is that our kinsmen that have been arrested should be released or else, whatever happens, the world should take it.”
L-R: Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum; former Senate President, Senator Ahmad Lawan; Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma; Vice President Kashim Shettima, Emir of Damaturu, Alhaji Shehu
courtesy visit to the Emir in Damaturu, the Yobe State capital... yesterday
IMPROVED HEALTHCARE ON THEIR MINDS…
L-R: A former Governor of Ogun State, Chief Olusegun Osoba; Wife of Lagos State Governor, Dr. Ibijoke
Yemi Olorode; Chairman, Diamed Health Centre,
Finally, Shaibu Formally Defects to APC
Edo govt petitions IG, accuses Shaibu of conspiracy to commit murder, breach of public peace
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin-City
The court-reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, Mr. Philip Shaibu, yesterday officially rejoined the All Progressives Congress (APC).
This is just as the Edo State Government called on the Inspector General of Police (IG), Kayode Egbetokun, to thoroughly investigate the wanton killing, destruction of property and breach of public peace allegedly orchestrated by Shaibu in the guise of enforcing his court judgment.
Shaibu was formerly a member of the APC until 2020 when he defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with Governor Godwin Obaseki.
He was impeached by the state House of Assembly on April 8, 2024 over allegations of gross misconduct and disclosure of government’s secrets before he was last week reinstated by a Federal High Court in Abuja, which nullified his removal from office.
The deputy governor, who officially defected to the APC yesterday alongside prominent members of the Dan Orbihled Legacy Group of the PDP, said he was back to add value to the party.
He said: "On behalf of the Legacy Group, I announce our movement
to the APC. We have come to add value to the party.
"It is time to take back our state. We will not talk too much because action will speak for us. We are not afraid, we are ready to move forward.
"We the homeboys are ready to take our state back through the APC governorship candidate, Monday Okpebholo and his running mate, Dennis Idahosa.
"We are not trouble makers but if it comes, we will use it to rub our body and we move on."
Shaibu, who got to the venue in Benin City at about 2.08 p.m, walked straight to where the former governor of the state, and now senator representing Edo North in the National Assembly, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, was seated and knelt before him, which drew applause from party supporters.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Government has asked the IG to invite Shaibu and others allegedly involved in the July 18, 2024 mayhem in Benin City, which claimed the life of a police officer, Inspector Akor Onuh.
The state government made this request in a petition to the IG dated July 19, 2024, which was sighted by THISDAY, and signed by the state
19 Crew Members Escape Death as Fire Guts Crude Oil Platform in Delta
Sylvester Idowu in Warri
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), yesterday confirmed that 19 crew members on a drilling rig escaped death on Thursday following a fire outbreak at the facility at Ajakpa Field located in Oil Mining Lease (OML) 90, offshore Delta State.
Head of Public Relations at NIMASA, Osagie Edward, who made the confirmation in a statement, added that the agency had launched an investigation into the cause of the incident.
THISDAY gathered that the Forward Operating Base of the Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS Delta, Warri, rescued 19 people following the inferno that rocked the Floating Storage and Offloading unit (FSO) at Escravos in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State.
Narrating the incident, Osagie explained that on Thursday, July 18, 2024, NIMASA received signals from the Regional Maritime Rescue Coordinating Centre (RMRCC) in Lagos that Britania-U’s drilling platform was under distress at Ajakpa Field, located at 10.77 nautical miles
South of Forcados Terminal in Delta State.
He said all 19 crew members onboard the ill-fated drilling platform were successfully rescued from the vessel.
According to him: “The agency collaborated with other responding agencies and first responders to ensure the safe rescue and evacuation of the crew and other exposed persons during the incident.
“The Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola has set up an incident command centre in the office of the agency’s Executive Director, Operations, to prepare an effective situation-based response plan against oil spillage or other incidents affecting the marine environment and safety of navigation.
“Furthermore, in line with its mandate under the Merchant Shipping Act 2007, the Agency’s Marine Accident Investigation Unit has launched an investigation into the direct and remote causes of this unfortunate mishap.
“The outcome of the investigation will be published, and recommendations arising from it will be implemented,” he stated.
Solicitor General, Prof. Faith Osadolor, on behalf of the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice.
In the petition, the state government also commiserated with the police and the family of the deceased police officer, noting that he was a gallant officer whose life was terminated by the desperation of one man to enforce a court order without waiting for the outcome of the judicial process.
The state government drew the attention of the IG to the fact that contrary to the rule of law, Shaibu resorted to self-help with his armed thugs and non-state actors in an attempt to overreach the final outcome of the motion for stay of execution and interlocutory injunction as well as the substantive suit, which was served on him and all the litigants in the suit.
It said the attack was efficiently executed to make the state
ungovernable with the intention to take over the state government house, increase the level of destruction of the legitimate properties of innocent citizens as well as continue their sporadic and intermittent shootings to spur President Bola Tinubu to declare state of emergency in Edo.
The state government formally express its heartfelt condolences to the Nigeria Police Force on the passing of one of its gallant officers, Inspector Akor Onuh attached to MOPOL 45, Abuja who was a victim of attack on 18th day of July, 2024, allegedly instigated by Shaibu
Part of the petition read: "On Wednesday, the 17th day of July, 2024, a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja delivered a judgment nullifying the removal of Hon. Philip Shaibu as the deputy governor of Edo State.
“The Edo State Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice,
who was sued as the 3rd defendant in the suit, immediately lodged an appeal against the said judgment alongside a motion praying the court to stay action on the execution of the said judgment. Copies of the Notice of Appeal and Motion for Stay of Execution were served on all the parties to the appeal, including Hon. Philip Shaibu.
“On the 18th day of July, 2024, Hon. Philip Shaibu purportedly in an attempt to interpret and enforce the judgment without waiting for the final outcome of the judicial process and contrary to the rule of law, recruited a throng of heavily armed thugs and resorted to self-help in an attempt to overreach the final outcome of the motion for stay of execution and interlocutory injunction as well as the substantive suit.
“In line with their intention, Hon Philip Shaibu and his armed thugs invaded the Benin Airport, shooting
sporadically and thereafter moved into town attacking road users, destroying vehicles, and other private and public properties.
“In the wake of their attack on harmless citizens, a police officer was shot dead by the fierce-looking thugs while several other citizens were assaulted and sustained varying degrees of injuries, and even lawyers were attacked at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Benin branch.
"We have been reliably informed and we believe that Hon. Philip Shaibu and others have conspired to execute with brutal efficiency such that Edo State will become ungovernable.
"In the light of the above, we urge you to embark on a thorough investigation of the matter by inviting Hon Philip Shaibu and other members of his gang and if found culpable, be brought to book as no man is above the law," the state government explained.
Rivers Crisis: Wabara Commends PDP Govs over Resolution to Stand by Fubara
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Former Senate President and Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the main opposition
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Adolphus Wabara, has commended the PDP governors over their resolution to stand by Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State against forces behind the raging political crisis in the state.
The PDP governors had in their recent meeting in Enugu, vowed to support Fubara against masterminds of the ongoing political crisis in the oil-rich state.
They advised those fanning the embers of conflict and crisis to distract Fubara and destabilise his government to desist and allow him to deliver good governance to the people of the state unimpeded.
Wabara, in an interview, commended the PDP governors “for courageously rising as one people against the anti-democratic forces masterminding the crisis in Rivers.
According to the former Senate president, the solidarity demonstrated by the governors was quite commendable “and a confirmation of the historic fact that PDP will never abandon its own.”
He explained that the position of the PDP Governors’ Forum on the Rivers political crisis as well as other national issues represented the position of the BoT, the national leadership and the entire membership of the party.
“I sincerely commend the PDP Governors for speaking with one voice and solidarising with one of their own. This is a strong message
that PDP is united and will not waver in its resolve to defend democracy,” Wabara said.
The former Senate President further said: “It is highly provocative, undemocratic and unacceptable for anybody to think a sitting governor will be turned into a puppet for whatever reasons”. Wabara, who had earlier urged President Bola Tinubu to ignore those calling for emergency rule in Rivers State, restated his opposition against the call.
He advised the president not to lean towards those attempting to hijack power through the back door in Rivers State, warning that the political crisis in the state is capable of plunging the entire country into needless political turmoil if mismanaged.
He said: “Nigerians having seen
the hypocrisy of the ruling APC which has ruined the country’s economy will have no choice but to return PDP to power in 2027 to put Nigeria back on track”.
The BoT Chairman who commended the PDP Governors over their “spirited efforts” to reposition the party ahead of 2027, expressed the hope that some members who left the party would soon return.
He also commended Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State for hosting his colleague governors and other elders of the party during the meeting.
The BoT Chairman particularly appreciated the beauty in the diversity of Nigeria’s culture as he led the PDP governors to dance the famous Enugu “Surugede cultural dance”.
Tinubu: We'll Support Competent Nigerians for International Appointments
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has declared that his government would continue to support competent and qualified Nigerians for international positions.
In a statement issued yesterday by presidential spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, to congratulate Justice Stella Anukam on her re-election as Judge of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights for another term of six
years, the President noted Nigeria’s strategic importance in the global community.
President Tinubu commended Justice Anukam for her contributions to the development of human rights jurisprudence on the continent and enjoined her to continue to bring her invaluable knowledge and insights to the African Court.
Justice Anukam was re-elected at the African Union Mid-Year
Coordination Meeting Executive Council in Accra, Ghana, on Friday.
Justice Anukam had served as former Director of Special Programmes at the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies in Abuja and as former Director of the International and Comparative Law Department of the Federal Ministry of Justice.
The Nigerian obtained her law degree from Obafemi Awolowo
University, Ile-Ife (formerly known as University of Ife), Osun State, in 1984, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in August 1985. She is also a chartered secretary, chartered arbitrator, and seasoned administrator. The African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights is a continental court established by African states to ensure the protection of human and people's rights in Africa.
Sanwo-Olu; Husband of the CEO, Diamed Health Centre, Mr. Muyiwa Olorode; CEO, Diamed Health Centre, Dr.
Sir Adebutu Kessignton; First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Wife of Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun; and former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, at the inauguration of Diamed Health Centre in Lagos…weekend
GREAT OLD BOYS…
L-R: General Secretary, Loyola College Ibadan Old Boys Association (LOCOBA), Mr. Gabriel Akande; Auditor, Mr. Tony Ogunlela; P.R.O. Mr. Francis Arogundari; Representative of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu/Secretary to Lagos State Government, Mrs, Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin; President, LOCOBA, Prof. Femi Ogunbiyi; Guest Lecturer/ Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; Vice President 1, LOCOBA, Mr. Gbenga Biobaku; Old Boy, Dr. Segun Oshin; and Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, during the 70th anniversary lecture of LOCOBA at Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Victoria Island, Lagos ... yesterday
Afam Osigwe Emerges NBA President
Ejiofor Alike
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former General Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Osigwe, has emerged as the president-elect in the justconcluded 2024 NBA election.
The online voting began at 12am yesterday and ended at 11.59pm with the live results for all positions also presented online.
As of 12am on Sunday, Osigwe secured 20,395 votes, defeating Erojikwe, who garnered 10,970 votes while former NBA Lagos Branch
He polled 20,435 votes to beat his closest contender, the Chairman of the NBA-Institute of Continuing Legal Education Governing Council, Tobenna Erojikwe, who scored 10,998 votes.
Chairman, Chukwuka Ikwuazom (SAN), got 9,007 votes. Osigwe is set to succeed the outgoing President, Yakubu Maikyau (SAN).
The position of the Ist VicePresident went to Mr. Sabastine Anyia who polled 12, 114 votes to defeat his closest rival, Mr. Barthlomew Aguegbodo, who scored 6,864 votes, while four other
contestants trailed behind.
For the position of the 2nd VicePresident, Mrs Bolatumi Olasunbo Animashun polled 26, 534 votes to defeat Mr. Pius Idemudia Oiwoh scored 11, 121 votes.
Similarly, Mrs. Zainab Aminu Garba defeated Mr. Michael Olarewaju Olorunmola to emerge as the 3rd Vice-President, having polled 23, 550 votes against Olorunmola’s
13, 897 votes.
The post of General Secretary went to Dr. Mobolaji Idris Ojibara, who scored 25, 713 votes to defeat Mr. Abdulwasiu Alpha, who scored 11, 730 votes
The new NBA President-elect, Osigwe was born on October 25, 1972.
He graduated from the University of Nigeria Enugu Campus in 1997
House Committee Blames Arbitrary Hike in Cement Price on FCCPC’s Laxity, Inefficiency
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
The House of Representatives Joint Committee investigating the arbitrary increase of cement prices in the country has blamed the laxity and inefficiency of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) for the high cost of the commodity.
FCCPC has also requested documents on the cost of production from major manufacturers of cement to ascertain if the production cost justifies the high price of the commodity in the market.
The joint committee chaired by Hon. Jonathan Gaza said it was interested in the cost of production from 2020 to date that justified the current price of cement, which the committee said is over N10,000 in some areas in the country.
It added that the companies should provide details of all imported
components for the production of cement and their prices from 2020 to date.
The committee further demanded that the companies should also provide details of local components for the production of cement and their prices in naira and dollars if any in the period under review.
Gaza stressed that the companies should give their average daily consumption of coal, gas, gypsum, limestone, clay, and laterite and the average daily production of cement from 2020 to date.
He said the companies should provide a summary of the monthly prices and quantity of cement produced from 2019 to date as well as their audited accounts of the company, bills of laden, and duties paid to customs within the period under review.
“We want to make sure they bring the total documents we requested to ascertain their day-to-day production
to be able to have a good idea of how much it costs to produce a bag of cement,” Gaza said.
The committee chairman blamed the high price of the commodity on the inaction of the FCCPC.
He said as an agency responsible for the protection of consumers, FCCPC failed to protect Nigerians against middlemen who sold the commodity for as high as N14,000 after purchasing it for N6,000 at the factory.
“We are extremely hopeful that this engagement will lead to a reduction in the price of cement,” he said.
“FCCPC has slept on their functions so far, their inactivity and non-responsiveness to price is what has put Nigeria where we are today,” he added.
The Group Managing Director (GMD) of Dangote Cement Company, Mr. Arvind Pathack, and the Managing Director of Lafarge Cement, Ibrahim Aminu, were asked
questions by the committee on Friday.
The committee also frowned at excuses that the high cost of foreign exchange is one of the reasons for the increasing price of cement.
The members of the committee said this was not tenable as most of the materials for the production of cement were sourced locally.
However, a member of the committee, Hon Dabo Ismail, said that Dangote Cement Company had continued to make increasing profits in the country despite being able to source most of its raw materials locally.
He said in 2022, the company declared a profit of N524 billion, N553 billion in 2023, and has so far made N166.4 billion in 2024.
The lawmaker said that there was no reason why the price of cement would keep rising in the market to the detriment of Nigerians while producers were smiling at the banks.
Earlier, the Group Managing
LABOUR PARTY KICKS AS ONANUGA ACCUSES OBI’S SUPPORTERS OF PLOTTING ANTI-TINUBU PROTESTS
"However, peaceful protests all over the world are initiated and executed by the people and not by the opposition. No opposition has any control over protests. Popular protests such as in Kenya, Egypt and several other places were a direct registration of the people's frustration against the government. The opposition has the right to protest and it is within their constitutional right.
“It is therefore puerile for the government or anyone for that matter to begin to look for who to blame for the bad governance that is being witnessed in Nigeria today. Nigeria can still get it right if the right policies are initiated. We also advise that some aides of the presidency must be cautioned to avoid incendiary pronouncements capable of combusting the nation, all in the name of playing politics."
Allegation Orchestrated to Arrest Obi, Says Media Office
On its part, the Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR) has described Onanuga’s claim as a wild, wicked and baseless allegation.
The spokesman of POMR, Mr. Yunusa Tanko, said in a statement issued yesterday that he gathered from a reliable authority that these unsubstantiated allegations were being orchestrated to arrest Obi, limit his freedom and association and stop his propagation for good governance, which they find injurious to their lavish lifestyle.
“Peter Obi by his mien in and out of political office has not in any way shown or been associated with violence even in the most obvious provocations.
“He has always shown even during the electioneering that he is issue-driven as he carries on without calling anybody’s name. POMR is also aware that multiple attack dogs have been hired and strategically deployed to ensure that Obi does not enjoy the ear of the Nigerian populace who are keen on hearing his voice on issues.
“These spine doctors and hirelings, to justify their pay, indulge in all kinds of falsehood ostensibly to distract Obi and confuse Nigerians who already see Obi as a suiting balm in the current turbulent political and economic environment.
“All the problems real and imagined created by their insensitivity and lavish lifestyle they have curiously tried to link to Obi. Notable challenges of the administration which are a consequence of their actions and inactions like fuel subsidy fallouts, growing poverty in the land, inflation, nepotism and unresolved historical conflicts, among others, they blame all on Obi,” Tanko explained.
Tanko urged Nigerians to ignore the Presidency’s cheap blackmail, adding that Obi and the Obidient family all over the country and in the diaspora would not be cowed or be made to lose focus.
INEC Denies Monitoring LP’s Convention that
In another development, INEC stated that it did not monitor the National Convention of the LP that took place on March 27 at Nnewi, Anambra State
In a letter dated July 18, 2024, which was signed by the acting National Secretary of INEC, Harilu Aminu and addressed to Steve Adehi (SAN), the commission stated that it did not monitor the Nnewi convention of the party.
Adehi had written to INEC to obtain the true status of the Julius Abure-led party's national convention and also requested the Certified True Copy of the convention’s report and the party’s constitution domiciled in INEC.
In response to the letter, the commission said: "The Certified True Copy of the Labour Party’s Constitution has been forwarded to your firm earlier. "Regrettably the commission did not monitor the Labour Party Convention of 27 March 2024 and cannot therefore report on the convention.”
Director (GMD) of Dangote Cement Company, Pathack said that 95 per cent of production costs were either imported or linked to foreign exchange.
He explained that there had been between a 100 to 333 per cent increase in the prices of major cement input materials like gas, AGO, gypsum, imported coal, spare parts, new trucks, tyres, and petrol, among others.
He lamented that between May 2023 and June 2024, there has been over 220 per cent devaluation of the Naira among many other challenges like insecurity and public power supply.
Pathack explained that the lack of sufficient forex to settle trade obligations had resulted in huge forex losses to the tune of N150 billion per annum while paying a 30 per cent interest rate on loans.
Pathack said that the company is made to pay for some of its contracts in dollars to access gas and explosives for production.
He said the provision made by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) was not enough to meet demand.
and was called to the Bar in 1999. He started legal practice with Chike Chigbue and Co, Abuja Office in 1999 and left in 2002 to found his firm, the LAW FORTE (Legal Practitioners, Corporate Consultants and Notary Public). In 2006 he became a Notary Public of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. In 2010, he concluded a face-to-face tutorial at Keble College, Oxford, and obtained a Diploma in International Commercial Arbitration.
Osigwe became a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK) in 2011. In 2007 he obtained a Master’s of Laws Degree (LL.M) from the University of Jos. He also holds another LL.M in (Transnational Commercial Practice) from the Centre for International Legal Studies, Austria (in collaboration with the Lazarsky University, Poland).
He has appeared as a counsel in many arbitral proceedings as well as sat as a sole arbitrator or member of arbitral tribunals in commercial disputes. He is an avid reader and researcher.
Osigwe was the last person to hold office as the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, Abuja Branch (Unity Bar) for the whole Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Bwari and Gwagwalada Branches were created during his tenure as Chairman of the Unity Bar. By consent of the chairmen of Bwari and Gwagwalada Branches of the NBA, he became the first Chairman of Chairmen of NBA Branches in the FCT, in 2012. He was sworn in as the General Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association in August 2014 and held that position till the expiration of his tenure on August 26, 2016.
Natural Gas Remains Key to Unlocking Potential, Says Gas Minister
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
The Minister of State, Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, has said migrating from the use of fossil fuel to the adoption of natural gas as the transition energy of the nation remains key to unlocking Nigeria's potential.
Ekpo stated this after he received the communiqué of the transition energy summit, in Abuja, noting that efforts were being intensified to bring in adequate conversion kits that would cater for the needs of vehicles transiting to the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).
He added that natural gas was cheaper and cleaner compared to petrol and called for more awareness to improve acceptability for Nigerians.
“A car you will fuel with petrol for N40,000, you can as well do that with as little as N10,000, which is better for our own economy,” he explained.
The minister gave assurance that the policy recommendations contained in the communiqué would be examined and adopted where necessary.
Publisher and Editor-inChief, Development Agenda Magazine, Paddy Ezeala, said the recommendations in the communique were from the Energy Transition Summit which had views from divergent populations aimed at leading Nigeria on a pathway to smart and sustainable energy transition while also recognising the place of social justice.
Produced Abure
DOUBLE CELEBRATIONS…
Edo 2024: Obaseki, PDP Leaders Meet, Ahead of Ward-to-Ward, Governorship Campaigns
Edo gov confident of victory on September 21
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin-City
The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, at the weekend, met with leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from all the wards across the 18 local government areas of the state to strategise ahead of the governorship election taking place on September 21, 2024.
The meeting was held at the New Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, the Edo State capital. Present at the stakeholders’ meeting were the state Deputy Governor, Mr. Marvellous Godwins Omoboyo; Chief of Staff to the governor, Dr. Osaigbovo Iyoha and Speaker of the state House of
Assembly, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku.
Others were Chief Tom Ikimi; Senator Clifford Ordia; state party Chairman of PDP, Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi; PDP governorship candidate, Asue Ighodalo; local government chairmen, members of the Edo PDP Working Committee, and serving commissioners, among others.
Obaseki, who expressed the party’s readiness for the forthcoming election, thanked the party leaders for their commitment, dedication and courage, which he said have kept the party together as one strong, united, and indivisible party. He said: “I want to thank you all for rallying round the party to organise the Ad-hoc
NCTAD: External Debt Stocks of Nigeria, Other Developing Economies Hit $11.4tn in 2023
Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja
The external debt stocks of Nigeria and other developing economies amounted to $11.4 trillion in 2023, more than twice the size a decade ago, according to the SDG Pulse 2024, a new report by the UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has revealed.
According to the report, Lowincome Countries (LICs) and Least Developing Countries (LDCs) spent nearly 20 per cent of the government’s revenues on debt repayments in 2023 – four times the percentage seen in 2013. Nigeria's external debt stock stood at $42.11 billion as of March 31, 2024, and incurred a debt service cost of $3.5 billion for its external
loans in 2023.
The UNCTAD report explained that the rising costs of borrowing drain vital public resources for development, with 3.3 billion people living in countries that spend more on interest than on health or education.
It said: "In 2023, the external debt stocks of developing economies amounted to $11.4 trillion, more than twice the figures a decade ago.
"More concerning is the rising costs of borrowing draining vital public resources for development, with 3.3 billion people living in countries that spend more on interest than on health or education."Low-income countries and LDCs spent nearly 20% of government revenues on debt repayments in 2023 – four times the percentage seen in 2013," the
Peter
The federal government, through the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi) will spend an estimated sum of N45 billion on free conversion of 30,000 commercial transport vehicles within the next 90 days.
After the first Park-to-Park CNG conversion rally in Kaduna on Thursday, where 100 conversion kits were distributed free of charge to commercial transport workers, another 150 kits were yesterday distributed to members of the transport unions in Lagos.
At the event held at Biode Motor Park in Ojota, attended by members of the transport unions from the six states of the South-west,
14 CNG conversion companies signed agreements with the P-CNGi management to provide conversion services in different locations in the region.
The presidential initiative targets commercial vehicles, with partners in various states, with a target to convert 250,000 vehicles per year.
Each conversion cost is estimated to be around N1.5 million while the cost of using CNG is put at about N230 per kilogram, cheaper than petrol by over N500 per litre.
Speaking at the rally in Lagos, the Programme Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Presidential CNG Initiative, Mr. Michael Oluwagbemi, disclosed that over 30,000 CNG conversion kits had been bought by the government
report affirmed.
The SDG Pulse 2024 provided a global reference for tracking developments related to the implementation of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The annual statistical publication, now in its sixth edition, painted a mixed picture of how the world is faring on global goals, highlighting the stark disparities that remain despite significant advancements.
“This report serves as a call to action, urging policymakers, businesses, and civil society to leverage its insights to drive meaningful change. The time for data-informed action is now,” said UN Trade and Development Secretary-General, Rebeca Grynspan.
The SDG Pulse 2024 comes on
the heels of recent findings from the United Nations that only 17 per cent of the SDG targets are on track, though the world is more than halfway along the timeline of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Its data and analysis cover a wide range of SDG indicators relevant to trade, investment, financing for development, debt, transport, and technology.
The report emphasised the need to strengthen the multilateral trading system for inclusive development.
Congress, which produced the party’s candidate for the 2024 Edo State governorship election. That congress chose our candidate and the primary that produced Asue Ighodalo is being celebrated nationwide as the best in the nation.
“I thank you all for working with the delegates and for electing him as our candidate to carry our flag in this election and to succeed me as governor of Edo State. I have known him for about four decades and thank God for giving us somebody who I am certain will do better than I have done. He has the attributes, intelligence, and integrity and grew up under the great discipline of his mother.
“I am convinced that with the efforts that all of you have put in, Asue Ighodalo will be the governor of Edo State come September 21 governorship election 2024. We are the only party in the state and I am not afraid; we will win the election.”
“We commend the Director General and members of the campaign council who have been working seriously underground. I thank you all for the hard work and
effort put in to make our campaign a successful one.”
He further noted: “We have been able to inaugurate the State Campaign Council, Local Governments Campaign Council and the ward campaign teams are all in place too. We have also been able to upload the list of all our party agents in all the 4,519 units, and successfully uploaded the names of all our agents into the INEC portal. This meeting is to brief you on our political activities over the next 60 days leading to the election.
“The candidate is finalising his campaign itinerary. What we have done is to make sure that the last campaign will take place on September 18, 2024. Local government campaign will start on September 1, while this campaign will be flagged off on August 29, 2024, where we will be inviting national leaders of the party to come help us with the flag-off of the campaign.
“Between today and that date, we expect the candidate to tour all the 192 wards in the state as the candidate will be making stops in all your wards.”
WhatsApp Disagrees With FCCPC, Says Meta will Appeal $220m Fine
James Emejo in Abuja
for distribution nationwide in the next 90 days.
He said the programme was President Bola Tinubu's immediate palliative to cushion the hardship on the masses, adding that they would go beyond the already purchased 30,000 conversion kits to one million.
With the CNG, he said Nigerians would no longer buy petrol at between N750 and N850 per litre as they will take advantage of the country's huge gas reserves.
"We’ve bought over 30,000 conversion kits ready for distribution in the next 90 days.
"This will ensure that commercial transport workers are able to benefit directly from the palliative of the federal government of Nigeria", he said.
WhatsApp has vowed that its parent body, Meta, will appeal the $220 million fine imposed by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) over its alleged violation of Nigeria’s data privacy laws.
WhatsApp said this yesterday in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday.
It said: “We disagree with the decision today as well as the fine and Meta will be appealing the decision.
“In 2021, we went to users globally to explain how talking to businesses among other things would work and while there was a lot of confusion then, it has proven quite popular,” the organisation said.
The reaction followed a statement released by the FCCPC and signed by its acting Executive Chairman, Adamu Abdullahi, accusing Meta
of denying Nigerian users control over their data.
The FCCPC said that Meta had also shared the users’ data without consent, and abused its market dominance.
According to the statement released to the media, the FCCPC’s final order imposed a monetary penalty of $220 million on Meta.
The penalty is following the FCCPA 2018, and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection (Administrative Penalties) Regulations 2020,” the statement said.
The FCCPC announced that it initiated its investigation in May 2021, based on evidence suggesting that Meta, through its platforms, had breached the provisions of the FCCPA 2018 and the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation 2019.
It stated that these regulations were in effect before the enactment and implementation of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023.
The competition protection body
noted that Meta responded to document requests and summons by providing some information. It stated that Meta’s representatives and retained legal counsel had consistently engaged with and met investigators and analysts from the commission and the NDPC, including as recently as April 4, 2024.
The FCCPC highlighted that its investigation uncovered evidence of Meta engaging in practices that were abusive and invasive towards data consumers in Nigeria. These included collecting personal data without consent and implementing discriminatory practices against Nigerians, among other issues. Meta Platforms, Inc., doing business as Meta, is an American multinational technology conglomerate based in Menlo Park, California. The company owns and operates Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and WhatsApp, among other products and services.
Uzoho
L-R: Director, Mel Super Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Chinwe Chukwuanu; Chairman/CEO, Nech Auto Supply Industry Limited, Chief Chukwuemeka Olisah; his wife, Nkiru; and Chairman/CEO, Mel Super Nigeria Limited, Chief Chukwuemeka Chukwuanu, at the 60th & 50th birthday celebrations of Chief and Mrs. Emeka Olisah at Festac Town, Lagos…recently
PRESS BRIEFING…
L-R: Archbishop of Lagos, Methodist Church of Nigeria (MCN), Most Rev Ayo Olawuyi; Conference Secretary, MCN, Rt. Rev Babatunde Taiwo; Prelate, Methodist Church Nigeria, Dr. Oliver Ali Aba; and Conference Lay President, Sir. Ifeanyi Okechuckwu, during a press conference on the forthcoming 39th Lay President Council Conference of the Methodist Church of Nigeria in Lagos…yesterday
His Sit-at-home Threats, Gov Mbah Tells South-east Residents
Tasksfederallawmakers,Finnishgovtonrepatriation
Sylvester Idowu in Warri
Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has described the Finland-based leader of the Autopilot, Simon Ekpa, as a businessman and scammer, who is feeding fat on the emotions and sufferings of the Igbo, and enjoined the people of the South-east region to disregard his threats and sit-at-home orders.
Mbah also expressed displeasure over Ekpa’s continued harbouring by the Government of Finland even when many lives and property had been wasted by his foot soldiers.
The governor spoke at the weekend when he received members of the House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence, who were on an oversight working
visit to the state where they also inspected the construction of the Department of State Services (DSS) Training Institute at Awgu.
He said the import of security underscored his administration’s decision to end illegal sit-at-home hitherto enforced by non-state actors that held the people hostage both psychologically and economically, noting, however, that his government was not leaving anything to chance.
for Igbo’s interest, but does not know anything about the Igbo or have their interest at heart.
“He creates some kind of siege atmosphere and thrives on it to make a living, continuing to extort and exploit our people, who may not be aware and telling them that he is fighting for their interest. He is just a common criminal.
to disregard this threat. We have demonstrated our capacity to provide security for our people and we will continue to do so through the help of our security agencies.
The acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Abba Abubakar Aliyu, will address key energy professionals and other government officials on the agency’s current drive towards delivering clean and reliable electricity across Nigeria.
Aliyu, who has confirmed his participation at the conference will take audience through World Bank approved Nigeria Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) project Publisher of Oriental News Nigeria Online, Mrs. Yemisi Izuora said in a statement that the Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, would also be x-raying key policies and options available in the country’s drive to strengthen her national economy while aligning with global push towards promoting green economy.
According to her, all of these will be the high points at the 3rd National Conference being put together by Oriental News
Nigeria, coming up on July 25, 2024, at Radisson Blu GRA Ikeja, Lagos.
Oriental News Nigeria, a leading digital media platform would gather key policy makers, government and non- Governmental Organisations, industry experts in Nigeria’s financial sector to the conference which revolves around Nigeria’s Green Economy Initiative.
The theme of the 2024 Conference: “ Green Economy, Sustainable Growth and Infrastructure Transformation” considers various options available for Nigeria to sustain economic development and growth.
Sub-themes of the conference include, Green Finance, marketing, and supply chain, Strategies and Policies for a green economy, Renewable energy and Ecosystem for a green economy and Digital economy Entrepreneurship.
Agama, who has confirmed his attendance, expressed the belief that opportunities in terms of green economy are linked to the enormous possibilities for sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, ecotourism, and coastal development.
He said: “As you may also have noticed recently, they have continued to make attempts, particularly, that megalomaniac, who ironically resides with his family peacefully in Finland, a country where the rule of law reigns, but he encourages the rule of anarchy here and to goad some of our youths to their self-destruction.
“This is also a business for him, pretending to be fighting
“We are talking about a murderer, who just thinks about how to inflict terrorism on the people. Otherwise, how can you claim you love our people, a people that are known for hard work in our DNA and sit somewhere to dictate to us when to go to work and when not to go to work.”
Mbah assured the people of Enugu State of their continued protection, saying the state could not be intimidated by criminals.
“So, I want to also take this opportunity to call on our people
“We cannot be intimidated. We cannot submit ourselves to this siege atmosphere he wants to create in the South-east. We treasure our hard work as a people. So, you can’t love people and all you do is at the very expense of their existence just to grow followership and gain cheap publicity.
“I’m also calling on the youths, not to fall for these sorts of cheap antics because this is completely antithetical to our belief system. It contradicts our values and opposes our work ethics.”
Mbah urged the House of Representatives to take up the challenge of ensuring Ekpa’s repatriation to Nigeria
to answer to his acts of murder and terrorism in the South-east region.
“It is surprising that the Finnish Government allows this man to reside peacefully in their country and then perpetrate terrorism in Nigeria. And I think this is something your committee may have to wade into and see how this guy can be repatriated and then be brought to justice.
“Through his statements and his actions, a lot of people have died and he continues on that trajectory. So, this is a tragedy that we must all work as a country to end. He doesn’t represent the Igbo interest,” Mbah stated.
Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the House Committee on National Security and Intelligence, Hon. Ahmed Satomi, described Governor Mbah as a worthy example for other states in security and good governance.
Kennedy Ohanenye: We’re NotVictimised over Upscale of $500m Loan
Sunday Ehigiator
The Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs. Uju Kennedy Ohanenye, has debunked reports of victimisation surrounding a $500 million World Bank loan she refused to sign, clarifying that she is instead committed to efforts aimed at restructuring the loan to maximise its impact on the lives of Nigerian women and children, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
In a statement signed by her Media Aide, Musa Abdulrahaman, the minister during a recent media engagement, clarified concerns surrounding the loan while also addressing her plans for women and children despite challenges faced by the ministry.
According to her, “There’s renewed hope for Nigerian
women and children, especially with the unwavering support of our President,” minister stated.
“President Tinubu has pledged his commitment to facilitate the restructuring of the World Bank loan, which will significantly empower Nigerian women.”
The statement further read:
“The minister clarified concerns regarding the loan’s legitimacy and restructuring. She emphasised that President Tinubu has approved restructuring the loan to remove unnecessary expenditures like Consultancies; advocacies etc. and ensure direct benefits like socio-economic empowerment for the target beneficiaries.
“Records have it that over $100 million has been previously allocated to support women’s economic productivity in Nigeria before the advent of this current administration.
“Upon the assumption of office as the Minister of Women Affairs, The World Bank offered the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs under the leadership of Barr Uju Kennedy Ohanenye a fresh loan, now activated at an increased amount of $500 million for Nigeria for Women Project which will directly impact a wider range of women throughout the country.
“Barr Uju addressed reports claiming she was being victimised regarding the loan, which is ‘absolutely false’ claiming that she’s enjoying Maximum cooperation from all parties involved.
“Minister Ohanenye expressed optimism due to the strong support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has pledged to facilitate the restructuring of a $500 million World Bank loan aimed at empowering Nigerian women. The loan, part of the Nigeria for Women Project, will directly impact a wider range of women throughout the country.
“The minister clarified concerns regarding the loan’s legitimacy and restructuring, emphasising that President Tinubu has approved the removal of unnecessary expenditures to ensure direct benefits for the target beneficiaries. This move is expected to significantly empower Nigerian women and enhance their socio-economic opportunities.
“She encouraged women’s affinity groups and cooperatives to register on the Nigerian Women E-market portal to access the funds and broaden their socio-economic opportunities.
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
ETOP UKUTT
Editor: Festus Akanbi
08038588469 Email:festus.akanbi@thisdaylive.com
As FG Tightens Noose on Crude Oil Saboteurs
Last week, the military renewed its crackdown on oil thieves and vandals, in a coordinated effort to halt the leakages in the oil industry and boost Nigeria’s revenue base. However, analysts will expect them to look beyond the South-south region in their attempt to smoke out the beneficiaries of this illegal operation and return Nigeria to the path of prosperity, writes Festus Akanbi
For a nation in the throes of economic turmoil, one understands why the renewed crackdown on perpetrators of oil theft and illegal oil bunkering by the federal government has continued to occupy a pre-eminent position in the media.
First was the fresh marching order to the nation’s security agencies to dislodge perpetrators of oil theft, especially in the Niger Delta in a bid to improve oil production and revitalise the country’s ailing economy.
(CDS), General Christopher Musa, said the president had given the military a mandate to ensure that they secured the entire Southsouth, to enable NNPCL and others to carry out their tasks to improve oil production.
Musa assured Nigerians they would see the result of the reinvigorated war against oil theft within three months.
monitoring of the country’s crude oil production, the federal government on July 12, approved the sum of $21 million across the Niger Delta region to help monitor the country’s crude oil production and distribution.
A report of the special investigative panel on oil theft and losses in Nigeria constituted by the immediate past administration had attributed oil losses to the absence of a robust industry-wide metering system and an unworkable security arrangement in the sector.
However, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (oil) Heineken Lokpobiri, the metering tool explained that the metering project is in line with the government agenda to curb the issues of oil theft bedevilling the country’s oil and gas sector.
Products’ Diversion
Apart from the outright theft of crude, operators said the issue of diversion of petroleum products is another major problem that needs urgent attention. For instance, the Akwa Ibom State Coordinator of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Ike Eseka, recently sought the support of the Nigerian Army to address the rampant issues of petroleum products diversion, price gouging, and sale of adulterated fuels in Akwa Ibom State.
Industry operators said the problem of diversion is not limited to Akwa Ibom as several hundreds of petroleum tankers make their way through the porous borders daily. But determined to stamp out oil theft and pipeline vandalism, the Chief of Army South-south would be cleared of all acts of vandalism and criminality within the general area.
He added, “We know that Nigeria relies so much on crude oil production, so we want to use this medium to appeal to the communities, to have an understanding. Yes, we know trust has been a problem, but they can trust us, they can trust the government, that we want to do things
The CDS said the ongoing war was not only for the security agencies, stating that everyone has a role to play in the renewed anti-oil theft operation.
He said, “We need the communities to understand that pipeline vandalism and all
Beyond Nigeria Delta
cautioned that the war against oil saboteurs should not be limited to the creeks, given the indictment of some unnamed security activity.
Recently, Senator Seriake Dickson representing Bayelsa West in the National Assembly alleged that bigwigs from Lagos and Abuja are masterminds of the oil theft on Niger Delta soil.
Dickson, a two-term governor of Bayelsa State in the South-south zone, said the -
lamented the absence of national values which makes people use the nation’s resources for personal aggrandisement.
Dickson said, “Why should a country like Nigeria that has been producing and exporting oil for the past 70 years not have what leaves, what is pumped, what is sold, and what is not sold? And it’s deliberate.
“It’s not a Niger Delta thing; it’s just happening there and, unfortunately, it has destroyed communities because there is too much illegal money, illegal arms, illicit drugs and it has fueled cultism because people want to get the loyalties of young people to be able to hold territories where oil facilities are. They need weapons and young men that are always high on drugs. Do you think a man who slaughters and is normal? So, those are people who are
In Search of Economic Viability
of NNPCL, Mele Kyari, who was part of last week’s security meeting admitted that oil theft and pipeline vandalism have become a national issue and that the president has directed the CDS to curtail this within the shortest time possible, “so that we can restore national production to the level the president
“Without restoring oil and gas production, we cannot have the economic stability that we desire. The president is focused on this to deliver value to our country. It is impossible to do this without curtailing
The GCEO added: “We are already seeing progress; we are seeing substantial value that is being created by the coordination, but we are very convinced that a solution
The theft and vandalism of oil assets have that relies heavily on oil revenue, a recurring the OPEC quota which stood at 1.5mbpd in 2024 and the federal budget benchmark of 1.78mbpd (including condensates). According to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, the total volumes of crude oil and condensates produced in January, February, and March were 1.643mbpd, 1.539mbpd, and 1.438mbpd respectively. The limited production has disrupted budgetary expectations. Crude oil and gas constitute 70% of Nigeria’s budget revenues and 95% of its foreign exchange earnings. Analysts therefore said that President Bola Tinubu needs to take crucial steps to stop industrial-scale theft.
Harvest of Losses
The National Security Adviser, Nuhu
Ribadu was quoted as saying that in 2023, the country lost 400,000bpd to theft. A former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, said Nigeria lost at least 700,000bpd to thieves in 2022. This is far higher than in other OPEC countries plagued by oil theft like Venezuela, Iraq, Mexico, and Malaysia.
The NNPC stated in September 2022 that it lost $700 million every month to oil theft. The Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative added that Nigeria lost 619.7 million barrels, valued at N16.3 trillion, to crude oil theft from 2005 to 2021. In 2023, the NNPC spent N136 billion on security, repairs, and maintenance of vandalised infrastructure, per Dataphyte.
Analysts who doubted the capability of the current security architecture to stem the tide of sabotage in the oil industry said what looked like a lack of confidence in the military by some public officials is bound to affect the public perception of the current assignment.
For instance, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike accused the military of being in cahoots with oil thieves, saying the killing of 17 soldiers in the angst between the military and the Niger Delta communities.
The reality is the military in the past
a paradigm shift.
With Nigeria deploying 98 per cent of its revenues to service debt, Tinubu must insist that the military retrieve stolen crude, deploy it as evidence in court, and make it available to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited in an accountable and transparent manner.
UBA at 75: Building a Legacy of Growth, Innovation, and Financial Inclusion
As the United Bank for Africa (UBA Plc) marks its 75 years of operation this year, Festus Akanbi writes on the resilience of the pan-African financial giant and its ability to evolve and thrive in a dynamic banking landscape
Over the past seven and a half decades, Africa’s global bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc powerhouse with a global presence, constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of its diverse clientele. This 75th milestone which its longevity but a testament to its ability to evolve and thrive in a dynamic banking landscape.
For UBA, the past 75 years have not merely marked the passage of time but have birthed a legacy of resilience, innovation, and diverse clientele. From its humble beginnings to its current status journey is a testament to its strategic foresight and adaptability in a constantly evolving banking landscape.
From Small Beginnings…
Founded in 1949, UBA has grown from a single entity into a robust banking institution renowned for its stability and reliability. In its early years, a period marked by a conservative yet steady approach, the bank majorly focused on establishing a solid foundation, building trust with its customers through transparent and dependable banking services, and was able to withstand
peal, UBA’s journey has not been without challenges. The bank was able to successfully navigate through economic recessions, regulatory changes, and competitive pressures. Each challenge was met with strategic responses that turned potential setbacks into opportunities for growth and innovation.
Between the 1970s and 1980s, UBA expanded its operations across Nigeria, establishing itself as a key player in the nation’s delivery, investing in technology, and introducing products that catered to the evolving needs of its customers. The bank’s ability to adapt to changing market conditions and regulatory environments was crucial in maintaining its relevance and competitiveness.
Embracing Technology and Innovation in the banking industry, and UBA was quick to embrace these innovations. Recognising the transformative potential of technology, UBA invested heavily in digital banking platforms, mobile customer experience.
its customers.
Expanding Beyond Borders: The Pan-African Vision to expand beyond Nigeria’s borders, embracing a pan-African vision. Today, UBA operates in 20 African countries, with subsidiaries in the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and the United Arab Emirates. This expansion strategy was driven economic development across the continent.
UBA’s pan-African presence has been instrumental in facilitating cross-border trade and investment, supporting the growth of African businesses, and promoting economic integration. The bank’s robust network and deep understanding of local markets unique needs of each region it serves.
Customer-centric Approach: Meeting Diverse Financial Needs
At the heart of UBA’s success is its unwavering focus on customer satisfaction. The bank has consistently evolved its product of its customers. Whether it’s providing retail banking services, corporate banking solutions, or supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), UBA has remained committed to delivering value to its clients.
UBA’s customer-centric approach is evident in its extensivements of the market, and its Customer 1st Philosophy (C1st) has accounts, personal loans, mortgages, and wealth management services. The bank provides a comprehensive suite of corporate management, and corporate lending. and resilience have been key drivers of our success. UBA has economic challenges and market dynamics.
“In the last year alone, we have showcased splendid results, our sustainability and the sound strategies that underpin our growth,” he stated.
Empowering Communities: Corporate Social Responsibility
and promote green practices including Tree Planting for Sustainability, opening Braille accounts to cater to the visually impaired, and giving back to society. The bank’s commitment to CSR is a development in the communities it serves.
Innovation for the Future: Digital Transformation and Fintech
As the banking landscape continues to evolve, UBA remains at the forefront of innovation. The bank’s digital transformation strategy is centered around leveraging technology to enhance service delivery and create new value propositions for its customers. UBA has invested in state-of-the-art digital banking platforms, convenient banking experiences.
One of the standout innovations is the UBA Leo chatbot, an 2018, that enables customers to perform banking transactions via social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp from the comfort of their mobile phones. This innovative solution has customer engagement and satisfaction.
Financial Inclusion: Bridging the Gap
Financial inclusion remains a key priority for UBA. The bank is committed to extending banking services to the underserved and unbanked populations across Africa. Through its extensive branch network, agent banking model, and digital platforms, empowering individuals and businesses to participate in the formal economy.
by its support for SMEs, which are crucial drivers of economic solutions, advisory services, and capacity-building programs to help SMEs thrive and contribute to sustainable development.
The Road Ahead: Vision for the Future
As UBA looks to the future, it remains committed to its core values of excellence, enterprise, and execution. The bank’s vision institution inAfrica, delivering superior value to all its stakeholders. To achieve this vision, UBAwill continue to invest in innovation, expand its footprint, and deepen its customer relationships. The driving digital transformation, and leveraging data analytics to deliver personalized services.
In 2006, UBA merged with Standard Trust Bank (STB) in a strategic move that further strengthened its position in the market. The merger brought together complementary strengths, enabling customer base. This period also saw the bank launching several innovative products, including U-Mobile, an award-winning mobile banking platform that revolutionised banking
UBA’s commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond its banking operations. The bank has a strong tradition of corporate social responsibility (CSR), investing in initiatives that support Education, Environment, Empowerment, and special projects that include healthcare and meaningful partnerships. Through its CSR Arm - the UBA Foundation - the bank has launched several impactful programs, including the National Essay Competition, which provides scholarships to outstanding students, and the Read Africa initiative, which promotes literacy across the continent.
for
In recent years, UBA has also focused on environmental sustainability, launching initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint
UBA Group Deputy Managing Director, Muyiwa Akinyemi, who spoke on this said, “Looking ahead, our vision is clear. We aim to expand our market presence, seize growth opportunities, and deliver unparalleled value to our stakeholders. Our strategic priorities and initiatives are designed to position UBA as the bank of choice for the future, driving growth and fostering sustainable development.
convenience
L-R: UBA Plc’s Company Secretary, Mr. Bili Odum; Executive Director,/GCOO, Mr. Alex Alozie; Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communication, Ms Alero Ladipo; Group Managing Director/CEO; Mr. Oliver Alawuba; Group Deputy Managing Director, Mr. Muyiwa Akinyemi; and Executive Director, Mr. Ugo Nwaghodoh, at the Global Press Conference to herald the year-long celebration of UBA at 75, in Lagos…last week
NNPCL: Two Years of Delivering Value to Nigerians as a Company
On Friday, July 19 this year, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) became two years of its transformation into a company whose operations is being regulated under the Companies and Allied Matters Act.
The NNPCL’s transformation into a CAMA company followed the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021. The signing of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) in August 2021 by former President Muhammadu Buhari was a game changer for the NNPC Ltd and the management team led by the Group Chief Executive Officer, Mallam Mele Kyari as it opened the door for more significant changes in the national oil giant.
With the unveiling of the entity in 2022 as a Company and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) firm, as encapsulated in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), the ground was set for a reformed national oil firm that was ready to compete with its peers globally.
Before the passage of the PIA, many had admitted that the old NNPC, had experienced an unenviable past because of the seeming loss of faith in its operations. But that perception has changed since the commencement of the implementation of the PIA under the leadership of the GCEO.
Indeed, under the current management, the 44-year-old NNPC joined the global Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI). It also declared its first profit in about four and a half decades, released its Annual Financial Report to the public and has generally been more open to public scrutiny.
The NNPCL also moved from a loss-making company to a profitable one in 2020 when, for the first time in its 44 years history, it declared a profit after tax of N287bn. This went up to N674bn in 2021, before hitting N2.52tn in the 2022 financial period.
With the company now fully transitioned into a commercial entity, stakeholders say things are even about to get better as the Nigerian energy sector has seen significant progress since the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act in 2021.
It is noteworthy that Kyari had worked tirelessly to ensure the passage of the PIA, an initiative which is aimed at overhauling the country’s energy laws and creating a deregulated environment, freeing the oil sector from government control and unbundling the oil company.
The passage of the PIA gave birth to a rejuvenated NNPCL in 2022, which empowered the company to operate like every private company in Nigeria with exemption from the Fiscal Responsibility Act, Public Procurement Act and Treasury Single Account in order to ensure there are no excuses for failure.
With the registration by the Corporate Affairs Commission, the NNPCL was floated with an initial capital of N200bn making history as the company with the highest share capital in the country.
Between when the PIA was signed into law in August 2021 and now, the management of the NNPC had taken proactive steps to reposition its operations.
For instance, several engagements took place between the NNPCL, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, the Ministry of Finance, Governors, legislators, host communities and other key stakeholders to understand the impact of the changes the PIA brings.
Following this milestone, Kyari, initiated new investment benchmarks to further rejuvenate the once ineffective company. Two months after becoming a CAMA company, the NNPCL in September 2022 sealed the acquisition of OVH making it to add to its assets reception jetty (ASPM) with 240,000MT monthly capacity, eight LPG Plants, three Lubes Blending Plants, three Aviation Depots, and 12 warehouses.
Also, Oando’s 380 fuelling stations was added to NNPCL’s existing stations making it the largest in Africa. Through the deal, NNPCL leveraged on Oando’s coverage across Africa to become a leading energy company.
The acquisition, under the leadership of the GCEO of the NNPCL, showed his vision to make the company a force in the global energy market. Apart from this deal, the NNPCL under Kyari in June last year sealed another deal with four National Oil Companies on the $25bn Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline Project
These tripartite MoUs were respectively and successively signed between the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and the Office National des Hydrocarbures et des Mines (ONHYM) of Morocco on one hand, and the Société Nationale des Opérations Pétrolières of Cote d’Ivoire (PETROCI), the National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL), the Société Nationale des Hydrocarbures of Benin (SNH-Benin), and the Société Nationale des Pétroles of the Republic of Guinea (SONAP) on the other hand.
The Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline (NMGP) Project is an initiative of the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Kingdom
of Morocco and was conceived during the visit of King Mohammed VI of Morocco to Nigeria in December 2016.
The Pipeline Cooperation Agreement for the project was executed in 2017.
The pipeline length of the project is 5,300 kilometers from Nigeria-Dakhla (Morocco) and 1,700 kilometers (onshore) from Dakhla (Morocco)-Northern Morocco.
The pipeline capacity for the project is 30BCM per year which is equivalent to 3.0 BSCFD
Already, MoUs have been executed for the project with ECOWAS, SMH of Mauritania and Petrosen of Senegal.
Through the doggedness of Kyari, he ensured that the deal was consummated as the project is aimed at monetizing Nigeria’s abundant natural gas resources, thereby generating additional revenue for the Country, diversification of Nigeria’s gas export routes, and elimination of gas flaring.
The project will also assist in supplying gas to Morocco, 13 ECOWAS Countries and Europe, integration of the economies of the Sub-region, improvement of living standards of people within the Sub-region, creation of wealth and poverty alleviation, assisting in the fight against the desertification through sustainable and reliable gas supply as well as providing avenue for other Countries along the pipeline route to develop and export their gas.
Once completed, the project will enhance the monetization of the natural gas resources of the affected African countries and also offer a new alternative export route to Europe.
The pact marks another important milestone in the quest to tackle the energy poverty that has been limiting the potential of the African continent to boost industrialisation.
As a commercial enterprise, the NNPCL under Kyari sees this project as an opportunity to monetise Nigeria’s abundant hydrocarbon resources, by expanding access to energy to support economic growth, industrialization, and job creation across the African continent and beyond.
The footprints of Kyari in the oil and gas sector was also felt in 2023 as the NNPC Ltd secured $7bn fresh investments from India for Nigeria’s petrochemical industry. Kyari had accompanied President Bola Tinubu to India were the deal was announced
Tinubu had departed Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, for the G20 summit which was held from September 9 to 10, 2023 in New Delhi, the Indian capital. The President’s visit to India was focused on attracting investments to Nigeria with lucrative opportunities for investors, but most importantly, jobs for Nigerians and new revenue opportunities for the country.
India is one of the growing markets for Nigeria’s Liquefied Natural Gas and through this deal, the government will be able to create job opportunities for Nigerians. Indian businesses serve as significant investments source in the midstream, downstream and upstream sectors
of the oil and gas industry.
In the area of gas infrastructure, since the announcement of the fuel subsidy removal in 2023, the NNPCL has doubled its efforts to drive energy security by utilizing Nigeria’s abundant gas resources. The company has delivered numerous gas projects that would drive CNG gas penetration across the country.
Last year, the NNPCL entered a partnership with NIPCO to set up 35 compressed natural gas (CNG) stations in Lagos and other parts of the country. During the partnership, Kyari had said the partnership is “Part of the NNPCL commitment to reducing carbon footprint and providing cheaper alternative fuel to motorists.”
On May 19, 2024, the NNPCL and partners also delivered three critical gas infrastructures commissioned by the President. The projects were, the AHL Gas Processing Plant 2 (GPP –2) – 200mmscf/d which is an expansion to the Kwale Gas Processing Plant (GPP – 1); the AHL Gas Plant, which is being developed by AHL Limited, an incorporated Joint Venture owned by NNPC Limited and SEEPCO and the ANOH-OB3 CTMS Gas Pipeline Project.
In furtherance of the efforts to drive increased gas utilisation in the country, the federal government also commissioned the 5.2 MMSCFD Compressed Natural Gas/Autogas Facility at Ilasamaja, Lagos, built through a partnership between the NNPC Limited and Transit Gas Nigeria Limited (TGNL).
Under the theme: “From Gas to Prosperity; CNG For All”, the NNPC CNG Station is a 5.2MMscf per day capacity station that can serve vehicles and also supply gas to industries and other companies.
The station is strategically located and it is expected to meet the fuelling needs of motorists, in line with the federal government’s goal of nationwide adoption of CNG as the fuel of choice for transportation.
The facility is 100 per cent energy sufficient due to the natural gas advantage and does not depend on the national grid for power. It will serve thousands of Natural Gas-powered vehicles in Lagos and its surroundings; while promoting a stable, cleaner energy for domestic utilization. It will also contribute significantly to annual carbon-dioxide emissions savings and support environmental sustainability.
Also, in June this year, in a major step towards boosting Nigeria’s oil and gas production, the NNPC-TotalEnergies Joint Venture officially announced a $550m Final Investment Decision (FID) on the Ubeta Field Development Project.
This milestone is in line with President Tinubu’s Presidential Executive Order on Oil and Gas Reforms aimed largely at improving the investment climate and positioning Nigeria as the preferred investment destination for the oil and gas sector in Africa.
The three Executive Orders, which became effective 28th February 2024, are the Oil and Gas Companies (Tax Incentives, Exemption, Remission, etc.) Order, 2024; Presidential Directive on Local Content Compliance Requirements, 2024; and Presidential Directive on Reduction of Petroleum Sector Contracting Costs and Timelines, 2024.
Nigeria is endowed with large oil and gas resources and under Kyari’s transformative leadership, the NNPCL had conceived the idea of monetising Nigeria’s huge gas resources through various gas projects.
For a man who has transformed the NNPCL within the last four years despite the mounting opposition to some of his reforms initiatives, it is gratifying to know that the President believes in Kyari’s capacity to implement energy policies that will enable the federal government to monetize all available oil and gas resources of today while paving the way for the total exploitation of new and cleaner energy sources of tomorrow.
Since the issuance of the Presidential Executive Orders, the NNPCL has redoubled its efforts to drive energy security by utilising Nigeria’s abundant gas resources.
Under Kyari’s leadership, the NNPCL has invested heavily in domestic gas footprint expansion projects through the delivery of the trans-Nigerian gas pipeline projects which includes the escravos project, the Lagos pipelines system, and the Ajaokuta-Kano Gas Pipelines.
As a national oil company, the NNPCL is cooperating with its partners to solve the energy challenges facing the country.
With Nigeria boasting substantial gas reserves exceeding 200 trillion cubic feet (Tcf) and a potential to reach 600 Tcf, it is pertinent Nigeria leverages the gas resource for sustainable development, energy security, and job creation.
With the massive investments being recorded in the oil and gas sector under the dynamic and focussed leadership of Kyari, the NNPCL is making significant progress in achieving its mandate
Over these two years, the company has made significant advancements in its operations, innovation, and commitment to sustainability.
As it look to the future, the NNPCL has shown that it remain dedicated to delivering value, driving excellence, and contributing to the prosperity of Nigeria and beyond.
Onuba writes from Lagos.
Ifeanyi Onuba
AVERTING LOOMING CRISIS IN PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES
ELVIS EROMOSELE argues the need to review electricity tariffs imposed on educational institutions
University of Benin Students are at home in the middle institution was shut down following a peaceful protest were not asking for an arm, a leg or a free electricity and water, two basic ingredients for a comfortable stay in school, or anywhere
The absence of electricity made the Electricity cut off power to the school for
a major crisis, with 52 institutions facing a potential collapse due to a steep increase in
This alarming situation has raised serious concerns among Vice Chancellors and educational stakeholders, who urgently call
the tariff paid by Band A customers, from This decision affects federal universities located in areas designated as Band A, leading to a quadrupling of their monthly
or only slightly higher, rather than the unsustainable commercial rates currently imposed - a sensible proposal, if ever there
Given the challenges with the current electricity supply, many universities are already exploring alternative power instance, is negotiating for alternative power supplies and incorporating provisions for these in new building also being implemented to reduce overall
Transitioning to alternative power sources, however, requires substantial initial investment, which many universities cannot afford without government coordinated effort between the government and educational institutions to develop sustainable and cost-effective power
The federal government has a critical role needs to be a review of the electricity tariffs non-commercial entities providing essential public services, universities should not be subjected to the same tariffs as commercial tariff rate for universities is a necessary step must be done immediately to forestall the
Additionally, the government should increase funding for the development of Investing in solar power plants and other renewable energy solutions will provide
The financial strain caused by the tariff hike is crippling university operations across struggling to meet their overhead costs, and the additional burden of increased electricity
federal government does not intervene, 52
The potential collapse of universities would not only disrupt the academic calendar but also jeopardize the education would be an unfortunate development educational indices and this could take
suggestions is to move universities from Band A to a discretionary band with lower
This would allow universities to pay rates closer to what they previously paid,
in meaningful dialogue with university administrators to understand their unique
This includes revisiting the funding model for federal universities to ensure they have the necessary resources to cover their operational costs without compromising
To avert the looming crisis due to the recent hike in electricity tariffs immediate the federal government must step in and provide relief through tariff adjustments, increased funding for alternative energy solutions, and ongoing support for university
The government must safeguard the ensure that universities continue to function effectively and provide quality education to
Pan Africanism may be good for the youths, argues OKELLO OCULI
‘CONFUSION
ON AFRICA’S FLAGS BLOOM’
It must be bitter times for Mahmat, the Chair of the African Union
Chad is wrestling with hosting a big share of refugees that trudge
generals who jointly shed blood of Sudanese civilians who pounded streets of the country’s towns in demanding the right to build democratic and prosperous governance for themselves and their Governments of Qatar, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates alledgesly encouraged the two generals to carry out a military coup to prevent the seed of Sudan’s struggle for democracy infecting their own Egypt and the United States also inject their national interests into Sudan’s convulsing
it with Member States of the African Union not paying their dues to his 93 per cent of resolutions decided by did not mention leaders committing ‘power suicide’ by bowing down to be pushed out of power by other leaders under rules of the African Union’s
peoples of South Sudan for over two Bashir the excuse to discredit a legacy of family dynasties monopoly of politics in
A common denominator in these regimes was a ritual of slaughtering
It is a legacy of slaughter with impunity within which the current warring generals
It is little wonder that these wielders of guns and armaments they do not manufacture seem vaccinated against women screaming during mass rapes by the their troops; bodies they have torn with bullets are heaped into mass graves; 17 million frightened and malnourished across the country’s borders, and buildings for health and educational services are
prostrate and in ruins, appears to them like
Chairman Mahatma and his team of Commissioners appear helpless as presidents of Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia and Egypt, Eritrea compete with foreign diplomats to shout into booms of guns, bombs and scream of children tortured by Africa’s civil society activists have offered
Mahamat has rebuked civilian who have celebrated military coups in Guinea, Mali, corrupt kidnapers of democratic mandates; schemed in darkness of their hearts to
The loud silence of other African leaders broadcast despair in desecrated hearts across their Sahel until angry young soldiers
Mahamat cried out to leaders at a
It was reported that Kenya’s Police used live bullets against demonstrating youths and had, by 20th of July, 2024, killed In traditional African communal ethics, neighbours would rush out to stop the
It is not clear whose ethical code is guiding
African Union Commission’s silence poisons the growth among Africa’s youths of civic pan-Africanism as a The angry youth on Kenya’s streets on U-Tube lists a pandemic of corrupt activities by the country’s politicians and civil servants, including; Governors of Counties pinching and renting them out; Members of Parliament owning vast farms, private had included perfumes; and would have included women’s wigs imported
affording food, long years of choosing luxury consumption instead of investing in the production of agricultural and industrial goods, it is little wonder that Kenya’s youth resorted to violence as a Mahatma may fear giving directives to governments; and lacks power
Secretary General of the Organisation of African Unity), addressed
In 1988, Ide Oumarou promised coming to witness simulations SUMMIT’’) by students of Ahmadu Dlamini-Zuma was thrilled to support Simulations of African Union Assembly by members of
Taking Pan-Africanism to today’s youth will save it from wilting under the intellectual and political laziness of African governments that
Prof Oculi writes from Abuja
Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
THE JOS SCHOOL BUILDING COLLAPSE
The Jos tragedy has again raised questions of integrity in many structures
It was difficult to see beyond the sorrow in the air. Last week, mourners sang farewell hymns for Emmanuel Dennis whose lifeless body was found in the morgue, a day after a building housing a private secondary school in Jos, Plateau State, collapsed. “My boy was a good boy,” his griefstricken father Victor Dennis told the media. “He didn’t deserve to die. They killed my son. He didn’t do anything wrong. He just went to school to learn.” Emmanuel was among the 22 students that died when the two-storey building collapsed on the children, trapping about 130 of them and injuring many. Like the recent mine pit which collapsed at Shiroro in Niger State, many parents and local rescue workers initially resorted to bare hands and shovels to reach some of the trapped children.
While we join others in commiserating with the families of the victims, the Jos building collapse has once again raised grave concerns about the safety and integrity of many structures across the country. Some angry residents of Jos North local government area claimed the students heard some troubling sounds in the building the previous day, while others suspect that mining activities near by could have affected the school building. But the state Commissioner for Information, Musa Ashom had no equivocation, saying the school building was compromised. “Even as a layman who is not a building professional, you can see that the materials used in the construction are not standard. But we will investigate the cause of the collapse and punish those found culpable.”
was inadequate. Unfortunately, this is a familiar story. The frequency of building collapse in Nigeria is disturbing, as many stakeholders express the need for stricter enforcement of building codes and regulations to prevent such occurrences and protect lives.
In the last two weeks, many buildings have collapsed, sowing deaths and fear among the populace. Recently in the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT) Abuja, three buildings collapsed in three days. In other climes, buildings don’t just collapse every other day. That is because there are procedures to follow when constructing a building. But in Nigeria, these conventions are hardly adhered to because of poor enforcement of laws.
Lack of professionalism in the industry has led to unethical dealings like the use of cheap and inferior materials, improper supervision, and distortion of original building plans
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Last Tuesday, the preliminary report of an investigating panel instituted by the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI) by Frederick Job, a professor in the Building Department at the University of Jos, revealed that the physical observation of the building looked distressed while weak materials were used for the building. The report also observed that the quality of the concrete used to construct the twostorey building was in doubt, as there was no boundary between the concrete and the steel reinforcement. Besides, the report noted the slab reinforcement anchorage provided for the structure
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Authorities at all levels should therefore be concerned that too much blood is being spilled needlessly in Nigeria’s building industry for all sorts of reasons that even professionals in the sector recognise as avoidable. Cases of building collapse cut across offices, schools, residential areas, churches, and business premises. Yet, the construction of a building, according to the Nigerian Society of Structural Engineers, “is expected to be managed engineers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, architects, quantity surveyors,” among others. Lack of professionalism in the industry has led to unethical dealings like the use of cheap and inferior materials, improper supervision, distortion of original building plans - like when a 10-year-old without approval.
As we have consistently advocated, there is an urgent need for a complete overhaul of the nation’s building and construction regulations. A policy should be put in place whereby any professional connected with a collapsed building should forfeit their license and face the full weight of the law. The land upon which the collapsed building was erected should be forfeited to the government.
Buildings marked for demolition by town planning authorities, should be demolished without delay. Unless drastic steps are taken and building codes implemented to the letter, the nation will continue to have these avoidable serial disasters.
Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief(150-200 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (950- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with the email address and phone numbers of the writer
LETTERS
NDLEA, DRUGS AND ORGANISED CRIMES
Paul Goldstein, an expert on criminological theories,says hard drugs cause criminal behaviour with specific regard to those addicted to them through three primary theories, involving psychopharmacological violence, economic compulsive, and systemic violence. That is more so, when the drug user has a pressing need to consume them but lacks the necessary funds to do so.
The immediate effect of hard drugs on the mind and body of the addict may create mental or physical states that somehow trigger aggression. Such a compelling situation may lead to predatory crimes such as burglary, robbery or theft.
As far as drug trafficking is concerned, it has become a source of revenue for organized crime groups, with many of those involved getting Engaged in serious crimes such as trading in all manner of firearms and ammunition as well as explosives. Others are into immigration crime and modern slavery.
But the burning issue has metamorphosed
into a hydra- headed monster and keeps recurring because when the drugs are illegal the partakers in the illicit market are unlikely to report to the police. It therefore, means that the predators are more likely to prey on them.And it becomes easy for the jungle mantra of might -is-right to play out. But it could even get worse, if left unchecked.
As the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA),Gen. Buba Marwa has rightly noted there are empirical and circumstantial evidences on ground, to bolster the connection of hard drug trafficking and abuse to the ever soaring waves of criminality, especially in Nigeria. He made this revelation at the National Youth Conference organized by the Dr. Hope Omeizaled Vanguard Against Drug Abuse (GVADA)at the detox centre in Abuja last month. The theme was “The Youths, Mental Health and Nigeria’s Future”. Furthermore, he stated and aptly too that when the youths are addicted to hard drugs, the tendency for them to develop anti- social
behavior becomes high. Unfortunately, it has fuelled insecurity that has sent hundreds of thousands of innocent souls in the country to their early graves.
It would be recalled that Marwa also highlighted this obnoxious and saddening situation back in February 2021. Said he: “Nobody in his right sense will take up arms to kidnap, rape and kill innocent people. Therefore, if we are able to tackle the issue of drug abuse, most of the security challenges the nation is facing would have been solved”.
And lest we forget, he has over the past three years as the helsman at the NDLEA raised timely warning over the grave implications of the fast-spreading oddity of drug trafficking and its abuse. For instance, some of the screaming headlines include his statements that”90 per cent of criminalities in Nigeria are linked to drug abuse”. He also revealed that:”15 million Nigerians use hard drugs,” and one in six persons in Kano is a drug addict “. But we
cannot continue to tread this smoking path to perfidy. So, what’s the best way forward?
The best option available to us is prevention. But as one had been canvassing over the decades, the fight against both drug trafficking and abuse should be not be left to the NDLEA alone. For instance,apart from dedicating Chapter 10 of my book titled, ‘How to be a Successful Student’ to the war against smoking, alcoholism and drug abuse, one has enlightened some primary school pupils and students on their dire consequences. That should begin at the home front, right from the family level with parents and caretakers spending quality time with their children and wards. In doing so, they should ask themselves the all-important questions: Do I know where my children are right now and what they are doing? Do I know much about their friends and what social activities they are engaged in? Have I ever taught them about the types, nature of hard drugs and warned them against them?
Ayo Baje, Lagos
Vanessa Obioha was among those who attended the special screening of ‘The Man Died,’ a Zuri24 Media production that honoured the iconic playwright and political activist Wole Soyinka as part of his 90th birthday celebrations. She brings snapshots from the special event .
‘The Man Died’: A Celebration of Wole Soyinka’s Defiant Activism
The well-heeled guests who recently gathered at Alliance Française (Mike Adenuga Centre) in Ikoyi for a special screening of ‘The Man Died,’ a film based on the iconic playwright Wole Soyinka’s prison memoir of same title, made for an interesting mix. Among them were the former governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, and his wife, Bisi, mingling with thespians and musicians.
Dressed in a senator outfit, Fayemi, who would typically be surrounded by bodyguards, seemed at ease, sharing handshakes and hugs. At one point, actor Yemi Sodimu joined the Forward Slide Bandwhose music welcomed guests to an evening of merriment and reverence for the iconic Soyinka - singing melodiously as the governor moved to the rhythm.
Notable figures in media and arts like Joke Silva, Gbemi Shasore, Kadaria Ahmed, Norbert Young, Bimbo Oloyede, Tajudeen Adepetun, Toni Kan, Toyin Akinosho, Kunle Afolayan, and Bolane Austen-Peters, among others were in attendance. Academics like Prof. Awam Amkpa, who directed the film, and Prof. Ikechukwu Obiaya of Pan Atlantic University were also present. The Lagos State government was represented by the Commissioner of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka. Shehu Sani, the Nigerian politician and activist was also in attendance as well as the polymath and poet Chief Kayode Aderinokun and the economist Tilewa Adebajo. Royalty was represented by the Oniru of Iruland Oba Abdulwasiu Lawal, who arrived with his entourage. Of course, there were the hosts of the evening, the i-Represent International Documentary Film Festival (iREP) organisers-Femi Odugbemi, Makin Soyinka, Jahman Anikulapo and Theo Lawson. Each of them was busy, welcoming guests and ensuring that drinks and canapés flowed generously (it would have been sacrilegious if no wine was served at this gathering).
As this eclectic mix of personalities mingled and bantered, taking photos, one thing was clear: they embodied the essence of Soyinka, who turned 90 on July 13. This gathering in honour of his 90th birthday highlighted his vast influence over the years, drawing people from various walks of life. Whether as a playwright, essayist, advocate of good governance, or rights activist, these individuals represented the qualities for which Soyinka is renowned.
Under the evening sky, these mortals interacted as one, eschewing class or ethnic bias. Much of this unity was captured in the film ‘The Man Died,’ which narrated Soyinka’s resilient spirit during his imprisonment at the period of the Nigerian civil war. The two-hour film, with Wale Ojo playing Soyinka, portrayed him as a rights activist and a detribalised Nigerian whose main goal was to put an end to the war, irrespective of ethnicity. Whether hanging out with friends at open bars, drinking and sharing a casual smoke, or in prison interacting with inmates, Soyinka was simply one of us, fighting for justice for the ordinary man.
‘The Man Died’ serves as iREP’s tribute to the Nobel laureate. Its trailer was first shown at the 2024 festival, which set aside two days to honour the activist. Despite Soyinka’s many notable roles, iREP’s choice to focus on his activism aligned with the festival’s theme, ‘Righting the Future.’
“He is a symbol that the young people need to emulate. The capacity to question authority must come pari passu with a personal commitment to the future of that entity called Nigeria,” said Odugbemi in an earlier interview with THISDAY. His company, Zuri24 Media produced ‘The Man Died.’
In an era where activism often unfolds on social media, ‘The Man Died’ reminds us of the enduring dedication required to fight for justice.
“Justice is justice regardless of what the colour of the victim is,” Amkpa noted. “My goal is that young people see the writer, the author, and the subject, regardless of ethnicity. What gives him moral clarity is the subject of justice and injustice. To move forward to the new Nigeria, we must think differently.”
Born in 1934 in Abeokuta to Christian parents, Soyinka had barely returned to Nigeria after graduating from the University of Leeds in England when he established an acting company, The 1960 Masks, and wrote
the play, ‘A Dance of the Forests,’ produced in 1960, the year Nigeria gained independence. He followed it with other plays such as ‘The Strong Breed’ and ‘Kongi’s Harvest.’
During the Nigerian civil war, Soyinka called for a cease-fire in an article. As a result, he was arrested in 1967, accused of conspiring with the Biafra rebels, and held as a political prisoner for 22 months until 1969.
This era was aptly captured in ‘The Man Died,’ showcasing Soyinka’s defiance and resoluteness during his imprisonment, reflected in the film’s recurring quote, “Death is never the end of a man; fear is,” attributed to his grandfather.
Writer Bode Asiyanbi delicately showcased this fearlessness through historical contexts such as Soyinka’s valiant takeover of a radio station to cancel an election and his brave trip to the eastern region to see Biafran leader Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu. His bravery was balanced by a softer side, as the film explored his relationship with a nurse, Morenike (Segilola Ogidan), and his grief over the loss of his friend, poet Christopher Okigbo, who served in the Biafran army. Soyinka faced other challenges after
his release from prison, but his fearless advocacy for good governance and justice remains a defining trait. This sentiment was shared by many attendees, including Sani, who saw parallels between his own experience and Soyinka’s.
“I can see my own history in Soyinka’s history because I have been through all he has been through. We’ve both been to the Kirikiri and Kaduna prisons. The book he wrote, which was source material for the script of this movie, was written in Kaduna prisons where I come from, and I can see the story and the history as clearly written, and I am so impressed to see it in a movie form.”
As the jazzy sounds of musical artist Kunle Ayo filled the air after the screening, the lessons of ‘The Man Died’ resonated deeply with the attendees. The film serves as a powerful reminder of Soyinka’s fearless fight for justice and the urgent need to right the future. His legacy, celebrated on his 90th birthday, continues to inspire and challenge us to uphold the principles of justice and equality, transcending time and generations.
Amkpa and Odugbemi
Chief Aderinokun and Olusoji Jacobs
Kunle Ayo
Fayemi and wife, Bisi
Toni Kan, Jahman and Afolayan
Oniru of Iruland
Makin Soyinka
Joke Silva and Yemi Sodimu
with KAYODE ALFRED 08116759807, E-mail: kayflex2@yahoo.com
...Amazing lifestyles of Nigeria’s rich and famous
African Leaders Back Tinubu
One person with a belief is equal to a force of 99 who have only interests. These are the words of John Stuart Mill, and how accurate they are. Upon considering how strongly some African leaders have shown strong support for Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, leading to his recent reappointment as ECOWAS chair, one can only conclude that they really believe in him.
President Tinubu has many friends, but few are presidents. Ghanaian President, Nana Akufo-Addo, is one such friend. He has always been a vocal supporter, even backing Tinubu at the recent ECOWAS summit. This camaraderie is sweetened further by the fact that they share the same birthday, indicating a bond that transcends political affiliations.
Tinubu’s re-election as ECOWAS chair occurred at the 65th Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of States and Government on July 7, 2024. His first term was set to end on July 9, but he accepted another one-year tenure, reflecting the confidence his peers have in his leadership.
Akufo-Addo’s confidence in Tinubu definitely had something to do with the Nigerian’s reemergence. The Ghanaian president’s endorsement is significant given his prominent role in West African politics. But one cannot help but reflect on their shared histories. Both presidents come from influential backgrounds, with Akufo-Addo being the son of Ghanaian political and royal lineage, and Tinubu hailing from a notable merchant family in Lagos. Their paths of progress also reflect a shared dedication to public service and governance.
Tinubu’s political journey is marked by a commitment to democracy. After starting his career in the Social Democratic Party and facing imprisonment for his pro-democracy activities, he returned from exile to play a crucial role in Nigerian politics. His efforts culminated in his election as Lagos State Governor and later as Nigeria’s president in 2023.
Akufo-Addo, a seasoned politician and lawyer, has similarly navigated the complexities of political life. Serving as Attorney General, Minister of Justice, and Foreign Minister before becoming Ghana’s president in 2017, he has consistently shown a dedication to governance and public service. His re-election in 2020 reinforces his enduring influence in Ghanaian politics.
With a pair like Akufo-Addo and Tinubu overseeing politics in West Africa, things will only continue to bounce from stability to development.
End of an Era for Aisha Buhari’s Younger Brother
“Power truly is transient,” so the saying goes. This holds true for the younger brother of former First Lady Aisha Buhari, Ahmed Halilu. Halilu, who was appointed Managing Director of the Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Plc (NSPM) in September 2022 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, has been removed from his position by the current President, Bola Tinubu.
The recent directive from President Tinubu not only affected Halilu but also saw the removal of four other key executives from NSPM.
Halilu’s initial appointment as MD was a notable moment, attributed to the influence of his sister, the former First Lady, and the endorsement of the then Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele.
Halilu, who brought over 23 years of banking experience to the role, was initially acting in this capacity following the resignation of his predecessor, Abbas Masanawa. His formal appointment
was seen as a strategic move by the Buhari administration to ensure trusted hands managed critical national assets.
But despite his professional qualifications and experience, Halilu’s tenure was marred by the controversial currency redesign policy led by Emefiele. This policy, which NSPM played a significant role in implementing, faced widespread criticism for its negative impact on the economy and daily lives of Nigerians.
But it has to be said that throughout his time at NSPM, Halilu was perceived positively on social media. He maintained a relatively clean image, with no controversy strong enough to significantly tarnish his reputation.
But that is all in the past. Now that things are harsher and there is no shoulder to bear the rains and the storms, shifts will naturally happen. His recent ordeal gives credence to his critics who have always opined that the time is coming when Halilu’s protective network may no longer be sufficient to shield him from consequences. That time is now.
The Magnificent Magnanimity of Mike Adenuga
The Chinese say that a bit of fragrance always clings to the hand that gives roses. This is just the case for top philanthropist, Dr. Mike Adenuga. In a remarkable display of admiration, Adenuga purchased 10 copies of Aremo Olusegun Osoba’s book, “My Life In The Public Eye,” for N100 million. This gesture, which was revealed during Osoba’s 85th birthday celebration, showcased Adenuga’s deep respect for the elder statesman and now serves as a testament to Adenuga’s belief in honouring legacies.
The event at Eko Hotel and Suites was a dazzling affair, filled with prominent figures from various sectors. Despite the presence of many highprofile guests, Adenuga’s act of generosity stood out prominently. It was a moment that reinforced the significance of acknowledging those who have dedicated their lives to public service.
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the lasting contributions of individuals. However, Adenuga’s grand purchase
Olanrewaju Rasaq Celebrates Three Scores in Jeddah
It seems that Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was right when he said that “some must follow and some command, though all are made of clay.” Looking at the activities of some people, it is clear that they set the tone of excellence.
Olanrewaju Rasaq, the Chairman of LAMEX Group, recently celebrated his 60th birthday in grand style. The celebrations were held in none other than Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. With friends and family gathered in the modern commercial hub and gateway to the Islamic holy cities of Mecca and Medina, Rasaq’s choice of destination highlighted his achievements and his status as a respected businessman.
It was a three-day celebration that began on Monday, July 15, with prayers at Umurah in Mecca. This spiritual start was followed by a lavish dinner party at Casa Di Ora in Jeddah on the day of Rasaq’s birthday. The festivities concluded with a boat cruise on Wednesday, July 17, further enhancing the grandeur of the occasion.
Rasaq’s decision to celebrate in Jeddah shows just how great men mark their milestones. Opting for a destination known for its spiritual
Fidelis Ayebae, the dynamic leader of Fidson Healthcare Plc, is enjoying a period of exceptional growth and opportunity. Recently, his company’s shareholders approved a plan to raise N20 billion ($26.3 million) through a share offering. This move, even though similar to what others have done in the past, shows just how confident these shareholders are in Ayebae’s strategic direction.
It has to be noted that under Ayebae’s leadership, Fidson Healthcare has demonstrated robust financial performance despite industry challenges. For the 2023 fiscal year, shareholders approved a significant dividend increase, which boosted the creds of Ayebae, and the effectiveness of his vision and strategy.
In 2024, Fidson continued to show
and commercial significance, he demonstrated a blend of reverence and luxury. This celebration was not just about marking a personal milestone but also about showcasing his journey and accomplishments.
Rasaq started his career at LEMMIE Agencies Limited, a shipping company. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to leave the company in 1986 and establish the LAMEX Group. Over the years, LAMEX has grown into a multinational conglomerate with diverse investments in maritime, aviation, haulage, logistics, oil and gas, and hospitality.
Looking over Rasaq’s entrepreneurial journey, one can see hard work, foresight, and resilience. With over three decades of experience, he has become a leading business icon in Nigeria and beyond. His business ingenuity has transformed LAMEX Group into a significant player in the Nigerian economy, generating employment for many Nigerians.
There is also his competence in maritime and aviation operations. A member of many professional bodies is Rasaq, including FIATA, AFBN, RAME, ANLCA, and TIACA, all
Fidelis Ayebae: Steering Fidson Healthcare to New Heights
resilience and adaptability. It has posted impressive revenue growth, and experts think that the company’s proactive approach to securing funds through commercial papers has helped it maintain liquidity and support growth initiatives. All these bear the marks of Ayebae’s acumen when it is introduced into the strategy mix.
Ayebae’s extensive background, including a Diploma in Civil Engineering and an Advanced Diploma in Business Administration, has equipped him with a unique skill set to lead
highlights the importance of recognising enduring legacies. His commitment to celebrating Osoba’s work is a reminder of the value of lifetime achievements.
Osoba’s career spans journalism and politics, where he made significant impacts. His memoir captures pivotal moments that have shaped modern Nigerian journalism and governance. It is to these achievements that Adenuga raised the proverbial cup, in his own way documenting and valuing these contributions.
Meanwhile, Adenuga who is known for his business acumen and philanthropy, has consistently supported various sectors in Nigeria. In the past, his contributions have promoted everything from intellectual to cultural heritage. Osoba’s case is only the latest.
Indeed, philanthropy as Adenuga has demonstrated has far-reaching effects. Such contributions extend beyond monetary value. They reflect a deep appreciation for pioneers and promote a culture of honouring the worthy.
Rasaq
attesting to his expertise in these fields. So, celebrating his 60th birthday the way he did just goes to show Rasaq’s stature and the respect he commands. It is a testament to his life’s work and the impact he has made in various industries.
Fidson. His experience at Citibank Limited and his entrepreneurial journey since founding Fidson Healthcare in 1995 have been instrumental in the company’s success. At present, there is no other weight upon which shareholders’ confidence balance but Ayebae. Similarly, he appears to be confident in his vision, which has birthed a commitment to continuous learning and development, as evidenced by many different local and international courses that have further enhanced his leadership capabilities.
Ayebae’s leadership has not only driven financial success but also polished into existence a culture of innovation and resilience within Fidson. The company’s ability to thrive amidst challenges speaks to the strength of its strategic direction and the dedication of its team.
Halilu
Tinubu
Adenuga
Ayebae
Nduka Obaigbena: May Your Road Be Rough
I opened the pages of the newspapers during the week and it was his birthday celebrations that greeted me. Then my favourite egbon, Segun Awolowo sent a well-written birthday greeting to a man you would really be doing yourself evil to ignore.
Surprisingly, I have physically met the man they call Duke only twice in my life. The first time at the swanky George Hotel in Ikoyi. It was in the heat of COVID and he came out looking like a Mongolian astronaut, complete with glass visors and masks protecting him from the deadly virus.
He sat in the lobby and I joined him. For me, that was a moment. I was meeting my hero in person for the very first time in my life. As we spoke, I winked at a photographer who was lurking around and he took the shot without Prince Obaigbena’s knowledge.
I enlarged it and placed it as a
ALI NDUME: GOING, GOING, GONE!!!
huge mural on the wall in my bedroom. When people come to visit me, I take them on a tour of my bedroom to show them the picture of me and my god.
Yes, Nduka Obaigbena provided the carrot to my donkey. Someone I have chased and wanted to be like right from his bowtie-wearing days. His foray into media was quite explosive, giving him a perch at the very top of the pedestal.
From print to broadcast to events, pulling in concerts, fashion and the works… the man is simply a big-bellied wizard, and as a publisher of inevitably the most influential newspaper in the country and also arguably the most penetrative TV news platform, he is very powerful and he enjoys power.
My second meeting with him happened during my appearance on my big sister, Ruth Osime’s very popular programme, ‘Perspective.’ I had just got off the set when he called out and said:
Ali Ndume has suddenly turned into a latterday activist Senator and an emergency one for that matter. You know when things no longer favour these people, they start shouting from the temporary discomfort. His outcry started when the CBN started moving people back to Lagos and since then, he has been giving Sahara Reporters a run for their money as the major media opposition to this government. Oga recently went on air to say that the President has been captured. He didn’t stop at that but reportedly called lawmakers, “kleptomaniacs,” and for his efforts was relieved of his enviable position as Chief Whip. He was even asked to resign and join any party of his choice. Luckily, he finally got the much less glamorous position of Chairman of Tourism or something like that.
Even though the man is saying the right things at these times, I still find it very difficult to give him my sympathy. We are really tired of these insiders running to us for support when they lose out from the struggles within their circles.
It is now that Ali has found his voice, it is now that he has suddenly realised the kleptocracy that he is in the middle of, it is now that the President has been captured. My brother abeg leave matter. You are just a spoilt brat who is no longer gaining access to lucre, hence your crybaby tactics. We are not moved and can never be moved, better go and beg your people because it is
“Oga, why are you looking for women trouble?” I immediately said, “Oga o, I am looking for you.” he invited me to his plush apartment and we had a long conversation.
I do not think I have tried so hard to emulate anyone as I do to him, even wearing bowties as he does. The man has been epochal in his contributions to the society. His networking prowess is second to none which I believe must be documented for posterity. He mixes very easily between social classes and deploys his superhero-like brilliance as the fuel for building these relationships and also maintaining them.
My goal is to write a book on him. I have begged has dodged but will keep trying and until he agrees, let me wish him a blissful 65th and a funfilled, impact-filled long and super productive life.
Nigeria is lucky to have him. Thanks
really cold outside here o. Shebi you kuku know how much a tuber of yam is, better go and make peace oo and leave us alone in our sufferings. I have warned you.
FEMI FALANA AND EL-RUFAI: RUMBLE IN THE SAHEL
Unconfirmed reports are saying that the Kaduna State House of Assembly may have contracted fiery lawyer, Femi Falana to prosecute the immediate past Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir el-Rufai for huge misappropriation of funds. What is even bothering me in all of these, is why EFCC has not been pulled into the matter. EFCC is all over the Kogi matter but I have not heard anything about their involvement in the Kaduna saga. Abi na me never hear?
Anyway, the move to get Falana into the matter, if true, is a right step in the right direction. At least, if for nothing else, it would allow for a fair hearing, an equal platform to hear both sides and would go a long way in strengthening the judiciary as it would be free to live up to its expectations without the overriding weight of the federal authorities -if there is anything like that.
If I am to advise El-Rufai and of which I have been shouting since this matter started, it’s to rein in his Twitter-mad son, otherwise, he will be the one that will be bringing beans to him in prison. What I see in this matter is a clear case of a witch-hunt at the end and political
misunderstanding at the other end. All these monies that they are shouting are missing, can easily be explained and resolved at a level-headed arbitration panel. But if we continue to push the matter with hot-headed rascality as personified by El-Rufai’s son, which by all means you should carry out a DNA test on, then we may be finding ourselves sharing a room with some inmates at the Kaduna correctional facility. Please, let wisdom reign on this matter, let’s push for sanity and maturity and let’s do this very quickly before Mr. Falana buys a plane ticket because once that daddy enters the matter, na fire oooo, I will run away ooo. Thank you.
DANGOTE AND THE CURIOUS CASE OF CRUDE
Since he came out screaming like a child not wanting to take his bath on the surreptitious moves by the IOCs to starve his giant refinery of crude, I have been asking questions o. Why is this happening? Didn’t they think of supply at the stage of conceiving the refinery? Was there any contingency plan to mitigate against this? What is the government through the NNPCL which has a stake saying about this and all? What about the NUPRC?
I have been asking questions and a lot of people have spoken but very strategic people that I have reached out to in the oil
community and government have preferred to keep their mouths shut.
You see, I do not like trading in conspiracy theories and that is why I will discount all that I have heard but piece together the little that I have heard that makes sense. It is looking like the Dangote Refinery is caught between a complex web of long-standing agreements, government crude for loan policies, weak government regulatory environments, sharp practices by the IOCs and entrenched interests that will see businesses wiped out if the refinery succeeds.
There is no time or space in this column to go through the nitty-gritty of my findings but let me state clearly – all stakeholders need the Dangote Refinery to succeed. It will positively impact everybody from IOCs to their agents, to their home governments, the Nigerian governments, to NNPCL to the ordinary Nigerian on the street, amongst others.
So, buying crude at a premium, making it scarce amongst other artificial challenges being thrown at it is just not the best. To say one thing, IOCs making the refinery buy crude exploited here from overseas agents at a $1 markup as alleged is, to say the least, a continuous slap on all Nigerians and this must be wrestled to the ground by the government. Can we just sha let this refinery breathe? It is no longer just about Mr. Aliko Dangote but it is about our economic renaissance. Thank you.
El-Rufai
Falana
Dangote
Ndume
For Energy Tycoon, Femi Otedola, It’s Yet Another Wizardry
It is an irrefutable fact that energy wizard and one of the leading entrepreneurs in the continent of Africa, Femi Otedola, would make a compelling read if his life is ever documented. Right from an early age, he evinced an interest to float his own business and put it in the global spotlight. Even though many did not understand his vision, Otedola, the owner of the energy company, Geregu Power Plc, stuck to his dream, imbibing the words of the 26th President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt Jr. which says, “Keep your eyes on the stars, and your feet on the ground.”
Today, Otedola has achieved more than he imagined. His various businesses are proof of his prowess. From Zenon to Forte Oil, Otedola has
exuded such business wizardry that keeps fetching him admiration.
That brilliance was recently glimpsed when Otedola reported a pre-tax profit of N30.2 billion in the first half of 2024 for Geregu Power Plc, up 145% year on year from N12.3 billion in the same period of 2023.
Profit after tax for the period under review also rose by 2.45% to N20 billion compared to N8 billion reported in the same period in 2023.
The financial gain comes on the heels of Otedola’s agreement with Germany-based energy expert Siemens Energy AG to increase Geregu’s current power-generating capacity to 1,200.
With such recurring successes, Otedola’s business wizardry remains indubitable.
It was undoubtedly a happy moment for UK-based Nigerianborn educationist, Tolu Eledan when she successfully climbed the ‘fifth floor’ recently.
The beautiful woman celebrated her birthday accompanied by her lovely husband, children, family members and friends at The Rock Tower, House on the Rock Church for a thanksgiving service. Thereafter, they were all hosted to some English delicious delicacies at Tufnell Park, London.
For the CEO/MD of TPseal Education Consulting firm, it was a moment she had prayed to witness. Despite being born into the family of a renowned Ibadan Lawyer, the Late Chief Samuel Ojo of the Ojo Orukumo, Ojagbo Ibadan, and a retired School Principal Mrs Ayodele Ojo of the Ayorinde Family from Ile Oriaje Awe, Oyo State, she had never for once, deviated in her pursuit for entrepreneurship and educational excellence.
In a bid to help a few family friends navigate the arduous process of securing admission and processing visas, she diversified into education three years ago, having ran a successful e-commerce retailing of foods and gifts, Hampers4you business with the same TPseal Limited since 2007 after bowing out of the private sector.
Within its short years of operation, under her steering leadership, the firm has now become one of the leading International education consulting firms that has done remarkably well by focusing and helping students gain admission into colleges and universities of their choice across the globe, offering bespoke programmes of support with, college or university choice, admission applications, essay and statement of purpose development, Scholarship support service and visas application service.
The highly cerebral woman is also a master’s degree holder in Housing Policy and Practice from Sheffield Hallam University, with merit in 2006.
Again, Aisha Achimugu Shines Like a Diamond
Not too many businesswomen and chief executives have her kind of guts. She does not cringe, even in the face of difficulty. For Aisha Achimugu, this unique attribute was the impetus that made her go into business at a time when not many gave her any chance of survival.
Unlike many other women, she enjoys running neck and neck with men for as long as the race is for a noble cause. And she has successfully engraved her name in the hearts of the people.
For many years now, Achimugu has been busy cutting deals beyond the shores of the continent of Africa, while also proving that good things can also come out from this side of the world.
Her path to success includes a series of ventures that have significantly contributed to the region’s business growth. And the strings of industry awards that litter her ornate office
serve as a testament to her success in the sector.
For instance, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Felak Concept Group emerged as the winner of Champion Newspapers’ 2023 Heart of Gold Award in recognition of her extraordinary philanthropy targeted at less privileged members of Nigerian society.
Again, Achimugu shone like a diamond recently when she stepped out onto the podium to receive an award at the 2024 African Achievers Awards in the House of Parliament, UK. Achimugu emerged as the African Female Business Leader of the Year for her contributions to the business sector, not only in Nigeria but also in the African continent.
Of course, the award is not surprising to many who are aware of the records of this astute business mogul who has succeeded in all her endeavours in the past.
Fashion Mogul, Kiki Okewale’s Unusual Birthday Fête
Beloved by customers, fans and friends for her talent, humility, and down-to-earth demeanour, Kiki Okewale is the founder of the House of Plush Exclusive (HOPE) Fashion label, a purpose-driven entrepreneur and a life coach.
On the fashion scene, Kiki is known for unique designs which often come with glittering embellishments. Her clientele boasts of prominent personalities in politics and the business sphere. Within the short period she forayed into the fashion industry, the young woman has carved a niche for herself, stitching her name tightly into the Nigerian fashion landscape.
Kiki is also no stranger to high society. She is the pretty wife of a notable fertility czar, Dr. Babatunde Okewale, who owns the popular St. Ives Hospital Group. The proud mother and wife boasts of a résumé that includes more than one career and continues to chart into new territories that are fashion-related—she recently opened a multi-million naira garment factory in Lagos where she employed scores of young Nigerians.
You can call Kiki a workaholic and you will
not be far from the truth. She also runs a blog, and non-governmental organisations and offers mentorship classes on entrepreneurship mostly under the auspices of Women High Achievers Trybe (WHATrybe), a community of female high achievers she led.
It was really a massive landmark celebration for Kiki when she clocked 40 recently. But the beautiful woman with milk of kindness running in her veins didn’t just hold any lavish 40th birthday celebration, but an empowerment extravaganza.
To mark her arrival on the fourth floor, Kiki threw a ‘Blingers’ Party’ for 100 women she trained on how to transform rhinestones into beautiful crafts and lucrative businesses. She also donated food items and other gifts to the less privileged across Lagos. For her, this is more than a celebration as it’s a stand against poverty, especially among women.
However, the gorgeous woman capped the 40th birthday celebration with a joyful gathering at the foyer of HOPE Plaza, her fashion empire headquarters in Opebi, Lagos, on Saturday, July 13, in the presence of select friends, family
For foremost educationist, Dr. Folasade Shotomide, one good turn deserves another. At a point in her life, she needed support and was dazed by how people with no filial connection rallied around her. That experience stimulated the hunger in her to give back to society.
Shotomide looked out for an opportunity to explore the humanitarian virtue in herself but realised she could not do it alone. A chance encounter with a resource person during an engagement at former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s Africa Leadership Forum changed her perspective on how to help and serve a larger community. This subsequently led her to Lions Club International nearly two decades ago.
Shotomide, a teacher of over 30 years and now proprietor of The Right Choice Schools and His Grace Educational Services, both in Ogun State, has been a member of Lions International since 2005. She is a past President of Lagos Achievers Lions Club and has held various leadership positions in the international service club.
With her steadfast commitment to humanitarian works, Shotomide has been widely recognized by both the entire society and most importantly, her Club, who decided to elect her to head the District 404A3 of the Lions Club as the District Governor. On June 25, she was officially recognised and installed as a District Governor at the Lions International Office during the 2024 Convention in Melbourne, Australia. On her return to Nigeria, Shotomide didn’t waste any time as she announced her sequence of activities with a focus on humanitarian activities, youth empowerment, and agriculture. During her one-year service tenure, she plans to train 100 youths on Information Communication Technology. Shotomide was elected the District Governor on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at the Lions Club multiple convention in Ibadan, Oyo State. She would be publicly unveiled at an elaborate event in Lagos on July 27. Her tenure will run from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025.
Achimugu
Eledan
Okewale
Shotomide
members and some VIPs. It was a unique kind of party, dubbed ‘Kiki Okewale’s 40th birthday Sip, Shop, Celebrate.’
ARTS & REVIEW ARTS &
A PUBLICATION
A Ballpoint Artist’s Musings on a Parisian Odyssey
A recurring motif, highlighting cultural appropriation, resounds through the works featured in Jacqueline Suowari’s first exhibition in
Paris like a theme song playing in the background, Okechukwu
Uwaezuoke writes
Really, should anyone have any reason to doubt that Jacqueline Suowari’s solo exhibition, Adorn, was a huge hit among the gaggle of art enthusiasts who converged at the art space along Rue de Verneuil—one of those Parisian narrow thoroughfares within shouting distance from the Seine River—that Thursday, May 30 evening,
the French capital city and indeed in continental Europe, Suowari enthuses about the fact that view her new body of work. “Many people took the time to familiarise themselves with my previous work, and the feedback was that this body of work was more impressive,” she adds. Interestingly, her ever-evolving experimental trademark style—a style that sees her blending ballpoint pen, paint, fabric, and ornamentation to produce visually spectacular collages—appears to have elicited enough interest to garner the attention of some international gallery owners. Put it down to her apparent exploration of cross-cultural connections, which should resonate with her growing worldwide following. “By joining together various materials, become a collage of various fashion trends and cross-cultural heritage, by extension speaking to the diversity, nuance, and richness of the cultural heritage in modern-day Nigeria,” the exhibition’s curator, Andrea Toulouse, corroborates in her statement published in the exhibition catalogue.
No surprise, then, that since her art was displayed at a New York-based gallery in 2018, made her solo presentations in London, Lagos, Abuja, and Miami, as well as contributions to Nigeria, must-sees.
rendered in her artist’s distinctive signature style, which featured in the recent Paris show, for instance. They adorned the walls of a newly opened art space, bearing the obvious hallmarks latent emotions. “There were also those who found the themes intriguing,” the artist further discloses.
in the paintings, which, as expected, piqued the interest of visitors, to whom the versatility of black African hair was something to be fascinated about. Many of the viewers also wanted to learn more about the subjects’ traditional dress and its cultural importance in the artist’s native country. Overall, each artwork struck a for them to choose a favourite.
Indeed, it shouldn’t take long for even the most casual viewer to discern a recurring motif—a theme that appeared to be present in every single piece. And this theme is cultural appropriation, which is evident yet subtle— like a theme song playing in the background. Besides, just a hint of imported or domesticated fashion culture is enough to pique viewers’
conceal references to French haute couture and
European fashion styles, which are juxtaposed with traditional Nigerian themes, patterns, and hairstyles.
This in-your-face theme of cross-cultural and sartorial symbiosis between Nigeria and France is further highlighted in “Only the Brave.” With blurred-out facial fea-
seems to cede the limelight to the female with texture and ornamentation, and high
Again, beyond the façade of modernity, in works like “If You Forget Me, Never Forget Paris,” “The Wind, It Whispers My Name,” and “The Vanity Room,” lie myriads of hidden inner worlds. A kaleidoscope of mindscapes beckons, lending themselves to the musings of those willing to venture beyond the surface. These works, like the others in the exhibition, scour the depths to unravel hidden narratives, awakening dormant stories that lie within.
Suowari says she received outstanding feedback from attendees at the Paris exhibition and extols the curator’s thoughtful placement of the pieces, which, she says, orchestrated a cohesive and engaging experience that resonated with the viewers. There is, of course, also the fact that the viewers’ appreciation of the works was further enhanced by the accompanying poems by the artist. Consequently, the consensus among the audience was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their delight and admiration for the exhibition.
This exhibition, which concluded on June 5, was a year in the making. The curator, Andrea Toulouse, who was launching her art agency, chose this exhibition as its inaugural event. Suowari and Toulouse working for a prominent online gallery in Europe. Despite not working together at the time, they maintained a strong connection, regularly updating each other fondly describes their relationship as “like sisters” and praises Toulouse’s warmth, kindness, and honesty. When planning the exhibition began last year, Toulouse wasn’t pregnant, but when she did become pregnant, she was open and supportive, ensuring a smooth collaboration. She delivered on all agreements, Toulouse’s new agency, Suowari was this new chapter in Andrea’s career. Suowari has meanwhile returned to her Abuja base as of June 13, only to discover that new opportunities awaited her attention while she was away. As a activities in recent weeks as the planning and strategizing for the second half of the year revved up. One of these opportunities is a particularly exciting upcoming exhibition with the London Lighthouse Gallery in October, which promises to be a highlight of the year.
Suowari sitting in front of two of her paintings
Suowari explaining her works to guests at the exhibition
Guests admiring one of Suowari's paintings
INTERNATIONAL
Nigeria’s Foreign Policy and the Challenge of the AES Sub-region: The Dilemma of What Future?
Regional integration is being promoted by subregional integration with the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in WestAfrica as at today. The withdrawal makes it the second time Francophone countries would withdraw from the regional body. Mauritania was the first to formally withdraw from the ECOWAS on 28th December, 2000, and by so doing, reducing the membership of the organisation from 16 to 15.
With the notice of immediate withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, on 28 January 2024, from the ECOWAS, the establishment of a confederation on 6 July, 2024, and with their public declaration of no returning to the ECOWAS again, it is clear that they are not only anti-France but also anti-ECOWAS henceforth. By implication, the ECOWAS is now left with twelve original members. And true enough, the withdrawal has led to the establishment of a confederation, the origin of which is traceable to the defence and security pact done on 16 September 2023, called Alliance des Etats du Sahel (AES), meaning the Alliance of Sahel States (ASS). The ASS is a direct resultant from the ECOWAS 7-day ultimatum given to Niger Republic on Sunday. July 30. 2023 and which expired on August 6, 2023.
It can also be argued that the fear of the ultimatum created the fear of unpredictability of the ECOWAS that prompted the ASS to acquire military weapons in preparation for self-defence. The ASS does not want to be cut unawares. And true enough, the establishment of the ASS creates a dilemma for Nigeria’s foreign policy in various ways. In this regard, should Nigeria, as the initiator of the ECOWAS, and the most important sustaining member, afford the luxury of accommodating the dismantlement of the organisation? If yes, what are the implications and how should they be dealt with? If no, how should foreign policy address the issue? What does Africa as centrepiece of Nigeria’s foreign policy mean in light of the ASS?
Foreign Policy Challenges
The first and most critical challenge is the preaching of Africa as centrepiece of foreign policy, but without walking the talk, which reminds of James Ngugi’s Weep Not Child. James Ngugi, who not only changed his name in 1970 to Ngugi wa Thiong’o and decided not to write in English language but in his native Gikuyu, in rejection of neo-colonialism, said a White man is always a White man, but a Black man is never a Black man. The situation in Nigeria is not in any way different. It was Nigeria that proclaimed herself as Africa’s defender and protector. It was Nigeria that chose to protect black dignity. In fact, Nigeria played host to the FESTAC 77, that is, the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture, held from 15 January 1977 to 12 February 1977.
In Nigeria that sponsored FESTAC ‘77, policy makers promote internationalism to the detriment of pan-Africanism. For example, ECOWAS policy makers, especially Nigerian diplomats, often make policy analysis difficult by unnecessarily considering West Africa as a sub-region. This is most unfortunate, because, in 1991, African leaders redefined Africa as a region for the purposes of fast-tracking continental integration. It divided the existing African region into five regions but many Nigerian diplomatists and eminent scholars still join Western scholars to refer to West Africa as a sub-region. By so doing, they undermine the developmental efforts of African leaders. It is important to underscore that West Africa is no more a sub-region in the context of African scholarship, but a region (vide Article 1(d) and (e) of the 1991 Abuja Treaty Establishing the African Economic Community.
This clarification is a desideratum in light of the ASS which is not a region but a sub-region within West Africa or within the ECOWAS region. As such, the ASS is the first sub-region to be created within the framework of the 1991 Abuja Treaty. It is against this background that Nigeria’s foreign policy and the challenges of the ASS are raised here for the purposes of addressing what future?
In dealing with Nigeria’s attitudinal disposition towards the ASS, there is the need to differentiate between the domestic and
external challenges. The domestic challenges bother essentially on the foreign policies of non-alignment and national interest; the Bolaji Akinyemi doctrine of consultation; foreign policy concentricism; and constructive and beneficial concentricism. These are the main principles defining Nigeria’s foreign policy behaviour, in general, and towards the ASS, in particular.
As regards non-alignment and national interest, Prime Minister Abubakar Tafawa Balewa never meant that Nigeria could not align with any bloc or with anyone in his August 20, 1960 foreign policy statement. What he said and meant was that Nigeria’s foreign policy attitude would be determined by Nigeria’s national interest. The problem was and still is how to understand what constitutes Nigeria’s national interests beyond the general core interests of defence of political sovereignty and territorial integrity. More important, who determines the national interest and when is an interest eligible to be considered truly national?
For instance, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) is both the leader of Nigeria and the ECOWAS. When is his official policy pronouncement restrictedly that of Nigeria or distinctly that of ECOWAS? The main dynamic of the current imbroglio between the ECOWAS and the ASS is the reported ECOWAS’ zero tolerance for unconstitutional change of Government in the ECOWAS region. In this regard, is democracy also the problem of Nigeria, if it is the problem for the ECOWAS? By the time PBAT threatened to deploy ECOWAS troops to Niger when the Abdourahamane
The dilemma of what future for the ASS and the ECOWAS is how to maintain the AES as a new sub-regional organisation that has to co-exist with the ECOWAS. The co-existence requires reconciling the interests of the ECOWAS as a body corporate with the people’s interests. The ECOWAS talks about intolerance of unconstitutional change of government. The peoples talk about stopping French imperialism and exploitation of their resources for the development of Europe. The people oppose foreign directives on how to develop their countries. Consequently, the problem has nothing to do with democracy but the people’s struggle for self-reliancism. If there is to be any entente cordiale with the ASS, it is citizen diplomacy that appears to be a workable approach, because the problem is at the level of the people who possess the sovereignty. In this regard, diplomacy can begin with the 2nd African Military Games scheduled for November 5-18, 2024 at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja. Besides, bilateral ties are not likely to be undermined. The Kano-Maradi railway project, covering 283.75 km and costing $1.96bn cannot but continue. Additionally, the Gur people live in Burkina Faso, Mali, Ghana, Togo, Benin and the Côte d’Ivoire. The Yoruba live in Benin and Togo. So do the Ewe in Togo and Ghana, and the Akan in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire. These are the people to be targeted in the ASS countries
Tiani junta refused to return to democratic rule and release the ousted President Mohammed Bazoum, can it be rightly posited that the ultimatum was in Nigeria’s national interest? If it was not, why should PBAT protect the ECOWAS interest to the detriment of Nigeria’s national interest?
And who says that the defence of ECOWAS interest is not also in Nigeria’s national interest, bearing in mind that the initiation of the ECOWAS, in collaboration with the Republic of Togo, was to nip in the bud any potential sub-regional insecurity? Nigeria had a 3-year war of national unity and General Yakubu Gowon did not want that experience anymore. This factor was responsible for the choice of economic cooperation to discourage belligerency or insurgency in West Africa. And true enough again, Nigeria adopted the functional cooperation approach of the Monrovia school of thought which rejected the Casablanca school’s political kingdom first and all other things shall follow. In other words, the promotion of the ECOWAS as a framework for national and regional development, is very consistent with the functional school. Nigeria needs to reaffirm this policy attitude or redefine it.
As for Professor Bolaji Akinwande Akinyemi’s Consultation Doctrine, it simply requires prior consultation with the Government of Nigeria before any support or understanding from Nigeria can be taken for granted. In other words, no one should expect any particular attitudinal disposition without carrying Nigeria along. In this regard, to what extent is the ASS expected to consult with Nigeria in the foreseeable future? Consultation is not likely to come from Niger in light of Nigeria’s foreign policy towards Niger. Besides, the Niamey-based Nigeria-Niger Joint Commission, established in 1971, was established, not simply to promote cooperation in various areas, but particularly to contain whatever misunderstanding or dispute that might arise.
It is within this framework that Nigeria has been supplying electricity to some parts of Niger. When Nigeria discontinued electricity supply to Niger, was it in Nigeria’s interest? Do we need prior consultation from anyone before electricity disconnection? If Niger opted to consult with Nigeria when the ECOWAS gave an ultimatum, would Nigeria have reckoned with the consultation or rejected it? Whose consultation would have been most appropriate: France, European or any Francophone African country?
As regards foreign policy concentricism and constructive and beneficial concentricism, Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari advocated the prioritisation of Nigeria’s foreign policy areas in his foreign policy concentricism which divided the whole world into four concentric circles. In the innermost circle are Nigeria and the immediate neighbours. The neighbours are included because of the consideration that Nigeria’s national security is intertwined with that of the immediate neighbours. Ambassador Oluyemi Adeniji, CON, agreed with Professor Gambari but argued that prioritisation of the operational areas may not be enough without first of all articulating the interests to be pursued in each prioritised foreign policy circle.As noted byAmbassadorAdeniji, concentricism should be constructive in design and beneficial to the people of Nigeria in outcome. In this context of the ASS, where should the ASS sub-region be situated in the existing four concentric circles? The ASS, like Mauritania, is no longer part of the ECOWAS, but still belongs to West Africa. Or should the ASS be redefined as the sixth region of Africa and the Caribbean as the seventh? This is a major foreign policy challenge.
External Challenges and Quo Vadis
The external challenges are more critical because neither Nigeria nor the ECOWAS has the power or the monopoly to lay claim to exclusive regional influence. West Africa is a regional space over which the United States, France and Nigeria have been wielding politico-economic influence. In fact, Nigeria has always been the most regional influential in the West African region. The critical challenge now, however, is how to manage the competing influences in the region, especially with the growing influence of Russia.
First, theASS has compelled the declaration of France as non-grata and the same is true of the United States. When the crisis began, President Emmanuel Macron miscalculated by still behaving as a colonial power, ignoring the people’s hostility to the grandeur de la France as initiated by former President Valéry Giscard d’Estaing. Giscard d’Estaing wanted a greater France that would be made possible by the supply of raw materials from Africa, supply of financial resources by the West, and joint administration of Africa’s economic growth and development by a triumvirate of France, the United States and African leaders. The people of Africa are no longer showing any appreciation of this policy.
The opposition elements in the ASS countries often complained about abuse of power by their governments but to which France always turned blind eyes. France always supported her incumbent surrogates in power. The Senegalese opposition complaints are a case in point. This situation is one major rationale pushing Senegal to want to give active support to the position of the ASS, if not join the ASS.
And true enough again, when Mali’s Assimi Go’ta declared the French ambassador to Bamako unwanted, France acted in a holier than thou manner. Again, when France told the coupists in power in Niamey, France said the junta authority was not recognised. The junta responded by cutting off social services to the French embassy and also declared France’s ambassador persona non-grata.
Tinubu
IN THE ARENA
Ending Attacks on Farmers to Guarantee Food Security
Beyond encouraging importation of foodstuffs to mitigate the impact of hunger and food inflation, the federal government must also urgently demonstrate its ability to end the killing and abduction of farmers by bandits and herdsmen which have discouraged farming across the country, Wale Igbintade writes
The decision by the federal government to allow massive food importation last week angered the President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina, who described it as depressing.
At the Council of Anglican Provinces of Africa retreat held in Abuja, Adesina, while speaking on the theme: ‘Food Security and Financial Sustainability in Africa,’ noted that Nigeria cannot rely on food imports to stabilise prices. He argued that such a move could undermine the country’s agricultural policy.
The prices of foodstuffs and other goods and services skyrocketed in Nigeria since President Bola Tinubu announced the removal of petrol subsidies and also floated the naira in 2023. This pushed food inflation to over 40 per cent, plunging millions of Nigerians into poverty and hunger.
But as part of efforts to ease the hardship, the federal government on July 8, announced that duties, tariffs, and taxes on the importation of maize, husked brown rice, wheat, and cowpeas would be suspended through Nigeria’s land and sea borders for 150 days to stabilise the prices of the items in the market.
According to the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, the government had also adopted measures to be implemented in 180 days. He admitted that prices had continued to escalate, adding that in some cases, food items were becoming unavailable.
Kyari described the recent measures as a stopgap to take care of the time lag between cultivation and harvest.
However, many believe that encouraging importation contradicts the earlier position of the presidency on food security.
President Tinubu had stated that Nigeria would not import food but produce what it eats.
Expressing concerns over the implications of the importation of food items, Adesina, who had used his position as the then Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture, to put in place a blueprint for sustainable food sufficiency in the country, insisted that Nigeria must feed itself with pride. He added that a nation that depends on others to feed itself, is independent only in name.
The AfDB boss explained that the country should be producing food to keep prices stable and reduce pressure on the foreign exchange
front while creating jobs. He argued that the federal government’s plan would only address short-term price hike, adding that it might jeopardise the significant efforts and private investments made in Nigeria’s agriculture sector.
Adesina briefed the primates on the bank’s $25 billion programme to transform agriculture, by providing high-performing agricultural technologies for 40 million farmers and making Africa food self-sufficient by 2030.
He shared the bank’s successes in helping member countries tackle the negative effects of climate change, through financial investments and its flagship Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) programme.
According to the bank president, TAAT has helped Ethiopia to become a net exporter of wheat within five years, and it has significantly increased Sudan’s wheat production, as well as supported countries in Eastern and Southern Africa to continue producing food in the face of a prolonged drought.
For Nigeria, Adesina said, “Together with the Islamic Development Bank and the International Fund for Agricultural Development, we have provided $520 million to support the establishment of Special Agricultural Processing Zones, which will allow private agribusinesses to establish industries that process and add value to agricultural commodities.”
In addition, he said it provided $134 million to
Nigeria for emergency food production to help drive down food price inflation, by significantly boosting the local production of wheat, and cassava, under the National Agricultural Growth Scheme.
Adesina urged the Nigerian government to take advantage of the bank’s investments and support for African farmers; show greater determination and commitment to achieving food self-sufficiency, and incentivise private-sector agribusinesses.
The move to import food had also provoked the ire of farmers in particular. For instance, the AllFarmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) had earlier stated that food importation would erode the gains made in rice, maize and wheat production.
Also, the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN) had also opposed the move, insisting that the federal government should encourage rice farmers rather than encourage importation.
Speaking in the same vein, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, while receiving the national executive members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) led by its President, Chris Isiguzo, in Ibadan, said it was a shame that the country couldn’t feed her citizens well despite being blessed with arable land. While stressing that the country is also blessed with good weather, the governor pointed out that Nigeria had no reason to import food.
“It’s a big shame for this country that we can-
POLITICAL NOTES
not feed ourselves. We should go back to those things that will allow us to bring confidence back to our people and to ensure that this country is back on the path of growth and economic progress,” he said.
There is no gainsaying the fact that Nigeria has never had it so bad in food insecurity.
Increased attacks on farmers by herdsmen and bandits across parts of the country led to the high cost of foodstuffs in the country due to the inability of farmers to go to their farms.
Not only that farmers are constantly being killed and kidnapped for ransom, herders also allow their large herds of cattle to destroy and feed on cultivated farms.
According to the Nigerian Security Tracker, between January and June 2023, armed groups killed more than 128 farmers and kidnapped 37 others across the country.
In June 2023, 19 farmers were killed by nonstate armed groups in Nigeria’s northern Borno State alone.
The Global Food Crisis Report also indicated that banditry and kidnapping in the northwestern and north-central states of Sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara, Kaduna, Benue, Plateau and Niger have continued to hinder food production since 2022. Based on the persistent hike in food prices in the country, the United Nations recently predicted that 82 million Nigerians, representing about 64 per cent of the country’s population, may go hungry by 2030.
In 2023, the Food and Agriculture Organisation predicted that no fewer than 2.6 million Nigerians in Borno, Sokoto and Zamfara states, and the FCT might face a food crisis between June and August 2024.
According to a government-led Cadre Harmonisé analysis released in March 2024, approximately 4.8 million people in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states were experiencing severe food insecurity, the highest level in seven years.
Also, as Nigerian workers commemorated the 2024 May Day, Organised Labour had expressed concern about the country’s rising food prices and fuel scarcity, saying that the current situation threatened the survival of workers.
Before President Tinubu assumed power on May 29, 2023, he had pledged to prioritise security and effectively tackle the menace, adding that the economy cannot thrive in an insecure environment. After one year, nothing has been done in this regard.
Philip Shaibu: Violence is Not an Option
The violence, which greeted the arrival of the court-reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu and the governorship candidate of the APC in the state, Senator Monday Okpebholo in Benin-City, the state capital on Thursday was unfortunate and condemnable.
Recall that Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja had lastWednesday declared Shaibu’s impeachment by the state House of Assembly on April 8, 2024 as illegal, unconstitutional, null, and void, and also reinstatedhimastheDeputyGovernorofEdoState.
But after the judgment was delivered, the state assembly said it had appealed it and had also filed a stay of execution pending the appeal.
Also responding, Governor Godwin Obaseki insisted that the incumbent Deputy Governor, Omobayo Godwins, would remain in office pending the hearing and determination of the appeal filed by the state government.
However, on Thursday, Shaibu and Okpebholo stormed Benin-City in a chartered private jet, which landed around 2pm at the airport.
Immediately their motorcade left the airport, armed thugs in their convoy clashed with armed youths suspected to be loyalists of the state government, leading to the death of a police Inspector attached to Okpehhole. This has raised the political temperature in the state.
The state Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, in a statement,
accused Shaibu of leading “thugs through the Airport Road axis of Benin City, attacking innocent citizens and unleashing mayhem on private citizens who are going about their normal businesses.”
On Friday, Shaibu took a step further to enforce the court judgment by announcing the reappointment of his former aides to their previous positions.
But Nehikhare, in a separate statement, described the appointments as “fake” and provocative. He urged the public to disregard the purported appointments, adding that Shaibu was out to cause a crisis in the state.
Shaibu’s decision to enforce the judgment by himself will continue to bring violence and loss of lives in the state until he realises that it is the duty of the police to enforce court judgment, and not the beneficiary of the judgment.
Shaibu
Tinubu
BRIEFING NOTES
Threat to Ndume’s Political Career
After surviving many political hurdles, including suspension from the Senate for six months and another controversial removal as Senate leader, the senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume last Wednesday received the heaviest blow in his political career with his removal as the Chief Whip of the Senate by the All Progressives Congress, which could threaten his future ambition on the platform of the ruling party, Ejiofor Alike reports
The senator representing Borno South on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ali Ndume is not new to controversies, having built a reputation for speaking his mind and telling what he perceived as the truth to power, no matter the consequences.
In 2010, Ndume had claimed in an interview that “the PDP in the last 11 years has vandalised Nigeria; they have only introduced kidnapping, assassination, militancy, armed robbery, power degeneration and widespread religious crisis.”
But following a disagreement with his party few months later, the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP) on whose platform he was representing the Chibok/ Damboa/Gwoza Federal Constituency for a second term in the House of Representatives, he defected to the same PDP that had ‘vandalised’ Nigeria.
He was elected into the Senate in 2011 on the platform of the PDP.
In November 2011, Ndume was accused of having a link with Boko Haram after a suspect, who claimed to be Boko Haram’s spokesman, Ali Konduga, told the Department of State Services (DSS) that he was in contact with the Borno senator.
But Ndume was later cleared on the grounds that Konduga was his contact person in Boko Haram in the senator’s capacity as a member of a committee saddled with the responsibility of opening talks with the terrorists.
After defecting from the PDP to the APC in the build-up to the 2015 general election, he was re-elected under the party’s platform in 2015.
After the 2015 general election, he defied his party to join forces with the camp of Senator Bukola Saraki and ensured that Saraki emerged as the Senate president against the wishes of the ruling party.
Ndume was compensated by the Senate caucus with the position of Senate Leader.
But the senator later collided with the Senate caucus when he disagreed with his colleagues over the way the then acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu’s nomination was handled by the upper legislative chamber. Consequently, he was removed as Senate Leader and replaced with Senator Lawan, who was the choice of the party for the position of Senate president.
In March 2017, his feud with the Saraki camp deepened when he asked the Senate to investigate public allegations against Saraki and his ally, Senator Dino Melaye “so as to correct any misconception against the upper chamber.”
While Dino was falsely accused in the media of not graduating from the Department of Geography at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, it was also alleged that the Senate’s invitation of the then Customs
boss, Col Hameed Ali (rtd), was due to his failure to clear Saraki’s bulletproof SUV.
However, following the recommendations by the Ethics and Privileges Committee, the Senate suspended him for six months from March to November 2017 after which a court also nullified his suspension.
When he was re-elected in 2019, Ndume again defied his party and contested for the position of the president of the 9th Senate, against the party’s anointed candidate, Senator Lawan and polled only 28 votes to lose to Lawan who had 78 votes.
Lawan appointed him Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Army.
However, in the 10th Senate, Ndume aligned with the position of his party and became the Campaign Coordinator of the party’s anointed candidate for the position of the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio.
Explaining his support for the former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Ndume had alluded to the fact that Akpabio was not necessarily the choice of the federal lawmakers but President Bola Tinubu’s preferred choice.
Though Ndume was eyeing the position of the Senate Leader, he was appointed Chief Whip after
the former was zoned to the South-west.
But a few months after successfully leading Akpabio’s victory against the former governor of Zamfara State and Senator representing Zamfara West, Abdul’Aziz Abubakar Yari, the Borno senator warned Akpabio that drastic action would be taken against him if he did not desist from making unguarded utterances.
The Senate president had disclosed that money had been wired to the bank accounts of the lawmakers in order to enjoy their annual vacation. These comments had caused a backlash with some Nigerians berating the senators for feeding fat on the nation’s treasury.
Two months after, Ndume stormed out of the Senate Chamber after he was ruled out of order by Akpabio.
The Borno senator had raised a point of order, citing Order 54 of the Senate Rule Book to draw the attention of the Senate President to his handling of affairs in the chambers, which were against the rules.
But Akpabio had hardly allowed him to end his speech when he ruled him out of order, prompting him to storm out of the chamber to his office.
However, the most humiliating blow to Ndume’s political career was his last Wednesday’s removal
as Chief Whip of the 10th Senate by the APC, his six-months suspension by the 9th Senate, having been nullified by the court.
In removing him as the Chief Whip, the APC, which also accused him of being a mole in the party, advised him to resign his membership of the ruling party. Ndume’s removal was believed to be due to his comments in recent weeks where he alleged that President Tinubu had been caged at the Villa and was not aware of the acute hunger being experienced by Nigerians.
Before then, last January, following plans by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to relocate some of its departments as well as the corporate headquarters of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) from Abuja to Lagos, Ndume had issued a warning to President Tinubu that there would be “political consequences.”
The APC had in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary of the party, Felix Morka, on Saturday last week, berated Ndume for his attack on President Tinubu and called on him to quit his penchant for unhelpful attention-seeking media posturing.
As if the admonition was not enough, Ndume was removed on Wednesday and replaced by Chairman, Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, Senator Tahir Mongunu, who is representing Borno North.
The change followed a directive sent to Akpabio in a letter signed by National Chairman of APC, Dr. Umar Ganduje, and National Secretary, Senator Bashir Ajibola.
The request for his removal was affirmed by majority of the APC senators at plenary on Wednesday.
Effort by Senator Cyril Fasuyi (APC, Ekiti North) to have Ndume suspended by moving a motion that he should face the Senate Committee on Code of Conduct, Ethics and Privileges, was frustrated by Akpabio, who said that since the APC NWC’s request for his removal as Chief Whip had been approved, he should be forgiven for now.
The NWC of the APC had in a letter to the Senate president alleged that Ndume seriously abused his office through unguarded utterances and outbursts against the federal government and President Tinubu, in particular.
The NWC further alleged that Ndume was more of a mole in the party and advised him to honourably resign his membership.
Ndume’s direct collision with the ruling party is a threat to his future political ambition on the platform of the party.
Will he defect to any of the opposition parties? Events leading to the 2027 general election will reveal his next political move.
NOTES FOR FILE Is Betta Edu Back as Minister?
Speculations that Betta Edu, the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, may have secretly resumed office despite being under suspension and investigation by the Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) heightened last week.
President Bola Tinubu had in January this year suspended Edu following alleged diversion of N585 million meant for the vulnerable into private accounts.
Tinubu also ordered the EFCC to carry out a thorough investigation of all aspects of the financial transactions involving the ministry.
A statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri
Ngelale, said the suspension was in line with the president’s avowed commitment to uphold the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability in the management of the commonwealth of Nige rians.
Since the decision against her was taken, Edu had vanished from public glare. But last week, she resurfaced with a condolence message to the victims of the recent Jos building collapse.
The condolences, which ought to be met with sympathy, caused a stir on social media as the minister who is still believed to be under suspension and investigation by the anti-graft agency, used
the letterhead of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to write her letter of condolence.
This development suggested that she may have been left off the hook as the EFCC has remained silent on the outcome of the investigation.
Social media commentators argued that if Edu could issue official communications while on suspension, it means that she is still in effective control of the ministry.
It also questions the government’s sincerity on the ongoing anti-corruption drive.
Many believe that Edu’s use of the ministry’s letterhead indicates that her suspension may be more of a matter of public relations than a reality. This scenario casts a long shadow over the integrity of the ministry and the broader governmental framework.
Betta Edu
Ndume
Sanwo-Olu: Bookmarking Kind Leadership
Through his many nifty interventions in unusual situations, including those presumably beneath his office, the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has continued to personify compassionate leadership, writes Shola Oyeyipo
Arare model of kind leadership in contemporary global history was embodied sometime in 2022, by the North Macedonia President, Stevo Pendarovski.
Pendarovski had learnt of an 11-year-old girl, Embla Ademi, with down syndrome, who was being bullied at her elementary school.
Thus, in the morning of February 11, 2022, and by way of delivering personal leadership example, Pendarovski held Embla Ademi’s hand and walked her to her elementary school in the city of Gostivar. It was on a Monday, and the intended message was well-taken.
Embla had experienced bullying at school because of down syndrome – a genetic condition that causes learning disabilities, health problems and distinctive facial characteristics, the CNN, had then learnt from the office of the president.
Determined to change the narrative about bullying, especially in schools, Pendarovski “talked to Embla’s parents about the challenges she and her family face on a daily basis,” and discussed solutions.
The president said the behaviour of those who endangered children’s rights was unacceptable, especially when it concerned children with odd developments.
“They should not only enjoy the rights they deserve, but also feel equal and welcome in the school desks and schoolyard. It is our obligation, as a state, but also as individuals, and the key element in this common mission is empathy.”
“It will help children like Embla, but it will also help us learn from them how to sincerely rejoice, share and be in solidarity.
“We are all equal in this society. I came here to give my support and to raise awareness that inclusion is a basic principle.
“Prejudices in that context are the main
obstacle to building an equal and just society for all,” said Pendarovski, according to a press release from his office.
North Macedonia, once a part of Yugoslavia, is a small landlocked country in southeastern Europe with a population of a little over two million people.
Looking at the image of Pendarovski as he walked the streets in the city of Gostivar, enroute the elementary school, hand-in-hand with Embla, one Nigerian leader that readily came to mind was the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Meek, kind, generous, and approachable with a listening ear, Sanwo-Olu, has intervened in several cases concerning the citizens of the state, even when he could have delegated such assignments to any office in the state and wait for feedbacks or situation reports.
It is trite to infer that an average Nigerian hardly recognises such an empathetic leadership let alone appreciate it. Pendarovski’s example was one, and it received a groundswell of recognition across the world. But Sanwo-Olu, has delivered countless of such and has not stopped.
It does not, however, take away from the fact that the governor has not stopped delivering leadership, beyond good governance, whether or not measured in terms of bricks and mortar.
A recent image of Sanwo-Olu at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camp, where he had gone to identify with the corps members during their orientation, typified the disposition of his leadership in this direction, and in many ways.
As he bantered with the corps members, taking selfies with them and making the best of the moment, the picture told more of his persona than any attempt at creating optics for political purposes, which is not him.
From sharing the news of his intention to
complete the new permanent orientation camp that would accommodate all, in Agbowa, Ikorodu, (with the approval of N5 billion for the project), to gifting N100,000 cash to each of the Corps members passing out from the orientation in the Batch ‘B’ Stream 1, Sanwo-Olu made sure they left with a new experience about him and leadership in general.
He also announced automatic employment into the state’s civil service to 100 Corps members in Stream 1, adjudged to have distinguished themselves in their respective places of primary assignment at the end of their service year.
In addition, he donated a 32-seater operational bus for camp activities. These announcements were naturally welcomed with spontaneous applause and excitements, coming from a man, who had done everything possible to court the younger generation and make them see things from a real life point of view.
His intervention in the death of a young music act, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly as Mohbad, speaks to nothing but caring leadership. Sanwo-Olu didn’t just order investigation into the circumstances surrounding the issue, he personally followed up on the matter and was able to speak on it from time to time, and from the position of knowledge.
Of course, there are different departments and agencies in government that are naturally saddled with such responsibilities. The governor does not even have to make any pronouncement before they deploy to work. But he is not one to sit back and watch things deteriorate, not even after the unfortunate #EndSARS episode.
Can anyone forget so soon how a sitting governor personally drove to Magodo
Phase II, in Shangisha, to intervene in a land matter that almost dovetailed into civil disorder, between landgrabbers and residents?
Although some police officers, who claimed to be acting on instructions from ‘above’ and lacking simple discretion almost embarrassed the governor in his own state, he still didn’t mind. He just wanted a win-win in the case and he got it.
The case of alleged molestation against a Nollywood actor, Olanrewaju James, otherwise known as Baba Ijesha, should ordinarily be taken up by the requisite agency of state assigned. But for a hands-on governor like Sanwo-Olu, delegation without supervision is not leadership in all cases. He was personally involved.
There are instances such unusual approach to leadership could end in disaster and to prevent “stories that touch the heart” he not only showed interest in the matter, he made sure no one was unjustly profiled or framed until justice was served.
There are instances too numerous to cite, detailing how Sanwo-Olu has inspired leadership through kindness, generosity, piety, meekness and discipline. People like him are not your everyday compatriots. They always leave their marks when it matters the most and without self-glorification.
Overall, when you ponder the governor’s interventions in the current economic hardship, education, tourism, transportation, health (Ilera Eko), several social mediations and good governance in general, there is no gainsaying that the choice of Sanwo- Olu might have been sheer luck for Lagos, and against all odds.
While the naysayers and the habitually impossible cynics might remain unconvinced and confused about the obvious, what is certain is that, it is impossible to undo what is evidenced by facts – both tangible and intangible.
Sanwoolu at NYSC camp
ENGAGEMENTS
The Sporadic Presidency
No one can fairly accuse President Bola Tinubu of inaction or inactivity. On the job that he was elected to do, the man has been quite busy. On a daily basis, his office keeps rolling out innumerable appointments, setting up committees on nearly every subject and generally acting in response to changing national situations. If an inventory of executive actions and initiatives were the sole measure of an effective presidency, Mr. Tinubu would score highly on the scale of presidential effectiveness. But something seems to be wrong somewhere with the strategy of governance on display.
So far, there is a worrying disconnect between Mr. Tinubu’s copious exertions and any perceivable improvements or tangible results in the situation of the country and the living conditions of the citizens. The more appointments and measures that tumble out of the Aso Rock assembly line, the more desperate the conditions in the country get. Bandits and criminals are killing more people. The cry of anguish over hunger keeps increasing. The unemployment queues keep growing remain unaddressed as more and more multi national exist Nigeria. In general, there is a sense in which there is now an inverse relation between sporadic presidential actions and the positive outcomes that the people can feel.
As a consequence, a little over one year after its inception, the Tinubu presidency has struck an unusual consensus among Nigerians. Both the elite and the street people are united in a tentative verdict to the defining character of the administration. This presidency is sporadic and eclectic. It lacks a definite direction. It lacks a defining ideological complexion or character. A government that should be progressive by party identity is neither conservative nor populist social democratic. Given the ultra right wing identity of its key drivers, It is even subverting the interests if its supporting oligarchs. There is no coherent populist agenda either for a president who desperately craves populist accolades. The people cannot see where all this presidential activism is likely to lead the nation. Instead, they behold the lavish style of consumption of key government drivers and wonder what manner of democracy the nation has in place.
Yet there are certain features that cannot be denied. The president has been busy. On a daily basis, we learn of fresh initiatives. New policies are rolled out, fresh policies are churned out without any follow up executive templates for effective implementation. A torrent of discordant actions, policies and knee jerk responses to critical national problems has begun to confuse keen observers. While Aso Rock panics, dithers and serially fumbles, the nation’s crises keep multiplying and the citizenry get more desperate and frustrated. Cumulatively, the disconnect has produced more political uncertainty and disquiet. We can see the looming political consequences are beginning to show up in the erosion of unity even among legislators of the ruling APC in the National Assembly.
In an apparent show of responsiveness to a self -inflicted economic crisis, the President has set up a series of committees. The first was filled with oligarchs of all hues ranging from manufacturers to banking moguls and sundry wheeler dealers. No one knows whether the committee ever met or came up with any concrete suggestions. A committee of state governors has been convened both under the aegis of the National Economic Council and other ad hoc platforms. When the administration discovered that oligarchs like Aliko Dangote were becoming critical of the policies of the Central Bank on interest rates, the President re-energized the dead committee of oligarchs as if they would lend government the secrets of their humongous wealth!
The Central Bank has in turn been busy churning out any number of circulars on nearly every money related issue. A foreign exchange intervention regime has oscillated from distributing dollars among bureau de changes to starving the system of forex supplies. A task force has used EFCC, DSS, police and other goons to raid urban foreign exchange open markets to no avail.
On the matter of increasing and worsening poverty among the many, there have also been a number of knee jerk responses. Figures of cash transfers and handouts to the most vulnerable have varied in the number of beneficiaries and target amounts. In between, a minister appointed to alleviate poverty through cash transfers has since been suspended for pocketing a chunk of the money meant for the poor and vulnerable. A slew of conflicting propositions on how many households to support and what amount of cash to transfer to these households. No one has demonstrated a credible basis for arriving at the statistics for these poverty alleviation cash transfers.
This presidency has ordered a distribution of food grains from the national strategic grains reserve but hardly anyone seems to have seen the grains or located where the silos are located and what they contain. An earlier initiative had casually doled out N5 billion to each of the states and the FCT for the provision of palliatives to vulnerable citizens. Some of that money went into the procurement
of rice for distribution to poor citizens. Some of the rice has been sighted at riotous distribution centres. Scrambles for affordable rice at some of the centres has led to fatalities and injuries among the scrambling citizens.
The latest initiative on the worsening hunger situation is the proposal to embark on a short term food importation measure. The estimate is that the importation of food items like rice, beans and wheat at concessionary duty rates over a six month period would lower the prices of these basic food items while increased efforts in agricultural production begin to fill the gap. Yet there are enough conflicting measures in the existing policy environment that may cancel out the benefits of the food importation strategy. High gasoline prices continue to wreak havoc on transportation costs. High costs of energy and other services are likely to impact the market prices of food items either homegrown or imported. Even the cost of the imported food will be subject to the current fluctuations in the exchange rate regime.
The expanding epidemic of insecurity around the country has similarly produced a staccato of presidential initiatives. Predictably, each new incident of loss of lives or bandit attacks has been greeted by the usual presidential bluff about “bringing the culprits to book”. Hardly any arrests have been made anywhere in the country let alone prosecution. A hasty assembly of governors and security chiefs has decided to institute a much discussed State Police system. The initiative seems to be embroiled in controversy and political ping pong to a point of death.
Estimations of matters considered urgent and important by this presidency has varied as well. Even more dismal has been the sense of prioritization on matters deserving immediate attention. At some point it was the reversion to the old 1960s National Anthem which the National Assembly rushed through a legislative microwave oven.
Multiple emergency supplementary budget proposals have been similarly rushed through a rubber stamp legislature leading to the present situation where the nation is literally operating an unparalleled four budgets in the same financial year. This fiscal cacophony has enabled the administration to pick and choose from a supermarket of unnecessary luxury expenditures ranging from SUVs to yachts, luxury jets and official residential villas.
Beneath the barrage of often confusing initia-
tives, one perceives a certain desperation on the part of the president to court a populist appeal. A few measures are fuelled by a desperation for popularity among key segments of the populace. For instance, a students loan scheme has been put in place more to court the acceptance of students and youth with scant attention to how the loans would be recovered or how the beneficiaries would find employment on graduation. Little or no thought seems to have gone into the sustainability of the programme.
Tinubu happens to be the type of politician who wants to be admired and even loved by the masses. With an unmistakable imperial disposition, he probably wants to be worshipped hence his intolerance of opposing voices in the National Assembly. He probably wants to be loved by a mass audience of clapping and hailing appreciative fellow citizens and devotees. But somehow, hardly anyone outside his family and the circle of his political devotees is truly deeply in love with Tinubu. Because his policies and actions have deepened the misery and desperation among the people, the sentiments that attend the president’s name are currently mostly those of dislike, utter disdain and even open revulsion laced with unprintable side jabs about dodgy certificates, questionable origins and doubtful wealth.
In all fairness, it is always a tricky walk for a leader to insist on unpopular but necessary policy measures and also crave popular admiration and accolade at the same time. Both hardly go together. But if the unpopular and bitter policy shocks lead to an improv ement in the living conditions for the people, the leader could earn healthy recognition and appreciation. Also, if the shock therapy is directed at a clearly defined positive goal, people could be patient for a while. But if the misery deepens and hardship spreads, the victorious leader could turn into a virtual villain, a monster in the public square. From a random sampling of public perceptions of Mr. Tinubu and his presidency both on the streets, in homes and especially on the social media, the honeymoon seems to be over for him. The season of harsh judgment has since begun and could be politically costly for him by the time he approaches mid term.
President Tinubu’s present style of episodic and disjointed governance is beset with many liabilities. There could be some bright spots along the way but too many ill -advised measures could send the economy into a tailspin. We could hobble through to four years without knowing exactly where we set out to go. Some of the hasty, isolated and uncoordinated policies could cancel each other out and create more complex problems than the administration set out to solve. In the end, it is in Tinubu’s best political self -interest to course correct now before it is too late. It is time to rejig his team and introduce method and direction to the present madness.
Tinubu
MY MUM, AN EPITOME OF SELFLESSNESS, SYMBOL OF STABILITY, IS GONE
believed they would later betray our political family ended up behaving true to type.
However, even though her husband and two children occupied influential public positions, she chose to be in the background. My mother intentionally eschewed the hustle and bustle, the perks and highlights of public office. When I was Governor of Kwara State, it was a struggle getting her to attend government functions. Most times, she would fly into Ilorin but preferred staying at home, tending to the humanitarian needs of the family care of the aged, Ile Arugbo Initiative. She would stay out of the limelight, just there to support me.
She was everything to me. Everything that I became, I owe her a huge debt of gratitude for her positive impact in making them possible and helping my successes. She was always a big player in my career choices and progression. She made a strong impact on me and made big contributions to shaping my life.
For instance, my mum was the reason I attended Kings College, Lagos. My late father, Dr. Olusola Abubakar Saraki - Oloye - preferred Barewa College, where I also had secured admission. I was set to go and resume in Zaria when Mum insisted her son should just take the nearby KC option.
When I returned to Nigeria and started working in the bank and also began my commodity trading business, my mum was my biggest supporter, closet adviser, distributor, and chief accountant. We would sit down together in one of her private living rooms and do the calculation on the various consignments, whether it was rice or sugar. Most of the time, she would take about 10 or 15 trailers to distribute herself.
Also, she would coordinate the distribution of other consignments. Sometimes, my father would bump into us and joke about how much salary she got paid to be so devoted to keeping records and working on the business details with me. She would respond “That is a mother and son secret” and we would all laugh about it.
Even though she chose to be in the background as it concerns politics and public offices, when I was contesting to be governor in 2003 and the contest was violent, she was always concerned about my safety and success. As governor in Ilorin, she was not for a day impressed about the influence conferred on her as the Governor’s mother. She just wanted me to be safe and successful and deliver on
my mandate as a holder of public trust.
However, anytime during that period that I came under serious pressure and needed to calm my nerves, I would visit my mum and engage her in a general talk. Each time I left her presence, I always felt regenerated, energized, and refreshed. I drew inspiration from her usual calmness and positive approach to life. She was my biggest supporter who showed me unwavering love and dedication. I will forever be grateful for her labour of love.
During the turbulent period that followed my emergence as Senate President, many wondered how I was able to remain calm and unfazed as I shuttled between the Senate chambers and the tribunal. My calmness, strength of character, determination, and dedication to duty are some of the attributes I got from my mum.
While the Code of Conduct (CCT) trial was ongoing, one day, my mum paid me a surprise visit in Abuja with one of my uncles. She came to plead with me to just “leave the post for them”. My mother’s visit and request had been instigated by a delegation she received in her Lagos home. Some politicians in the delegation threatened that they “would go to any length to jail, unseat and ruin me”. They told her to persuade me to step down and that if I did, I would be left off the hook set by opponents to my emergence as SP. She pleaded that I should just leave the post because she did not want any danger to befall me and my young family.
I explained to her that their promise was just a bait and should be disregarded. I told her that resignation would be tantamount to admitting the vicious allegations they falsely leveled against me at the Tribunal and that I needed to clear my name and that of the family. I made it clear that if Oloye were to be alive, he would want me to clear the family name. That meeting was an emotional one for the three of us there. We all cried. I remember her words as she said: “I don’t know anybody in Abuja that I could go to and lobby for you, but my God will not put us to shame. I will go back and pray for you”. I believe that her prayers were a major contribution to my success and survival during those trying times.
Having written all the above, there is still one particular incident that made my mum earn my greatest respect and honour. It was during my father’s illness, and they were regularly
traveling to the United States for his medical treatment. While there, even though we had employed many aides - nurses, housemaids, cooks, and others - to make their stay very comfortable and pleasant, my mum would take it upon herself to personally attend to her husband’s needs.
She nursed and cared for Oloye herself, so much so that most times, she made the nurses redundant., There was this particular evening I visited them. While my mum was out of the room, Oloye beckoned on me, and when I moved closer to him, he said to me: “Your mother is a very good woman. Please, take good care of her for me”. Those words have continued to ring in my head from that day, over the last twelve years, till the day my mum died.
These last few weeks following her demise have been difficult for me, even though her funeral was a celebration of life. I have found it difficult to live with the reality that my mum is no more.
I am indeed happy and appreciative of the way the entire nation has risen, in an unprecedented manner, to help us celebrate the life and times of my mother. From across the country and the political divides, the leadership of our country at the national and state levels, starting with no other but the President, HE Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu who not only issued a press statement to commiserate with us but also sent a powerful delegation led by the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio to the church service and reception. Also, his dear wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu paid a condolence visit in her capacity as the First Lady of Nigeria. This is a task she needed not undertake, except that she wanted to demonstrate love to our family, as the mother of the nation.
Many captains of industry, people representing different social strata, leaders of traditional and religious groups, and youth groups also paid condolence visits. From Kwara State, market women, artisans, traditional rulers, students and other individuals came to Lagos to commiserate with us. The ones that touched my heart even more, was the physically challenged people who came from ilorin and visited us in Lagos to commiserate with us. The condolence visits and show of love transcended politics and religion. Muslim and Christian leaders came to commiserate with our family. It was a good mixture of faiths. Leaders of political parties
WHY FINANCIAL AUTONOMY FOR LGAS IS NOT ENOUGH
citizens’ concerns, are more present and more active at the federal level.
The three forms of political accountability— horizontal, vertical and diagonal—are thus in short supply at the local level. Yet accountability is critical to good governance. Accountability doesn’t depend on the good nature of those in power. It has to be demanded—otherwise, it will not be supplied. Let’s be clear: the deficit in the demand and supply of accountability at our local level will not automatically be reversed simply because we are changing how money is disbursed. Following the Supreme Court ruling, there have been increased calls for citizens to hold their local officials to account. These calls are clearly well-intentioned. But the implicit assumption behind the calls is that local citizens were not holding their local officials to account because no one urged them to. It is a bit complicated, but the evidence suggests that incentive may be at issue.
The task then is to provide the incentives and the tools for citizens to exercise their agency as accountability actors, to fashion new accountability mechanisms for the local level and to strengthen existing ones. In furtherance of this, Agora Policy (which I lead) is co-hosting a solution-oriented dialogue on this issue with BudgIT, Yiaga Africa, Premium Times, Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Integrity Watch, and The Cable. Themed “Enthroning Accountability in Local Governance in Nigeria” and kindly supported by MacArthur Foundation, the timely policy conversation will hold on August 5th in Abuja.
The second thing that needs to happen is that we have to improve the quality and content of democracy at the local level. Politics and decision-making at that scale should approximate the Athenian form of democracy. Local citizens should be able co-govern and should be able to decide the priorities of government at that level. The saying ‘all politics is local’ should have special resonance at the local level. Also, local politics is expected to serve as a school of democracy. But avenues for participation and learning and for enriching democratic practice are hardly present or used. The only option left
is electoral democracy, and our local elections are clearly a total sham. No matter the diversity of political persuasions in a state, the party in power always records 100% success rate in local elections (except in FCT).
The Supreme Court has rightly ruled that LGAs are constitutionally required to be administered by elected officials (not by caretaker committees that governors prefer), that it is illegal for governors to dissolve democratically-elected LGA administrations, and that federation allocations should not go to LGAs without democratically-elected officials. It is in the news that most of the affected states are now rushing to schedule local elections. This is all well and
in opposition to my own joined us to mourn and celebrate my mum. I thank all who have contributed to making her departure a less painful one for the family. The support is an acknowledgment of her kindness, good nature, selflessness, and unpretentious connection to the people.
The way the entire nation has united in bidding my mother a befitting goodbye has humbled and surprised me. One was humbled and touched to see people who after their early morning prayers on Friday left Ilorin to embark on a four-hour journey to Lagos to be part of the funeral programme and another four-hour journey back to their base by 8 pm that day. Throughout the evening, my heart was in my mouth until I got confirmation that our people from Kwara State had returned home safely.
The calibre of people who paid condolence visits and supported us in one way or the other provided me with a humbling experience. If one were to be an incumbent holder of a top political office like when I was governor or Senate President, it would appear all the support was because people needed contracts, appointments, and other benefits. It is obvious that we owe the goodwill we have enjoyed as a testimony of our mother’s love of humanity.
The solidarity and support we have enjoyed on the celebration of the life and times of my dear mum, has further encouraged me that selfless, good, and committed work in public service does not go unnoticed. It is also clear that we will all get our reward for our good deeds in this world and hereafter. I believe my mum truly did this during her lifetime. It was also a value that my late father, Oloye, held dear. He would probably be proud of the way Nigerians got together to celebrate his late wife, even in his absence.
On behalf of the Saraki, Ibidapo, Ojomo, and Okunrinboye families, I cannot but thank all and sundry for this honest support. It is a positive gesture that one can not take for granted. The outpouring of goodwill has helped in reducing the pains of losing such a gem as my mum represented to me. May God bless all those who have done one thing or the other to support us during this difficult period.
• Dr.
budgeting. It is assumed that the closer the government is to the people, the more responsive the government will be to their needs. Periodic elections alone, even when they are clean and credible, will not be enough to make government responsive or to prioritise the needs of the people. In the space between elections, there should be constant opportunities for engagement between the officials and the people. Structured and continuous avenues for citizens’ participation will be key. If there is a space for us to test out forms of participatory democracy, the local level offers the ideal scale.
good. But the issue is not about conducting elections just to fulfil all righteousness. We need to significantly improve the quality of local elections so that those who emerge as elected officials are the real representatives of the local people and are those whose loyalty lies with the people, not solely with the state governor. Good governance has a better chance at the local level when there is a credible chance that non-performing officials can be thrown out at the next election.
In between elections, we also need to create avenues for citizens to have inputs into decisionmaking through public hearings, townhall/ community/ward meetings and participatory
The last point I want to highlight is that building/improving local capacity will be critical. Generally, the capacity for getting things done is low in our public sector. But, as with accountability, the state capacity deficit is most magnified at the local level. This shouldn’t surprise us: those really talented and driven will rather work at the federal or state levels, not in LGAs. Simply changing how we disburse money will not address this obvious capacity gap. Improving the capacity of the elected officials and civil servants on planning, budgeting, programme design and execution will thus be critical if our goal is to improve service delivery and overall governance at the local level. But it is not only the officials that need capacity enhancement. The citizens and the community-based associations also need support to enhance their interest and increase their capacity to engage the system at the local level more effectively.
I will end this intervention by repeating what I wrote in a related piece on this page about a month ago (‘Refocussing the Debate on Local Governance in Nigeria’). We need a comprehensive reform of how we approach local governance in this country. The Supreme Court has done what is within its remit. Other arms of government, expectedly, will do their bits. But enthroning effective, accountable and responsive local governance is a task beyond government. We all have roles to play too. And we should do our parts, for our enlightened self-interest. If local governance improves in the country, we should all be better off.
Saraki, Waziri of Ilorin, former Senate President, former Kwara State Governor, writes from Abuja.
Tinubu
Ndume to FG
“People are suffering, people are angry, people are not happy. I am happy that yesterday, the President agreed with NLC to increase the salary to N70,000, which is a good move, but it takes more than that because, realistically, that is like a bag of rice” – A former Chief Whip of the Senate, Ali Ndume, criticising the N70,000 new minimum wage recently approved by the federal government.
SARAKI
My Mum, An Epitome of Selflessness, Symbol of Stability, is Gone
One of the most difficult tasks I have handled in recent times is to write a short piece as part of the celebration of the life and times of my mother, Mrs. Morenike Florence Saraki (née Ibidapo). It is like being compelled to write a summary note on a subject one has studied for 61 years. This task brought to my mind the question: How does one write a short piece about somebody who never saw anything wrong in you in 61 years, somebody who in her eyes and judgment, you were never at fault, someone whose face lightened up whenever you were in her presence?
Even in her last weeks and months, when her eyes were shut and she was not ready to open them, all it took the nurses and others around her to get her to open her eyes was for them to say: ‘Grandma, Uncle Buki is here’. It was as if hearing the name of her first fruit, her first born, invoked a magic wand. She would open her eyes and smile. So, I am not in doubt that writing this piece will be a difficult assignment. However, I will do my best to pay tribute to the incredible woman that my mother was.
There was a strong bond of love between my mum and I. My mother was my Rock of Gibraltar, a strong pillar, a wise counsellor, a stabilising force, and most importantly, my
This is because she lived a selfless life, a life of devotion and dedication to not only her husband and children but also to her
WAZIRI ADIO
POSTSCRIPT
brothers, sisters, and other members of our extended family on both her husband’s and her sides, including others who came her way. She was always willing to help. There is no impartiality in the way she spread the goodwill among the various families. She created a strong, impenetrable, and impregnable family bond. These were the reasons everybody in our immediate and extended family believed she grew over time from the roles of wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother to become a matriarch before she died. She was the symbol of stability, an impactful, impartial, and respected mediator in my family for as long as I knew her. She was a blessing to the Saraki household. She was also a source of strong humanitarian support and mentorship for many outside the family. My mum sponsored a lot of philanthropic initiatives without making any noise about them. She had a lot of people who she had helped to fund their education at home and abroad. It was the reason why, at every point, she knew how much the JAMB form costs or what the fees for WAEC or GCE are. She would quote figures during our discussions while she urged those of us in government to ensure the fees do not continue to increase.
It was later I realised she was current about those figures because she paid on behalf of some students. One would always find files
containing photocopies of certificates and CVs of fresh graduates looking for their first jobs by the side of her regular seat in the living room. In most phone conversations she had with me, she would always make requests concerning the people she was helping to find jobs in the public and private sectors. She did all this without allowing people to know about it. I am happy my mother acted in compliance with the provisions of the Quran and the Bible that emphasized the fact that such good deeds done to the right hand without the knowledge of the left hand commanded more acceptance and endorsement from the Almighty God.
She was an organised person. Most of the time, when she took charge of arrangements for the numerous gifts that my father gave to his supporters and associates, you would see the high sense of responsibility. She would have all the numbers and direct the logistics such that everything would go on smoothly. I always marvelled at her organizational skills. Even though she was not openly political, she was perhaps better than the three politicians the family produced. I made this conclusion because, gifted with uncommon discernment, she was a good judge of persons. All the people she warned us to watch out for because she
Why Financial Autonomy for LGAs is Not Enough
It is difficult to marshal a credible and persuasive argument against local government areas (LGAs) getting all the federation allocations due to them. In fact, it can be argued that the LGAs should receive additional support and grants from the Federal Government and the state governments to enhance their financial viability, increase their capacity to discharge the critical responsibilities assigned to them, and reimburse them for acting as agents of the other two tiers of government. But it was never envisaged, and is simply indefensible and reprehensible, that LGAs would receive less than their statutory entitlements.
This is why the July 11th ruling by the Supreme Court on direct federation allocations to the LGAs is right on the money. This is also why the state governors, who in most cases have not covered themselves in glory concerning LGAs’ allocations, have found it difficult to openly and coherently express their displeasure about the ruling. Good for them. But granting what has been excitedly termed financial autonomy to the LGAs is at best a good starting point. It is not enough. If the goal is to ensure good governance where it matters the most, the rest of us need to do much, much more.
All Nigerians belong to, and live and work within, local government areas—be it villages, towns or municipalities. We are all citizens and residents of LGAs first before being same in states and the country. Being the first and closest level of government to all of us, the LGA is where we should feel the presence and the essence of government the most. Sadly, however, the local level is where governance deficit—alongside citizens’ disengagement—is the most pronounced in Nigeria. As I have argued on this page and in other platforms for more than 15 years, local governance is miserably broken in our country. And as desirable as it is, direct allocation to LGAs is not the cure-all that will bring local governance to good health in Nigeria. In actual fact, we should dispense with the thought of magic bullets. Those who think financial autonomy will work the magic probably assume that our LGAs are underperforming simply because they are not getting all the money due to them or not getting the money directly. At best, this may be one of the reasons, but definitely not the sole reason. It has also been argued that once LGAs get their money directly and fully, they would be denied of any legitimate excuse for underperformance and that local accountability actors would spring
up and be more active. Embedded in this view are two related assumptions: one, there is a link between full (as opposed to partial) receipt of federation allocations by the LGAs and optimal performance by the LGAs; and two, the reason why local accountability is constrained is because of partial disbursement of LGAs’ funds. The logic behind these assumptions is light.
Direct allocations to LGAs can actually produce the opposite of the desired effect. The money directly disbursed can be pilfered or thoughtlessly squandered or can be routed back to their political lords, the governors.
Another possibility is that the well-resourced and unhindered LGA chairpersons can transform into mini-governors with their own well-oiled patronage networks and election war-chests, which can have grave implications not only for vote buying but also for social and political order. Talk about possible unintended consequences. These possibilities have led some to take the position that the Supreme Court ruling will change nothing, and may even make things worse. This is a cynical view. But cynicism is easy, and solves little.
The highest court in the land has ruled almost unanimously (6-1) to compel direct federation allocation to LGAs. The court also made
consequential pronouncements on illegalities undertaken with impunity by states on local government matters. While it is important to acknowledge that even faithful implementation of the verdict will not automatically change things, the next order of work for those interested in changing the status quo is to identify, based on proper diagnosis, what else needs to happen to enthrone good governance at the local level in our country. In this piece, I will highlight three critical areas.
The first is that financial autonomy for LGAs must be accompanied with strengthening of the mechanisms for holding local officials to account. At the moment, accountability systems and structures are weakest at the local level. The checks and balances within government, provided through legislative and judicial oversights, through the presence of opposition parties, and through operational controls and procedures such as financial audits and restraining institutions, are hardly present at the local level. Local citizens are largely uninvolved or uninterested in local affairs. The press and civil society, which beam the searchlight on exercise of power and amplify
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prayer warrior. I know she must be resting peacefully with the angels in the bosom of her Lord and creator.