THURSDAY 25TH JULY 2024

James Emejo in Abuja and Dike

www.thisdaylive.com

Sanwo-Olu to Investors: Bring Your Business to Lagos for Guaranteed Returns

State’s GDP rises to

Segun James Lagos State Governor, Babajide

FG Warns Planned Nationwide Protest May Lead to Anarchy

Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Michael Olugbode, Onyebuchi Ezigbo, Olawale Ajimotokan, Sunday Aborisade in Abuja, Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi, John Shiklam in Kaduna, Sylvester Idowu in Warri and James Sowole in Abeokuta

The federal government has warned that there would be dire consequences for the stability of the country if a nationwide protest being planned by some Nigerians goes ahead from the beginning of next month.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, met with ministers in his office behind closed doors to try to avert the protest.

But Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), yesterday, dismissed reports that it was withdrawing from the proposed

Continued on page 9

ANYIM AT THE VILLA...

L-R: Ebonyi State

Francis

Onwuamaeze in Lagos

Governor,

Nwifuru; former Senate President, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, during their visit to the president at the Presidential Villa Abuja ... yesterday PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI

INVESTOR ROUNDTABLE AFRICA SOCIAL IMPACT SUMMIT...

L-R: Managing Director, ETK Group, Bolaji Sofoluwe; Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade & Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem; CEO, Sterling One Foundation/Convener, Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS), Peju Ibekwe; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Permanent

ASIS 3.0, themed: Invest Lagos-Invest

... yesterday

Companies May Lose N2.4tn as Concerns Mount over Unsettled FX Forwards

Delays may affect profit tax, FG income, millions of job NESG: We’re engaging CBN on the issues NECA, CPPE, Ekpo urge apex bank to act

James Emejo in Abuja and Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos

There are growing concerns by Nigerian corporates and SMEs that the non-settlement of Foreign Exchange (FX) forwards by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) could take a toll on the economy going forward, THISDAY learned.

Forwards are financial instruments used by the central bank to manage foreign exchange reserves and influence exchange rates. Typically, they represent agreements between the CBN and a counterparty to exchange a specified amount of foreign currency at a predetermined rate on a future date.

Forwards are liabilities of the apex bank which are signed off when allocated while beneficiaries are often responsible corporates and SMEs from the Organised Private Sector (OPS).

The transactions in question occurred between 2022 and 2023 amid increasing pressure on the apex bank to settle on maturity - this is yet to happen

Analysts who spoke with THISDAY in separate interviews expressed concerns that the unsettled forwards could potentially erode investor confidence in a struggling economy with all the attendant implications. They were unanimous that the apex bank needed to act quickly to resolve the issues.

Earlier in March, the CBN announced that all valid FX backlogs owed to various sectors of the economy had been settled, fulfilling a key pledge of the CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, to process an inherited backlog of $7 billion in outstanding liabilities.

In a recent interview with Arise Television, a sister broadcast arm of THISDAY, Cardoso revealed that about $2.4 billion out of the acclaimed $7 billion outstanding foreign exchange liabilities of the federal government were not valid for settlement.

He said while the bank had settled verified FX requests which amounted to $2.3 billion at the time, the total outstanding FX obligations remained at $2.2 billion.

The central bank governor further indicated that part of the headline $7 billion outstanding FX claims were not valid, citing the outcome of a forensic audit by Deloitte Management Consultant which the apex bank commissioned.

He maintained that the CBN would not pay for FX requests that are not validly constituted, adding that the bank had written to authorised dealers to explain the disparities identified.

Furthermore, Cardoso said the bank had complained to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate suspicious transactions and prosecute individuals and entities with fraudulent entries.

However, many of the affected companies have expressed worry that the outcome of the investigation was taking forever as most of them have used bank confirmed lines to open Letters of Credit (LCs), paid import duties, and received the goods, while suppliers were mostly settled by their banks’ correspondent banks.

A source told THISDAY that “While CBN says EFCC is investigating, the corporates are bleeding and under intense pressure from their banks and their suppliers.”

The stakeholders therefore, called on the central bank to settle the forwards and get EFCC to prosecute companies involved in any act of round-tripping or abuse in the utilisation of the liquidity.

Sources also warned that the continued delay in settling the outstanding liabilities of companies has far-reaching implications for the companies and the economy in general.

THISDAY further gathered that companies could lose about N2.4 trillion which will impact Company Income Tax (CIT) for the next two to three years thereby threatening the federal government’s income.

The development could also exact a huge toll on the fragile FX market which is being rebuilt by the apex bank as it would come under severe pressure, and potentially drive exchange rates to about N3,000.

In addition, these losses could also trigger bank losses as confirmation lines used may not be serviced by the SMEs and corporates as well as put over one million jobs at risk.

Contacted on the issue, Chairman, Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), Mr. Niyi Yusuf, told THISDAY that it is currently engaging with the CBN to resolve the issues.

Director General, Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, explained that forward transaction is an agreement whereby a company credits the CBN through its bank for future supply of FX usually within 90 days.

He expressed dismay that data provided by JP Morgan & Co., had estimated unsettled liabilities at $6.8 billion in 2022, which certainly would be higher afterwards.

Oyerinde, said the development had already truncated the smooth running of production plans and capacity utilisation in industries, particularly that of SMEs that do not have the financial clout to explore other liquidity sources.

He further lamented that supply of raw-materials and production cycle had been broken due to the unsettled indebtedness by the central bank, which had ultimately led to low level of business activities, loss of revenues and low profit margins for corporate firms, including the SMEs.

He therefore urged the CBN to prioritise the settlement of outstanding forwards so that the companies involved could move forward and get on with their businesses.

He maintained that the involvement of EFCC in the matter was unnecessary.

Oyerinde said, “The CBN had informed the public that some of the FX Forward claims are not genuine and that the Economic Financial Crime Commission (EFCC)

is investigating the issues.

“But the FX Forward is a transaction that involves the companies, their banks and the CBN with definite documentations and approvals. Therefore, due diligence by the CBN should be sufficient in determining the genuine cases.”

He said the CBN should engage “relevant banks on the claimed outstanding forwards to resolve unsettled cases rather than involving EFCC that is not part of the initial agreement.”

Also, commenting on the issue, Professor of Economics and former member of the CBN’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), Prof. Akpan Ekpo, further urged the CBN to settle the forwards to reduce the pressure from suppliers and banks on businesses.

Ekpo, who is also a former Director General, West African Institute Financial and Economic Management, argued that forwards only made sense in an economy that is productive and certain of inflow of foreign exchange, whereas the Nigerian economy is more of a consuming and import dependent one.

He said, “An economy like Nigeria, which depends heavily on crude

oil exports for foreign reserves must tread carefully with forwards or not engage in the practice.

“The unsettled forwards by the CBN would have adverse effects on corporates and SMEs, especially the latter. It would affect their ability to procure essential materials required for production.”

He said, “The reduced productivity would result in layoffs and/or sack of workers further worsening the unemployment rate in the country,” adding that while “Corporates may be able to call on their headquarters for assistance - a situation not possible for SMEs.”

Ekpo further cautioned that the development could effectively erode confidence and trust - sending a wrong signal to potential foreign and domestic investors, adding that “SMEs and corporates would find it difficult to obtain credit lines and loans from banks”.

According to him, “CBN should settle the forwards to reduce the pressure from suppliers and banks. After-all, investigation can continue even after settlement and those found culpable should be brought to book. Delay would affect an already sinking economy.

“The economy needs a push from all angles and not settling FX forwards would further worsen the situation. To save the country, we must build a productive economy.”

In the same vein, Economist/Chief Executive, Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), Dr. Muda Yusuf, also aligned with the position of the OPS that the CBN should clear the outstanding forward transactions.

Yusuf stressed that the current operating environment for most businesses remained extremely challenging, particularly with the real sector and small businesses.

He said, “There are macroeconomic headwinds, there are structural impediments, there are multidimensional supply chain challenges.

“Profitability and sustainability of many businesses are at risk. In truth, the plight of workers amid the cost-of-living challenges is a cause for concern.

“But the difficult operating environment for businesses is equally very troubling. These two considerations matter in this conversation and require some delicate balancing. It is only a business that is thriving that can retain or create new jobs.”

Nigeria Steps Up Move to Establish Renewable Energy Manufacturing Zone, Evergreen City

The team overseeing the execution of Nigeria's renewable energy technology manufacturing zone, Evergreen City, Wednesday met with the world's largest EV Battery Manufacturer, CATL, in Ningde, China, for discussions on a potential partnership.

Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action (SPEC), Ajuri Ngelale made this disclosure in a brief statement made available to newsmen at the State House, Abuja. According to him, the Nigerian team, including Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule and InfraCorp MD Dr. Lazarus Angbazo, toured CATL's facilities and engaged with the company's Executive Management to discuss a potential partnership for Nigeria's renewable

energy technology manufacturing zone, Evergreen City.

The proposed collaboration aims to leverage CATL's technologies and financing platforms to support the development of Evergreen City, which is rich in lithium, a key component in EV battery production.

The partnership has the potential to supply major companies like Tesla and BMW, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria's renewable energy journey.

Ngelale said: "Early Wednesday morning in Ningde, China, in my capacity as the Chairman of the Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen, I joined the team overseeing the execution of Nigeria's renewable energy technology manufacturing zone, Evergreen City, which includes the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, H.E.

Abdullahi Sule, and the Managing Director/CEO of the Infrastructure Corporation of Nigeria (InfraCorp), Dr. Lazarus Angbazo, on a working visit to the Global Headquarters of the world's largest EV Battery Manufacturer, CATL.

"We began with a tour of their facilities, which provided a window into the company's history, present, and future development plans. We were given a no-photographs-allowed tour of the automated production lines, which were an inspiring marvel to behold.

"After the tour, our team interfaced with CATL's Executive Management and apprised them of our zone's progress with a detailed view into what our collaboration would entail. They responded with a very diligently composed presentation of how their technologies and as-

sociated financing platforms can be tailored to the unique requirements of Evergreen City.

"The Nasarawa State Governor detailed local policy and how the partnership will be supported at the sub-national level while I communicated the vision of the zone in the context of the specific technologies being produced by CATL. InfraCorp MD, Dr. Lazarus Angbazo, asked pertinent questions about their proposed concepts of collaboration. We all agreed on finite next steps.

"We are thrilled about the opportunity to site the EV Battery Manufacturer supplying Tesla, BMW, and others within our Lithium-rich zone. But we have a lot of work to do before any of us will be celebrating.

"We will keep Nigerians updated on developments as they occur"

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Dr. Olugbemiga Aina and CEO/Managing Director of Sterling Bank, Mr. Abubakar Sulaiman, during the pre-summit investor roundtable

Opportunities, at Victoria Island,

LIVESTOCK ON THEIR MINDS...

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (right) welcomes Co-Chairman of the

Kwankwaso to FG: Dangote Refinery Must Not Be Allowed to Fail

Alleges vested interests undermining oil facility

Shareholders tackle NMDPRA CEO for

allegedly de-marketing $20bn oil asset CSO demands

Chuks Okocha, Michael Olugbode in Abuja and Kayode Tokede in Lagos

The presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in the 2023 general elections and the leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Rabiu Kwankwaso, yesterday urged the federal government to ensure that the Dangote refinery does not fail.

In a post via his X handle, Kwankwaso described the recent controversy surrounding the Dangote refinery’s integrity as an ”unnecessary fuss”, urging the President Bola Tinubu-led administration to exhibit fairness towards such a monumental project.

Kwankwaso described the refinery

as a crucial asset for Nigeria’s energy needs and economic stability, emphasising the importance of protecting the asset from any threats that could undermine its operations.

He called on Nigerians and the government to rally around the refinery and stressed that the failure of such the project would be detrimental to the nation’s economic progress.

He wrote: “I was privileged to visit the magnificent Dangote Refinery, and I was marvelled by the sheer commitment that went into the quality of its establishment.

“This 650,000-bpd refinery is essential for our energy needs and economic stability, and it must be

protected from all forms of threat.

“The creation of unnecessary fuss around its integrity by some vested interests is very unfortunate, and it stands to undo all the years of hard work to maintain the fragile investor confidence in our economy.

“It’s time for us to rally around this national asset to ensure that the monumental project does not fail. It cannot fail, and the Nigerian government must understand this by demonstrating fairness and confidence in both domestic and foreign critical investments.”

Previously, presidential candidates in the 2023 election, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi described the unfolding

investigation into claims of toxic fuel imports

conflict between Dangote Industries and some government agencies as deeply troubling.

Also, the Pragmatic Shareholders Association of Nigeria (PSAN), yesterday condemned the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Farouk Ahmed, for what it said was the deliberate attempt to de-market the $20 billion Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals.

Ahmed had said the diesel the refinery produced was inferior to the ones imported into the country, specifically claiming that diesel from the Dangote Refinery contained a

Stakeholders Brainstorm on Data Governance, Protection in Nigeria

Stakeholders from various segments of the data governance space in Nigeria have converged on Abuja to brainstorm on ways to fully leverage the enormous opportunities available in data management for the country’s development.

Tagged: “Harnessing Data Governance for National and Regional Development”, participants drawn from the public and private sectors highlighted the need for Nigeria to move from its perennial status of being a data consumer, rather than a producer.

The event was hosted by the Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA) in collaboration with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), the African University of Science and Technology (AUST) and Baze University.

Speaking at the event, the head of the National Development Division at the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Dr. Ayodele Bakare, stressed that as a country it was time for Nigeria to leverage data as a means to social and economic prosperity.

To be able to maximise the value of data, Bakare stated organisations must have a data governance structure, which is a subset of data management.

This, he said includes knowing the right methodology to gather data, clean it up, storing, processing,

data protection, transmission and most importantly to be able to derive knowledge and intelligence from it.

In the era of artificial intelligence, data governance, he said, remains very critical, with the need to implement solutions in Africa that are home-grown.

“If Nigerians are able to effectively manage its data, then definitely, more investment will come to Nigeria. And again, if you're looking at investment, you need to have the right strategy to manage your data to ensure that you can be innovative and also be creative.

“So once you have that in place, then definitely you will have more investment pouring into the country,” he added.

As for data deployment in public administration, Bakare stated that good decisions must be data driven, must be sufficient and must be accurate, with the right technology to mine knowledge from such data.

Also speaking, a Legal Officer, Strategy, Partnerships and Communications Department of the NDPC, Fatima Sani, stated that one key aspect of data governance is data security and data privacy.

With the recognition that there was a gap to be filled, she explained that Nigeria enacted the Data Protection Act in 2023, which is the current regulatory framework for data processing in Nigeria.

“So we need to ensure that measures, especially for data

controllers and processors are put in place in order to safeguard this information that's being collected,” Sani stated.

She said the commission recently launched a strategic roadmap and action plan that identified five key pillars ranging from governance, human capacity development, collaboration and cooperation, funding and sustainability, ecosystem and technology.

“We have licensed data protection compliance organisations. We have

just launched a national certification process. Notably, we are a member of the Global Privacy Assembly, which is made up of 130 data protection authorities worldwide. We are also a member of the Network of African Data Protection Authorities in Africa,” she added.

In his remarks, the Director of Research, CSEA, Dr Adedeji Adeniran, stressed that data and how it is processed, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), will shape the next industrial revolution.

high sulphur content of over 1,000 parts per million (ppm).

However, National Coordinator, PSAN, Mrs. Bisi Bakare, in a statement, obtained by THISDAY, expressed dismay over the allegations from the petroleum regulatory agency regarding the quality of diesel produced by the refinery.

Bakare commended Dangote for his visionary approach in establishing one of the world's foremost refineries in Nigeria. She highlighted Dangote's commitment to national development, stressing his patriotism and resolute character through substantial investments like the refinery.

"Dangote has ensured that the bulk of his business investments are local, contributing significantly to economic development through tax payments, extensive job creation, and consistent returns for shareholders," she added.

The shareholders’ group condemned what it termed the "unwarranted efforts to de-market the refinery" by regulatory bodies.

They cautioned that such ac- tions could deter both local and international investors and undermine government efforts to stabilise fuel prices and ensure availability.

She said : "We must rally around Dangote Refinery to provide crucial support such as crude oil allocation, cooperation from international oil companies, and regulatory agency collaboration.”

She stressed the refinery's potential to save Nigeria over 30 per cent in foreign exchange currently spent on offshore refining, which could significantly alleviate the country's

foreign exchange challenges.

"As shareholders, we remain steadfast in our support of Alhaji Aliko Dangote's vision to bolster the nation's economy and create more opportunities for our citizens," she added.

Meanwhile, the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), an ecological think-tank organisation advocating for environmental and climate justice, has demanded transparency and an investigation into allegations of the importation of dirty fuel in Nigeria.

HOMEF, in a statement yesterday, made the call in reaction to the feud between the NNPC and Dangote Refinery. It argued that NNPC's inability to refine petroleum products had been an enormous shame and embarrassment to the nation.

The group alleged that over the decades, NNPC’s poor performance had forced Nigeria into the vice grip of forces of exploitation of colonial proportions, making the country Africa’s largest exporter of crude oil and, at the same time, the largest importer of refined products of dubious quality.

Executive Director, HOMEF, Nnimmo Bassey, in the statement, noted that the company epitomised one of the worst that could be imagined of any raw material exporter post- colonial state anywhere in the world.

Bassey said: “The importation of refined petroleum products has equally foisted heavy economic pressures on the hapless citizens of Nigeria.

At National Extractives Dialogue, NEITI Urges Nigeria to Eliminate Gas Flaring by 2025

Predicts upsurge in country’s energy demand

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) yesterday urged the federal government to work towards eliminating gas flaring by 2025, but stressed that the phenomenon had reduced by at least 50 per cent in the last few years.

The Executive Secretary of NEITI, Dr Ogbonnaya Orji made the remarks at the 3rd National Extractive Dialogue tagged: “Gas Flare Reduction: Catalyst for Ac-

celerating Nigeria’s Path to Net Zero Emission and Sustainable Development”.

The event which took place in Abuja was organised by Spaces for Change (S4C) in collaboration with NEITI and the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) and was supported by the Ford Foundation.

Orji stated that the programme offered stakeholders a constructive platform to discuss means of propelling gas flare-down, carbon footprint reduction, and sustainable

development in host communities.

“With the United Nations’ projection of Nigeria's population to rise to over 260 million in 2030 and over 400 million by 2050, which is just 10 years away from our country's net zero target of 2060, NEITI predicts an upsurge in Nigeria's energy demand that may surpass 47 per cent projected global increase by the same period in 2050.

“Data also indicated that gas flare has reduced by about 50 per cent by 2021. Though this is a remarkable improvement, we must strive to

meet our country’s target of 100 per cent gas flare elimination by 2025 which is just one year away and six years away from global commitment of 2030,” Orji said.

NEITI said it recognised that Nigeria needed to position itself as the technology frontier to take full advantage of the opportunities that lie in the energy transition journey especially as relates to gas production, utilisation, gas flaring and carbon emission reduction.

Livestock Reforms Committee, Prof Attahiru Jega, to the Presidential Villa Abuja.... yesterday

PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

POWER GENERATION PACT...

Managing Director/CEO, Transafam Power Limited, Vincent Ozoude(left) and Acting MD/CEO, Abuja Electricity Distribution Company, Chijioke Okwuokenye, after the two companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding for a 50MW embedded power generation project in Idu Industrial District in Abuja…recently

NUPRC Sets Up Teams to Oversee Oil

Metering Audit, Advanced Cargo Programme

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has inaugurated two separate teams that would oversee the newly planned oil metering audit and the advanced cargo scheme.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive of the NUPRC, Mr Gbenga Komolafe, recalled that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) recently considered and approved the implementation of the two key projects proposed and driven by the commission.

The projects, he said, were geared towards strengthening the commission’s regulatory oversight in line with this administration’s vision and renewed hope agenda.

One of the commission’s objectives as specified in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), 2021, Komolafe said, was to ensure that upstream petroleum operations are carried out in a manner to minimise waste and achieve optimal government revenues.

To achieve this, he said that it was important that, in addition to the measures already established by the commission, the measurement and reporting of oil and production was regularly reviewed and improved upon to keep pace with the rapidly evolving industry.

He added that the audit of upstream measurement equipment and facilities in the Nigerian oil and gas industry will ensure that some of the identified gaps in the system were resolved.

These, he said, include the presence of obsolete and non-serviceable measurement equipment at some

allocation or measurement points in the industry, lack of a comprehensive database or information about all the installed measurement equipment in the industry, and lack of real-time production measurement across many locations.

Therefore, the project, Komolafe said, had been carefully scoped by the commission to establish reliable and comprehensible baseline data for all measurement points, systems and measurement equipment.

In addition, he stated that it will help to carry out a formal gap analysis for production, allocation and custody transfer measurement requirements.

He explained that it aimed to propose and implement appropriate and targeted intervention actions to enhance production measurement, and flare metering including recommendations to procure, install and commission new metering infrastructure.

The second project, the advance cargo declaration solution, he stressed, was meant to establish a robust system for the declaration and tracking of crude oil transportation and export from Nigeria.

In addition, he said it will help to monitor and account for the movement of crude oil within Nigeria from production to delivery points, prevent disruptions, theft, and under-declaration of crude oil within Nigeria and at export terminals as well as establish a comprehensive database and control centre for monitoring and tracking crude oil exports from Nigeria.

Besides, he said that it will help to ensure that only certified production related to upstream crude oil

operations are exported from Nigeria and ensure accurate accountability of hydrocarbons for calculating crude oil revenue accruable to the Government.

Furthermore, Komolafe explained that it will help enable real-time tracking, reconciliation, and reporting for crude oil exported to facilitate appropriate revenue billing and generation.

“It is obvious that these technologically driven projects collectively present a game-changing solution for transparency in production monitoring and crude oil accounting.

“For effective implementation, the

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, received former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim, who recently defected from Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the governing All Progressives Congress (APC).

Anyim was ushered into the meeting with Tinubu at State House, Abuja, by Chairman of Progressives Governors' Forum (PGF), Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, and his Ebonyi State counterpart, Francis Nwifuru.

Addressing newsmen after the meeting with the president, Uzodinma described Anyim as a big fish and his defection a big plus for the ruling party, as the party was already ripping

commission has carefully assembled a team for each of these projects. These teams are to be overseen by the Executive Commissioner, Development & Production, Enorense Amadasu, but will directly provide daily report and feedback to my office,” Komolafe added.

Members of the audit of upstream measurement equipment and facilities include: Manuel Ibituroko – Deputy Director, Facilities Engineering & Optimisation; Mohammed Sirajo – Manager, Facilities Engineering; Ike Chidi – Manager, Facilities Engineering and Bashir Shariff –Principal Regulatory Officer.

For the Advance Cargo Declaration Solution project, members include: Bello Shehu – Assistant Director, Crude Oil & Gas terminal Operations; Abdulrahman Idris –Manager, Petroleum Accounting; Omeje Desmond – Deputy Manager, COTO PHC ; Dimkpa I. H. – PRO, COTO Warri and Olatunji Babatunde.

“Their duties shall include liaising with the Contractor to ensure the fulfilment of the commission’s specified obligations and monitoring the implementation of the projects to ensure alignment with the scope and specifications,” Komolafe stated. While charging them to discharge

their assigned duties diligently and professionally, Komolafe stated that the project was to be delivered in four months, stressing that management will frown upon any request to extend the project timeline. “ I am confident that these projects will be delivered as planned as I am personally committed to its implementation. The commission uses this opportunity to request the cooperation of all relevant stakeholders – the contractors, industry operators and staff of the commission – to ensure the successful implementation of the projects,” he stressed.

the benefit of his decampment.

He stated that the coming of people like the former senate president into the ruling APC, especially in the South-east, which used to be a stronghold of the opposition PDP, was an indication that the APC government was doing well.

Uzodimma said, "We have started harvesting from it. If you recall, only a few days ago, there was local government election in Ebonyi State. And in that election, it was like a one party movement. The entire local governments and councils were won by All Progressives Congress.

“The party that used to be the strong opposition party, PDP, were not anywhere to be seen. And majority of the leaders already defected to APC

and they voted one way.

“So in the same manner, because democracy is about the people, when the people are now unanimously agreeing that government is doing well, and a political party is doing well, and they're all collapsing into that political party, what is remaining is to address the campaign of calumny, arising from the propaganda of the opposition, which most of us here are used to".

Nwifuru said Anyim was not a small fry and was not looking for food.

Asked how he felt following suggestions that his state was turning into

a one-party state and if it was okay for democracy, Nwifuru said, “You asked how I feel, I’m very excited, and it's a thing of joy to me that every big fish in my state, especially that of our nation, Ayim Pius Anyim, and so many other distinguished leaders have decided to join our party, the All Progressive Congress.

“And it is part of the benefit, the dividends of democracy. We've been able to do well according to our own understanding and based on our own best judgment. And that is what is engineering a lot of them to join APC.”

The House of Representatives Committee on Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has queried the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) for allocating 60 per cent of revenue to concessionaires while the government receives only 40 per cent in the “park and pay” policy.

To this end, the committee demanded clarification on what infrastructure the concessionaires were providing.

The policy was suspended in April 2014 after a high court judgement stopped the FCTA

from collecting fees from residents for on-and-off the street parking within the metropolis. The court had ruled that the policy was not backed by law. However, the FCTA reintroduced the ‘park and pay’ policy in the nation’s capital in August, 2023, after signing an agreement with two concessionaires. The policy was aimed at decongesting the city.

The Chairman of the committee, Hon. Muktar Betara, while speaking at an interactive session in Abuja, yesterday, demanded details on how the reintroduced ‘park and pay’ policy was established, who authorised it, and how remittances

are made to the coffers of the FCDA.

The committee lamented that residents and motorists in the nation's capital were being harassed by those employed to enforce the policy.

Responding, the Secretary, FCT Transportation secretariat, Chinedum Elechi, said the policy was regulated and supported by a legal framework and that only designated areas serve as parking zones.

"The ‘park and pay’ is by regulation. We have a legal framework. It is part of the ways of controlling traffic. So, under the part and pay, designated areas are meant to be parks. So, it is legal," Elechi said.

"It is (revenue) paid through concessionaires. There is usually a ration between the concessionaires and the FCT. So, for areas where we have the concessionaires, there is a percentage that goes to the concessionaires. It is 60 percent and 40 percent goes to FCT.

“The infrastructure for the work is usually provided by the concessionaire. It (revenue) goes straight to the revenue account of the FCT, not transportation," he added.

The committee chairman queried how the contract was established and the criteria for choosing the concessionaires.

Mary Nnah

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is considering a significant reduction in visa and Document Verification Number (DVN) fees for Nigerian citizens. This move comes after months of diplomatic efforts by the Nigerian government to ease the financial burden on its citizens.

A press release made available to THISDAY by a UAE media agency person, Ugochukwu Udoji, revealed that a new, revised fee structure is imminent, making it more affordable for Nigerians to visit the UAE for tourism, business, and family visits. The exact timeline for the fee reduction has not been announced, but changes are expected soon.

The Nigerian government has been pushing for a review of the stringent fees and banking require-

ments imposed by the UAE.

The current DVN fee of 640,000 NGN and bank balance requirement of 15 million naira have been a significant concern for Nigerian travelers and stakeholders.

The potential reduction of visa and DVN fees is expected to boost tourism, business engagements, and cultural exchanges between the two nations.

It will also provide an opportunity for more Nigerians to explore business and investment opportunities in the UAE.

The development is seen as a testament to the UAE's commitment to maintaining strong bilateral relations with Nigeria and promoting more inclusive and affordable travel policies. The move also is expected to enhance diplomatic ties and improve Nigeria's image in the UAE.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

Meta Removes 63,000 Instagram Accounts in Nigeria over 'Sextortion' Scams

Netflix increases subscription price by 40%

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Emma Okonji in Lagos

Meta Platforms said yesterday it had removed about 63,000 accounts in Nigeria that attempted to engage in financial sexual extortion scams mostly aimed at adult men in the United States.

The company owns and operates Facebook, Instagram, Threads and the popular application, WhatsApp, among other products and services.

Meta said in a statement the 63,000 accounts were on Instagram, adding that it had also removed 7,200 Facebook accounts, pages and groups dedicated to providing tips on scamming people.

national protest by some citizens over the harsh economic situation in the country, saying it cannot be part of an idea that did not emanate from it.

South-east Governors' Forum also distanced itself from the planned nationwide protests, citing concerns about the fragile political environment and potential hijack by criminal elements.

At the same time, some stakeholders, including some northern groups, opposed the idea of protest in the wake of harsh economic conditions. Instead, they recommended an engagement with the federal government.

But the leadership of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which supported the protest, said it was a constitutional right of the people.

In a similar vein, Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives urged the federal government to dialogue with planned protesters with a view to addressing their concerns.

The company also took down a smaller coordinated network of around 2,500 that were linked to a group of around 20 individuals, Reuters reported. In sexual extortion, or "sextortion", people are threatened with the release of compromising photos, either real or faked, if they do not pay to stop them.

The majority of the scammers' attempts were unsuccessful and although mostly targeting adults, there were also attempts against minors, which Meta reported to the US National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children.

Meta representatives said this was not the first time they had disrupted

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammad Idris, issued the warning against the protest yesterday, when he received members of the Charismatic Bishops Conference, led by Archbishop (Professor) Leonard Kawas, who were on a courtesy visit to him, at his office in Abuja. Idris said government was cautious and bothered about the protest against economic hardship, having seen the debilitating consequences of similar protests in other parts of the world, particularly in Kenya and Bangladesh. The minister voiced concern that arsonists and criminals might be waiting to hijack the planned protest and unleash violence on innocent Nigerians. Idris stated, "Why everybody is very cautious and very weary of this national protest is because we have seen what has happened around the world.

such networks, but added they were disclosing the current operation to "drive awareness."

The social media giant has been on the defence in recent years as governments, including legislators in the United States where Meta is based, ramp up pressure on it to address concerns that its executives have ignored evidence that its services harm children.

In a hearing earlier this year, one US lawmaker accused Meta Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg and other social media leaders of having "blood on their hands" for failing to protect children from escalating threats of sexual predation on their platforms.

The US Surgeon General has

“We know that it’s almost impossible to hold this protest and then have peace at the end of the day. We cannot do that because some people are waiting to take the laws into their own hands.”

He said while the government of President Bola Tinubu acknowledged the right of every Nigerian to engage in protests, it was equally committed to ensuring that the activities did not disrupt public order or violate the rights of others.

According to him, “You see, the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu believes in the freedom of everyone within the confirms of the law to do what he thinks is right for him.

“Therefore, the president is not an opponent of protest of any kind. But the president is an opponent of violence and anything that will hamper the wellbeing of Nigerians.

“He believes and he has always

SAnwo-olu To InveSTorS: BrIng Your BuSIneSS To lAgoS for guArAnTeeD reTurnS

Made in Lagos” was held at Eko Hotels and Suites in Victoria Island, with business leaders, multilateral chambers of commerce, financial services executives and captains of industry in attendance.

Lagos, Sanwo-Olu told the forum, was projecting a positive economic outlook, given its expanding population and development of sustainable infrastructure to drive growth.

In spite of the challenging terrain in which many businesses operated, Sanwo-Olu said the state’s economy had demonstrated remarkable resilience to sustain existing businesses and welcome new investment.

The governor emphasised that the key reforms introduced and implemented by his administration were aimed at streamlining business development processes and building investors’ confidence in the State’s economy.Sanwo-Olu said his government had been proactive in implementing business-friendly regulations and constantly reviewing Ease of Doing Business policies to lessen challenges

associated with new business registration and obtaining permits. He said the digitisation of services had eliminated bureaucratic bottlenecks, while enhancing stability in the business environment.

Stating further, he said: “For us in Lagos, we have sustained a consistent growth in our investment profile. The minimum we can do is to take the growth to another level and ensure that the gains of the past years are not reversed. In the last five years, Lagos GDP has grown by 50 per cent despite the difficult economic conditions Lagos has faced. Our economy has demonstrated remarkable resilience.

“This new conversation with the investment community is necessary in order to de-risking issues, while providing enabling environment and assurance to address what could be investors’ major concern in committing their investments here. Whatever the size of the investment injected into Lagos, we will play our own role as a State Government to ensure that these efforts are guaranteed of returns and security.”

Sanwo-Olu highlighted areas of

opportunities to invest, including transportation, tourism, health insurance and waterways, noting that the State Government remained committed to pushing forward its ambitious development plans for the listed sectors.

Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, said Lagos, as the nation’s commercial nerve center, had been a beacon of economic activity driven by commitment to fostering conducive environment for business and investment.

The Commissioner said the SanwoOlu administration had grown Lagos GDP from 27 trillion to 41 trillion within five years, stressing that the State had made progress in creating a business-friendly environment.

The State Government, she said, implemented key reforms aimed at streamlining processes, improving regulatory procedures, reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks and promoting entrepreneurship.

158 Nigerian Irregular Migrants to Libya Repatriated, Envoy Reveals

Olugbode

A total of 158 Nigerian irregular migrants have once more been repatriated from Libya, the Charge’ d’ Affaires of the Nigerian Mission in Tripoli, Libya, Amb. Mohammed Mohammed has revealed

The envoy, in a statement made available to journalists yesterday, disclosed that the repatriation exercise was carried out by the Mission in collaboration with the Libyan authorities and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) under the organisation's Voluntary Humanitarian Repatriation (VHR).

The statement further noted that the evacuees departed Mitiga International Airport, Tripoli, aboard chartered flight no: - UZ 189 at

1500hrs local time and arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos at 1800hrs.

According to Mohammed, the group of evacuees was made up of 77 males, 45 females, 26 children as well as 10 infants.

On the reasons for the latest repatriation of the Nigerians, the Nigerian Embassy said they were deported for lack of proper documentation and accusations of various criminal activities, among others.

Of the total number, the Embassy said 26 males arrested from the ongoing raid of undocumented foreigners in Libya were released from Abu-Salim Detention Centre in Tripoli.

The Mission also disclosed that

upon arrival in Nigeria, the evacuees were received by relevant government agencies, including NAPTIP, Nigerian Immigration Service, Airport Security and the NDLEA.

The evacuees were expected to undergo rehabilitation and reintegration processes before they are released into society.

According to Mohammed, nearly 1, 776 stranded Nigerians have safely been returned home in 2024 so far.

The Nigerian Envoy, while urging citizens to shun irregular migrations, lauded the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Libyan authorities and the IOM for coming through for so many of the evacuees, who had the urgent desire to return home, but did not have the means to do so.

also called for a warning label to be added to social media apps as a reminder of those harms.

As economic hardships worsen in the country of more than 200 million people, online scams have grown, with those behind them operating from university dormitories, shanty suburbs or affluent neighbourhoods.

Meta said some accounts were providing tips for conducting scams.

"Their efforts included offering to sell scripts and guides to use when scamming people, and sharing links to collections of photos to use when populating fake accounts," it said.

Meanwhile, Video streaming platform, Netflix, has again increased its subscription prices in Nigeria with

been saying that within the tenets of democracy, you have every right to do whatever you want to do provided that right does not infringe on another person’s right.”

Idris asserted that Tinubu was fully aware of the feelings of Nigerians across the country and he was actively working to implement effective policies aimed at alleviating the challenges faced by the citizenry and bringing relief to all Nigerians.

The minister said one of the policies being fine-tuned by government was to begin to pay stipends to all young university and polytechnics graduates after the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme, pending their formal employment.

He stated, “But beyond that, there is also another new policy that the president has formulated, which will begin to be seen very soon, and that is that all young men and women who have finished universities and polytechnics and have certificates and have done their mandatory NYSC, and have not been able to get jobs, will have something from the government to keep them afloat until the time they get jobs.”

He described the introduction of the Compressed National Gas (CNG) policy by the president as a game changer in the country’s economy because of its ability to bring down the cost of transportation by about 60 per cent, thereby providing a viable alternative to petrol and diesel.

Idris said, henceforth, any government procurement of vehicles or machinery must have a component

cent in May 2022 to 26.25 per cent in May 2024, inflation had remained persistently high, reaching a staggering 34.19 per cent in June, the highest since March 1996.

According to the Director General of MAN, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, the new MPR would further “constrain the growth of the manufacturing sector, as the purchasing power of consumers, production levels, competitiveness and sales will face further decline.

“The manufacturing sector in Nigeria plays a vital role in the country's economy. However, it is facing multitude of challenges that threaten its sustainability and contribution to economic growth.

“Therefore, the continued increase in the cost of borrowing, which is one of our major challenges, will escalate production costs and consequently the prices of finished goods, with consequential effect on unemployment and social instability and further compound the prevailing low consumer demand, capacity utilisation and profitability,” he said.

Ajayi-Kadir added that high MPR would stifle capacity of businesses to make new and further investments, innovation and curtail opportunities for the growth and constrain the capacity of the manufacturing sector to compete effectively in regional and global markets, and if unchecked, may trigger critical distress of more manufacturing concerns.

He added: “It is noteworthy to state

its premium plan going up by 40 per cent to N7,000 from N5,000 per month.

The latest price increment makes it the second price adjustment by the platform within the space of three months, having implemented a price increment earlier in April this year.

According to the price update on the company’s website, the standard plan subscription, which is popular among Nigerian subscribers for its HD quality and multi-screen viewing options, has been increased from N4,000 to N5,500, representing a 37.5 per cent increment.

Netflix’s basic plan, which was N2,900 has been jerked up by 21 per cent to N3,500, while the lowest

of CNG embedded in the contracts.

Earlier, President General of the Charismatic Bishops Conference, dissociated the conference from the planned national protest, saying they have been inundated with calls by some groups to join the protest.

Kawas said, “Recently we received some calls from some other religious organisations and other organisations asking us to join in preparation for a nationwide protest, which would start from 1st August 2024.

“We are here to let you know that we do not think the same. That we have rather decided to go all out and call for a truce. We have decided to sue for peace and humbly request that our brothers and sisters, who are aggrieved in one way or the other, that they should give us some time while we continue to communicate and negotiate with this government on areas that are pertinent to them.”

He appealed to aggrieved Nigerians in all parts of the country to give peace a chance and toe the path of dialogue and negotiation because no reasonable government will fold its hands and allow violence to break down the country.

After the meeting with the SGF yesterday, Idris also spoke to journalists.

Ministers at the meeting were Tahir Mamman (Education); Abubakar Bagudu (Budget and Planning); Wale Edun (Finance); Bello Matawalle (Defence); Nyesom Wike (Federal Capital Territory); Yusuf Tuggar (Foreign Affairs); and Zephaniah Jisalo (Special Duties); David Umahi

that the worrisome trend occasioned by increase in cost of borrowing is corroborated by the report of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), to the effect that manufacturing investment declined significantly in the second quarter of the year.

“This drop underscores the critical link between domestic investment confidence and foreign investor sentiment. In addition, the share of manufactured exports in non-oil exports also declined from 21.4 per cent in Q4 2023 to 15.1 per cent in Q1 2024.”

He said that it was expedient that the survival of manufacturing in Nigeria was prioritised when making monetary policy decisions.

He added that this would enable the sector to effectively play its role as the key driver of employment creation, productivity, stable foreign exchange earnings, and economic sustained growth.

The MAN, therefore, recommended that the federal government should directs the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the impact of previous decisions of the MPC on inflation rate and the productive sector over the last five years to provide information that would guide future MPC’s decisions.

It also implored the CBN to be domestic production-centric by taking a detour from continuous hike in MPR and allow time for the real sector to recover from the impact of previous hikes.

(Works).

National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu also attended the meeting.

The information minister said the federal government was not sleeping and would handle the protest over economic hardship like a family affair to ensure the stability of the country. He begged for more time from Nigerians to get to the root of the matter.

Idris said, “We came together to discuss. You can see that this is not happening at the Council Chambers, it’s happening at the office of the SGF and many of the ministers are here.

“We have discussed issues of national interest and all of us are working for Nigeria and we hope and believe that Nigeria is going to be great again.

“The planned protest is a family matter. All issues will be resolved in a way to ensure the peace and stability of the country. No one is going to sleep.

“Those who are agitating and asking for protests are Nigerians, they are our brothers, they are our sisters, they are all Nigerians and those in positions of authority; the ministers, the president, everybody, we are all Nigerians, too.

“So, this is a family matter. This is a Nigerian family issue and all of us are looking at this issue very well and we hope that peace will prevail at the end of the day.”

Idris also shared insights on human

The MAN also urged that government to take deliberate actions to “insulate the productive sector from the impact of continuous hike in MPR by expediting action on the disbursement of special provisions earmarked by government for the manufacturing sector.”

It said that the N75 billion single digit loan approved by President Bola Tinubu over a year ago and the recently announced N1 trillion readily comes to mind, urging government to offer a fiscal support system that will enable the manufacturing sector to import raw materials, spares and machines that are not available locally at concessionary duty rate.

In addition it demanded the minimisation of pressure on foreign exchange reserves by incentivising backward integration and local sourcing to decrease reliance on imported products and raw materials.

Speaking in the same vein, the Director General of LCCI, Dr. Chinyere Almona, said that the chamber noted with concern the recent decision by the CBN to raise the MPR. Almona said: “The LCCI acknowledges the CBN’s efforts to control inflation and stabilise the economy. However, we are deeply concerned about the broader implications of this rate hike on the business community and the overall economic landscape. “The LCCI urges the government and the CBN to consider a more

MAn, lCCI lAMenT ConTInuouS HIke In MoneTArY PolICY rATe BY CBn

subscription plan, Mobile, has gone up by 83 per cent from N1,200 to N2,200.

Meta CEO, Mark Zuckerberg

Michael

in Abuja

Should Lagos Go Through Another Ruin?

In Lagos, today, tensions are high and bursting at the seams. Isn’t a protest that is potentially violent another bad idea? Shola Oyeyipo asks.

As an instructive takeaway from the story of Sango, the god of thunder and lightning, the Yoruba are quick to warn that, “whoever witnessed how Sango mysteriously vanished into thin air, in evident display of anger, would never knowingly denigrate the King of Koso.”

Obakoso or Olukoso as Sango is otherwise called, actually means the king did not hang himself. This conclusion followed speculations that Sango had hanged himself after the thunder he created struck his palace and burnt it down. He had left the palace for a high rock directly opposite, to re-affirm the potency of his thunderbolt (edun ara).

The fire disaster, which extended to a large part of the city, sparked a riot, forcing people to curse Sango and demand his ouster from the throne. Instead, he left town on his volition, followed by chiefs and members of his royal cult, then known as Baba-Mogba, who tried to persuade him not to quit.

After journeying with him for some time, some of the royal cult chiefs returned to Oyo with the news that the king had hanged himself. The twist, however, according to the other chiefs, who stayed the course, was that Sango was waylaid by Gbonka, one of his generals, who rebelled against him and ignited the crisis that consumed his reign.

Unwilling to fight Gbonka, Sango, history had it, varnished into thin air, only to appear in the sky to destroy Gbonka, and those peddling the rumour that he had hanged himself.

Here was the story of how the popular saying, “Eni Sango ba ti oju e wo’le, ko ni ba w’on bu Obakoso” came about. Obakoso or Olukoso means the king did not hang himself.

This agelong saying, which seems to sum up the lesson of the last days of Sango, appears useful at this material time in the life of the nation, particularly in Lagos State. In other words, if the outcome of past protests was anything to ponder, then another protest is not advisable.

Some angry youths of this country are unhappy with the state of the nation, especially the economy that is on a downward slope. There’s no doubting the fact that the state of the nation requires some serious reflections with answers provided to the grey areas. But a protest, whose outcome no one could predict, is not the way to go at this delicate period.

Four years ago, the youths of this country protested alleged police brutality, a decision no one could fault, and it lasted many days of destruction across the country, running into billions, with several deaths recorded as well.

Tagged #EndsSARS, the protest designed as a demand for the ban of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, amongst others, following the alleged excesses of its operatives, was soon hijacked and the nation, especially Lagos, is yet to recover from the ruination that followed.

In February 2023, tensions generated by the paucity of the new Naira peaked, and materialised in violent protests in some states, including Akwa Ibom, Delta, Edo, Imo, Kwara, Lagos, Ondo, Ogun, Oyo, and Rivers.

“During the civil unrest in the different states, several bank branches and ATM

points were vandalised, and major roads were blocked,” the United Nations recalled in a recent statement, warning against the idea of another protest.

The UN, therefore, added: “As the turnout for the ‘10 days of rage’ protest is expected to be high, large-scale disruptions to normal economic and social activities cannot be discounted.”

It is against this backdrop that the growing argument against another protest and solidarity with Lagos becomes expedient. This intervention is crucial to the prosperity of the state.

It is evident that things are bad. But is an idea that is potentially violent the answer? No!

Like the proverbial hunter, who killed an elephant with a flip of his cap, and ended up with a fleeting moment of glory, the recent Kenya movement, which initially gained recognition across many nations, is fast paling into regrets. The damnation from the exercise is going to take many years to fix.

The man, who allegedly instigated the mass senselessness through his unbridled tongue, a member of the parliament, Hon. George Koimburi Ndung’u, now writhes in regrets. You can’t but ponder how his “Letter of Apology” to the Speaker of Kenya’s National Assembly, Hon. Moses Wetangule, could heal the wanton destruction wreaked on Kenya by the angry mob?

For Lagos, nay Nigeria, the good news, is that a majority of the people, coming from the recent past experiences, are totally against the idea of a protest, which appears designed to wrought yet another destruction on the state, and the nation.

While the demands for a better living condition is sacrosanct, the approach, too, is as important, before the whole essence of the agitation and demand for a better society is lost to the indiscretion of a few, who seek to exploit the situation for personal aggrandizement.

While the demands for a better living condition is sacrosanct, the approach, too, is as important, before the whole essence of the agitation and demand for a better society is lost to the indiscretion of a few, who seek to exploit the situation for personal aggrandizement.

The position taken by students of the various tertiary institutions in Lagos State, who have distanced themselves from the move, and instead, mooted a solidarity walk with the state government under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is a welcome development.

The students, under the aegis of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), said instead of joining the planned protest, they would embark on a “Solidarity Walk” on the same dates as the protest to support and encourage Sanwo-Olu, who they said has been of great support to them.

Speaking to journalists at a press conference at the Lagos State University College of Medicine (LASUCOM), Ikeja, after a joint meeting, the student leaders across tertiary institutions in the state, said their solidarity walk would also be held from August 1 to 10 to drum support for peace, especially to ensure that the ugly incident of #EndSARS” of 2020 did not repeat itself.

Chairman, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Lagos axis, Comrade Lekan Alimi, who addressed newsmen on behalf of the students of the various tertiary institutions in Lagos State, described the planned nationwide protests against the current hardship in the country as “absolutely uncalled for.”

He said, rather than join the protest, the students in Lagos would prefer to engage in constructive dialogue with governments in achieving collective goals.

While noting that the trying times in the country would soon ease, he appealed to Nigerians to persevere a little more to enjoy the dividends of democracy as being propounded by the President Bola Tinubu administration.

It’s also not in error that some social media influencers have started to campaign against any protest being staged in Lagos. They have realised the kindness, benevolence, and tolerance of the state and did not think the way to reciprocate such good deeds is by destroying its development pride.

It is true that things are tough. It is also true that the economy is still struggling and very true that the situation is breathing down heavily on everyone in the country, including a part of the leadership. But the way to get around it is not by willfully destroying state assets.

Without a doubt, the subsisting argument that protest – peaceful protest – is within the fundamental human rights of the citizens is immutable and an all-time constitutional reality. But what the prospective protesters should also know is that there is no absolute freedom anywhere in the world.

The state’s number one responsibility is to protect life and property. That’s also pegged strongly in the constitution. Therefore, since protesters are unable to tell when and if their peaceful rally could be hijacked and become violent, more so when there are parallel instances to cite, it speaks to wisdom to approach the matter cautiously and differently.

Lagos, a miniature of Nigeria, should not be turned into another theatre of violence and destruction, like the #EndSARS experience. Rather, constructive engagement in the overall interest of the state is the way to go.

Sanwo-Olu

Regulatory functions should be harmonised for better output to support industries, argues RILWAN FASH

REGULATORY REGIME INHIBITS PRIVATE SECTOR GROWTH

The Bola Tinubu administration has since assumption of office been making pronouncements and effecting changes in several Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of the federal government in furtherance of its electoral promises to provide enabling environments for private sector operators to lead the charge in revamping the nation’s economy.

While these changes are expected to ignite positive strides in regulatory functions to provide necessary encouragements to existing and prospective investors in the nation’s economy, it is also important that activities of MDAs align the economic environment to local and international best practices.

Given that a quarter of the administration’s four-year tenure is already gone, it would not be out of place to begin to examine how regulatory activities of the MDAs at the federal and state levels are impacting on the growth or otherwise of the private sector and conversely the socio-economic well-being of the people in general.

One recurrent complaint of the organized private sector in Nigeria and possibly several other African nations are ‘overregulation’ by governments and their agencies which are often linked to price increases as the perceived costs of regulation are easily passed on to the eventual consumers of goods and services.

Analysts have sometimes linked the perceived overregulation to attempts by MDAs to substantially increase their internally generated revenue due to continuous reduction in government funding year-in year-out; others point to ambiguity or overlap in legal instruments setting up the MDAs as well as overzealousness on the part of officials of regulatory institutions in carrying out their respective mandates.

Given the speed at which geographical jurisdictions are continuously getting intertwined due to globalization, it goes without saying that regulatory functions especially in developing economies like Nigeria need to the harmonized and rationalized for more efficient output to support the growth of industries in order to promote increased capacity utilization, quality and competitive products and services, thus providing the much talked about employment opportunities for the teeming youths. This no doubt will stem the tide of restiveness, the possibilities of being recruited into negative endeavors and the brain drain (Japa) syndrome.

Recent occurrences in some sectors of the economy suggests that not much has changed in wide gaps between policies objectives and implementation by regulatory authorities. Take the issue of pre-paid meters in the electricity sector as an example, differing tunes are being sung by the different DISCOs in Nigeria while the regulatory authorities seemed unable to stand their ground in ensuring that consumers get the best services possible. Efficient and effective metering should be a sine qua non, following the privatization of the sector, if the players are to properly account for services rendered against charges applied to the consumers.

Another critical area to look at is the regulation of quality of goods where the leading agencies, like Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Nigeria Customs Service and lately the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) among others hold sway.

In spite of the continuous calls by organized

private sector groups like the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), the National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) amongst many others for harmonization of regulatory functions to reduce the burden on industry and subsequently consumers, not much seemed to have changed. These regulators are from the federal, state and even local government authorities. Regulatory requirements demanded of industry by each of these agencies need to be harmonized including non-duplication of such essential activities like laboratory tests and analysis. The cumulative costs incurred by manufacturers in trying to meet the regulatory requirements set out by each of the agencies is enormous and need to be reviewed in the overall interest of the consumer and the nation’s economy.

I read the other day about a regulatory agency’s fact finding visits to Steel manufacturing plants across the nation to investigate perceived infractions relating to poor quality and anti-competitive behaviour following intelligence and surveillance reports. This writer learnt that not only samples of the products in question were taken but computers and even telephone handsets of operatives of the steel companies, not without obtaining a court order though.

What the regulator has done in this instance can be referred to as tactically shutting down the steel companies’ production processes which presumes guilt rather than innocence until proven otherwise as provided in Nigerian legal jurisprudence.

Regulatory activities should balance meeting standards, quality, safety, regulatory, environmental and socio-economic requirements with the provision of job opportunities and the attendant impacts down the social ladder.

The investigation being carried out on the Steel companies in this writer’s opinion, should be done in close collaboration with SON, especially issues relating to verifying the quality of the product samples taken in order to save scarce government resources.

Regulation of anti-competitive behaviour by industry should be done with care and diligence so as not to get drawn into dirty fights among industry players in trying to outplay and outwit each other.

The federal government over the decades is said to have invested billions of Naira in building laboratory competencies in such agencies as SON, NAFDAC, FIIRO, NAQS, etc., with some of them already attaining ISO/IEC 17025 (Standard for Testing and Calibration Laboratories) accreditation and international recognition status.

Fash writes from Lagos

KINGSLEY NDUBUEZE AYOZIE

suggests way out for millions of Nigerians trapped by rising inflation

COPING WITH RISING COST OF LIVING

Sequel to a recent online publication titled, "Lagos emerges among top10 cities with highest cost of living in Africa, I felt there is a need for us to holistically look at this report and think of possible ways that will endear us to stand firm despite the attendants negative implications that these rising cost of living may pose to the ordinary man on the street of Lagos and beyond.

I pondered over the headline and it got to a point that I became worried because of the significant position of Lagos as the commercial nerve center of Nigeria.

My concern currently is hinged on finding an "available remedial action" that can assist the citizenry to come out strong despite the worrisome times. This article is targeted at finding a "possible remedial action and/ or solution point" that can assist us to triumph economically, financially, socially and otherwise despite the high cost of living among these cities. My search around these 10 cities within the African sub-region revealed that prices of food stuffs have soared recently with a corresponding rise in hunger level within their domain. Electricity tariff has suddenly witnessed an upward movement thus posing great threat to the much talked about ease of doing business. There have also been an astronomical increases in the rate of inflation as the cost of education (tuition fees) for our children is not left out on the long list of items that are hurting. The economical value alongside the purchasing power of their respective local currencies have been devalued greatly.

Borrowing and lending rates have equally gone up the roof, thus making the needed money supply within the economy to be limited. The average standard of living is not encouraging with a corresponding upward movement in poverty level according to this report.

Job losses and unemployment level is also on the run as consumer spending and the activities within the economy have dwindled drastically .Investments in critical sector activities have witnessed a downward movement too. Accessing basic healthcare facility is also creating huge financial burden on the common man in the street of Lagos and elsewhere. Prices of the much needed petroleum motor spirit (PMS) have equally skyrocketed thus leading to a high cost in transportation fares from one location to another within the metropolis and environs. The hike in transportation fares has incidentally posed a negative ripple effect on the prices of food stuffs and basic household items in our economy as food inflation rates have equally soared.. Cost of goods is equally up.

Incidentally the food inflation rate is also not being left out in the long lists of hardship being witnessed as the respective country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is also being negatively affected too.

Lastly, the cost of renting an affordable accommodation is becoming out of the reach of the common man within the 19 mentioned cities in the African soil.

For us to remain steadfast economically, financially and otherwise in the midst of these rising cost of living, there exists lots of measures at our doorstep that will see us through namely: adjusting our different lifestyle in order to suit the current realities of life; embracing bulk purchases in order to enjoy some level of price discounts, massively increasing our income, based through diversification is another positive measure that is worthy of adoption at this critical point in time in our lives. Others are adopting a simple life culture; investing for the rainy days either in livestock farming or arable farming is considered a good idea too; critically looking at ones expenses

and beginning to practice a cost reduction mechanism is not to be neglected. Besides, re-investing our excess income in real estate business as they appreciate faster and do not depreciate like others is another acceptable option at our doorstep currently. Taking a closer look at our income and expenditure profile with a view to averting financial crisis in the future is a step in the right direction (ie practice budgeting) and above all, adoptung an "effective financial planning mechanism" appears to be the saving grace.

If we all painstakingly and passionately adopt these stringent measure, it will be rewarding at the end of it all.

Financial planning can be viewed as a short term and /or long term objective that is tailored towards saving for the future or planning ahead for life after retirement, etc.

Another school of thought sees financial planning as a holistic means of factioning out a detailed and well spelt out plan of action which will either manage an individual or firm's finances with a view to achieving

financial freedom in the future and also attain to their financial goals.

In today's world, financial planning will cover or address on the following measures: managing and cutting down on ones debt profile; planning a life after retirement period when we cannot be able to work; taking up an insurance cover that will take care of eventualities such as accidents, fire outbreaks and the likes when it occurs; setting up an emergency fund that will assist us to tackle unforseen circumstances when they occur; critically managing and updating on ones investment portfolio is a critical success factor too.

Other interpretations of financial planning include : practising the act of budgeting; setting financial goals that will assist us manage our finances; periodically taking a look at our financial indices such as income, expenses, assets, liabilities and equity; and reviewing regularly your financial plan.

A well implemented financial planning mechanism will attract the following benefits: enhances the overall financial standing of the ordinary man on the street; assists one to prioritize your spending through proper adherence to budgetary provisions; combats the financial stress and burden associated with high debt profile situation of the average man on the street; assists in achieving financial goals laid down and at the same time keep afloat in today's rising cost and promotes financial security and protection.

Ayozie, a Chartered Accountant, writes from Lagos

Editor,

Editorial Page PETER

ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

ADDRESSING THE FOOD PROBLEM

The planned suspension of taxes on importation of some food items is welcome

With millions of people struggling to feed or even starving, the federal government recently announced plans to suspend taxes on certain food imports including wheat and maize for 150-days, with a view to curbing food inflation. "To ameliorate food inflation in the country, the government has taken a raft of measures to be implemented over the next 180 days," Agriculture Minister, Abubakar Kyari said in a statement announcing the measures that we consider rather timely.

Although the federal government has spent considerable amount on money on ‘palliatives’, it has not achieved its intended purpose. In February, President Bola Tinubu directed the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to release 42,000 metric tonnes of maize, millet, and other grains in its Strategic Reserve. At the end, it made no difference. Besides, the mode of distribution in many states has led to criticisms, including from the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah. “We need to see a much more robust programme designed by the government to help us go away from just lining up and collecting palliatives when we are not at war,” Kukah said. “I think it is the height of indignity to see Nigerians lining up every day under the sun and waiting to collect bags of rice, which probably never come, not because money has not been given but because everybody who gives out money in Nigeria from the federal government knows that a good part of this money is always stolen.”

consequences. and the ensuing global energy crisis, the situation has since worsened. Latest figures from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reveal that the annual food inflation in Nigeria surged to 40.87 per cent in June this year from 40.66 per cent in May, due to cost of such essential commodities as bread and cereals, potatoes, yam, meat, and fish.

Recent reports from both local and international organisations point to the fact that millions of Nigerian families go to bed without any certainty as to where their next meals would come from as prices of foodstuff skyrocket

T H I S D AY

EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU

DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI

Meanwhile, the United Nations World Food Programme (UNWFP) has warned repeatedly that millions of Nigerians are at the risk of hunger as prices of foodstuff are becoming out of reach. With angry citizens expressing their frustration about the daily hikes of staple foods, transportation costs, school fees, house rent and other inescapable expenses that are becoming impossible to finance, the federal government and authorities in the 36 states of the federation must wake up to the reality of the seeming hopelessness for a vast majority of our people. This is in a nation blessed with enormous natural and human resources, but which has consistently been held down by poor governance at virtually all levels.

Indeed, all the recent reports from both local and international organisations point to the fact that millions of Nigerian families go to bed without any certainty as to where their next meals would come from as prices of foodstuff skyrocket. Rising food prices, according to the World Bank, are ‘severely impacting Nigerian households’ with dire

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI

DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO

TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Letters to the Editor

The minimum recommended amount of food by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for energy needs is based on 12-14 basic items that together would account for 2,100 calories per adult per day. Most Nigerians cannot afford that. Besides, using ‘cost of food basics’ analysis that compares the monthly minimum recommended spend on food per adult, most reports have placed Nigeria as one the poorest countries in the world in terms of food affordability. The irony of Nigeria is that some of the states where food prices have gone up are in major food-producing areas of the country. Unfortunately, available reports indicate that food price inflation is not likely to improve anytime soon if the predicaments facing parts of the country remain unresolved.

To change that narrative, authorities in Abuja and the 36 states must move beyond ‘palliatives.’

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

WIKE AND ABUJA STREET LIGHTS

At a time where most big cities in Africa and Europe suffer from luminous pollution (there's too much light), Abuja Nigeria, the so-called giant of Africa, appears unable to take care of common street lights.

After regular work from Mondays to Fridays, Abujans want to go out into the night to unwind. But we cannot because of the jungle kind of darkness that prevails around Wuse, Jabi and most of the city centre. Not only Nigerians. Foreigners as well are afraid to explore night life in Abuja. I once had a foreign friend who told me that Abuja is about the dullest city in Nigeria. ‘ I would wake up at anytime in the night in Lagos and drive around if I want to…but not Abuja’, he told me.

Street light is security and security is street lights. Provision of basic things like street lights in a city as Abuja is a litmus test of the capacity of any public official so saddled with that responsibility. Inability thereof ordinarily signals failure. Because the question is: if the person saddled with that responsibility cannot handle ordinary street lights, how can he provide roads, health care, security, and a guarantee of security?

Although some areas like Gwarinpa now enjoy street lights, it should be spread to all nooks and crannies of the FCT.

Bob Etemiku,

WADONOR, cultural Voice

of

Nigeria

LOCAL GOVT AUTONOMY AND THE YOUTHS

The time f or us to take our destinies into our hands is now that the Supreme Court has granted financial autonomy to local governments. We must monitor all allocations coming to the local government areas.We must begin to write about the plight of our communities across the 774 local govt areas of Nigeria.We must offer constructive and objective criticism to those leading us as chairmen and councillors. We must promote massive awareness about the significance and importance of the financial autonomy of the local govts to all nooks and crannies of the country.

Lastly,we must demand and crusade for better elections into offices across the l ocal governments That is the only way we can benefit from the autonomy of local governments by being able to truly choose those to represent us as chairmen and councillors.

Feyisetan Akeeb Kareem, karf eyio@gmail.com

There were two old men in the US election but now?

One listened to his family, friends and advisers and did what they thought would be for the best. He will be hard to replace but his deputy shows promise.

One told his family, friends, and advisers what he thought would be for the best. He will be easy to replace but his deputy is just a clone of himself.

There are other comparisons already being reported in the media including one being a felon and one prosecuting felons but surely people can see the difference between them in not just age but mainly in character.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?

FEaturEs

Throwing the IDPs to the Sharks

The facts are not in doubt that though insurgency may not be at its peak in the BAY states and the rest of the Sahel but because of the need to close down the many internally displaced persons (IDPs) camps due to donor fatigue to the troubled region, the IDPs situation may be perfectly described as people that are thrown to the sharks in a raging storm to lighten the ship, Michael Olugbode reports

“The statistics from the ECOWAS Early Warning and Response Network (ECOWARN) paint a sobering picture. Between January and May 2024, our region has witnessed over 7,000 deaths as a result of more than 800 terrorist incidents.

"Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali have been particularly devastated by this relentless violence. This stark reality highlights the staggering human cost of insecurity, and underscores the urgency for a coordinated and decisive action to combat this menace.”

These were the words of Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chair of Council of Ministers of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, few days ago while officially declaring the two-day 92nd Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers open in Abuja

To buttress Tuggar’s point and to truncate the argument that the IDP camps should be vacated just few days ago, the non state actors, Boko Haram staged audacious multiple attacks on Gwoza, their once declared Caliphate, killing several people and injuring much more persons.

The attacks were suicidal in nature with one of the attackers a female even having a baby on her when the explosive device on her detonated. As if that was not enough to announced their return with reign of terror, a day later there was another explosion on a farmland in Monguno where two persons were killed.

Most of the camps in the three most affected states of the Northeast, Borno, Adamawa and Yobe (BAY) have been closed down with the IDPs made to return to their homelands that may likely be unsafe.

Borno Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, on the reasons to shut down IDP camps in Borno made these statements: "The IDP camps were being used for criminal activities, including prostitution and drug abuse.The camps were being used for armed robbery and theft.The IDP camps were becoming slums. The IDP camps were not meant to be permanent structures. The closure of the camps would allow for the dignified economic and social development of the people.

"The government would provide monthly stipends to support the returnees. The government would provide resettlement packages, including food and other items. The government was not forcing anyone to leave the camps, but the camps must be closed to ensure peace and stability in the state. The return of IDPs to their ancestral homes was a key objective in restoring peace in the state and the closure of IDP camps would allow for the rebuilding of lives in Borno State."

One thing that was not said in all these was that before the closure of the camps, they were embarrassing protest across

some of them on the mismanagement of humanitarian assistance and that hunger was ravaging many of the IDPs who were sometimes compelled to go to the streets to beg for alms.

Now that they were made to leave the camps with what may not last long, with dangers still lurking in the dark, the situation of the IDPs could best be described as throwing into the sea excess baggage to safe the ship from sinking in a storm or other emergency.

It is normal under the maritime rule in order to reduce the weight of a ship in emergency situations, such as storms, to improve its stability and buoyancy things are thrown into the sea; this is called "lightening the ship" or "lightening the load."

The allowance is that to lighten the ship, the crew might: pump out water from the hold or tanks; Jettison heavy cargo or equipment overboard; Remove excess fuel or oil; Cut loose anchors or other heavy gear; and even dump water from the ballast tanks.

By reducing the ship's weight, it becomes easier to manage and more likely to stay afloat in rough seas. This tactic has been used for centuries to help ships survive severe weather conditions.

But nowhere was it allowed for the throwing people into the ocean, it is never an acceptable solution to lighten a ship in times of storm. This practice, known as "sacrificing" or "sending people overboard," is a historical concept that has largely been abolished and is considered inhumane and illegal, but in past, there have been instances where passengers or crew members were forced to abandon ship in lifeboats or were even thrown overboard to reduce the ship's weight and improve its chances of staying afloat.

However, this practice is no longer accepted and is considered a violation of human rights and maritime law. Modern maritime regulations and safety protocols prioritise the safety of all individuals on board, and ships are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions without resorting to such drastic measures. Instead, crews use other methods to lighten the ship, as mentioned earlier, such as pumping out water, jettisoning cargo, and adjusting ballast. The safety of all on board is the top priority.

It is unfortunately true that enslaved people were thrown overboard by slave traders in the past as a brutal measure to lighten the ship's load during emergencies or to avoid capture by authorities. This horrific practice was a part of the transatlantic slave trade, which was a devastating system of exploitation and oppression.

The most infamous example is the Zong Massacre in 1781, where the crew of the

British slave ship Zong threw at least 138 enslaved Africans into the ocean to collect insurance money. This event became a symbol of the atrocities committed during the slave trade and fueled the abolitionist movement.

Such acts were not only inhumane but also a stark reminder of the dehumanising nature of the slave trade, which treated people as cargo rather than human beings.

But could the closure of the camps not have the same signposts as the reason for its closure may in actuality have been not to continually belaboured deprecated resources with the care of the IDPs.

It is on record that they (the IDPs) might have not been adequately shielded from attacks, there are reported attacks on communities where IDPs have been returned to in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa States.

Here are some instances: November 5, 2023: Suspected non-state armed group (NSAG) operatives killed at least 21 farmers and abducted several others in Monguno and Mafa Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Borno State; November 10, 2023: A clash between crop farmers and herders at Bayamari town in Bursari LGA of Yobe State resulted in one death and seven injuries, with several houses burnt and destroyed; November 18, 2023: NSAGs allegedly attacked the convoy of the Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni along Maiduguri-Damaturu Road, killing two policemen and injuring two others; November 27, 2023: Suspected NSAG operatives killed 11 people making charcoal in Bale, a village in Damboa LGA of Borno State.

These attacks and clashes highlight the ongoing security challenges in these states and the risks faced by returned IDPs. Humanitarian actors continue to advocate for the protection and well-being of affected communities in the region.

Displaced persons or refugees have the right to make decisions about their own lives, including where they stay. This is enshrined in various international instruments, including:

The 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol, which recognize the right of refugees to choose their place of residence.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Article 13), which states that everyone has the right to freedom of movement and residence within the borders of their own country.

The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Article 12), which

recognizes the right of all persons to liberty of movement and residence.

The Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement, which emphasize the right of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to make decisions about their own displacement and return.

These rights include:The right to choose their place of residence, including the right to return to their home of origin; The right to freedom of movement, including the right to leave or stay in a particular place; the right to seek asylum in another country; The right to be protected from forced return or displacement; and the right to have access to information and assistance to make informed decisions about their displacement and return.

It's however important to note that these rights are not always respected in practice, and displaced persons or refugees may face various obstacles and challenges in exercising their rights.

Since 2021, the Borno State Government has returned or relocated more than 170,000 IDPs from various camps in the State to their respective homes. Humanitarians had expressed concerns about the safety of the IDPs relocating to locations in areas in proximity to areas controlled by non-state armed groups (NSAGs).

Most of the places of return still lack rudimentary health care, access to education, and other basic services. Those returning to these areas also lack access to land and means of livelihood.

On a positive note, the Government has put security measures in place to ensure the safety of the returnees. These measures include the excavation of trenches, the construction of watch towers, the presence of military outposts, and the deployment of police to the locations of return. Humanitarian partners on the ground reported that despite the Government efforts, many of those returning to their LGAs and villages still lack access to farmland and means of livelihood.

There is definitely cries for assistance and the need not to be returned back to a home that may not be safe yet.

Some IDPs who ran to Yola in the thick of attacks on Gwoza about nine years ago have pleaded that they should not be compelled to move back to the town but be assisted to settle in the Adamawa state capital.

Speaking to our correspondent in Adamawa State, the leader at one of the camp, Jugule Hamed who fled from Bulamawaziri said many of the settlements in Gwoza are still unsaved and they cannot just return there. He appealed to government and international donors to assist the over 100 people at the camp to settle in Yola as they have found peace in the land and are already farming.

Girei camp in Yola, Adamawa State

A Decade of Integrity, Credibility and Transparency at the Nigeria Pitch Awards

From recognising individual and team achievement on the football pitch, to acknowledging individuals and corporate entities who contribute significantly to the development of the sport, the Nigeria Pitch Awards, a prestigious platform for recognising hard work, commitment, and excellence among Nigerian footballers, sports officials, and stakeholders, have not only kept the faith in rewarding the deserving, but has also maintained its credibility in conducting squeaky clean awards

Over the years, the Nigeria Pitch Awards, a prestigious platform for recognising hard work, commitment, and excellence among Nigerian footballers, sports officials, and stakeholders, has sustained its credibility in rewarding the most deserving.

From when the first ever Nigeria Pitch Awards ceremony was held on November 16, 2013 at the Transcorp Metropolitan Hotel Calabar, Cross River State, the goal has always been to recognise individuals who have made significant contributions to the growth of sports in Nigeria, and celebrating those whose dedication and efforts have profoundly impacted the nation's sporting landscape.

This year was no different. Now in its 10th edition, the city of Akwa Ibom played host to the award body and nominees in June 2024. Held at the Ibom Icon Hotel and Golf Resort, Uyo, Akwa Ibom, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Ibrahim Gusau led a long list of dignitaries to the award.

Also in attendance were Mohammed Sanusi, the General Secretary of the Federation; CP Patrick Ateyero, the CP Sports of the Nigeria Police Force, who represented for the Inspector-General of Police; and Nigerian Ex-international and the 1997 CAF African Footballer of the Year, Victor Ikpeba, amongst many other Super Eagles stars.

Thorough Scrutiny Process

Endorsed by the Nigeria Football Federation and the Federal Ministry of Youths and Sports since 2012, The Nigeria Pitch Awards is the longest-running football awards in the history of Nigerian football and one of the few audited awards in the country.

For many pundits, the staying power of this award has been living up to its credibility. To its credit, with over 480 nominations and 160 winners in the last decade, there have been no controversial award decisions as the results were subjected to thorough scrutiny.

According to the Founder of Lenders Consult International (formerly Matchmakers Consult International) and Convener of The Pitch Awards, Mr. Shina Phillips, the award was built on “Integrity, Credibility and Transparency", three key words that have stood them out.

Till date, award winners are determined by votes cast by over one hundred sports editors across the 36 states of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, each voting in complete independence of others and from different cities and locations in Nigeria.

According to Philips, while his company’s role in the Nigeria Pitch Awards is simply to midwife the process, which will give Nigerians a football awards of their own, it's other stakeholders who have built their careers monitoring footballers and football related-activities, that decide the winners

Meanwhile, the collation and auditing of votes are conducted by SIAO Partners, an indigenous accounting and auditing firm that mail ballots to the voters, collates and announce winners completely independent of the organisers.

In fact, at this year's award, the NFF President, while reiterating support for the Nigeria Pitch Awards, commended the organisers for the transparency and credibility displayed in the award process.

Nominees and Winners

Overall, nominees were picked in all 18 award categories, with only one winner. The award categories include Goalkeeper of the Year, Defender of the Year, Midfielder of the Year, Striker of the Year, Queen of the Pitch, King of the Pitch, Sam Okwaraji Award, Football Pitch, Football-Friendly Governor, Corporate Sponsor, alongside several honours for media representatives.

In the category of Goalkeeper of the Year, nominees were Kayode Bankole (Remo Stars); Amas Obasogie (Bendel Insurance); Ojo Olorunleke (Enyimba FC) while the winner was Olorunleke; the Defender of the Year were Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC); Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest); Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce SK) and the winner was Aina. Midfielder of the Year were Alhassan Yusuf (Royal Antwerp); Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester

City); Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC), of which Iwobi clinched while Striker of the Year had Robert Mizo (Bayelsa United); Victor Osimhen (Napoli SC); Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen), and Osimhen emerged winner.

The Queen of the Pitch had Rasheedat Ajibade (Atletico de Madrid Femenino); Chiamaka Nnadozie (Paris FC); Asisat Oshoala (Bay FC) with Oshoala clinching it for the fourth time. King of the Pitch with Victor Osimhen (Napoli SC); Emeka Obioma (Enyimba FC); Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen) went to Osimhen.

Team of the Year were Super Falcons; Enyimba FC; Remo Stars, which was clinched by Enyimba while Coach of the Year had Daniel Ogunmodede (Remo Stars); Finidi George (Enyimba FC); Randy Waldrum (Super Falcons), of which George won.

Sam Okwaraji Award had the likes of Victor Osimhen (Napoli SC); Ahmed Musa; Kunle Soname (Proprietor, Remo Stars), which Soname won and that of the State With The Best Grassroots Football Development Programme with Edo State; Delta State; Lagos State as nominees went to Lagos State.

Football Pitch of the Year with Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos; Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne; Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo,

went to Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, while Football-Friendly Governor of the Year with Governor Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom State); Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos State); and Governor Godwin Obaseki (Edo State) as nominees went to Lagos State governor. Best Corporate Sponsor of Football that had Bet9ja (Sport Betting); GTI (Financial Services); MTN (Telecom) as nominees was won by MTN Nigeria while the Sportsmanship Award with Hon. Kunle Soname (Proprietor, Remo Stars); Victor Osimhen (Napoli SC); Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye (Chairman, NPFL Board) as nominees went to Soname. Football Journalist of the Year (Print) with nominees like Christian Okpara (The Guardian); Charles Diya (New Telegraph); and Johnny Edward (Punch Newspapers) went to Edward while Football Journalist of the Year (TV) with Miyen Akiri (TVC); Mozez Praiz (SuperSport); Cecilia Omorogbe (Channels TV) went to Praiz.

The Football Journalist of the Year (Radio) had Olawale Adigun (Mainland FM); Yinka Oyedele (Brila 88.9 FM); and Anthony Bekederemo (Brila 88.9 FM) as nominees and it was won by Bekederemo while Football Journalist of the Year (Online) with Samuel Ahmadu (Savid News); Tobi Adepoju (Oganla Media); and Kunle Solaja (sportsvillagesquare.com) as nominees was clinched by Adepoju.

Meanwhile, Chairman and CEO of Channels Television, John Momoh, was honoured for the Channels Kids Cup initiative. Also honoured was Ibrahim Gusua, the NFF President.

The organisers also honoured IGP Kayode Egbetokun, the Inspector-General of Police, with the Special Achievement in Sports Award, for his relentless commitment to the development of sports within the Nigeria Police Force and how his pursuit of sporting excellence have significantly benefited not only the Force but also the national sports arena.

He was commended for pioneering the introduction of football as an event in the finals of the 14th BIPOGA in Ibadan in February 2024. The success of these games culminated in the outstanding performance of Nigeria Police athletes at the 13th All African Games in Accra, Ghana, from March 8th to 26th, 2024, where 17 athletes from the Nigeria Police won medals for the country.

In addition to these achievements, IGP Egbetokun has set up plans to host the West African Police Games in September 2024, as part of his zeal to foster sportsmanship and unity within the Police across the West African region to enhance collaboration and camaraderie. Although the 10th edition of the Nigeria Pitch Awards might have come and gone, one thing was quite clear- its credibility will keep it in the race for a long time to come.

Pitch Awards Organiser, Shina Philips (left), presenting the Special Achievement in Sports Award to IGP Kayode Egbetokun

Mohammed Sanusi, the General Secretary of the Federation presenting Midfielder of the Year Award to Alex Iwobi

Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Ibrahim Gusau with CP Patrick Atayero, the CP Sports of the Nigeria Police Force

Despite Challenges, Telecoms Industry Contribution to Nigeria’s GDP Maintained Steady Growth in Three Years

Emma Okonji

Despite the difficult times faced by telecoms operators in delivering telecoms services across all sectors of the Nigerian economy, the contribution of telecoms industry to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), has maintained a steady growth curve in the last three years, latest statistics released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has revealed. Some of the challenges include; Right of Way (RoW) issues, multiple taxes imposed by state governments, and incessant closure of telecoms sites by states agencies, The statistics, which THISDAY

Emma Okonji

Members of the Association of Telecommunications, Information Technology, Cable Satellite Network Operators and Allied Services Employers’ of Nigeria (ATICEN), have again reminded the Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, Dr. Olayemi Micheal Cardoso, of the urgent need to establish the Technology Development Bank of Nigeria and the Business Development Bank of Nigeria, which had earlier been proposed to the apex bank.

In a recent letter to CBN, the President of the association, Adede John Williams, re-emphasised the need for the establishment of the

obtained from the website of NCC, showed that in Q1, 2021, telecoms contribution to GDP was 11.66 per cent, and in Q2, 2021, it increased to 14.42 per cent, but dropped to 11.94 per cent in Q3, 2021, before it increased again to 12.61 per cent in Q4, 2021.

The statistics further explained that in Q1, 2022, telecoms contribution to GDP increased again to 12.94 per cent, with another increase to 15.00 per cent in Q2, 2022. GDP contribution however dropped to 12.85 per cent in Q3, 2022, but increased again to 13.55 per cent in Q4, 2022, with another increase to 14.13 per cent in Q1, 2023, before it reached a peak of 16.06 per cent

financial institutions, adding that it will support the funding of startups and businessmen/women that need funds to grow their businesses.

According to him, “I sincerely seized this medium to urge the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), to put in his professional support in the quest for the proposed establishment of the Technology Development Bank of Nigeria and also the Business Development Bank of Nigeria. There has been ongoing agitations amongst the Fintech (Start-ups) and the organised private sector community in Nigeria for the establishment of development banks. With the establishment of

in Q2, 2023.

The GDP contribution however dropped again to 13.50 per cent in Q3, 2023, but increased again to 14.00 per cent in Q4, 2023, with a further increase to 14.58 per cent in Q1, 2024.

A report released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in November 2023, showed that Nigeria’s GDP grew by 2.54 per cent in the third quarter (Q3) of 2023. The growth rate, according to NBS, is higher than the 2.25 per cent recorded in the third of quarter in 2022 and higher than the second quarter 2023 growth of 2.51 per cent.

NBS disclosed that the performance of the GDP in the third quarter of 2023 was driven

these banks, start-ups, businessmen/ women, captains of industries, entrepreneurs and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) development will get direct support and funding for their businesses, and the benefits of such financial development institutions are enormous.”

Williams also advised the CBN governor to call for an all-inclusive stakeholders’ engagement meeting in order to have a robust treatise regarding the roadmap for the Fintechs regulating development framework, and to discuss the downward review of the operational license fees for Financial Technology service providers (Star-ups).

mainly by the services sector, which recorded a growth of 3.99 per cent and contributed 52.70 per cent to the aggregate GDP.

Although Agriculture and the Oil Sector contributed meaningfully to GDP growth in 2023, the non-oil sector, where ICT plays prominently, contributed over 95 per cent of Nigeria’s GDP in 2023.

Commenting on the telecoms industry contribution to GDP, Chairman, Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo, told THISDAY that the telecoms’ impressive contribution to Nigeria’s GDP, underscored the important role of telecommunications to the

He is of the view that recommendations from such stakeholders’ engagement meeting will further unlock the potential of the Fintech subsector and heighten regulatory focus through firm policies framework, while promoting more financial inclusion in the country.

“We have a firm belief that the meeting will mitigate the potential risks associated with the Fintech ecosystem and encourage transparency, accountability, interoperability, collaboration with other financial institutions and open direct communications among the industry players and the regulators alike. It will equally give ways for proper monitoring and

development of every sector of the Nigerian economy.

Adebayo however warned that the challenges faced by telecoms operators in delivering telecoms services to Nigerians in recent times, were getting out of proportion, insisting that such challenges could erode the gains of telecoms if not addressed by government.

“Despite the achievements recorded in the telecoms sector in the past three years, the sector has its own challenges that are negatively affecting the growth of telecoms and ICT development in the country.

Most agencies of government are bent on imposing multiple taxes on telecoms operators, a development

supervision of activities of Fintech companies in the country, ensuring end users protection, maintaining financial stability, financial inclusion and preventing financial crimes among other benefits associated with the Fintech ecosystem,” Williams further said.

According to him, the biggest challenge confronting the Financial Technology (Fintech) service providers subsector of the ICT industry as a whole is that the regulators and the policymakers do not have a better understanding that the accessibility of capital for Fintech deployment is very crucial.

“I hereby use this opportunity to urge the Governor of the CBN to

that was resisted by the telecoms operators in 2023, which led to incessant closure of telecoms sites by government agencies in some states of the country like Kogi State.

“Again, telecoms operators are owed huge sums of money by money deposit banks, under the Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) agreement, reached between telecoms operators and banks, which has now accumulated to over N200 billion,” Adebayo said. He further said if such huge sum of money was paid and invested into the telecoms industry for network expansion, it would have further improved service quality across networks.

try and formulate industry-centric policies that will further raise capital and encourage local and international investors for the Fintech start-ups operating in Nigeria, bearing in mind that raising capital or funding is the lifeblood of any startup that must grow big. I think it is very important to establish a Financial Technology Regulation Committee (FTRC), to oversee and manage the impute coming from the stakeholders for a better legal framework that will help to harness the digital economy and financial inclusion growth of the country.

FCMB: Supporting Women, Farmers in Fight Against Hunger in Nigeria

Kayode Tokede

In northeast Nigeria, a female farmer’s life has been transformed. Her maize yields have skyrocketed thanks to Babban Gona, a programme that empowers rural farmers with essential resources and training. “Before joining Babban Gona, I planted any type of seed without planning,” she recounts.

“Now, I harvest 24 to 25 bags of maize. They taught us how to plant with high-yield seeds and how to apply fertilizer.”

Babban Gona is an initiative in northeast Nigeria that empowers rural farmers by providing them with fertilizers, farm inputs, and extension services. This programme, lauded for its remarkable 99.9 per cent repayment rate - unprecedented in the country - enables farmers to acquire essential resources to improve their livelihoods and agricultural productivity.

First City Monument Bank Limited (FCMB), Nigeria’s leading lender to the agriculture sector supports the Babban Gona programme to empower farmers, create agricultural jobs and combat food insecurity.

FCMB’s commitment extends beyond the Babban Gona programme through a collaboration with Mercy Corps aimed at bolstering financial inclusion in Northeast Nigeria. The collaboration focuses on poverty reduction, particularly for rural women, youth, and displaced persons, by improving their income, thus moving them out of chronic vulnerability through expanded economic opportunities and strengthened resilience.

Furthermore, recognizing the region’s vulnerability to climate change and conflict, the FCMB-Mercy Corps partnership introduced climate-smart farming practices to the populace to transform barren land into thriving fields. It did this by equipping farmers with water conservation techniques, sustainable land management practices, and drought-resistant crops to mitigate the effects of erratic rainfall and prolonged droughts. Additionally, access to weather information and early warning systems empowers farmers to make informed

decisions, minimizing losses and ensuring the long-term sustainability of agricultural practices in the region. These interventions are crucial given the rising food prices threatening Nigeria’s food security. InJune 2024, food inflation reached 34.19per cent, according to the

National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). While government efforts are underway, FCMB’s contributions are significant. To assuage the plight of Nigerians, the government has made several interventions, including releasing the strategic grain reserves and introducing some level of price control and monitoring. But what has not caught media attention, even though profound, is the intervention by private organizations like FCMB.

In the 2023 financial year, FCMB made appreciable strides in helping to tackle the problem of food security in the nation. Some of the initiatives executed within the year include increased lending to the agriculture sector by 39per cent to N204 billion.

This move will ultimately impact the government’s drive to grow the agricultural sector, which contributes 25 percent to Nigeria’s GDP. The agriculturalsector not only plays a crucial role in the economy but also employs a large portion of the population, making it a vital component of Nigeria’s economic structure and development strategy.

A veritable way to encourage the growth of the industry is access to capital. One of the ways FCMB ensured this was by providing over N18.0 billion in loans at a single-digit interest rate through the Mastercard Foundation partnership, collaboration with Agritech companies such as Agriarche, Extension Africa, Intrio Synergy, Deva Access, and NOMA, operating on its digital banking platform in the Northeast.

A farmer narrated how his earnings jumped from 200,000 naira to 340,000 naira through the NOMA outgrower scheme.” I was able to realize some profit after harvesting. By the time they deducted their funds spent on ploughing, planting and harvesting, and money spent on herbicides, I was able to realize profit of over N340,000 after harvesting,” he recounted.

Besides empowering farmers through single-digit interest loans, enabling them

“FCMB’s multifaceted approach to agriculture demonstrates its dedication to empowering farmers and transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector. By directly tackling food insecurity and fostering economic growth, the lender is helping to build a more sustainable and prosperous future for the nation.”

to invest in their businesses and expand their operations, FCMB also facilitated access to markets and training on sustainable farming practices. Additionally, through its network of Master Agents (Aggregators), the bank provided support to over 320,000 smallholder farmers and traders with zero per cent default. Notably, 88% of these beneficiaries were women, and 60per cent were young people, demonstrating FCMB’s commitment to inclusivity.

FCMB’s multifaceted approach to agriculture demonstrates its dedication to empowering farmers and transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector. By directly tackling food insecurity and fostering economic growth, the lender is helping to build a more sustainable and prosperous future for the nation.

NABU, HP to Empower 25m African Children on Digital Literacy

Stories by Emma Okonji

NABU, a tech-enabled publisher of multilingual books, providing children with quality, culturally relevant, bilingual stories has collaborated with HP to empower African children, Nigeria inclusive with digital learning skills by 2030.

Announcing the initiative during the unveiling of the Lagos lab, Country Head/Director, HP Computing and Printing in Nigeria, Emmanuel Asika, noted that on the global scene, NABU had been in partnership with HP since 2021, and that HP has given strong support to NABU’s global vision since then.

Report: GenAI Makes Project Managers

Productive, Creative

A new report from Project Management Institute (PMI), the world’s leading authority for project professionals, explores how high adopters of GenAI (or trailblazers) are leading the charge in embracing GenAI, unlocking performance enhancements, advancing GenAI adoption, and sharing their learnings to propel business transformation.

The report tagged: ‘First Movers’ Advantage: The Immediate Benefits of Adopting Generative AI for Project Management’, surveyed 500 project professionals from around the globe, all using GenAI in their project work. According t o the report, organisations that encourage GenAI adoption see an increased use of GenAI among project professionals, setting the stage for transformative and positive outcomes, including: Trailblazers are more productive (93 per cent of trailblazers versus 58 per cent of low adopters or ‘explorers’),

elevating their problem-solving (89 per cent vs. 46 per cent), and more effective (88 per cent vs. 50 [er cent) by using GenAI.

Analysing the report, President and Chief Executive Officer of PMI, Pierre Le Manh, said: “Our research shows that GenAI trailblazers know how to maximise adoption to elevate their performance, navigate complex work, and usher in GenAI across their teams. They’re standing out from their peers for their innovative leadership. We want to ensure project professionals who haven’t yet added this technology to their toolbox can quickly get up to speed and benefit from GenAI given its exponential growth.”

According to Le Manh, “GenAI is transforming every industry, which will create more opportunities for project professionals because they will help organisations implement this disruptive technology.”

“HP has supported NABU vision globally. Together, we have launched Creative Labs in Rwanda, the Philippines and Nigeria and have also rolled out literacy offerings in Haiti, Rwanda, Kenya, Romania and the Philippines. Now we are embarking on a six-year plan across Africa aiming to reach 25 million children by 2030,” Asika said.

Global Director of Operations NABU, Cuthbert Ayodeji Onikute, said the firm seeks to reach and

impact school children in Africa with a quality multilingual book formats that will enhance their learning processes.

“NABU is a tech enabled publisher of multilingual books, providing children with high quality, culturally relevant bilingual stories. Our framework is based on best practices to foster children’s reading and language development and ensuring equitable access to educational resources.

“We also train local creators to publish books in languages where they do not exist, ensuring every child has free access to the books they need to learn to read. Our mission is to ensure every child can read and learn through storytelling and technology,” he added.

Onikute further disclosed that over 7.5 million children have been reached

Providing more insights, Country Manager, Nigeria, NABU,

Olushola Aromokun, disclosed that NABU would continue to provide its contents through the mobile app available on Android and IOS, the NABU Web Reader, and printed books distributed through partnership with schools, community centres, and libraries. According to him, NABU currently offers books in three major Nigeria languages, which include 40 Igbo/English books, 30 Hausa/English books and 20 Yoruba/English books.

MD, FCMB, Mrs.Yemisi Edun

Managing Director/CEO, Federal Housing Authority, Hon. Oyetunde Oladimeji Ojo (left), and Managing Director & CEO, Keystone Bank Limited, Mr. Hassan Imam, when Keystone Bank management team paid a courtesy visit to Ojo, at his office in Abuja… recently

Innovate Africa Launches with $2.5m for Africa Startups

Innovate Africa, an angel investment fund that supports early-stage founders in funding life-changing ideas, taking startups from conception to product and financing innovative ventures, has launched with an initial $2.5 million rollout. Cofounded by Kristin Wilson and Christian Idiodi, the sector-agnostic fund aims to support up to 20 startups in its first year to solve complex, recognised problems such as insecurity, unemployment, and poverty with purpose-driven technology.

Since 2019, the African funding landscape has witnessed positive growth, with disclosed exits surpassing $2.3 billion - representing a significant 13.4 per cent of the total $17.2 billion raised by African startups.

Despite the growth, early-stage founders still face challenges

navigating the path from ideation to market fit. The persistent lack of earlystage funding further compounds these difficulties, hindering many startups from reaching their full potential and contributing to the continent’s economic growth. With a mission to empower startups to thrive in Africa’s ever-evolving tech landscape, Innovate Africa Fund will provide insight-driven capital that helps founders accelerate the journey from Minimum Viable Product (MVP) to Product-Market Fit (PMF). The goal is to facilitate the infrastructure that enables founders to unlock growth through audacious problemsolving, supported by access to a comprehensive ecosystem of resources.

With an average investment of $50,000, the venture fund offers a comprehensive support package designed to propel promising

startups towards success. The robust suite of critical advisory resources includes expert guidance in finance, governance, public relations, and strategy, ensuring a solid foundation for growth. Through its Product Leadership Accelerator, the fund delivers crucial product development support, helping startups refine their offerings and achieve product-market fit. It also facilitates talent resourcing via an extensive partner network, connecting startups with skilled professionals across various domains. The fund’s portfolio strategy encompasses first cheque funding, a refined product operating model, valuable network and partnerships, assistance with revenue model iterations, and comprehensive operations and governance advisory.

L’Oreal Secures Exclusive Launch Deal with Konga

Konga Health, Nigeria’s premier digital healthcare distribution company has sealed an exclusive partnership with CeraVe, a leading global skincare brand under the LOréal umbrella, to launch its product in the country.

L’Oréal is theworld leader in beauty: makeup, cosmetics, haircare and perfume in terms of quality, efficacy and safety.

The strategic alliance ensures that genuine CeraVe products reach Nigerian consumers swiftly and conveniently, leveraging Konga’s extensive e-commerce infrastructure.

According to a statement by Konga, concerns about counterfeit items that often plague the beauty and skincare market are now a thing of the past, as Konga becomes CeraVe’s official distributor in Nigeria.

CeraVe now boasts a dedicated official shop-in-shop (SIS) on Konga.com, serving as a onestop destination for all authentic CeraVe products. Shoppers can directly access top-tier skincare solutions identical to those available globally. CeraVe’s flagship products such as the Cerave’s Hydrating Cleanser, Foaming Cleanser, SA Smoothing Cleanser, Fragrance-Free Moisturizer with three Essential Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid, BarrierReinforcing Moisturizing Cream, Night Cream with Niacinamide, Exfoliating Salicylic Acid Foot Cream, Retinol Serum, Eye Repair Cream, Facial Moisturisers, Hyaluronic, and Vitamin C Serums, are now available on the Konga Health and Konga.com platforms, offering customers a seamless and

convenient shopping experience.

Senior Vice President of Konga Health, Nnenna Emenyonu, expressed her excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with CeraVe, a brand synonymous with quality and scientific excellence in skincare. This collaboration allows our customers access to top-tier skincare products that are dermatologically tested and proven effective.”

Business Development Director at L’Oreal, Rabah Deroueche, shared similar sentiments, noting, “Our partnership with Konga marks a significant milestone for CeraVe in Nigeria. By leveraging our commitment to quality skincare products and Konga’s platform, CeraVe can reach a wider audience and address the skincare needs of Nigerian consumers.”

The Alternative Bank Champions Women’s Empowerment with NASFAT Alliance

Nume Ekeghe

The Alternative Bank has taken a strategic step to champion economic inclusion through a strategic alliance with the Nasrul-Lahi-Fatih Society of Nigeria (NASFAT) by offering NASFAT’s female members easy access to bespoke, ethical financial solutions that align with their values.

This partnership, formalised by a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marks a notable milestone for NASFAT women’s financial empowerment and inclusion. Further to this partnership, The Alternative Bank will sponsor the upcoming 8th NASFAT Biennial Women’s Conference, demonstrating their commitment to this cause.

“This partnership transcends a mere business agreement. It represents a commitment to mutual support and shared prosperity. We recognize the entrepreneurial spirit within the NASFAT community, especially among women, and are dedicated to providing

the financial tools they need to turn their dreams into reality,” said Executive Director-South at The Alternative Bank, Korede Demola-Adeniyi,. NASFAT’s National President, Abdulwahid Ayodeji Abdulrauf, echoes this sentiment: “NASFAT is thrilled to embark on this partnership with The Alternative Bank. This MoU cements our collaboration, offering numerous opportunities for all NASFAT members. We’re impressed by The Alternative Bank’s dedication and will ensure this partnership empowers NASFAT members worldwide.”

A critical component of the MoU is the deployment of solar-powered kiosks (AltBoxes and Wakeel kiosks) at NASFAT headquarters and other strategic locations to provide NASFAT members with easy access to essential financial services.

Other initiatives include co-branded dual-purpose cards for the society’s members that function as both debit and identification cards, a Hajj Savings and Contributory Plan

to ensure secure savings for Hajj pilgrimage, and a collaboration with Fountain University to streamline payment processes and offer eligible students career development opportunities.

This collaboration extends beyond traditional banking and will focus on youth development and innovative solutions for managing Zakat and Sadaqah. The Alternative Bank is also committed to tailoring financial products specifically for NASFAT women in business, including those seeking Halal-compliant solutions.

“We build partnerships with our clients, not just offer products. We provide financial support without burdensome requirements, all while adhering to ethical banking principles,”said Head of Cluster and Personal Banking, Medinat Kareem.

The NASFAT Women’s Conference will address critical issues for Muslimahs, including reshaping gender ideologies, investigating leadership potential, improving mental health services, and prioritizing environmental sustainability.

Firm Partners Oyo Govt to Boost Food Production

A consortium of companies, Pyrogenesis has expressed its readiness to partner the Oyo State government in its bid to boost food production as well create employment opportunity for its teeming youths through renewable energy.

The Chief Executive Officer of the group, Mr. Simon Ighofose, made the disclosure at a press conference held at ATMAN Cassava Mills headquarters in Ido.

He said the proposed partnership with the state government would be of greater benefits not only to

the farmers but the entire people in the state, adding that the consortium specializes in converting the farmland waste to another means of generating power aside oil and gas.

“We have had series of meetings with the farmers on the renewable energy. We have let them realized that their farmland waste can be converted into use as source of energy. The waste on the farmland can be converted to bio-energy, bio-fuels, bio-fertilizer to mention but few. Most of the companies in Nigeria are operating at a loss with total dependency on oil and gas sector as the only

source of energy.

“This has resulted into geometric hike in the prices of the finished products. However, with a shift to bio-fuels, the consumer will pay less for the product while electricity generation will no longer be cumbersome. Aside, the farmers will have access to bio-fertilizer to boost food production nationwide,” he said.

The Managing Director of ATMAN Cassava Mills, Mr. Seyi Oyenuga, in his own remarks, said the project is aimed at empowering farmers in the state, noting that through the project more jobs will be created.

Sovereign Trust Insurance Announces Tennis Tournament Winners

Ebere Nwoji

Sovereign Trust Insurance plc, recently held the Grand Finale of its Table Tennis Tournament at the Table Tennis Section of the Ikoyi Club 1938.

The company said the event was witnessed by members of the club, captains of Industry, members of Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc and guests from all walks of life.

In his account of the tournament, Sovereign Trust Insurance Deputy General Manager, Sales and Corporate Communications, Mr Segun Bankole, said in the Premiership category,

Gbenga Fatuga emerged the winner while Mr I. Ikokwu was runner-up and the third place went to D. Akindiji and Tunde Fadare.

He said for the Ladies single category, Dolapo Dada clinched the trophy as winner, Yewande Banjoko was runner-up and the duo of M. Alli & B. Kolawole took third position respectively. For the Veterans’ category,Bankole said Oluwole Soetan emerged as the champion, S. Aladesuru in second position while Seye Oki and Y. Adeyemi made the third place. According to him, Okechi Ugoji was the winner of the

Championship category while E. Sunday was runner-up. The third place position went to D. Udoh and E. Nwankwo respectively.

He said the winner of the Septuagenarian category was Gbolahan Okuneye and the runner-up was B. Adekusibe while the third place position went to B. Afolabi and L. Ogboye respectively.

He said the duo of Gbolahan Okuneye and Diya clinched the Men’s Doubles title while Akindiji/Ajilore were in second place as Oki/Aladesuru and Fadare/Jimoh took the the third position respectively.

Safety: Alaro City Launches Advanced Weather Station

Kayode Tokede

Alaro City, has taken a monumental step by launching a state-of-the-art weather station in the region, now fully live and operational residents and visitors alike. This innovative system utilizes state-of-the-art technology to deliver real-time updates on weather conditions, forecasts, and alerts, ensuring the safety and preparedness of the residents within the community.

Project Director West Africa,

Rendeavour and Alaro City, Morgan Oriahi, emphasised the strategic significance of this installation: “We installed the weather station to enable us to keep a record of climate conditions in Alaro City. The system gives instant data on which to make informed decisions, for the benefit of the local community today and to support climate change actions for the future”. Oriahi further highlighted the broader impact of the weather station, noting its potential for widespread information shar-

ing. “This system also allows us to share climate conditions in Alaro City with local media houses (radio and television), meteorology services, and the rest of the world. Media houses can broadcast weather patterns from weather stations that are situated anywhere. In this case, Alaro City. Such a broadcast would further spread the word about our city and the innovations and opportunities we have invested in for the benefit of the local community and future sustainability,” he explained.

The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $87.33 a barrel on Monday, compared with $86.00 the previous Thursday, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference Basket

Crudes

following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

From left, Managing Director, Hello Energy, Mr. Okide Kenneth Ezigbo; Mrs Elizabeth Ebi and Mr. Diamond Uju both Directors of GDSL representing Ambassador Moses Ihonde Chairman, Gas Distribution Services Limited (GDSL) during the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Facility Management agreement signing ceremony in Lagos…recently

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

Agama: Identity Management Resolution Will Tackle Unclaimed Dividends

Kayode Tokede

The Director General Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama has reiterated that identity management issues when solved will provide lasting solution to the issue of unclaimed dividends, reduce the barriers of entry to the market and make the market more attractive to the youth segment whose participation is currently very low. He stated that the resolution of

identity management issues would help reposition the Nigerian capital market for greater potential.

Agama who stated this at a Workshop on Identity Management for the Capital Market held in Lagos, on Wednesday, said the identity management system currently being developed by the market will tackle the lingering identification issues.

The SEC DG stated that the aim of workshop is to bring together stakeholders and industry players to discuss and seeks ways

of addressing the lingering issue of identity management in the capital market.

These issues he said, have plagued the market for a while, contributed to the increasing quantum of unclaimed dividends which seem to have defied all efforts to stem over time, and negatively affected the attraction and competitiveness of the market.

He said “In view of the promise to stem this undesirable trend going forward, the Commission is very passionate about this initiative

because its success would portend great potentials for our market.

“This journey began in the year 2018, following discussions at the 3rd Capital Market Committee (CMC) meeting of the year, on the need to address legacy identity management issues in the market. The Securities and Exchange Commission, therefore in January 2019, set up an inhouse committee on the subject. The Committee was tasked with identifying issues surrounding identity management in the

market, engaging with relevant stakeholders to document and proffer solutions, and make recommendations to Management.

Agama said that in a report submitted by the in-house Committee to Management, it stressed the need to consolidate investors’ data and seek ways and means to finding a lasting solution to this monster plaguing the market.

Following the recommendations of the Committee, the SEC DG said the Commission, in 2021, dissolved the in-house Committee

and set up a market-wide and bigger Committee, to undertake a more intensive study of the depth of the Nigerian identity crisis , and more specifically, in the capital market and articulate actionable and measurable solutions to the lingering issues: harmonise the various databases of investors in the capital market with a view to engendering data accuracy, and addressing the absence of a central repository of investors’ data for the entire spectrum of the Nigerian capital market.

Launch of 2nd Phase of the education and Youths emPowerment...

Estimated 1.3 Million People Infected with HIV in 2023, Says Report

michael olugbode in Abuja

An estimated 1.3 million people became infected with HIV in 2023, three times more than the target of fewer than 370,000 by 2025.

While there has been marked progress in sub-Saharan Africa, for the first time, in 2023 more than half of the new HIV infections occurred outside of sub-Saharan Africa, a report released on Wednesday said.

A report by the Global HIV Prevention Coalition (GBC), said the rising new HIV infections are evident in several countries, particularly in countries where key populations including men who have sex with men, sex workers, transgender people and people who use drugs, are most affected.

The report noted that investment in these countries, in prevention was lower, noting that key populations and their sexual partners now represent the majority (55%) of new HIV infections globally, up from 44% in 2010.

The Global HIV Prevention Coalition (GBC), established in 2017, is addressing the HIV prevention crisis.

Focusing on 40 countries the GPC, a coalition of United Nations Member States and partners including UNAIDS, donors, civil society and private sector organizations, is working to strengthen and sustain political commitment for HIV prevention.

GPC Co-chair and former Minister of Health, Botswana, Prof. Sheila Tlou, said: “The HIV epidemic has evolved – now more than ever, we need resilient capacity to deliver and manage integrated, differentiated and equitable HIV prevention interventions.”

Italian Oil Giant, Eni Confirms NUPRC's Approval of Deal with Oando

emmanuel addeh in Abuja and Peter uzoho in Lagos

Italian oil and gas giant, Eni yesterday announced that it had received regulatory approval from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for the sale of Nigerian Agip Oil Company Limited (NAOC) to Oando Plc.

In a statement issued yesterday, Eni said it had received formal consent to finalise the deal. It will be the first deal to be approved under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and under the new upstream regulatory body, the NUPRC.

Chief Executive Officer of NUPRC, Mr. Gbenga Komolafe had announced during an industry conference on July 3 in Abuja, that Oando had

completed the acquisition of 100 per cent shares of Eni in its subsidiary, NAOC, adding that an announcement was imminent.

Confirming this in the statement, the Italian oil company said it had obtained all other relevant local and regulatory authorities’ authorisations.

“Having already obtained all other relevant local and regulatory authorities’ authorisations, this achievement will allow Eni to proceed to the completion of the transaction for the sale of Nigerian Agip Oil Company Ltd (NAOC), Eni’s wholly owned subsidiary focusing on onshore oil & gas exploration and production as well as power generation in Nigeria, to Oando PLC, Nigeria’s leading national energy solutions provider, listed on both the Nigerian

and Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

“NAOC Ltd participating interest in SPDC JV (Shell Production Development Company Joint Venture – operator Shell 30 per cent, TotalEnergies 10 per cent, NAOC 5 per cent, NNPC 55 per cent) is not included in the perimeter of the transaction and will be retained in Eni’s portfolio.

“Eni remains committed to the country through investments in deepwater projects and Nigeria LNG,” the company stated in a statement.

The company also said it was developing plans for economic diversification in the country.

Eni said this includes assessing the potential production of agri-feedstock for Enilive bio-refineries and various nature- and technology-based projects, such as clean cooking initiatives to offset emissions.

Eni has been operating in Nigeria since 1962, actively engaging in hydrocarbon exploration and production,

as well as power generation.

Currently, Eni has a substantial portfolio of assets in exploration and production, with an equity production of approximately 40,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day net of NAOC contribution. Eni also holds a 10.4 per cent interest in Nigeria LNG.

NAOC focuses on onshore oil & gas exploration and production as well as power generation, Eni said in the statement.

Aside Eni, other companies in the process of getting approval are Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), which is selling to Renaissance Consortium as well as ExxonMobil which is selling some of its oil assets to Seplat Energies.

Others are Chappal , which is buying from Total Energies as well Equinor which recently entered into a preliminary deal with the same Chappal Energies to sell some of its assets.

There has been great variation in progress among GPC member countries; the biggest declines occurred in countries within eastern and southern Africa including Kenya, Malawi and Zimbabwe, where new HIV infections were reduced by more than 66% and which are on track to achieve the global target of 90% reduction by 2030 – and, to a lesser extent, in western and central Africa.

Expansion of access to effective HIV treatment, combined with an ongoing focus on primary prevention, are driving those achievements.

UNAIDS Deputy Executive Director for Programmes, Angeli Achrekar said: “The moment of opportunity for HIV prevention is now,” adding that: “Today, we have a wider range of prevention options including new long-acting antiretroviral prevention - with the new results about lenacapavir - a twice-yearly injection to prevent HIV - providing a promising game-changing option - and new opportunities to communicate about HIV prevention and health.”

Further according to the report, long-acting technologies like preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) will play a major role in preventing new infections in the coming years.

Access is increasing, but only in a few countries. Around 3.5 million people were accessing PrEP (antiretroviral medicine which prevents HIV) in 2023 up from just 200 000 in 2017, but this remains far short of the 10 million target set for 2025.

New HIV prevention products in the pipeline such as long-acting injectable cabotegravir (CAB-LA) and most recently, lenacapavir, are raising expectations due to their combination of convenience and high efficacy. However, the key is accessibility and affordability. The cost of the new long-acting injectable PrEP options, and the speed with which they are made available to potential users in the countries with the most need will be critical in expanding access to these life-saving technologies.

Persistent gaps remain in HIV prevention coverage (only 61% of areas with high incidence of HIV have programmes for young women, less than half of sex workers, and only about a third of gay men and other men who have sex with men and people who inject drugs regularly access prevention in GPC focus countries).

Condoms remain the most effective low-cost HIV prevention tool. However, global condom procurement or distribution in low- and middle-income countries declined by an average of 27% between 2010 and 2022 and procurement by major donors fell by an average 32% in that period.

Socially marketed distribution declined from a peak of about 3.5 billion condoms in 2011 to about 1.8 billion in 2022.

Condoms, PrEP, post exposure prophylaxis, antiretroviral therapy to ensure viral suppression thus preventing transmission of the virus, harm reduction and voluntary medical male circumcision are all HIV prevention options that should be real choices available for people at risk of HIV infection.

segun awofadeji in Gombe

In a move to support local farmers, a charity organisation in Bauchi State 'Wunti Al-khair Foundation' is distributing 6,000 bags of fertilisers free of charge to farmers across the 20 local governments in Bauchi State. The foundation, launched the distribution exercise yesterday, at the Bauchi Central Eid Mosque.

According to Isiyaka Ismail Wunti, an official of the foundation, the distribution would be done in two phases, with the first phase benefiting seven local governments, including Bauchi, Toro, Alkaleri, Kirfi, Misau, Dambam, and Darazo adding that the remaining areas would receive their shares on Saturday.

He said the beneficiaries includes members of All Farmers Association

of Nigeria (AFAN) Bauchi State chapter and individual small scale farmers selected from wards across the state.

Isiyaka explained that the program aims to alleviate the economic burden on farmers, who are struggling with high prices of essential commodities and farming inputs, particularly fertilisers.

He further stated that the gesture was part of the foundation's contribution towards encouraging sufficient food production in view of the skyrocketing prices of food items.

"This initiative is a significant contribution towards achieving food sufficiency and security in Bauchi State, and is expected to bring relief to farmers, enhance agricultural productivity, and boost economic growth in the region.”

The Akanu Ibiam International Airport Enugu has been successfully certified to the NiMet’s quality management system ISO 9001:2015 scope for the provision of aeronautical meteorological services to the aviation industry.

The agency noted the move is a result of the directive by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, to the DG/CEO Nigerian Meteorological Agency, Professor Charles Anosike, to ensure strict compliance with safety regulations and continuous upward movement of Nigeria's rating by WMO and ICAO.

NiMet stressed this feat was

achieved after a successful thirdparty audit of its products and services offered to airlines at Enugu International Airport by Certech Inc. Canada.

NiMet's services were found to be in conformity with the requirements of ISO 9001:2015 standard after a rigorous audit that lasted from the 15th - 17th July 2024.

It is noted that NiMet was successfully recertified to the ISO standard in July 2023 for Murtala Muhammed International Airport Ikeja, Aminu Kano International Airport, Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja and the Port Harcourt International, Omagwa.

The ISO certification, NiMet

said is usually valid for three-year period with a yearly surveillance and maintenance audit until the next recertification due date in the year 2026. It is to this end that the recent achievement of a revised certification by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) of ISO 9001:2015 for the provision of meteorological services to the aviation industry for five Nigerian international airports namely; Akanu lbiam lnternational Airport, Enugu, Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano, Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, Port Harcourt, and Nnamdi Azikiwe International

Airport, Abuja, should be applauded. Work is ongoing to add seven (7) additional international airports; Maiduguri, Asaba, Owerri, Ibadan, Katsina, Yola and Kaduna to the scope of the QMS ISO certification in NiMet.

In a letter to the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the agency, Professor Charles Anosike, dated July 17, 2024, with the heading ‘ISO 9001:2015’, and signed by Frank Strohmeier, Lead Auditor and Director at Certech, the certification agency noted: “The audit objectives for the surveillance audit were achieved. A systematic process audit was performed with emphasis on risks and objectives per ISO 9001:2015”.

L-R: Head of Representative of UNESCO to Nigeria, Abdourahamane Diallo; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry to Education, Bayelsa State, Mr. Simon Peter; Commissioner for Education Katsina State, Mrs. Zainab Musawa; representative of Minister of Education, Director Basic Education, Dr. Folake Olatunji David; UN Resident Coordinator, Dr. Mohammed Fall; First Secretary, Team Leader Human Development, Leila Ben Amor Mathieu; and Registrar, TRCN, Mr. Josiah Ajiboye, during the launch of 2nd Phase of the Education and Youths Empowerment in Abuja.. yesterday

PHOTO: KINGSLEY ADEBOYE

Kasim sumaina in Abuja

CONDOLENCE VISIT...

Tinubu Signs North-west, South-east Devt Commission Bills into Law

Deji Elumoye in Abuja and DavidChyddy Eleke in Awka

President Bola Tinubu has signed into law two bills to accelerate development in North West and South East geo-political zones in the country.

Presidential spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, in a statement issued Wednesday, listed the bills assented to by President Tinubu to include North-West Development Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2024, and the South-East Development Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2023.

Meanwhile reacting to the newly enacted South-East Development Commission law, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Wing proclaimed that President Bola Tinubu has ended the age-long marginalization of Igbo with the signing into law of the SEDC Bill.

The acting National Youth Leader, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Mazi Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, in a statement, Wednesday, recalled that the Nigeria/Biafra Civil war ended on the treaty of Reconciliation, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction but that the federal government since 1970, abandoned this treaty and failed in her responsibility to implement it,

leading to the resurfacing of Biafra agitation.

The North-West Development Commission is set up to facilitate the reconstruction of roads, houses, and business premises destroyed by multidimensional crisis, as well as tackle poverty, literacy level, ecological problems, and any other related environmental or development challenges in North-West states.

In addition, the South-East Development Commission is established to ensure the reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads, houses, and other infrastructural damages suffered by the zone, as well as tackle ecological problems, and other related environmental or developmental challenges in South-East states.

President Tinubu believes in building the nation on the fulcrum of fairness, equity, and unity; hence, he is committed to ensuring equitable development, inclusive governance, and the provision of qualitative services to all Nigerians - no matter where they reside - while knitting even more tightly together the national fabric.

According to the acting National Youth Leader, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Okpalaezeukwu, "We commend President Tinubu for the boldness and patriotic act of granting

accent to Southeast Development Commission Bill.

"I must commend all stakeholders who played critical roles to ensuring this milestone achievement that is long overdue became a reality.

"I thank particularly Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives and his colleagues, Southeast governors led by H.E Sen. Hope Uzodinma, and the National Assembly.

"By granting accent to this commission, Tinubu has finally ended the age long civil war in Southeast. Recall the war was ended on the treaty of Reconciliation, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction, but the federal government didn't implement that treaty.

"This is one of basic factors for the reappearance of Biafran agitation which is devastating not just the economy of the zone, but its peace and security.

"We're hopeful that the 3R treaty, through the commission shall be attended to, to demonstrate Reconciliation, enhance Rehabilitation and effect Reconstruction.

"We're also optimistic that the commission shall assist in healing our nation and Southeast on the basis of equity, justice and fairness. For a people denied justice will not be interested in peace.

"We reaffirm our absolute support and solidarity to the Tinubu-led administration."

"We're hopeful this commission shall go a long way to add value to our collective efforts to resolve peace and stability in Nigeria and Southeast in particular.

Farmers/Herders Clash: Livestock Reforms C'ttee to Submit Report to Tinubu in Two Weeks

Promises lasting solutions to conflicts, associated crises

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

The Livestock Reforms Committee will submit its report to President Bola Tinubu within the next two weeks.

Co-Chairman of the Committee, Professor Attahiru Jega, who disclosed this on Wednesday evening after updating President Tinubu on the committee's activities at the State House, Abuja, assured Nigerians that the committee's recommendations will provide a lasting solution to the

lingering conflicts between farmers and herders.

Jega, who was in the company of the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, also said the report will add tremendous value to the livestock sector and mitigate associated crises.

He acknowledged the challenges, but emphasized that the committee is focused on getting it right, highlighting the readiness of various stakeholders in the livestock sector to partner

EU, UNESCO Launch 2nd Phase of Teachers' Education Programme in Six States

The European Union (EU) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) have launched the second phase of its education programme - “Expand, Integrate and Strengthen Systems (EISS),” to build the capacity of teachers in Nigeria.

The EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ms. Samuela Isopi, who spoke at the launch of the Programme in Abuja, explained that the second phase of the programme which focuses on teachers, complements the first phase, education and youth empowerment in North Western Nigeria, launched in 2023.

According to Isopi, the funding for both phases amounts to €45.4 million, under the Global Gateway Strategy to boost smart, clean and secure connections in digital, energy and transport sectors. It will also strengthen health, education and research systems across the world.

Isopi, represented by EU's head of human development, Leila Ben Amor Mathieu, disclosed that the

EU under EISS would partner six training colleges in Adamawa, Bayelsa, Enugu, Katsina, Plateau and Oyo.

Further according to her, the beneficiary states are expected to in turn reach out to a wider pool of teachers.

She said: “Why focus on teachers? Because teachers are the bedrock of education. They are the ones who inspire, nurture, and guide our future generations

“Investing in teachers is investing in our collective future. All over the world they play an essential role in shaping the minds and hearts of the next generation.

“However, in many countries, and in Nigeria in particular, teachers face numerous challenges, ranging from insufficient resources to the pressures of adapting to rapidly changing educational environments.

“Recognizing these challenges, the European Union has identified with the government the critical need to support Nigerian teachers in their professional development and personal resilience.

“By empowering teachers, we are not only enhancing the quality of education but also ensuring that students receive the guidance and support they need to succeed in an ever-changing world.

“Specifically, the initiative will fund the development and review of education policies and career paths for the teaching profession in Nigeria.

“It will also ensure that teachers' capacity and resilience are enhanced through pre-service and in-service teachers’ education programmes as well as strengthen teacher-student collaboration and learning teams at school and community levels.

“This programme’s implementation is entrusted to our partner, UNESCO.”

UN Resident Coordinator, Mohammed Fall, while commending Nigeria's effort to meet up with SDG goals, however lamented the high number of inadequately trained teachers in schools.

He noted: “A 2021 report by UNESCO Institute for Statistics, states that Sub-Saharan Africa faces the biggest challenge, with the lowest percentages of trained teachers in

pre-primary (57%), primary (67%) and secondary education (61%) among all regions.

“The UNESCO Global report on Teachers 2023, notes that teacher attrition is a global concern: between 2015 and 2022, attrition rates of primary education teachers doubled around the world from 4.6 to 9 per cent.

“Regardless of the country's income level, and even remuneration, teachers are leaving the profession within the first five years of practice. We must halt this worrisome trend.”

Speaking at the occasion, the Head of Abuja Office and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Representative to Nigeria, Mr. Abdourahamane Diallo, noted that the 2021 Education Sector Analysis by the Federal Government of Nigeria in collaboration with UNESCO IIEP, which assessed the status of education in the country and in Oyo, Adamawa, and Katsina states, reported that at least 20% of teachers in public basic education schools are not qualified to teach, and this number is nearly double in private schools.

and engage in ensuring sustainable solutions.

Jega, who is the immediate past Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) emphasized that successful implementation will require collaboration among stakeholders, but he is hopeful about

the prospects for lasting solutions. “We think that maximum in the next two weeks, we should be able to present a report to Mr. President, from which then we can begin the process of actual implementation.

St. Gregory Old Boys Pay Condolence Visit to Legal Icon, Nwokedi’s Family

Wale Igbintade

A delegation of St. Gregory’s College Old Boys Association (SGCOBA) has paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Uche Nwokedi, SAN, who died on June 28, 2024, in London at the aged of 64.

The delegation, led by a former President of the Association, Dr. John Abebe, was received by the wife of the late legal icon, Mrs. Winifred Olubunmi Nwokedi at their residence in Ikoyi Lagos.

The delegation described the demise of the late Nwokedi as a great loss, not just to the association and the Nwokedi's family, but also to the legal community.

Consoling the family, Dr. Abebe said the late Nwokedi's earthly sojourn, was impactful and that he left an indelible mark on humanity.

He said the association cannot forget the legacies the late Nwokedi laid down, adding that he was the one that drafted a modern Constitution for the St. Gregory’s College Old Boys Association.

Besides, Abebe lauded Nwokedi's towering stature as a luminary in Nigeria's legal landscape, acknowledging his unwavering dedication to advancing justice, upholding the rule of law, and fortifying the oil and gas industry.

Dr. Abebe said even though

Nwokedi was his junior by many years in St. Gregory’s College, he turned out to be one of the closest people to him right from when they first met almost 40 years ago.

He said: "Uche has proven to be very, very reliable, honest, godly in everything that he was exposed to and that was what really impressed me about him.

"His ability to multitask, to combine a lot of positive attributes he had in life without showing any stress or just going about them quietly with a smile on his face was something I really admired.

"There was one occasion we were together, and I said to him, look, I've not seen you put a foot wrong all these years. He was a fantastic, brilliant human being and I am happy him and I crossed path in this world. And I am delighted that he left behind a very good humble family, his wife and children and I pray that God will rest his soul.

"May the heavens welcome the soul of my brother with the same generosity and kindness he bestowed upon humanity throughout the years.”

Speaking, the current President of the association, Justice Adetokunbo Ademola (rtd) described the late Nwokedi as a very thorough person, brilliant, very unassuming, and highly principled.

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

L-R: Mr. Biola Sappor; Mr. Ken Oboh; Dr. John Abebe; Widow, Mrs. Winifred Nwokedi; Justice Niyi Ademola (rtd); Mr. Dillis Nwokedi; and Mr. Tony Epelle, when members of the St. Gregory’s College Old Boys Association paid a condolence visit to the family of late Mr. Uche Nwokedi SAN in Lagos…recently.

DEVELOPING BANKABLE BUSINESS PLANS FOR YOUTHS AND WOMEN...

L-R: Special Advisor, Stakeholder Engagements, African Development Bank (AFDB), Ms. Lola Visser-Mabogunje; Vice-President, Regional Development, Integration and Buissness Delivery Complex, AFDB, Marie-Laure Akin-Olugbade; Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu; Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari and Director General West Africa Region, AFDB, Mr. Lamin Barrow, during the second interactive session on developing Bankable Business Plans for Youths and Women in Agriculture held in Abuja ... yesterday

FG Assures Nation on Commitment to Enhancing Integrity of Electoral Process

The federal government has said it was committed to enhancing the integrity of the electoral process through policy reforms and collaboration with relevant bodies.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume made the disclosure yesterday while

delivering his opening remarks at the Election Integrity Promotion Alliance Stakeholders’ Second Round-Table Meeting in Abuja. He was represented at the meeting by the Permanent Secretary, Cabinet Affairs Office in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Richard Pheelangwa. The SGF underscored the

importance of integrity of electoral process in engendering the trust of the citizenry in governance, saying the government was duty bound to ensure a level playing field in the electoral process without interference.

“As we stand at the nexus of another electoral cycle, the significance of our discussions today cannot be overstated. The integrity of elections

is fundamental to the legitimacy of our governance structures and the trust of our citizens in the democratic process.

“It is incumbent upon us, as custodians of this process, to ensure that every vote counts, and every voice is heard without impediment or undue influence,” he said.

He added that the Election Integ-

rity Promotion Alliance round-table meeting was aimed at reinforcing electoral teamwork, promoting and enhancing the integrity of electoral process to foster fair, transparent and credible election through collaboration with political parties, civil society organisations, election

management body, media and other key stakeholders in the industry. Akume, therefore, tasked the participants at the meeting to seize the opportunity to brainstorm and share ideas and insights that would contribute in strengthening and deepening democratic process.

Borno State Leaders Storm Abuja, Protest Ali Ndume’s Removal as Senate Chief Whip

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

Wale Igbintade

Justice Friday Ogazi of the Federal High Court in Lagos, has fixed October 3, 2024, to rule on an application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for the final forfeiture of the assets of Cititrust Holdings Plc and its subsidiaries.

The court had on May 15, 2024, in suit number: FHC/L/MISC/185/2024, filed by the EFCC against Cititrust Holdings, Cititrust Financial Service Limited and Cititrust Asset Management Limited, granted an order of interim forfeiture of the assets of the three firms.

The EFCC had through its counsel, G.G. Ejere listed assets of Cititrust Holdings, including its 40

percent shareholding in Livingtrust Mortgage Bank Plc currently valued at N6.5billion.

Other assets owned by the firm's subsidiaries listed by the EFCC include, N42 million and $26.44 in its Providus Bank and Fidelity Bank accounts respectively.

The judge had also directed that the forfeited assets should be taken over by the EFCC pending the hearing of application for final forfeiture of the assets.

Challenging the application for final forfeiture, Cititrust Holdings Plc, through its lawyer, Adeniji Kazeem, SAN, prayed the court to set aside the interim forfeiture order.

At the resumed sitting on Monday, counsel to Cititrust Holdings vigor-

ously sought the court's permission to move the motion to set aside the ex parte order secured by the EFCC on May 15.

The prosecution having filed their counter-affidavit, the judge allowed the counsel to Cititrust Holdings to move the motion to discharge the interim order of forfeiture against the firm.

In a 21-paragraph Affidavit in support of the Motion on Notice deposed to by Oladoja Oluwo, a director and shareholder in the 3rd respondent/applicant, he stated that the relationship between the respondents and the numerous complainants who petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission is purely civil in nature arising from simple contract and investment banking and there is nothing criminal about the entire situation.

According to him, EFCC concealed material fact before the court and painted a picture that portrays the financial assets and tangible (personal and real) assets of the 3rd Respondent/ Applicant as proceeds of crime.

He said the operations of the 3rd

English and Science through the Teesas Education App.”

Teesas Education, a pioneering and innovative education technology (EdTech) company, has advocated leadership, social-emotional skills and digital education in Nigerian schools.

This call was made Tuesday by the founder and chairman of Teesas Education, Mr. Osayi Izedonwen, in Abuja, when the EdTech company brought together owners of leading schools, top school managers and stakeholders in the education sector to discuss strategies to prepare children for work in the future.

Izedonmwen said Teesas Leader in Me (LIM) is a whole-school transformation program delivered in partnership with Franklin Covey Education, a global performance improvement company.

The program based on ‘The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People’ is integrated with teaching core academic subjects including Math,

The keynote speaker and former Commissioner of Education, Lagos State, Hon. Folasade Adefisya, said the Teesas LIM program includes topics like personal leadership which teaches children to take responsibility, leading to less disciplinary problems. She also highlighted other topics covered by the program like win-win solutions and sharpen the saw.

“IQ gets you a job, but emotional intelligence helps you keep it.

Emotional intelligence can be taught and mastered because habits are things we continually do,” she said.

Regional Director of Franklin Covey Education, Justin Permenter, said research suggests that by the year 2050, nearly half of the world’s children under 18 will be on the African continent and so while it would be an exciting time for Africa, it is time for Africa to prepare for that future.

Sunday Ehigiator

The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has described the National Assembly's alteration of the Police Act 2020 to extend the tenure of the InspectorGeneral of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, beyond his September 2024 retirement date as an act of bad faith, intended to serve selfish and political agenda rather than the best interests of the Nigeria Police, democracy, and the nation.

In a statement yesterday, signed by RULAAC’s Executive Director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, “According to the civil service rule, public servants are mandated to retire on the attainment of 60 years of age or having spent 35 years in service, whichever comes first.

“The alteration puts the statute in

respondent/applicant as a NonOperating Capital Market operator under the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) is distinct from the operations of Core Capital Limited (Now Grandvest Investment Limited).

He stated that the 3rd respondent/ applicant as a Holding Company is separate and distinct from its subsidiary companies as Core Capital Limited (Now Grandvest Investment Limited) and cannot be held liable for the actions of its subsidiary companies.

"Further to (16) above, the applicant/respondent having concealed this material fact before the court has presented distorted facts that the 3rd Respondent’s assets are proceeds of crime and same should be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

"The 3rd respondent/applicant does not only have a good defence to this action but is ready, willing and able to pursue the matter to its logical conclusion,” he added.

He urged the court in the interest of justice to grant the application.

Justice Ogazi, subsequently, reserved ruling on the matter till October 3, 2024.

conflict with this rule regarding the age of retirement and years of service for the Inspector-General of Police.

Further according to him, “The Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun was appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on 19th June 2023. He was expected to retire from the Nigeria Police Force on September 4, 2024.

“This is based on the civil service rule, which stipulates that public/ civil servants are mandated to retire on the attainment of 60 years of age or having spent 35 years in service, whichever one comes first.

“The alteration of the Police Act 2020 puts the statute in conflict with the civil service rule with regards to the age of retirement and years of service for the Inspector-General of Police.

“Throughout his 8 years in office,

Political leaders and other prominent indigenes from Borno South Senatorial District, who were constituents of the ousted Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Ali Ndume, yesterday, besieged the Unity Fountain Abuja, to register their displeasure over his removal from office.

They claimed that Ndume was removed from office for merely drawing the attention of President Bola Tinubu to the sufferings of Nigerians.

The protesters came under the umbrella of the Southern Borno Development Association, defied massive downpour to hold the procession.

Addressing the demonstration, leader of the association, Mohammed Ibrahim Biu said, “We are here to register our displeasure over the action of the Senate with respect to our Senator, Ali Ndume.

"He was removed from office as Senate Whip based on a complaint by the National Chairman of the APC for saying what others have been saying.

former President Buhari consistently disregarded the Constitution and the Police Act 2020, which he signed into law in September 2020. He breached the legally stipulated procedures for the appointment of the Inspector General of Police.

“The Police Act 2020 prescribed a four-year tenure for the InspectorGeneral of Police. It was, therefore, expected that a person to be appointed Inspector-General of Police should have no less than 4 years before his/her retirement date.

“The Police Act also required that the Police Council meets to advise the president on the appointment of a new IGP when there is a vacancy, among other roles.

“Unfortunately, former President Muhammadu Buhari, in all the appointments he made while in office, was not known to have ever

“Nothing he said was new. We believe President Tinubu being a listening leader, has started implementing some of the advice given by Senator Ndume that is why the new minimum wage bill was recently passed and approved by him.

“We wish to appeal to the Senate President and the Senate to reconsider this decision. He was occupying that position as the only position occupied by the Southern Borno Senatorial District in the National Assembly.” Biu described Ndume as a consistent and forthright leader who had always spoken out in favour of his constituents in particular and down trodden Nigerians in general. Meanwhile, Senator Ndume has commended the Borno State Government for its efforts in the ongoing Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Resettlement (RRR) project. He said the development had resulted in the resettlement of thousands of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) back to their ancestral homes in ten communities of Gwoza Local Government Area.

convened the Police Council, but instead, single-handedly handpicked and appointed an officer of his choice as IGP even when the officer’s retirement date was far behind the stipulated tenure of office.

“One outstanding example was the appointment of the former IGP, Usman Baba, on April 6, 2021, while he was expected to retire from the police on March 1, 2023, when he attained 60 years of age.

“In appointing the current IGP, President Tinubu also followed this similar path by appointing him when he had barely 2 years to retire.

“President Tinubu was expected to avoid the wrongful, patently illegal, and unconstitutional steps of the past, which led to controversies and judicial challenges of appointments made by the president. This, unfortunately, became the norm.

Photo: ENOCK REUBEN

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

NEW MD/CEO NSITF MEETS SENATE COMMITTEE...

L-R: The new Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Mr Oluwaseun Faleye being welcomed by Senator representing Ekiti North Senatorial District, Senator Cyril Fashuyi and Chairman, Senate Committee on Labour, Employment and Productivity, Senator Diket Plang shortly before a meeting at the Committee Chairman’s office at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja... on Tuesday

FG WA r NS P LANN e D N ATI o NWID e Pro T e ST M AY Le AD T o A NA r CHY rights advocate and lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, who insisted that the planned protest was a constitutional right, saying Falana is entitled to his opinion in a democracy.

Idris said, “He (Falana) is an individual. This is a democracy; everyone is entitled to his opinion. The protesters are also Nigerians; this is a democratic situation. What I keep saying is that we are all Nigerians and we are all acting in the interest of Nigeria, but suffice it to say that yesterday, Mr President said there is no need for any protest, let us calm down.

“A lot is happening, Nigeria is going to move and march on and we believe that whatever government comes out with will be in the interest of Nigeria.

“We don’t think that there is need for any protest, we are appealing for calm; we are appealing for a peaceful resolution or peaceful approach to any issue.

“If you have anything that you want to put out there, you are free to put it out there, but government is insisting that we are all Nigerians, we have to be calm, we have to be patient and suffice it to say that let us give peace a chance.

“Mr President is working round the clock, his ministers are working, everyone is working, all hands are on deck."

NLC: Protest Didn't Originate from Us

A statement by NLC President Joe Ajaero said the congress had not called for the protest and as such could not withdraw from it.

Ajaero was responding to suggestions that NLC had withdrawn from the planned protest, describing the story as patently false.

Ajaero said the fact that NLC was not part of the organisers did not mean that it was oblivious of the dire living conditions Nigerians had been subjected to by the harsh policies of the Tinubu government.

The statement said, "The truth is that the Nigeria Labour Congress cannot withdraw from a protest that it did not organise. It is only the organisers of the speculated national protest that can decide to pull out or continue with the protest.

"The Nigeria Labour Congress has internal trade union mechanisms, especially leadership decision-making processes, that its industrial actions, such as protests, pass through before such activities are undertaken.

"Yet, the fact that the Nigeria Labour Congress is not the body organising the protest does not mean that organised labour is oblivious of the dire living conditions Nigerians have been subjected to by the harsh economic policies of government.

"The Nigeria Labour Congress stands in solidarity with the Nigerian people in this very trying and excruciating times."

Ajaero added that NLC still maintained its position that the government should adopt proactive engagement with the issues canvassed by the protest organisers. He said Tinubu should to invite the leaders of the protest movement to dialogue on their demands.

The NLC president stated, "We have advised that it would be counterproductive for government to meet the widespread anger in the land with brute force.

"Once again, we implore the federal government and the sub-national governments to listen to the cries of the Nigerian people and do the needful. After all, it is said that the voice of the people is the voice of

Uzodimma: South-east Governors against Protest

South-east Governors' Forum distanced itself from the planned nationwide protests on August 1, citing concerns about the fragile political environment and possible hijack by criminal elements.

Chairman of the forum, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, made the position of the zonal governors known while speaking with newsmen at State House, Abuja, after meeting President Bola Tinubu.

Uzodimma was in company with the governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, and former President of the Senate, Pius Anyim, who recently defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The governor acknowledged that protests were allowed in a democratic setting, but pointed out the need for reasonable conception and clear objectives. He questioned the motives behind the protests, saying the organisers have not publicly disclosed their reasons.

The chairman of the Progressives Governors' Forum warned that protests could worsen the economic hardship caused by the global recession and advised against overheating the polity.

He urged potential protesters to engage with the government to address specific issues, rather than resorting to demonstrations, saying the five governors of the South-east geo-political zone are opposed to a protest at this time.

Uzodimma said, "Democracy is about opinion of the people and the protest is allowed in a democratic setting. Every protest must be reasonably conceived to be able to make political sense. I think it's too early at

this time in the life of this government for anybody to come out to say he wants to protest.

"First of all, there has not been any engagement where those who are sponsoring the protest were able to tell us the reasons for the protests. Secondly, given the global situation today and the insecurity in the country, we have a very fragile political environment that if not managed and protected very well, may collapse the entire country.

"So those who are going to protest, what is the reason for the protests, and if they have no reason for the protests, I think our advice, wellmeaning Nigerians, citizens of this country who are making sacrifices, some of us have paid the supreme price for the existence of this country, we should guard our country very jealously.

"I think it is wrong time for anybody to do any protests because the implication of doing that, if care is not taken, is that it may be hijacked, like the #EndSARS experience, where criminals now hijacked an innocently conceived agitation by young Nigerians.

“So this is another kind of temptation that I think those behind the protests, because they have not been able to come out openly to say they're behind it, there is a motive that is yet to be unravelled.”

Abiodun Urges Youth to Embrace Dialogue

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun appealed to youths in the state and the country at large to shelve the planned protest and embrace peace and dialogue.

Abiodun, who spoke during an engagement with a coalition of youth organisations in the state, appealed

MAN, LCCI L AM e NT Co NTIN uou S H I ke IN Mo N e TA r Y Po LICY rAT e b Y C b N balanced approach to monetary policy. While controlling inflation is crucial, mitigating adverse effects on business operations and economic growth is imperative.”

She proposed that CBN should diversify its approach to controlling inflation beyond interest rate hikes in favour of policies that directly address supply-side constraints, such as improving agricultural productivity and stabilising energy prices, can help reduce inflationary pressures more effectively.

She said: “Increased investment in infrastructure can alleviate production bottlenecks and reduce business costs. This will enhance productivity and competitiveness, helping to tame inflation from the supply side.’’

The LCCI said that it remained committed to working with the government and the CBN to ensure policies that foster conducive environment for business growth and economic stability.

“A holistic approach, balancing inflation control with support for businesses, will pave the way for sustainable economic development in Nigeria,” it said. Meanwhile, Global ratings agency, Moody’s, has disclosed that eight of the nine Nigerian banks under its ratings reported over N3.5 trillion in aggregate pre-tax profits in 2023 compared to N1.1 trillion in 2022. It further estimated that over a third of the profits were from foreign-currency revaluation and trading gains.

The international ratings institution therefore, said the windfall levy on Nigerian banks’ foreign exchange (FX) revaluation gains was credit negative for banks. It said the tax will have a particularly negative effect on banks whose capital adequacy is close to regulatory thresholds.

Moody's said: "The tax follows record profits declared by banks in 2023, largely because of foreign-

currency revaluation gains related to the naira’s massive devaluation of 37 percent in June 2023."

It pointed out that the tax was in line with the CBN’s September 2023 policy prohibiting banks from using foreign-currency-related profits for operational expenses and dividends.

In a report, it stated: "Eight of the nine Nigerian banks we rate reported in excess of N3.5 trillion in aggregate pre-tax profits in 2023 versus N1.1 trillion in 2022, and we estimate that over a third of the profits were from foreign-currency revaluation and trading gains."

The ratings institution added: “It is unclear, however, what proportion of the revaluation gains will be taxed, given the differences between trading and revaluation gains.

"Additionally, the 2023 revaluation gains include unrealised gains, which may affect how the tax is applied, particularly as the government has not been clear how the 50 percent windfall tax will be achieved."

President Bola Tinubu had written to the Senate to amend the 2023 Finance Act, to introduce a 50 per cent payment of a one-time windfall tax on the foreign exchange revaluation profits of banks in the 2023 financial year. The amended Act has been passed by the upper chamber.

The Senate however, amended the bill, increasing the tax to 70 per cent, arguing the windfall was not a result of any effort of the banks or value addition, but as a result of government policy which must be redistributed.

Moody's had previously pointed to the severity of the negative effect of the tax on banks’ foreign-currencyrelated profits.

It said: “Given banks have already been subject to the standard 30 per cent corporate income tax rate for 2023, in a less aggressive scenario a surplus tax of 20 per cent on the FX gains would equate to the total 50 per cent windfall tax."

to them to be calm and not to cut the head to cure a headache.

He called on the coalition to always engage with him by putting their issues across, urging them to be civil, objective, and constructive.

The governor said, "I want to plead with you that yet again there are calls for mass protest across the country, and the first thing that agitates one's mind is, is that the way to present your case to government?

"Is that a way of constructive and objective engagement with government by advertising and planning a protest? Is there something else behind those calling for the protest? Is this another plan by those who have tried their luck and have lost?

"Young men and women, we have no other country than this country. Let me assure you, there is no other country in the world where you can walk freely like your own country. There is no other place; we have no other country but this.

"If there are issues, let us discuss them. Let us find a way around them, let us manage them, and let us correct them. Don't let us cut off the head to cure a headache."

Shelve Protest, Arewa Group Cautions

A non-governmental organisation (NGO), Rebuild Arewa Initiative for Development (RAID), kicked against the proposed nationwide protests.

In a press release issued by the group’s Director of Strategic Communications and Publicity, Comrade Bitako Umar, RAID said the nationwide protests might not be the solution to the difficult situation facing the country.

While acknowledging the socioeconomic hardship many Nigerians were experiencing at the moment, including economic challenges, insecurity and social unrest, the group cautioned that the genuine desire for progress might be hijacked by those with other ulterior motives.

It stated, "Even though we know that grievances through protests is a democratic right, but it is not the most reliable or effective means to resolve issues.

“We also believe that protests alone will not provide the solutions we seek or crave for. So, we call on Nigerians, particularly our youths, to channel their strength and wisdom towards dialogue and constructive engagement.”

Engage FG, Northern Groups Plead

Nigerian Forum for the Sustenance of Democracy (NFSD), yesterday, appealed to organisers of the proposed protest to engage in constructive dialogue with the federal government instead of taking to the streets.

NFSD President, Hon. Abdulrahman Kwaccham, made the appeal at a press conference in Abuja, where

he emphasised the importance of maintaining order.

Kwaccham said, "We must recognise that any disruption of law and order will worsen our already challenging economic situation, further intensifying the suffering endured by our people.

"We must engage in constructive dialogue and seek lasting solutions to the socio-economic issues that plague our nation."

IPCR Sues for Calm, Restraint Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) issued a call for calm and restraint ahead of the planned protests against the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

The Institute called on civil society groups, organisers, and other bodies involved in the planned protests to be cautious of their action in order to avoid inflaming the already precarious situation in the country.

It insisted that they should note that although the country was facing hard times, the situation was not unique to Nigeria, as the world at large was grappling with a global economic crisis.

IPCR also urged citizens to avoid fanning the flames of disunity and disrupting the fragile peace currently enjoyed amid insecurity.

Director General, IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, in a statement, said, “This wise counsel comes at a critical juncture, as protests at this point in time could jeopardise the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

Ayirimi: Tinubu Not Cause of Hunger

A chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State and Itsekiri leader, Chief Ayirimi Emami, yesterday, said the rising food inflation and hunger in the country were not the making of President Bola Tinubu. Emami, while addressing newsmen shortly after performing prayers for the Itsekiri nation during the "Ologbotsere Day" celebration at his Ubeji residence, maintained that Tinubu should not be held responsible for the hunger in the country. He said the president inherited a wobbling economy. Emami stated that what was happening in the country, with regard to food inflation, predated the Tinubu-led APC administration and stressed that the APC governments were the offspring of successive bad governance.

He stated, "A lot of people are saying there is hardship in the land and I agree. Rarely there is hardship but this hardship is not caused by Asiwaju. These were wrong foundations that were laid and I pitied the president that he inherited a very wrong foundation and he is struggling with it to ensure that Nigeria moves forward.”

dEEPENiNG aGRiC BUsiNEss…

L-R: Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, Director General, Nigeria’s Governors’ Forum, Dr. Abdullateef Shittu; Executive Chairman, ORIGIN Tech Group, Prince Samuel Joseph Samuel; Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Temitope Peter Fashedemi, during the meeting on the implementation of the Greener Hope Agriculture Productivity Programme in Abuja...yesterday

Suspended Abia

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in umuahia

Health Commissioner, Ngozi Okoronkwo, Resigns

The suspended Abia State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ngozi Okoronkwo, has resigned from Governor Alex Otti’s cabinet, bringing to three the number of commissioners that have taken the exit door in just a week. Okoronkwo, who had been on suspension since June 10, 2024, resigned yesterday, exactly a month and two weeks into her isolation from the government.

Oyo Vows to Tackle Illegal Mining

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

Oyo State Government yesterday reiterated its commitment to tackle illegal mining in the state.

The Director-General of Oyo State Mineral Development Agency (OSMDA), Mr. Abiodun Oni, gave this commitment during stakeholders’ sensitisation and consultative forum that was held in Ibadan.

Oni said that illegal mining had caused untold damage to the environment and had jeopardised the health and livelihoods of the people of the state.

ahmad sorondinki in Kano

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sunusi II, has urged the people of the state to plant trees as the Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, launched the Four Million Tree Planting Campaign to combat climate change in their environment.

Sanusi made the call yesterday in his remarks at the launching of the campaign in Kano.

He said: “I urge each and every one of you to plant trees in your various houses and other places so as to protect our environment from the impact of climate change.

A statement issued release by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, said that the health commissioner “has tendered her resignation letter to the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti.”

He said: “This administration will no longer tolerate any form of illegal mining in the state and today’s consultative forum will focus on Executive Order 001/2023, which majors on the protection of mining communities in Oyo State.

“Illegal mining results in millions being siphoned from the state, and the state and federal governments do not benefit from this act. “Therefore, it is imperative for the government to take responsibility and for kings and baales to be involved by signing consent letters.”

Emir Sanusi Urges Kano People to Plant Trees

As in the previous resignations of commissioners, no reason was given for Dr. Okoronkwo’s

resignation.

Ukoha said: “The governor, while accepting her resignation, thanked Dr. Okoronkwo for her services to our dear state and her modest achievements in

repositioning the health sector for better service delivery in the last one year,” adding that Otti “wished her well in her future endeavours.”

Ukoha further stated that

the governor “reiterated his commitment to the transformation of Abia State and reminded Abians that they gave him the mandate to assemble his team.”

CSO Seeks Govt’s Permission to Run Public Health Programme in Kogi

ibrahim Oyewaleinlokoja

A civil society group, the Amnesty International, Kogi State Chapter, has sought the permission of the Kogi State government , Ministry of Health ,Ministry of environment and other critical stakeholders to run a public health programme in view of the current environmental

hazards inherent in the state.

This was contained in a letter addressed to the State Governor, Usman Ododo copy of which was made available to the journalists in Lokoja yesterday .

The Director, Amnesty International, Kogi State , Comrade Sunday Jatto, explained that the purpose of the advocacy is to

enhance the less privilege citizens particularly the vulnerable people who could no longer cope with cost of the orthodox medicine and not privileged to enjoy medical delivery system.

He pointed out that these days many people, especially the middle age men of 45 years and above are vulnerable to various ailments such rheumatism, arthritis, diabetes, hypertension , weak erection, infections and eye problems among others. The rights activist also noted that the current increasing cases of ailments could be linked to the current economic impasse due to dearth of balance diet and lack of orientation on chemicalised foods that the vulnerable people eat .

Edo 2024: Ighodalo Meets EU Delegation on Pre-election Watch

adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the Edo State gubernatorial election, Dr Asue Ighodalo, has played host to the European Union pre-election diplomatic watch delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS in his

campaign office in Benin City, Edo State.

The meeting, which was at the request of the EU, according to a letter signed by the EU Ambassador, Samuela Isopi, was to discuss the September 21 election with Ighodalo and his running mate, Osarodion Ogie, as well as other stakeholders within the party.

The delegates said their mission was for pre-election assessment purpose basically to, “gain a sense of how the preparations are coming along, issues that require the attention of international partners such as the EU both for the purpose of the ensuring that the elections are violent free and in our deployment planning.” In his reaction, Ighodalo thanked the members of the delegation for coming and assured them his party was ready for the election, and that it has been conducting issue-based campaigns.

Akin Fadeyi Foundation Honours Shettima for Leadership, Anti-corruption Efforts

Funmi Ogundare

“We should not allow the trend to continue and the only way to avert the reoccurrence or worsening of the heatwave is to endeavour to plant trees in our environment.”

In his speech, Governor Yusuf said that his administration would sustain the annual tree planting campaign as part of its efforts to protect the environment.

He said: “We intend to plant more than three million trees in Kano State, in our houses, streets, markets, places of worships, farmlands, forest reserves and so on.

“You will all recall the heat wave we experienced some months back which made the environment uncomfortable for us, and that was one of the effects of climate change.

US President

Honours Pastor Olukoya, Wife

sunday Okobi

The United States(US) of America President, Mr. Joe Biden, has bestowed on the General Overseer of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (Worldwide), Dr. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya, with the US President’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

In a statement signed and made available to THISDAY by the cleric media aide, Collins Edomaruse, Olukoya and his wife, Dr. Shade Olukoya, also received from President Biden the ‘President’s Volunteer Service Award’.

The Akin Fadeyi Foundation yesterday brought together experts in different fields to honour Dr. Kole Shettima, the Nigerian director of Mac-Author Foundation, for his leadership

The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro, has said that President Bola Tinubu is appreciative of the prevailing peace and stability in the Niger Delta.

style, integrity, commitment to humanity and impact on society.

They described him as one with an inspiring personality who espouses characteristics and elements of stoic philosophers; and humility, mindfulness, rationality, self-discipline, fair-

Otuaro spoke during his separate consultative visits to the palace of the Chief Priest of Mein-Diringbia Deity (Agadagba III) of Mein Kingdom, HRM King Godday Smith; the Meinbutus Elders Council and

dealing, honesty, modesty as well as self-respect.

Speaking during a virtual meeting on ‘Impact Series with Dr. Kole Shettima’, former First Lady of Ekiti State, Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, described Shettima as one with an

the Western Zone leadership of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), all in Warri, Delta State.

According to him, Tinubu was not taking the existing peace, security and development of the region and the people for

impeccable character having known him for almost 30 years. She expressed excitement about the programme honouring him while he is still alive, and commended the Akin Fadeyi Foundation for the programme.

granted. Otuaro noted that the president and the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, believe strongly in the PAP and its objectives for the Niger Delta.

ITU Ranks Nigeria High in Digital Transformation Readiness

Emma Okonji

and Singapore leading the global chart.

“The American story depends not on any one of us, not on some of us, but on all of us.

I congratulate you on taking it upon yourself to contribute to the public good, and I am proud to present you with the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of your hours of service to this great nation.

The statement noted that while presenting the award to Olukoya and his wife, President Biden said: “I am proud to present you with the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of your 45,000 hours of service to this great nation.

The International Telecommunications Union (ITU), has ranked Nigeria very high at 71 per cent, in comparative legal, policy and governance frameworks towards G5 - advanced state of readiness for digital transformation known as G5 with Germany, Finland

In the report conducted by the ITU, and the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), unveiled by Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, in Abuja last Monday,

Nigeria was ranked among Africa’s top seven BEMECS 5G Readiness Index, which represents the country’s readiness to deploy and adopt mass-market 5G networks.

Titled: ‘Collaborative Regulation: Accelerating Nigeria’s Digital Transformation’, and presented at the Digital Economy Complex, Mbora in Abuja by ITU’s Kagwira Nkonge, the report, among other things, presented a case study for “collaborative regulation review to assess and support Nigeria’s transition towards collaborative digital governance, evidence-based policy making and agile regulation in the digital economy.”

Expert: Gas Will Solve Nigeria’s Energy Challenge

Onuminya innocent in sokoto

A former Director-General, National Energy, Commission, Professor Abubakar Sani Sambo, has said gas development in Nigeria will bring the needed solution to its immediate energy

challenge, and remains a longerterm transition fuel

Professor Sambo made the remark in Sokoto yesterday at the maiden ‘Chemistry in Energy +’ maiden conference organised by PTDF Professorial Chair in Petroleum Chemistry of Usmanu

Danfodiyo University, Sokoto. Sambo, former vice chancellor of ATBU, Bauchi, noted that if Nigeria can harness all it gas resources, there would be remarkable improvement in addressing the public demand for energy.

He said: “We need to explore all mechanisms to facilitate sustainable generation and utilisation of our oil and gas reserves to maximally attain zero level carbon emissions to perfect our Carbone capture for improved energy supply.

Super Falcons Set to Banish Memories of Beijing in Bordeaux

NIGERIA V BRAZIL

Duro Ikhazuagbe

There couldn’t have been a better setting for Nigeria’s Super Falcons to return to the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament than facing Brazil, the same team they played 16 years ago at the Beijing 2008 edition.

This evening in Bordeaux, Nigeria and Brazil will lock horns in what promises to be a mouthwatering affair,

PARIS 2024

given the flair both teams bring to the table.

Three editions of the Olympiad have rolled by with the nine-time African champions conspicuously absent. But all that is history now.

The Super Falcons have bounced back and are set to do better than their

previous outings at the tournament.

Unlike their last outing 16 years ago when the Falcons lost 1-3 to the Canarinhas in front of 51,112 spectators at the impressive Workers’ Stadium in Beijing, China and lost the chance to progress to the quarter-finals, the Nigerian ladies have grown in leaps and bounds.

Their outing at last summer’s FIFA Women’s World Cup Finals Down

Under, is a testament to what they are capable of offering now. Any team that under-rates the nine-time African champions could end up with a black eye and a bloody nose. However, women’s football aficionados worldwide consider that this evening’s encounter at the 42,000-capacity Stade Matmut Atlantique in southern France will be much more competitive and

Nigeria vs Brazil Revives 1996 Fond Memory

The Nigeria Super Falcons are set to face Brazil in their opening match of the 2024 Olympics on Thursday.

The clash will kick-off at 6pm and will be televised live on Sporty TV channel on StarTimes.

This match brings back memories of the 1996 Olympics, where Nigeria’s men’s team famously defeated Brazil 4-3 in a thrilling semi-final encounter. That match saw Nigeria come from behind to win in extra time, with Nwankwo Kanu scoring the decisive golden goal.

Even though Nigeria’s Dream Team didn’t qualify for the Mundial, Nigerians are throwing their weight behind the Super Falcons who are returning to the Olympics after a 16-year absence. They had a strong showing in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, reaching the knockout stages.

Asisat Oshoala, Rasheedat Ajibade, and Chiamaka Nnadozie will be in action.

This will be the third encounter between these sides, and their second

clash

by a comfortable 3-1 victory in the group stage of the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

This Olympic opener is a heavyweight battle, with a hungry Super Falcons squad, brimming with globally-recognised stars, aiming to leave their mark in gold. At home, the fond memories of 1996 will be

shared as the Super Falcons square up with Brazil. Nigerian fans are buzzing with confidence, ready to erupt in excitement for their team! The match will be aired live on Sporty TV on StarTimes.

GCU Relays 2024 Gets Date

Consistent with its tradition of hosting the Event on every second Saturday in November, the Sixth Edition of the Government College Ughelli, GCU RELAYS, has been confirmed for November ninth(9th) 2024 at the schools Athletics Field (Tartan Tracks).

Now, in its sixth edition, the annual Invitational Relays, which is the brain child of the Old Boys Association has produced notable Track Stars, prominent amongst whom is the Paris Olympics bound Oghenebrume Godson.

Oghenebrume, who is listed in the 100m for men, won the Victor Ludorum diadem at the inaugural

Morocco Beat Argentina in Game Marred by Crowd Trouble

Crowd trouble forced the first football match of the Olympics to be suspended for nearly two hours amid chaotic and worrying scenes, with the game eventually completed in an empty stadium. Morocco had been 2-0 ahead against Argentina, who pulled a goal back and were pushing for an equaliser.

Cristian Medina then appeared to have made it 2-2 in the 16th of what had been 15 scheduled minutes of injury time at the end of the second half.

After the resulting crowd trouble, play finally resumed after a lengthy delay with no fans present, and with VAR having ruled out Argentina's equaliser, Morocco secured a controversial 2-1 victory.

Both Morocco goals were scored by Soufiane Rahimi, one just before half-time and then a penalty early

in the second half as they looked to begin their 2024 gold-medal bid with a win.

Argentina pulled a goal back through Giuliano Simeone, the son of Atletico Madrid manager and former Argentina midfielder Diego Simeone. But, after all the drama, it was Morocco who took the three points.

Argentina won the men's Olympic football tournament in 2004 and 2008 and ex-Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano, who was a part of the winning squad for the second of those successes, is managing the team in 2024.

Mascherano's side will now need to get positive results against Iraq on Saturday and Ukraine on Tuesday to have a chance of finishing in the top two in the group and advancing to the quarter-finals.

edition, whilst featuring for Afiesere Secondary School, Ughelli and has posted one of the fastest times (sub 10 secs) this year.

Whilst confirming the November 9th date for this year’s Event, Chief Albert Akpomudje, SAN, President General Worldwide, GCUOBA equally promised a better packaged and more competitive One Day Meet.

‘’The GCU Relays, over the years has witnessed increased improvement and quality in overall delivery of the Inter-collegiate Invitational Athletics Competition’’ he said, adding “this 6th edition will surely surpass my expectations’’.

The GCU Relays Ambassador Ruks Bazunu is retained to play the usual motivational role, whilst coordinating the Event Day Technical alignment.

Emery Edjeren, given his huge and passionate input at the last edition, has now been saddled with the position of Deputy Chairman and Technical Subcommittee Chair of the Organizing Committee.

Edjeren, who dominated Inter-collegiate Athletics in the mid ninety sixties will bring his wealth of experience to impact positively and add value to the highly sought Athletics Meet.

entertaining.

Nigeria’s ensemble is currently brimming with highly gifted, talented and enterprising professionals who continue to dazzle with their clubs in Europe and the Americas, and they suffer no anxieties or palpitations when they take the pitch against the very best squads from anywhere, as was seen in Australia 12 months ago.

Down Under, the girls coached by American Randy Waldrum successfully checkmated Olympic champions Canada, defeated exciting hosts Australia and drew with an ambitious Republic of Ireland side in Brisbane to reach the Round of 16. There, they punched England severally but could not get that important goal, and eventually lost after a penalty shootout following scoreless regulation and extra time.

Only reserve goalkeeper Tochukwu Oluehi remains part of the Falcons’ squad from that 2008 experience in China, but goalkeeper Ann Chiejine, assistant coach with the team in France, was part of a memorable

encounter with the Brazilians at the FIFA Women’s World Cup finals in the USA in 1999.

Nigeria roared back from 0-3 down at half time to tie the encounter 3-3, but lost via the ‘golden goal’ at the Jack Kent Cooke Stadium in Maryland.

On Thursday, there will be no punches pulled by either side, with the focus on the three points as the race begins for slots in the quarter-finals.

Coach Waldrum can afford to be confident, with world-class goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defence stalwarts Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie Oluwatosin Demehin and Chidinma Okeke, midfielders Rasheedat Ajibade, Christy Ucheibe, Deborah Abiodun and Toni Payne, and forwards Chinwendu Ihezuo and Uchenna Kanu.

The Super Falcons flew past their counterparts from Ethiopia, Cameroon and South Africa to reach the final tournament, and no doubt, possess the steel and flair to go all the way in France.

Nine Clubs Begin Hostilities in RSA Squash Open at Ikoyi Club

A total of 36 players from nine top clubs in Lagos State are competing for honours from today till Saturday as the RSA Squash Open takes centre stage at Ikoyi Club 1938.

This event is jointly powered by Sports Bridge International (SBI) and Ikoyi Club 1938, in partnership with Zenith Bank Plc. The squash players are expected to compete in the Men’s, Ladies and Veterans categories in the three-day event.

This year's participating clubs are Ikoyi Club 1938, Old Trafford, Lagos Country Club, Ivory Health Club, Lagos Lawn, Apapa Club, UNILAG Staff Club, Yellow Dot, and Eko Club. The ages of participants range from 30 to 77.

The captain of the Squash section and the technical person in charge of the event, Oluwole Sojinrin, said all arrangements have been concluded

for a hitch-free event.

He added that all the players and club participating in the tournament are eager to make impact in the event.

Co-founder/ CEO Sports Bridge International and convener of this 2024 RSA Squash Open, Rerhe Idonije, said it would be the first the entire would be meeting in one decade. She said: “It would be a reunion of sort and we are all eagerly excited to be part of this. Our sponsors have been wonderful and we expect a very great event at Ikoyi Club.

“The SBI relationship with Zenith Bank and Ikoyi Club is amazing and that is the same spirit we are carrying into the tournament.”

The Chairman Squash Section of Ikoyi Club, Akinsope Roberts, says the elite club is always proud to host other clubs in high-profile competitions of this magnitude.

African superstars Nigeria’s Quadri Aruna and Egypt’s Omar Assar have been handed tricky draws in the first round of Men’s Singles in the table tennis competition of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in France.

The draw conducted on Wednesday, July 24 at the South Paris Arena and witnessed by coaches and team managers also handed Africa’s flagbearers Egypt a big hurdle in the team and mixed doubles events.

Aruna has been handed a familiar foe in Romania’s Eduard Ionescu while his compatriot. Olajide Omotayo has a tough duel against Iran’s Noshad Alamiyan in the first round of Men’s Singles in the table tennis competition at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

It was a mixed fortune for other African stars at the draws as Egypt’s Omar Assar will face Madagascar’s debutant Fabio Rakotoarimanana while Algeria’s Mehdi Bouloussa will take on Croatia’s Tomislav Pucar.

Nigeria-born Congo Brazzaville’s Saheed Idowu will square up against Sweden’s Anton Kallberg, while the only African starting his campaign from the preliminary round of the Men’s Singles is Senegal’s Ibrahima Diaw who will take on Nepal’s Santoo Shrestha. Like Omotayo, Offiong Edem will lock horns against Brazil’s Bruna Takahashi while debutant Fatimo Bello will face a Herculean task against the Chinese-born French star Jia Nana Yuan in the first round of the Women’s Singles.

Defending champions of the 1XBET Cup, Shomolu/Bariga FC have been paired alongside Dosu FA, Collins Edwin FC, Team360 FC, and Ilupeju Pillars in Group B of the 2024 edition of the foremost community football competition in the country.

Shomolu/Bariga FC defeated Odion Ighalo FC 2-0 to win the maiden edition of the tournament last year.

At the draw ceremony in Lagos yesterday conducted by two exinternationals, Victor Agali and Friday Ekpo, 20 teams that made it from the playoffs were paired into four groups of five teams each. The tournament is to kick off from August 5 at the Legacy Pitch of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

Among the highlights of the day was the draw and the presentation of a new trophy for this edition. In Group A, it will be a battle for top spot between FC Bethel, G12 FA, 11 FA, Gunners Link FC and Wasola FC.

Group C consists of Odion Ighalo FC, Young Strikers, Emiloju FC, Emajus FC and Ikorodu Eagles FA while completing the final group, the Group D has 36 Lion FA, Dominion Hotspur FC, Diadem Stallion FC, Royalty FC and China Sunstars FC. Speaking after the draws, the Tournament Director, ex-international, Waidi Akanni, explained the process to get all the eight quarterfinalists with the winner of each group automatically getting to the final eight.

Super Falcons players in the final training session yesterday

Some representatives of the 20 clubs present at the draw ceremony having a feel of the trophy as presented by Benard, an official of the sponsors, 1XBET

at the Olympics. Brazil defeated the Super Falcons 4-3 after extra time at the 1999 FIFA Women's World Cup. This was followed

Kamala Harris to Donald Trump

‘Before I was elected vice-president, before I was elected United States senator, I was elected attorney general of the state of California, and I was a courtroom prosecutor before then. And in those roles, I took on perpetrators of all kinds: predators who abused women, fraudsters who ripped off consumers, cheaters who broke the rules for their own gain. So, hear me when I say, I know Donald Trump’s type’—DemocraticPartypresidentialfront-runner,onformer presidentandRepublicanPartycandidateforNovemberelection.

For Akpabio, A Teachable Moment

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio is renown for his arrogance and hubris. So, when he tendered a public apology to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on the floor of the senate Tuesday, the stakes must have been very high. With a faceless but popular blogger running a vicious campaign against his family and threatening not to stop until Akpabio apologised to a female colleague he needlessly demeaned, it was obvious something would have to give. And the public statement, issued by a group of powerful women on the same issue, must have persuaded even a man like Akpabio that he had carried his offering beyond the sacred place. The controversy began when Akpoti-Uduaghan attempted to speak before being recognised, an action that drew sharp reprimand from Akpabio. Despite her apologetic tone, Akpabio would not let it pass. He retorted with the biting remark that the Senate is not a “nightclub”. But commonsense has prevailed. On Tuesday, Akpabio said he would “not intentionally denigrate any woman and I always pray that God will uplift women.” He then added: “Distinguished Senator Natasha, I want to apologise to you...I do not mean any harm. People should concentrate on things that will move this country forward. Social media handlers should practice with decorum. We won’t out of anger regulate social media.”

I am impressed by how Akpabio handled this situation and I commend him for it. He hasn’t always displayed such wisdom when dealing with matters of alleged indiscretion. Many Nigerians still recall his altercation with Dr Joy Nunieh in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) during his stewardship as Niger Delta Minister. But it is unfortunate to hear that Akpabio’s wife was dragged into what does not in any way concern her. Those who purportedly called to denigrate her exhibited the same traits they accuse Akpabio of. They obviously have no respect for women. No matter how we feel about issues, certain lines should not be crossed. I hope Akpabio has also learnt sufficient lessons from the experience.

On Monday, 24 hours before his apologies, a group of respected female professionals in the country under the aegis of Voices for Inclusion and Equity for Women (VIEW), released a public statement on what they described as a “disheartening display of disrespect and gender bias” by Akpabio. Signatories included Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode, Aisha Waziri, Amina Salihu, Asmau Joda, Ene Ede, Ene Orgah, Fatima Akilu, Ier Jonathan-Ichaver, Kadaria Ahmed, Larai Ocheja Amusan, Mairo Mandara, Maryam Lemu, Maryam Uwais, Nguyan Feese, Rekiya Abaji, Sa’ida Sa’ad, Saudatu Mahdi, Ummahani Amin, Zainab Salihijo and Zaynab Musa. Other women coalitions, ‘WOMANIFESTO’ led by Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi and FLEADERS, led by Bridget Obi and Nana Kazaure, had also made strong statements decrying what they described as the intimidating tactics of Akpabio.

reducing the overall quality and responsiveness of political decision-making. The contribution of the female voice in governance is not just a matter of fairness; it is a democratic imperative. Senator

Although the VIEW statement was anchored on how the senate president compared AkpotiUduaghan’s conduct to behaviour suited to ‘a nightclub’, they added that “This is not the first instance of such behaviour from Senator Akpabio; he recently silenced Senator Ireti Kingibe in a similarly dismissive manner, underscoring a troubling pattern.”

After highlighting the hurdles Akpoti-Uduaghan overcame to get to the Senate (she defeated the political machine of the ‘White Lion’ of Kogi State now on the run), the group then addressed the fundamental issue in this controversy: “The exclusion or undermining of voices like hers can lead to governance that overlooks the needs and experiences of at least 50% of the population,

Akpabio’s censure of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan must be addressed seriously. This is a call to action for the Senate to uphold norms of respect and equity and to hold itself accountable.”

Before I address what has become an institutional problem, let me state clearly that I do not subscribe to the erroneous notion that the leadership of a National Assembly controlled by the ruling party should be acrimonious in their relationship with the executive. In the United States from where we borrowed the presidential system of government, lawmakers from the ruling party collaborate with their president in the interest of the country without compromising their own integrity as an independent arm of government. But the leadership of an institution with the power of oversight on issues of transparency and accountability cannot be slavish in its dealings with the president. That is the challenge of the moment in Nigeria. I dealt sufficiently with that in my February column, ‘Akpabio: A Man for Every New Season,’ after he dissed President Muhammadu Buhari whom he served as Minister simply because the incumbent President Bola Tinubu facilitated his elevation to the office of Senate President.

While Akpabio may have apologised to Akpoti-Uduaghan, it is increasingly becoming a fad, especially in the Senate, that those who make

laws for the rest of us can only find relevance in denigrating Nigerian women. It did not start with Akpabio. In presenting a motion to mark the International Women’s Day 2016 eight years ago, then Senator (now First Lady) Oluremi Tinubu argued, “We represent courage and resilience; without us (Nigerian women) I don’t think this country will move forward.” But the significance of the motion was lost on most of her male colleagues who trivialised the issue. Making his contribution, then Senate Leader, Ali Ndume (who is now facing persecution from his own party for being critical of the president), said: “I urge men to marry more than one wife. The first care of a woman is marriage. Men should take care of women by not just befriending them, but by going further to marry them. I know there is nowhere in the Bible that prohibits marrying more than one wife. Starting with the senate president (Dr Bukola Saraki) I ask him to consider marrying more than one wife.”

On a day the United Nations invested the theme, ‘Planet 50-50 by 2030: Step It Up for Gender Equality’, Ndume made a formal request in plenary: “As a sign of respect for women, let’s urge men to marry more than one wife.” His prayer was seconded by Senator Suleiman Nazif...

NOTE: Concluded online

2024 Teens Conference: The Power of Music

In his ‘Introduction to the Book of Psalms’ published in 2002 as part of a series of little literary paperbacks to some books in the Bible, Paul David Hewson, popularly known as Bono, spoke to the power of music. The globally renowned activist and leader of the rock band, U2, had been invited to write the introduction by the publishing house that presented individual books from the King James Version of the Bible as separate volumes. “Explaining faith is impossible...Vision over visibility...instinct over intellect...A songwriter plays a chord with the faith that he will hear the next one in his head,” Bono wrote. “One of the writers of the psalms was a musician, a harp-player whose talents were required at ‘the palace’ as the only medicine that would still the demons of the moody and insecure King Saul of Israel; a thought that still inspires, if not quite explaining Marilyn singing for Kennedy, or the Spice Girls in the court of Prince Charles...” Bono then went on to expand on the uplifting powers of music: “Psalms and

hymns were my first taste of inspirational music. I liked the words, but I wasn’t sure about the tunes--with the exception of Psalm 23, ‘The Lord is my shepherd.’ I remember them as droned and chanted rather than sung. Still, in an odd way, they prepared me for the honesty of John Lennon, the baroque language of Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen, the open throat of Al Green and Stevie Wonder--when I hear these singers, I am reconnected to a part of me I have no explanation for...my ‘soul’ I guess.”

I doubt if Pastor Evaristus Azodoh, a consultant urologist and ‘old Soja’, is a fan of Bono. But in choosing ‘The Power of Music’ as the theme for the 2024 edition of The Annual Teens Career Conference of The Everlasting Arms Parish (TEAP) of RCCG Abuja, he argues that “Music is more than just melodies and lyrics; it has the power to uplift, inspire, and transform.” For this year, former Cross River State Governor, Mr Donald Duke, a lawyer and saxophonist of high repute, is a special guest among other confirmed speakers, including Dare Art Alade,

an award-winning singer, songwriter, record producer and entrepreneur and Mrs Bukola Bekes, a respected gospel artiste and music minister at the RCCG, City of David Parish, Lagos. Specifically, the objectives of the Teens Career Conference are to: Teach the teenagers to take responsibility for their future; Have their imagination fired through interaction with accomplished professionals in the society; Make them realize that no matter the odds, they can reach their goals, and get them to understand that God still intervenes in the affairs of men. Although a Christian programme, physical participation at the Conference is open to teens and youth of all religious backgrounds from Abuja and the environs.

Speakers at previous editions of the Conference include UBA Chairman, Mr Tony Elumelu, CFR, wife of the former Vice President, Mrs Dolapo Osinbajo, Executive Vice Chairman of Famfa Oil, Mrs Folorunsho Alakija, ace comedian, Mr Atunyota Alleluya Akpobome, popularly known as Ali Baba, former Central Bank

of Nigeria (CBN) Deputy Governor, Mrs Serah Alade, former Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) Chair, Mrs Ifueko Omoigui-Okauru, former PENCOM Director General, Ms Chinelo Anohu, Nollywood actor, Richard Mofe Damijo (RMD), Nollywood actress, Linda Ejiofor (who was joined by her husband, Ibrahim) and wife of the late former Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Mrs Charity Shekari. Others are former House of Representatives Speaker, Hon Yakubu Dogara, former Deputy European Union Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Robert Young, former Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi as well as Ms Dorota Oakley Matuszyk, Ms Juliet Lamin (now of blessed memory), Dr Helen Paul, Messrs Samson Itodo, Seun Onigbinde, Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, Chinedu Azodoh, J.J. Omojuwa and Mrs Omowale David-Ashiru. Participation at this hybrid event is strictly by online registration. Interested teenagers and young adults who seek to attend can register at the Conference website: www.rccgteapteens.ng

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

Donald Duke Dare Art Alade Bukola Bekes

Evaristus Azodoh