WEDNESDAY 31TH JULY 2024

Senate: Tinubu's Lifeline to Dangote Refinery on Crude Supply by NNPC Will Strengthen Naira

Emmanuel Addeh and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

LATEEF JAKANDE ANNUAL LECTURE...

Obasanjo Seeks Greater Commitment, Continuity in Public Service Reforms

Says he’ll respect technocrats till death

James Emejo in Abuja

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo yesterday called for continuity and commitment in current efforts to reform and reposition the public service to play its role in economic development.

He said discontinuity remained the greatest pain of any reform, stressing that continuity of personnel was particularly crucial.

He said sustainability was one of the key ingredients of reforms, coupled with ownership, initiators, drivers and executors.

Speaking at a national workshop on public sector reforms in Nigeria with the theme, "Rethinking Reforms: Why Many Reforms Fail in Nigeria and What We Can Do About It" which was organized by the Aig-Imoukhuede (AIG) Foundation in Abuja, the former president described also reform as a “lifelong process, a journey, not a destination”.

He said ongoing reform must be accepted and spread, adding that government must do all it takes in ensuring that the public service is strengthened.

Obasanjo said where necessary, monetary and other reward system including legislation should be applied to achieve the goal of repositioning the public service.

The former president, while commending then collaboration between government and private sector players, particularly the AIG Foundation towards sanitizing the public service, further reiterated the need for recognition of the critical roles which technocrats civil service play in driving key reforms and effective governance.

He said, “The greatest pain of

reform is discontinuity. Continuity of personnel is crucial. Reform is a lifelong process, a journey, not a destination.

“I've met and dealt with some of the best in the public service. We need good men and women in the public service as much as we need them in the private sector.

Some of them are frustrated, inadequately rewarded, and we need to correct that.”

Obasanjo who noted that reform requires political heads and technocrats working together, respecting and understanding each other, said, “I will continue to respect the Nigerian public service, particularly the technocrats, until I die”.

He said, the “public service, including the executive, legislative, judiciary, and technocrats, has power. Technocrats have power, and we must recognise that.”

He said, “I'll give two examples.

One is my late friend, Ahmed Joda, who as permanent secretary, frustrated the Chief Justice's attempt to get a second plot of land. Another example is a minister who gave a permanent secretary the power to decide what is essential and what is not.”

Continuing, he said, “When we were fighting apartheid, we decided to nationalise certain items to push Britain to move on South Africa. We carried out a study and found that we put 250,000 men and women in jobs in Britain through our imports. I wrote a memo myself, and we decided to take action. Liman Chiroma, the head of service, advised against it, but we went ahead, and the civil service backed us up.

“We even had a Southern Africa Relief Fund where civil servants contributed five per cent of their

salary. That's the type of reform that can make a difference.”

In her remarks, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, said lack of inclusive implementation strategy, poor funding, and resistance to change remained some of the impediments to reform initiatives in the country.

She said, "Reforming a system can be daunting, and challenges will arise. It is essential to recognise that there are no infallible systems, and reform is continuous."

While appreciate the foundation's commitment to transforming the country’s public sector, she said the research on why many reforms fail in Nigeria and what we could be done to change the narrative remained a valuable contribution to ongoing efforts.

Yemi-Esan pointed out that since Nigeria's Fourth Republic, there had been at least 48 documented reforms aimed at improving sectoral services

public services will better lives, strengthen economy

and performance.

However, the proliferation of reforms highlights the importance of understanding why many reforms fail and how to address these challenges, she said.

According to her, “Reforming a system can be daunting, and challenges will arise. It is essential to recognize that there are no infallible systems, and reform is continuous.”

She said the country’s reform programme implementation had faced numerous impediments, including lack of inclusive implementation strategy framework, poor funding and inadequate budgetary provisions, lack of skilled manpower, poor communication and lack of ownership and involvement among others.

She said, “To address these challenges, the Office of the Head of Service reviewed the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan in 2020. We adopted a different approach to reform formulation

and implementation, including wide stakeholder consultation; governance structure for the reform initiative; decentralization of FC 25 implementations to ministries; training and capacity building; and constant monitoring and evaluation; focus on enablers, including culture change, change management, partnerships, technology, consequence management, effective communication, and political buy-in.”

She said, “We have made significant progress in re-engineering the civil service, and it is essential to recognise and celebrate the good work of our officers and partners while sanctioning indiscipline and poor performance.”

She also identified key elements for successful reform programmes to include systems and support structures- partnerships, high-level monitoring, capacity building- compensation systems, and change management strategy among others.

Also speaking, Chairman, AIG

Foundation, Mr. Aigboje AigImoukhuede, highlighted the essence of an efficient and motivated public service in achieving good governance, production and distribution of public goods, formulation and implementation of economic policy, and management of public expenditure.

Citing Nigeria's Human Development Index ranking of 161 out of 189 countries, he said this was a reflection of the performance of government over several decades.

He said Chapter 2 of the Nigerian Constitution seeks to create a government workforce of size and with skills, and incentives, ethos, and accountability needed to provide quality public services and carry out the functions stated therein.

Aig-Imoukhuede also drew a correlation between the strength of a country's public sector and its strength as a nation.

Natasha Kicks against N4.2bn Personnel Cost for Moribund Ajaokuta Steel Workers

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the welfare of workers in the State, pledging that his administration would ensure that no worker in the country earns better than those in the State’s employ.

The governor, who spoke while addressing civil and public servants in the State, at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA) in Benin City, the Edo State capital, said the investment in the workers is part of efforts to ensure that the workers are adequately motivated

and empowered to deliver effective to Edo people. Commending the workers for their relentless contributions to the development of the State, the governor was quoted in a statement to have said his government has ensured that workers were provided conducive working environment and incentives that are befitting of their contributions to the growth of the State.

According to Obaseki, the state government under his leadership has trained over 2700 civil and public

The Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, yesterday, described as unacceptable, the N4.2billion appropriated in the 2024 budget as personnel cost for the moribund Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited. She expressed her displeasure during the investigative hearing on alleged incidences of corruption and inefficiency in Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited and the National Iron Ore Mining Company from 2002 to date, by an ad hoc committee of the Senate.

billion appropriated for personnel cost in the 2024 budget.

She said being an indigene of the area, she was desirous to get the Steel company revamped and working.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, who is the Deputy Chairman of the Committee, asked the Sole Administrator of the Steel Company, Summaila Abdul Akaba, to give details of workers collecting salaries from the N4.2

The Senator said she made unscheduled visits to the company and hardly found 10 people working there.

She noted that despite such humongous amount of money being spent as personnel cost by the Steel Company on yearly basis, no steel has been manufactured and no mill rolled.

“Where are the 14, 000 or 8,400 workers in Ajaokuta, the appropriated N4.2billion is being spent on?" she asked.

The Minority Whip of the Senate who is also a member of the committee, Senator Osita Ngwu (PDP Enugu West), did not allow the sole administrator of the complex to respond to Akpoti-Uduaghan's question.

Ngwu said, " Please don't let us indict ourselves because the said appropriation was approved by the National Assembly."

servants on digitisation, information technology, and digital transformation among others, as part of ongoing efforts to drive the government’s digital economy plans and ensure the use of technology in processing government’s transactions and activities.

He further stated that his government has built and strengthened institutions that will ensure the sustainability of the e-governance reforms and other laudable initiatives of his administration in the State’s civil and public service.

Obaseki added, “The new Edo will be driven by you, using technology. One of the considerations for promotion is that you have taken training on one aspect of technology to enable you to move to the next level.

“We will retain you in the service by improving your conditions of service and ensuring no State pays wages that are higher than that of Edo State.”

He added, “I will continue to work until my last day as a governor to ensure everything we started in the last eight is sustained.”

She said, "The Sole Administrator of Ajaokuta Steel Company, I have a good question for you being an indigene from the area, very worried about the state of the company and passionate for its revival.

"The sum of N4.2 billion was appropriated for personnel cost in 2024, but from several visitations i made to the complex, hardly were 10 people sighted to be around or doing anything.

“So, who are the workers collecting monthly salaries from the appropriated N4.2billion?

"Statistically, if N300,000 is paid monthly to 14,000 people per month for a year, you get N4.2 billion or N500, 000 to 8,400 workers per month in a year.

In his closing remarks at the investigative hearing, the Chairman of the ad hoc Committee, Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire (APC Ondo Central), said presentations and submissions made by the various stakeholders would be thoroughly looked into by the Committee for a solution to the report on Ajaokuta Steel Company to the Senate. Key stakeholders at the investigative hearing were, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, a Director from the Central Bank of Nigeria , a Director from Bureau of Public Enterprises ( BPE) , Nigerian Society of Engineers , Steel and Engineering Union Workers of Nigeria, among others.

L-R: President, Nigerian Guild of Editors, Mr. Eze Anaba; Lagos State Commissioner of Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotosho; Publisher, Vanguard Newspaper, Uncle Sam Amuka Pemu; Chairman, THISDAY/Arise Media Group and Lead Speaker, Prince Nduka Obaigbena; Senator Ike Nwachukwu; wife of the former Lagos State Governor, Alhaja Abimbola Jakande; Son, Deji Jakande; former Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; and President, Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, Maureen Chigbo at the Guild of Editors Lateef Jakande Annual Memorial Lecture 2024, held in Lagos… yesterday PHOTO: SUNDAY ADIGUN

LAunch of A hEALth InSurAncE SchEmE for GLo SubScrIbErS...

Economic Reform: FG Ramps Up Free CNG

Conversion for Commercial Vehicles Nationwide Commences negotiation with NMDPRA to sell gas at N300/kg

Hands over conversion kits to beneficiaries in Abuja, Nasarawa, others

The federal government yesterday continued the free conversion of petrol and diesel-powered commercial vehicles to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), in a bid to ameliorate the harsh impact of the ongoing economic reforms nationwide.

The government also said that it was in talks with the leadership of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to provide

concessionary pricing for gas that will see Nigerians fill their vehicles at between N230 and N300 per kilogramme.

Speaking at the Park to Park CNG Conversion Mobilisation event in Abuja, the Programme Director and Chief Executive of the Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGI), Michael Oluwagbemi, described the programme as a ‘radical revolution’ that will significantly change vehicle energy consumption in the country. He stated that it was the plan of

President Bola Tinubu that Nigerians should no longer use expensive fuels, noting that CNG remains a cheaper and cleaner source of fuel.

The event which was to sensitise members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) on the critical importance of the programme in Abuja, Niger, Kogi and Nasarawa also witnessed the handing over of conversion kits to the group.

“We are all gathered here to witness a radical revolution in Nigerian

13% Deprivation Fund: HOSTCOM Gives Delta Government 21 Days

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

Host Communities of Nigeria

Producing Oil and Gas (HOSTCOM), Delta State Chapter yesterday gave the Delta State Government a 21-day protest notice over alleged neglect in the management of the 13 percent derivation fund.

The group which interfaces between the oil and gas bearing communities and Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) expressed deep concern and frustration over the deteriorating operational condition of the body which it attributed to various nonchalant attitude of the Delta State Government that always complains of paucity of funds.

HOSTCOM lamented that several attempts were made to demand what is legitimately due to it, in terms of the 13 % Percent Oil derivation funds, which has run into billions given to DESOPADEC to manage for and on behalf of HOSTCOM, with nothing good and fair to show from interventionist agency and the Delta State Government.

The group, in a statement issued and signed by its chairman, Enujeke Ndidi Sunday, on behalf of the leadership of HOSTCOM, warned that they can no longer tolerate the harsh and adverse effect of the neglect from the state government over the 13 Percent derivation "which rightly belongs to the oil and gas bearing communities of HOSTCOM".

It asserted that it was an error to allow DESOPADEC to neglect HOSTCOM which is the primary purpose of the establishment of the

interventionist agency.

The group highlighted several critical issues confronting the body, top of which was lack of funding and government’s lackadaisical attitude towards the plight of HOSTCOM which made it to beg for what belongs to body from DESOPADEC, that was established as an interventionist agency to serve HOSTCOM.

It carpeted the Delta State Government for being indifferent and unresponsive to the sufferings and demands of HOSTCOM which had been communicated severally, through messages that were not attended to, without any plausible explanation from the governor's office.

HOSTCOM noted that the 21-day protest notice emphasized the urgency for the Delta State Government to take immediate and decisive action to address the outstanding issues of neglect and reckless abandonment of a very strategic body which is statutorily recognized to be funded by accruable funds coming regularly through federal allocations.

"As we are waiting patiently for the state government’s response to our germane demands. We should not be cowed using the rhetoric "paucity of fund", a language, which HOSTCOM, shall vehemently resist", it stated.

Citing Section 40 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), which guarantees the right to peaceful assembly and association, the Delta State Chapter of HOSTCOM made up of all the leaders of the Various ethnic nationalities and youth leaders expressed its readiness to hold

the planned peaceful protest if its germane demands fall on deaf ears after the expiration of the 21-days ultimatum.

"The protest aims to amplify the discontent and grievances of HOSTCOM, over the years and the dire state of its members in the smooth running of the affairs of HOSTCOM in Delta State, a practice which is against the ethos and the pillar of democracy."

Part of HOSTCOM’s grievances, according to the statement, included non-release of five buses due it and intervention by the Delta State Government in ensuring the timely release of the body's Yearly subversion allocation, which has accrued to several millions of naira.

It also demanded immediate attention be given to the "knotty" issue of 13 Percent derivation accountability by the Governor noting that it was the fundamental right of HOSTCOM to know how the disbursement is been patterned.

The group also requested that the abandoned HOSTCOM ICT Training Centre be financed and activated with immediate effect to strengthen and enhance capacity building amongst the youths.

It further demanded HOSTCOM should be co-managers of the 50 percent of the 13 percent derivation fund as established by law since DESOPADEC is an interventionist agency of government.

"ln a very transparent manner, there should be accountability by DESOPADEC to HOSTCOM . We strongly believe this is key to the take-off of concrete developmental projects to be executed to specification", it added.

transportation. If you recall, many months ago Mr. President promised us that instead of using expensive petrol, he would enable Nigerians to benefit from the gas that God has given us. We are here today not to talk, but to walk the talk.

“We are here today to witness the handing over of the critical equipment, materials, conversion kits, to the people that will convert your vehicles and enable your vehicles to run cheaper, safely, and more reliably. Today, we are witnessing one of many actions that Mr. President has promised us.

“Those actions are meant to allow you, the operators in this transport sector, to be able to benefit from the government's package, but also to pass on this package to our people. We know that as a result of the overall rise in transportation costs, many of our people are asking for relief.

“The activity we are witnessing here today, which is the handover of these conversion kits and cylinders to various organisations, that will enable you to go and convert your vehicles so that it can run not just on petrol, but it can run on gas, and

to do it for free is a big step in that direction,” Oluwagbemi stressed.

The CEO of the PCNGI stressed that it was just one of the many initiatives of the president, which will see the conversion of about 1 million vehicles for free nationwide.

He stated that when the programme started, there were just seven conversion centres, but added that with the support of the president, they have now expanded to over 120 centres across the country.

“When we started this programme last year, we had just seven of them.

Across Nigeria today, because of the assistance of Mr. President, because of his support for the sector, we have well over 120, and today you will be witnessing a few of them signing this agreement,” he stressed.

Oluwagbemi pointed out that the presidential initiative was working closely with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), NIPCO, Bovas, and various other organisations to ensure that CNG refuelling systems were made available nationwide.

“In all of this, you will be enjoying cheaper costs of fuel. Mr. President has ensured by working with

House Committee Issues Ultimatum to

NMDPRA to keep concessionary pricing for gas for vehicles, which will ensure that you are filling your vehicles at between N230 and N300 per kg.

“This is huge. And when this happens, that means you have more profits, that means you have more passengers, because your customers will be enjoying cheaper costs of transportation, and that will mean a better life for you, your family, and for all Nigerians,” he said. In his remarks, the National Chairman, NURTW, Yasin Najeem, said with the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the company that will handle the conversion of the vehicles in the zone, the programme will henceforth be seamless.

“I will like to call on our members to support and key into this programme. The aim of Mr. President is to make sure that this is a policy for the transport workers of this region.

“We all know that if there is rise in transport cost, it affects everything in the country because you must use transport. So I want to on this note commend the initiative of Mr. President and all Nigerians,” he said.

Finance Ministry, Accountant General to Automate Foreign Revenue Collection

The public accounts Committee of the House of Representatives has given a 60-day ultimatum to the Ministry of Finance and the Accountant General of the Federation to automate foreign currency collection in Nigeria's foreign missions.

The Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Bamidele Salam, gave the ruling during its hearing on the status of ‘Automation of Foreign Currency Collection in Nigeria's Foreign Missions,’ held yesterday.

The Automation of Foreign Currency Collection portal is to enable the federal government have control over revenue generated by the country in foreign currency and to ascertain inflow from foreign missions so as to enthrone accountability and transparency.

The Accountant General of the Federation, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Sakirat, in her remark at the hearing, said Files Solutions Limited was awarded a contract for the

automation of foreign currency collection at Nigeria's foreign missions worldwide at the contract sum of N83.6 million on April 28th, 2021, for five years in addition to the commission of one to five per cent, depending on the amount the company could collect.

Sakirat, said 90 per cent which totalled N75.2 million of the payment had been paid to the contractor and the terms of the contract with the contractor was to ensure that the collection of revenue from all Nigerian foreign missions was online in real-time, as well as a multi-currency conversion web portal and multi-language web portal.

She explained, "The Automation of Foreign Currency Collection portal was launched on May 25th, 2023, by the immediate past Minister of Finance but was never put into use as of 5th June, 2024.

“Our office is in the process of obtaining approval from the Ministry of Finance to deploy the software which has been tested.

Discussion is ongoing with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to provide a list of Foreign Mission for pilot purposes."

According to the Managing Director of File Solutions Limited, Prince Nekan Olateru, while speaking said the company concluded all the processes on the technology in the last three years

Hon. Timehin Adelegbe, who is a member of the Committee noted that there was lack of transparency in foreign revenue collection, which the automation of foreign currency collection would correct. Another member of the Committee, Hon. Sunday Umeha moved a motion that the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Accountant General and other actors in the contract award for Automation of Foreign Currency Collection and Nigeria foreign missions should as a matter of urgency commenced the immediate collection of revenue, using the automated platform within 60 days.

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

L-R: GM, Truthware Solutions, Osidibo Adebayo; VAS Manager, (Lottery) Globacom, Olufunmilola Adeola; Head, Value Added Services, Globacom, Mojeed Aluko; Chief Marketing Officer, AXA Mansard, Surakat Adebola; and Group Head, Emerging and New Market, AXA Mansard, Alfred Egbai, at the launch of a Health Insurance scheme for Glo subscribers in Lagos ... yesterday.

inAugurATion of THE SouTHErn nigEriA TrAdiTionAl rulErS CounCil...

Aviation Minister Orders Grounding of Arik Air Operations, AMCON Reacts

NCAA, FAAN put measures in place to assist airline’s passengers

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo has ordered the Grounding of Arik Airline’s operations.

In response to the suspension of the airline’s operations, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) said the grounding of the airline’s service was in response to a court judgement, saying in order not to allow the aircraft to be taken out of the country, the airline had to be grounded, thereby justifying the Ministers directive.

An Abuja court recently ordered the sale of Arik Air’s aircraft to offset debts owed Arthur Eze and others by the airline.

The court had ordered the sale of aircraft, hangar and movable assets belonging to Arik Air Limited.

The court had specifically ordered the sale of aircraft bearing registration numbers B737-700/5N-MJF; B737-0-/5N-MJQ; Dash 8-Q400 and 5N-BKK.

However, NAMA in statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Alhaji Abdullahi Musa, explained why the Minister grounded the operations of the airline.

NAMA explained that on July, 19, 2024, the enforcement department of the FCT High Court enforced an order made by the court regarding a debt of $2.5 million owed by Arik Airline to one Atlas Petroleum International Limited by attaching their aircraft.

Arik was further given a notice of public auction of the planes by the court which was slated to hold on July 26, 2024, if they fail to pay the judgment debt.

“All these were served on our agency and also on our Supervising

Minister, the Minister of Aviation. The records show that on the 8th day of March, 2016, the Judgment Debtor (Arik) appealed the decision of the High Court of Lagos State entering judgment against it to the Court of Appeal and on 30th September, 2021, the appeal was dismissed by the Court of Appeal in a unanimous decision with cost.

“Arik again appealed to the Supreme Court for leave to appeal the decision of the Court of Appeal, and on the 9th day of January, 2024, the Supreme Court, per Okoro, J.S.C., delivered its Ruling dismissing the Judgment Debtor’s application for leave to appeal,” NAMA explained.

The agency said the judgment creditor registered the judgment of the Lagos State High Court in the High Court of FCT and on the 26th day of June, 2024, Honorable Justice O. A. Adeniyi, then sitting in Court 8, Maitama, Abuja, made an order after hearing Motion No: M/9785/2024 filed on behalf of Atlas Petroleum attaching all the moveable properties belonging to the Judgment Debtor, including the Judgment Debtor’s aircraft with Registration No: B737-700/ 5N-MJF, B737-800/ 5N-MJQ, DASH8-Q400 and 5N-BKX in satisfaction of the judgment debt.

“We understand too that Arik has obtained an ex parte order stopping further execution of the order, though we have not been formally served. In the circumstances, since the first execution took place by attaching the aircraft, further execution by way of sale can be halted whilst the parties go back to court to resolve the issues.

“However, in order to preserve the subject matter of the present dispute which are the aircraft in question (the res), which have already been attached, we have

decided to comply with the effect of the Supreme Court order, by grounding the aircraft (subject of dispute) so that they are not taken out of the jurisdiction of the court or tampered with in a way as to frustrate the courts,” NAMA said. NAMA further stated that the Minister, being a member of the Inner Bar himself, understands the implication of the Supreme Court order, noting that dismissing the motion for leave to appeal would risk his licence as a legal practitioner or his privilege as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (NAN) by engaging in acts that will frustrate an order of

the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

“The parties to the dispute are encouraged to resolve their issues as quickly as possible so that the Arik aircraft in question can resume flight operations,” NAMA urged. Reacting to the order of the Minister, the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) which is currently managing the airline under receivership, issued a statement signed by the airline’s Chief Executive Officer, Captain Roy Ilegbodu, stating that the management of the airline under receivership was dismayed by the directive to ground its operations.

“The management of Arik Air (In Receivership) is dismayed by the sudden order issued by the Honourable Minister of Aviation to ground our aircraft.

“This decision, made without warning or consultation, has serious repercussions for our valued passengers, dedicated employees, and the broader Nigerian economy.

“Our priority has always been to connect people and facilitate commerce, especially on critical domestic routes. The grounding of our fleet disrupts these vital services, leaving passengers stranded and inflating already high travel costs.

“This decision hurts everyday Nigerians who rely on our flights for business, family, and essential activities.

The decision also disregards ongoing judicial processes,” the airline said.

It also recalled that on February 26, 2016, a judgment was made in favor of Atlas Petroleum International Limited and Engineer Arthur Eze. However, there is an ongoing case in the Federal High Court, where AMCON is asserting its secured interest in Arik's assets.

Continues online

Presidency: Tinubu Deserves Accolades for Signing N70,000 Minimum Wage Bill

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, Senator Basheer Lado, has said the prompt signing of the Minimum Wage Act Bill into law, demonstrated President Bola Tinubu's love for Nigerian workers.

He said the good gesture deserves accolades from Nigerians.

Lado, made this known in a statement in Abuja.

He noted that the signing of the bill further demonstrated that the president was a man of his words.

He added: “The signing of the Minimum Wage bill into law by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is both a promise kept and a demonstration of his people-centric governance model.

“Tinubu promised to pay a living wage to Nigerian workers during his electioneering campaigns and he has kept to that promise.

"He did not stop there. He ensured that there is a provision in the Minimum Wage Act which now makes it mandatory to review the national minimum wage every three years as against five years in the amended Act.

“This shows that workers take home pay will continue to take them home under the present administration.”

The presidential adviser commended Tinubu for keeping to his promise to pay Nigeria workers a living wage, which became a reality just a little over one year of his administration.

“The President deserves the commendation of all for staying true to his promise,” he said.

Lado also commended Nigerian workers for their resilience and contribution to nation-building over the years. He urged them to put in more effort in the delivery of effective services for the growth and development of the nation. He further commended the organised labour movement led by President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero and President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Festus Osifo. He lauded their painstaking, mature and peaceful negotiations that led to the over 100 per cent rise in workers’ wages from N30,000 to N70,000.

TETFund Decries Consumption of N400m Electricity Per Month by Varsities

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The Tertiary Education Trust Fund, (TETFund) has decried the high consumption of electricity bill in universities, saying some were presented between N300 and N400 million bills in one month.

The Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD) yesterday disclosed that it has processed and paid a total sum of N395,559,795.09 as death benefits and gratuity to 238 Next-of-Kins (NOK) of deceased pensioners and pensioners as at July 19, 2024.

Executive Secretary of PTAD, Dr. Chioma Ejikeme, disclosed this in Ilorin, yesterday, during the official inauguration of PTAD’s Kwara State office in Ilorin.

Ejikeme, who said the project was still on-going, added that the rest of the NoK and Gratuity Benefit claims files are still undergoing prudent checks and validation.

"Because as I often say, any money that is wrongly paid to a NOK beneficiary is like money put

She said the directorate was determined to address all legitimate complaints of non-payment of gratuities to some pensioners and death benefits to Next-of-Kins of deceased pensioners across all the pension departments. The PTAD boss also said she inaugurated a Directorate Wide Expanded NOK & Gratuity Project, in December 2023, following complaints from Next-of-Kin of deceased pensioners and some pensioners concerning non-payment of inherited liabilities.

in the belly of the tiger, as it would be very difficult, if not impossible to recover.

“Nevertheless, it is worthy to note that PTAD is working tirelessly with the relevant stakeholders and respective High Courts of Justice across the Federation to ensure that the Letters of Administration in favour of the NOK are validated within the shortest time frame, and other related checks completed to enable the remaining beneficiaries receive their entitlements in the shortest possible time."

Ejikeme said PTAD had opened 11 state offices across the six geopolitical zones of the country since inception in 2013, adding that Kwara

State inaugurated yesterday, made it the 12th PTAD state office, in addition to the FCT Abuja Office (Headquarters).

"PTAD has offices in the following cities: Yola, Awka, Maiduguri, Ibadan, Benin, Enugu, Kaduna, Kano, Lagos, Sokoto, Yobe, and now, Ilorin,” she said.

She stressed that the aim of establishing the state offices in strategically-selected locations nationwide was to bring exceptional pension services closer to the doorstep of Defined Benefit Scheme pensioners that are being managed by PTAD as mandated in the Pension Reform Act 2014, Section 47 (2).

Executive Secretary of TETFund, Sonny Echono, who stated this during a meeting with a delegation of the National Association of Nigerian Students, (NANS), led by its National President, Lucky Emonefe, in Abuja, wondered how institutions could cope with such high demands.

He disclosed that TETFund has commenced conversations and held a meeting with the Ministry of Power to find a way to address the issue.

“It’s going to be one of the major issues we are going to look at when we call our major stakeholders meeting of all heads of schools. We have to put our heads together to see how we need to have alternative power sources that will reduce the burden.

“As I speak, some universities

are getting N300 million, N400 million bill for electricity in one month. How can they cope? Some are even rationing; they have light for only four hours a day,” he said. Echono, also charged Nigerian students to be on the watch out in all campuses and protect school infrastructure by ensuring that hoodlums do not infiltrate the campuses to cause havoc.

He reeled out series of interventions in infrastructure targeted at ensuring conducive learning environment for students across all tertiary institutions.

“I am enjoining you today to please be on the watch out in all your campuses. All our TETFund assets, all the buildings that taxpayers’ money has been used to provide, not only should you ensure that you protect them, please nobody should go and destroy them.

“Let us not give chances to these hoodlums who will take advantage of your legitimate demands to cause havoc,” he said.

Chinedu Eze in Lagos and Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

L-R: Dein of Agbor, HRM Benjamin Ikechukwu Keagborekuzi; Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom, HRM King Dandison Douglas Jaja; Obi of Obinugwu, HRM Cletus Ilomuanya; Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State; Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State; Ooni of Ife and Chairman of Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council, HRM Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; and the Obong of Calabar, His Eminence Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu, during the inauguration of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council in Owerri... yesterday.

Obaigbena Advocates Law to Protect Intellectual Property in Nigerian Media and Creative Industries

Insists Google, Facebook, Instagram, others must pay for usage of journalists’ contents Says good journalism will not change in Nigeria Amuka, others hail Jakande’s contribution to journalism, governance

Wale Igbintade and Segun James

The Chairman of the THISDAY/ Arise Media Group, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, yesterday, called for the enactment of laws that would ensure that Google, Facebook and other social media platforms pay for intellectual property and news items produce by the Nigerian media and creative industries.

Obaigbena stated this while delivering a keynote address at the Lateef Jakande 2nd Annual Memorial Lecture with the theme: "Rapidly Changing Media Landscape: Media Survival Strategies," organised by the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), in Lagos.

According to the media mogul, the law must ensure that Nigerian journalists get paid for their intellectual property that are being shared on various social media platforms.

He urged the NGE to liaise with the government, and the lawmakers in order to make it a reality.

He said, "If we get payments for the job we do every day as journalists, we will be in a far better place. That is the first survival instinct that we must do, either as a group, led by the Nigerian Guild of Editors, where I happened to be secretary in1988, and working with the government to ensure that our intellectual property that is shared everyday on social media is paid for.

"First, we need to have the laws changed, where intellectual property is recognised as an asset. That recognises the work of your brain as an asset class. That asset class has to be bankable, and you can create value with it.

"I challenge the minister of information to ensure we pass a law that those who use our work online, call them Google, call them Facebook, call them Instagram or any other name must pay for it.

"The next step is to be prepared for artificial intelligence (AI) by promoting good education and good governance."

According to Obaigbena, the newspaper is just a means of distribution of news just like phones and computers. He said although the means of distribution of news was changing from newspaper to computer and phones, good journalism would not change.

He said journalism in Nigeria is presently 165 years old, starting with Iwe Irohin, which was established in 1859, adding that in that 165 years a lot has changed in the Nigerian media industry.

Obaigbena added: “Journalism in Nigeria started 165 years ago today. Iwe Irohin started in 1859. In those 165 years, a lot has changed. Today, we are all seated here. What is the average age of the editors who are here? Most of us here are over 40.

“Where are the young people who are 30, 40, 50 per cent of the population who are reading, who are engaging, who are on social media? Why are they not among you? How old was Uncle Sam when he was in Daily Times? How old was Peter Enahoro? How old was Ike Nwachukwu? They were all young people in their 20s and 30s.

“And today, we say we are in survival mode. That survivor must come from the audience. And your audience in Nigeria are young people. Are you engaged with them? Are you working with them? Are they part of your news today? We are in a new world.”

Speaking further, he pointed out that the United States of America has an election in about 100 days.

“Donald Trump was engaging the crypto community few days ago and he told them that he’s going to keep part of United States reserves in crypto. Then you have a woman (Kamala Harris) who may also make history.

“So, that is the world that we are going into, led by one of those two people. How prepared are we if crypto is a new currency? For instance, how will we engage? How will our media present our country? The world is being driven by technology and technology is shaping the media.

“I heard the lamentation of Uncle Sam Amuka that he could not buy his paper again in Ife, Osun State. Yes, but the content he could not buy in hard copy, was already in Ife the night before. People had consumed it.

“People had read it. So, that information is still there. We are only a means of distribution of that information. As journalists, we write stories and engage with audiences. The newspaper is just a form of distribution of that news.

“Your phone is for distribution. Your computer is for distribution. So, let us not confuse the idea and the means of distribution. That means of distribution is changing, but good journalism will not change. However, what is good journalism?”

According to Obaigbena, “Oldfashioned truth, getting your facts right, telling the story as it is, engaging with your audiences and building a future,” are all good journalism. He noted however that, it does not

Ndume Rejects New Office in National Assembly, Gives Reasons

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

Senator Ali Ndume, former Chief Whip of the Senate, has rejected the new office allocated to him by the Committee on Senate Services, chaired by Senator Sunday Karimi (APC, Kogi West).

Ndume in a letter to the committee, a copy of which was sighted by our correspondent on Tuesday, said he would only occupy an office on the fourth floor being a very ranking senator.

The letter dated 30th July 2024, and signed by his Chief Confidential Secretary, Shuaibu Gawu, explained that offices are traditionally allocated based on seniority.

Part of the letter, addressed to the Chairman, Senate Services Committee, and titled, "Re: Office Allocation" read: "I am directed to inform you that, Distinguished Senator Mohammed All

mean that journalism was under crisis.

“We have what they call AI. So, the world we are going to, we are confronted and challenged by AI. What is AI? AI is a confluence of software, hardware and proper algorithms which have an impact across the board.

“But more importantly, in the media, they can take your face; they can take your voice and they can take your identity, and create anything.

“So the threat we face is in AI, but AI is a machine. We have to train AI; we have to treat AI and we have to challenge AI, then AI will respond.

“Are we ready for a world that is being changed by AI, where young people of seven and eight years old take the computer, take their phones and can do a lot with it.

“Therefore, my friends and colleagues, that is where we face challenges, but we can also use it for good. We can use it for medicine; we can use it to cure diseases; we can use it to do many other things.

Sen AT e: T I nubu' S L I

Briefing newsmen at the end of the meeting at the State House, Abuja, Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji said Tinubu had directed the NNPC to ensure it was done with immediate effect.

Adedeji stressed that the memo by the president when implemented will promote the sale of crude oil within local refineries and NNPC to deal in local currency, stressing that the sales of products from the Dangote Refinery to distributors will also be conducted in naira.

Ndume, has rejected the allocation of office number 3.10 by the Committee.

"This is because offices are traditionally allocated on seniority basis.

Senator Ndume is the most Senior Senator after Sen Ahmad Lawan and will only occupy an office on the fourth floor."

Attempts by our correspondent to speak with Ndume on the matter did not succeed on Tuesday failed because the senator, who is said to be attending an ECOWAS Parliament session in Ghana, could not be reached on phone. However, a ranking senator who is a current principal officer told our correspondent that Ndume actually deserves an office on the fourth floor.

The senator, who spoke on conditions of anonymity, said: "Ndume is a ranking senator. He deserves to be on the fourth floor just like former senate president, Ahmad Lawan"

Adedeji said Nigeria currently spends between 30 per cent to 40 per cent of foreign exchange on importation of petrol that it consumes, stressing that monthly, Nigeria spends roughly $660 million on the exercise, resulting in $7.92 billion annually.

But yesterday, the panel commended Tinubu for what it termed his forward-thinking and impactful decision to approve the sale of crude oil to local refineries in Nigeria using Naira.

"This strategic move is a significant milestone in our nation's journey towards economic self-sufficiency and stability. By allowing transactions in our local currency, this policy not only strengthens the Naira but also reduces our dependency on foreign exchange.

"This will likely lead to increased efficiency within our local refineries, boosting domestic production and ensuring a more consistent and affordable supply of refined petroleum products for all Nigerians," the lawmakers said.

“So how do we confront the advantages of AI? And use it to promote good journalism? How do we challenge AI, build our brands, build our journalism and ensure that we make our society a better place? “We are in a country where the young are much more than the old. We need to get them employed and we need to banish poverty.”

Going down memory line, he said: "I joined the NUJ on November 11, 1977, at that time we were still doing the letterpress printing. We were printing pictures in studies, but things started changing.

“We started with THISWEEK magazine and we had that battle with Dele Giwa, Ray Epku, Dan Agbese at NewsWatch. But sooner than later, it was clear to us after Times Magazine named the computer, the Man of the Year, that the news circle will change, and we changed with it, and went to THISDAY.

"But it is also clear to us at THISDAY that the news circle is not a digital circle, and we went

The Finance panel expressed the hope that the gesture will enable the NNPC, Dangote Refinery and all domestic producers to take advantage of the opportunity to make their business decisions towards making production more affordable, sustainable and qualitative for the good of the country.

The Committee said: "This decision reflects a deep commitment to fostering national growth, supporting local industries, and ensuring that the wealth generated from our natural resources benefits our economy directly.

"It is a testament to Mr. President's visionary leadership and dedication to the prosperity of our country."

The Senate panel applauded the initiative saying it was looking forward to witnessing the positive impact it would undoubtedly have on the nation's economic landscape.

Meanwhile, the Arewa Think Tank (ATT) has noted that barely 24 hours after it ran an advertorial in a national daily about its position and the stand of other Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) condemning alleged sabotage of Dangote Refinery by NNPC, the FEC has approved crude oil supply to the refinery.

In a statement by the Convener of the group, Muhammad Yakubu and the Co-Convener of the CSOs, Rev. Nicholas Jatau, the groups said the FEC approval of the crude oil supply to Dangote Refinery showed that Tinubu is a listening leader.

"We are happy that in a significant policy shift, President Bola Tinubu has instructed the NNPC to sell crude oil to Dangote Refinery and other

to create Arise Television.

“Now it's clear to us that Artificial Intelligence, and the mobile phones will change it all. So watch out for what we will do next."

Also speaking, Chairman and Publisher of Vanguard Media Limited, Mr. Sam Amuka-Pemu lamented that print journalism was becoming old-fashioned, noting that disruptive technologies have modified their approach to news necessary.

Amuka said: “Producing a newspaper is a Tug of War. Most people don’t buy newspapers on the streets anymore because by the time the newspaper hits the street, it is already online.

“There’s one single reason why you don’t find newspapers on the streets. It is because there are no vendors like there used to be.”

Earlier in his welcome address, the President, NGE, Mr. Eze Anaba said: “At the inaugural lecture last year, we heard from his colleagues, associates, and students who stated how great he was. We were told how he worked assiduously to create a platform I and others strut to create.

“The current Exco of the Guild thinks it’s important to institutionalise a culture of appreciation, which at the same time gives us the institutional memory to know how we got to where we are and how to build on the legacy and accomplishments of the past.

“The man in whose memory this lecture was instituted lived a principled and professionally impactful life. At large, he devoted his entire professional and political career to advancing the values of liberty and social justice.

“He also exemplified the values of honesty, integrity, courage and fairness. He told the stories of the fathers and held the powerful to account.

“He demonstrated commitment to our journalistic freedom and long-term survival. When he and his colleagues founded the Guild in 1961, the purpose was to address the issue and to preserve the media data.

“He and his colleagues lit the torch for us to chart a way forward in addressing our issues today. This quest

emerging refineries in Naira. This directive aims to stabilise the pump price of refined fuel and manage the dollar-naira exchange rate.

"This decision was reportedly adopted during the FEC meeting of Monday, July 29. This shows that Mr. President has a listening ear to various complaints regarding the Dangote refinery.

"This development follows recent statements by Farouk Ahmed, Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), on July 18, alleging that local refineries, including the Dangote refinery, produce inferior products compared to imports. In response, Dangote refuted these claims by demonstrating the quality of his refinery's diesel on July 20 during a visit by federal lawmakers.

"We know that Aliko Dangote also highlighted issues with International Oil Companies (IOCs) not supplying crude oil to his refinery, calling for an investigation into these allegations. Subsequently, on July 22, lawmakers initiated probes into Ahmed's claims and the alleged obstructions by IOCS.

"We understand that the key points of President Tinubu's directive is to ensure the stability of the pump price of refined fuel and the dollar-Naira exchange rate, so the Federal Executive Council adopted a proposal by President Tinubu to sell crude to Dangote Refinery and other upcoming refineries in Naira.

"It is a stepping stone that NNPC has committed to supply four cargoes of crude out of the Dangote Refinery at the moment which requires 15

has led to a determined effort by many to search for contemporary and effective solutions. Besides, the circumstances in which we report, produce, distribute and obtain the news have changed so dramatically. The cost of production has hit the roof. Sales have fallen heavily because of a depressed economy."

He stressed the need for media managers to think of innovative and sustainable solutions.

In his remarks, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, said: “We are talking about social media and AI. My own answer to all of this is that, it’s very simple. The media have one big asset – people trust them. They have found them as a very good source of credible information.

“So, I would want to advise that we still go to all of that. All the values that people have seen in us, that have made them to stay with us since 165 years ago.

“AI should not be a problem at all. It should be something that brings some ideas. All you should be thinking about is how to use AI to further all of the good things that we think about every day.”

Dignitaries at the event included Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Malagi, represented by Managing Director of News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Muhammed Ali; immediate past Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ike Nwachukwu.

Others were Managing Director/ Editor-in-Chief of Punch newspapers, Adeyeye Joseph; Managing Director, New Telegraph Newspaper, Mr. Ayo Aminu, wife of former Lagos State governor, Alhaja Sikirat Jakande; President of Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, Maureen Chigbo; Senior Special Assistant (media) to President Bola Tinubu, Tunde Rahman; Director at International Press Centre, Lanre Arogundade; Executive Director of the Centre for Free Speech organisation, Richard Akinola, among several others.

cargoes of crude, at a cost of $13.5 billion yearly.

"But the FEC has approved that the 450,000 barrels meant for domestic consumption be offered in Naira to Nigerian refineries, using the Dangote refinery as a pilot.

"We also understand that Afreximbank and other settlement banks in Nigeria will facilitate the trade between Dangote and NNPC Limited. The game-changing intervention will eliminate the need for international letters of credit. It will also save the country billions of dollars used in importing refined fuel," the groups said.

The groups also appreciated the president for the establishment of the North-West Development Commission (NWDC) and that of the Sou-East, stressing that it was a good initiative for the development and progress of the region.

They stated that the signing of the minimum wage of N70,000.00 into law without delay was a sign that many good things were coming the way of the people of the country, urging Nigerians to give Tinubu enough time and space to perform.

"We want to use this opportunity to caution the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada for issuing security alerts to their citizens in Nigeria, warning them of potential violence during the planned nationwide protests.

"We consider this as putting mere fears on travellers when there is calm and security for every citizen in Nigeria despite the looming threats of nationwide protest," the statement said.

Obaigbena speaking yesterday

Rethinking Public sectoR RefoRm...

Chairman, Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede;

Oil Theft: Naval Chief Blames Poverty, Unemployment, Weapons Proliferation

Bayelsa government sets up LG task forces

ikechukwu Aleke in Abuja and olusegun samuel in Yenagoa

The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, yesterday blamed the pillaging of the nation's hydrocarbon in the Niger Delta on proliferation of small arms and light weapons, communal clashes, poverty and unemployment.

He however admitted while declaring open the Maritime Stakeholders Meeting at Naval Headquarters in Abuja that the traditional means of combating oil theft and other security threats in the maritime environment

has not yielded the desired result. In another related development, to combat the menace of incessant oil theft in communities across Bayelsa State, chairmen of the eight local government councils have been mandated to constitute task forces in their areas.

Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State who stated this, Tuesday, during a meeting with local government chairmen in Government House, Yenagoa, said the decision to set up the local government task forces on oil theft was borne out of a meeting between governors of the oil producing states

and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, last week in Abuja.

The Chief of Naval Staff also explained that the subsisting scenario prompted the drive for greater collaboration among stakeholders in the quest for effective development of maritime sector.

He noted that the stakeholders meeting seeks to address emerging security issues arising from implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act, contemporary trends in maritime security as well as other law enforcement issues which border

on maritime and energy security.

According to him, the federal government’s drive to develop the nation’s blue economy requires support of all stakeholders represented here today.

Noting that President Bola Tinubu had expressed desire to enhance the ease of doing business within the maritime environment as well as the oil and gas sector in order to eradicate poverty in line with the Renewed Hoped Agenda, Ogalla said that the stakeholders need to align their discussions with these strategic level policy directions.

IOM Supports Ongoing Battle Against Trafficking in Persons, Rewards Short Film Makers

The United Nations International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has extended support for war against human trafficking in Nigeria with awards to makers of short films on the crime to further sensitize the members of the public of the antics and harms of human traffickers.

IOM Chief of Mission in Nigeria, Mr. Laurent De Boeck, reiterated the commitment of the UN agency to empowering young Nigerians combating trafficking in persons in the country through short films, during the presentation of awards to the second edition winners of the Short Film contest on Combating Trafficking in Persons in Nigeria on Monday.

He described film as universal medium to illustrate untold stories that can inspire, educate and guide people against trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants.

De Boeck explained that the contest was inaugurated in 2023 with the aim of empowering young creative voices in the fights against trafficking in persons.

He said: “Indeed, youth are among those most vulnerable to this crime, so it only makes sense that their voices are put at the centre of our efforts to address it.

“The winners crowned today have demonstrated not only artistic talent, but also social responsibility and awareness.

“They have used the power of storytelling to shed light on the dark realities of human trafficking

and to inspire hope, and action.

“Their films are a testament to the resilience and dignity of the survivors, and the courage and dedication of the advocates.”

On his part, the PermanentSecretary, Ministry of Women Affairs, Amb. Tanimu Aduda said the causes of human trafficking may differ from one country to another.

Aduda, represented by the Chief Community Development Officer on Child Protection, Mr. Felix Nwaeseni, traced poverty, insurgency and lack of awareness to what makes many Nigerians vulnerable to the tricks and intentions of trafficking in persons cartels among others.

Aduda said: “Therefore, key preventive strategies are developed to work for us in Nigeria through extensive public awareness.

“The renewed hope agenda of the present administration is geared towards strengthening our conscious implementation of economic and social policies.

“Such policies aimed at significant reduction in societal, institutional and individual poverty level; data collection and research efforts; strengthening legislative measures on major reforms.

“These are significant steps in the right direction that elicit actionable antidotes for eliminating the vulnerabilities to human

trafficking and building resilience of vulnerable groups.

Director-General, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Prof. Fatima Waziri-Azi, commended the short film contest initiative for being apt in sensitising people about the dangers of human trafficking.

Waziri-Azi, represented by the Director of Intelligence, Training and Manpower Development Department in NAPTIP, Dame Ebele Ulasi, commended the efforts against human trafficking.

According to her, the fight against human trafficking demand not only action, but also awareness and understanding.

He also disclosed that the NN had sustained her maritime security operations through surveillance, response capability and law enforcement in addition to collaboration with all maritime stakeholders.

He said: "We rejigged our opera- tions and established OP DELTA SANITY in Jan 24. This operation has achieved remarkable successes in curbing oil theft. Over 35 ships involved in oil theft have been arrested and handed over to appropriate prosecuting agencies.

“Other measures have also been put in place to curb pipe line vandalism and illegal refining sites. The Nigerian Navy will continue to lean on your support, especially the oil sector regulators, to improve our daily production output for enhanced national revenue and economic prosperity in line with presidential mandates".

While expressing optimism that its deliberations will foster tangible outcomes that would facilitate a more secure maritime environment, Ogalla

reassured the stakeholders of NN's commitment to the fulfilment of its statutory roles in order to emplace a conducive maritime domain for economic prosperity of our nation. He concluded that the major security threats in the maritime domain include violent agitations, oil theft, pipeline vandalism, piracy and sea robbery.

Meanwhile, a statement by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, quoted Diri as saying that the teams would collaborate with the Bayelsa State Community Safety Corps to check oil theft. Senator Diri noted that the incidence of crude oil bunkering and theft have had multiple effects, including low oil production output thereby affecting revenue accruing to states as well as degradation of the ecosystem.

According to him, "Arising from the meeting in Abuja, l have also invited you since you are at the local government level of governance in the fight against crude oil theft.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ), has dismissed trending media reports that the draft Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) 2024, for military officers is causing tension in the services as many are planning to leave due to unfavorable terms contained in the new draft document.

Media report over the weekend had revealed that officers of Nigerian Army who joined the armed forces after university education face a looming mass exodus following the proposed Revised Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) 2024, which is awaiting President Bola Tinubu’s approval.

Aggrieved officers allegedly warned that if the document is approved, it will frustrate them out of service due to prolonged stays on ranks. The reviewed document however, revealed that military authority is contemplating a policy change that would extend the promotion duration for Direct Short Service (DSS) officers, who join as professionals, while leaving the promotion timeline unchanged for regular service officers commissioned through the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), adding that junior regular service officers spend five years on a rank, while Direct Short Services officers will spend seven years, going forward. In a swift reaction to the disen-

chantment amongst short service officers in the military, the Acting Director Defence Information, Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, in a statement, said the current HTACOS was signed by the then President Muhammadu Buhari in 2017, and is to be reviewed every five years, stressing that gleaning from that background the review is overdue.

According him, the current leadership of the AFN has kick-started the process of reviewing the 2017 HTACOS which is long overdue. Gen Gusau said: "The committee of officers involved in the review comprises members from the three services and across different professions in the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN). As it stands,

The National Executive Council (NEC) of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, yesterday, opened a condolence register following the death of its president General, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu. Iwuanyanwu became the 11th

the draft is actually intended to be refined further by inputs from stakeholders.

"Pertinently, the document is aimed at enhancing efficiency and the general welfare of the members of the AFN and also focuses the effective discharge of AFN constitutional mandate especially in this period the AFN is engaged in addressing multiple security challenges across the nation and even beyond the shores of Nigeria.

“Consequently, it would be counterproductive to target or retard the growth or progression of any category of officers in the Armed Forces of Nigeria as suggested by the media reports".

President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo on April 30, 2023, following the death of George Obiozor on December 2022 at the age of 80.

The late president general's death was confirmed in a statement on Thursday, July 25 by his son, Jide Iwuanyanwu, who said that the 82-year old man died in Abuja after a brief illness.

Opening the register at the end of an emergency meeting of the NEC at the national secretariat of the organisation in Enugu, its secretary general, Okey Emuchay said that it is sad that Iwuanyanwu’s death is coming less than two years after the organisation lost Obiozor.

While describing Iwuanyanwu as a rare human being, who had wonderful ideas and visions for the Igbo nation and for Nigeria, Emuchay explained that a central burial committee will be established very soon.

“All activities especially, the Igbo Day Celebration of 2024, scheduled to hold on the 29th of September 2024 in Imo State, we will be skipped in respect and honour of the departed president general,” he said.

Speaking further, he said: “We want to assure that the ship of Ohanaeze is in safe hands, collectively as NEC, we want to give assurance that we shall match on from where he stopped.”

L-R:

former President Olusegun Obasanjo; with Vice Chair, Aig Imoukhuede Foundation, Ofovwe Aig-Imoukhuede, during the Public Sector Rethinking Reform by Àig Imoukhuede by the foundation in Abuja..

PHOTO: KINGSLEY ADEBOYE

ikechukwu Aleke in Abuja

michael olugbode in Abuja

gideon Arinze in Enugu

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

As Senate Moves to End Economic Sabotage in Oil and Gas Sector...

The determination of the leadership of the 10th Senate to explore the difficult terrain of tackling the massive sabotage occasioned by criminal activities and corruption in the oil and gas sector of the economy has once again, forced Nigerians to put the Red Chamber on the spot, reports Sunday Aborisade.

The Senate, at a World News Conference last week announced a massive and comprehensive investigation into the alleged economic sabotage in the country’s oil and gas sector.

Unlike the practice in the past where such investigation panel are led by any Senator, the adhoc committee currently saddled with the responsibility this time around is being chaired by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele.

The Opeyemi-led Senate Committee on the Alleged Economic Sabotage in the Nigerian Petroleum Industry, however had a very difficult challenge in convincing the media practitioners on the occasion that the outcome of its investigations would not end up in the dustbin of history like the ones before it.

Notwithstanding the doubts expressed by journalists, Bamidele insisted that the huge assignment before his panel was not insurmountable. He revealed plans by the panel to invite the Central Bank of Nigeria, Nigeria Port Authority, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Dangote Group and Minister of State for Petroleum, Heineken Lokpobiri, among others, for questioning

The ad-hoc committee further disclosed that it would investigate billions of dollars that had been spent on turnaround maintenance of the state-owned refineries in the last decade with a view to addressing deep-rooted challenges facing the industry.

It also pledged to separately treat the ongoing rift between the management of Dangote Group and the Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission.

Bamidele, during a question and answer session, said the panel was set up to probe all the crisis in the nation’s oil and gas sector, the rift between Dangote and NMDPRA would form part of its mandate.

He said, “The Committee was set up to look into the crisis in the oil and gas sector, the Dangote and NMDPRA rift automatically falls within our mandate. Our committee will look into it separately. When necessary, we will invite the two of them and try to

find a lasting solution to the crisis between them.”

The Senate Leader noted that the news conference was organised to educate the public on the mandates, workings, and of course the modalities adopted by the adhoc committee, which the Senate constituted on July 3, 2024 to investigate allegations of economic sabotage in the country’s petroleum industry.

After its inauguration penultimate Monday, President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, charged the 15-man ad-hoc committee to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the allegations within three weeks.

Bamidele assured Nigerians that the panel would carry out a holistic investigation into the allegations of economic sabotage in Nigeria’s petroleum industry. He also pledged that the ad-hoc committee would carry out thorough investigation into diverse reasons the state-owned refineries have not been operational for years despite budget earmarked for turnaround maintenance.

Specifically, the Senate Leader noted that the contractors handling the turnaround maintenance for the refineries would be invited to let the committee into the situation of things.

Bamidele also added that the investigation would not be an armchair

investigation, pointing out that members of the ad-hoc committee had already set machinery in motion to visit Lagos, Port Harcourt and Warri to engage key actors in the petroleum industry. His words, “It is pertinent to note that in the course of interactions with the identified stakeholders, the ad-hoc committee will visit any of their facilities that it deems necessary, especially the state-owned refineries, to ascertain their status, considering the funds already invested in the various turn around maintenances year without any meaningful result.

“The adhoc committee is particularly interested in understanding why local refineries are not working despite the substantial amounts of money spent annually on their maintenance and operations. We will closely examine what the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited has been doing to address this persistent problem.”

He further revealed that the ad-hoc committee had identified some critical stakeholders to interact with in the course of discharging this noble assignment

Other stakeholders that would be summoned, according to him, are the Federal Ministry of Finance, Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment, Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission. Others include the Standards Organisation of

The ad-hoc committee further disclosed that it would investigate billions of dollars that had been spent on turnaround maintenance of the state-owned refineries in the last decade with a view to addressing deep-rooted challenges facing the industry. It also pledged to separately treat the ongoing rift between the management of Dangote Group and the Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission.

Nigeria, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigerian Navy, Obat Oil and Petroleum Limited, Matrix Energy Depot Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, International Oil Companies (IOCs), the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria, Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria and Capital Oil and Modular Refineries.

Bamidele added that the adhoc committee, “will meet with stakeholders in their various zones to gather localised insights and feedback. To ensure broad participation and transparency, the ad-hoc committee will create a platform for the general public and stakeholders to submit memoranda before the public hearings.”

He categorically stated that part of mandate of the committee include “to uncover parties involved in the importation of adulterated fuel and diesel into the country.

“Our investigation seeks to identify and hold accountable all parties involved in the importation and distribution of the adulterated petroleum products. This includes suppliers, importers, regulatory bodies, and any other entities that may have contributed to this serious lapse in quality control.

“We will conduct a thorough review of current regulatory frameworks and procedures to identify deficiencies and recommend necessary reforms to prevent such occurrences in the future. The Committee is committed to ensuring the highest standards of fuel quality for the Nigerian market.”

Bamidele noted that the ad-hoc committee would beam legislative searchlight on the activities of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority including payments made to transporters in the last 10 years.

He noted that the ad-hoc committee would enquire from the NNPCL the state and status of the 22 depots built by the defunct NNPC to eliminate road distribution of petroleum products.

Bamidele Monguno

Izunaso

ProPerty & environment

Investigate Collapse of 3-storey Building in Maryland, BCPG Tells Sanwo-Olu

Bennett Oghifo

Members of a nongovernmental organisation, the Building Collapse Prevention Guild (BCPG), Kosofe Cell, Lagos State, has called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to investigate the collapse of a 3-storey building under construction (including a penthouse), which reportedly killed five persons.

According to the BCPG, the

building, located at No 13, Wilson Mba Street, Arowojobe Estate, Mende, Maryland, Lagos collapsed in the early hours of Thursday, 25th July 2024.

In their open letter to the governor, dated 27th July, 2024 and signed by BCPG Kosofe Cell Coordinator, QS Adesoji Adeniji, FNIQS; and Secretary, BCPG Kosofe Cell Engr. Abdufattah Balogun, MNSE, the group expressed

their deep concern over the collapse, saying, “Premature death through avoidable building collapse should not be condoned.

“We are emotionally pained by this incident, considering the fact that government officials have been monitoring building construction in this estate, complementing our relentless advocacy against building collapse.

“An urgent investigation of this collapsed building, we believe, will help prevent a recurrence among other buildings that are currently undergoing construction and those that have recently been completed in this locality.”

They said the existence of wetlands within the Kosofe Local Government Area, due to its nearness to the Lagoon, has been a difficult challenge

to physical development.

“Therefore, any building that would stand the test of time in this weak terrain must have a special foundation, especially pile foundation. “Unfortunately, some of the methods of construction being adopted here (Mende, Maryland) were substandard, leading to sinking and tilting of some buildings.

“The BCPG Kosofe Cell has consistently advocated

for the necessity of thorough geotechnical investigations, given the challenging soil conditions in our jurisdiction. “We have repeatedly emphasised the importance of conducting proper soil investigations prior to selecting foundation types and ensuring that building developers adhere to established standards during the construction phase, as highlighted in our seminars and workshops.

Scrutiny Needed to Avoid Scams, Infrastructure Challenges, Says Webbihomes CEO

A Lagos-based real estate enthusiast and CEO of Webbihomes Ltd, Mr. Victor Usoro, has presented some pitfalls in real estate transactions and advised potential investors to avoid them.

Usoro said Lagos, a megacity teeming with opportunity, also presents a complex landscape for real estate hopefuls. With a rapidly growing population, property purchases can be fraught with risk and this surge in demand presents a minefield for unsuspecting buyers, highlighting the need for scrupulous due diligence.

Buyers face a minefield of potential pitfalls, including fraudulent claims of ownership and properties susceptible to flooding.

“A recent case involved a client nearly purchasing a property unaware it was part of a family dispute, with one sibling attempting a sale without the knowledge of others,” Usoro said. “Thankfully, a thorough title check by us revealed the murky ownership situation.”

Essential infrastructure can also be lacking. Potential buyers may find themselves charmed by a property, only to discover later it lacks reliable electricity or water access, or is situated

in an area prone to seasonal flooding.

“However, innovative solutions are emerging to combat these challenges. Real estate firms like Webbihomes Ltd are offering meticulous due diligence services, conducting thorough checks to verify legal ownership and identify potential red flags like flooding risks,” he said.

Usoro said: “Physical inspections are crucial. We recently encountered a property during an inspection where access was severely limited due to flooding during the rainy season. This could have been a disastrous situation for the buyer if not

identified beforehand.”

The future of Lagos real estate appears to be one that prioritises both buyer protection and environmental responsibility.

Usoro adds: “We have carved a niche by offering comprehensive due diligence services. These services include verifying land titles at government registries, ensuring access to essential utilities, verifying authentic owners and factoring in the impact of future development plans and ecology on a property’s value.

“Before recommending a property to a prospect, we consider proximity to services and transportation. Also, we do proper findings if the area

is flooded. We confirm the availability and reliability of water, electricity, and other essential services. This protects buyers from fraudulent schemes and ensures they are making informed decisions.”

Webbihomes currently boasts two prime investment opportunities: Isura Estate, ideally situated amidst landmarks like Pan Atlantic University and the National Mortgage Bank; and Fantasea Estate, an idyllic coastal escape with easy access to Novare Mall and Greenspring School. Both properties offer verified titles and flexible payment options, making them strong contenders for discerning

Lafarge Africa Launches ECOPlanet, Nigeria’s First Low Carbon Multipurpose Cement

Bennett Oghifo

Lafarge Africa Plc, a leading innovative and sustainable building solutions company,

has launched a new product, ECOPlanet Unicem, Nigeria’s first low carbon multi-purpose cement.

Lafarge Africa is renowned

for high-quality cement, aggregates, ready-mix concrete, and other related products.

“This innovative cement, designed with over 30%

L-R: Commercial Director, Lafarge Africa Plc., Mr. Gbenga Onimowo; Commissioner for Works, Ebonyi State, Engr. Stanley Mbam; GMD/CEO, Lafarge Africa Plc., Mr. Lolu Alade-Akinyemi; and Special Adviser on Legal Matters and Representative of Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State,

Metus: We’ll Enhance Community Welfare with Strategic Interventions

The newly installed president of Rotary Club of Adeniyi Jones, Rotarian Emeka Wilson Metus, has said the club’s commitment is to enhance community welfare through strategic interventions and partnerships. According to him, “In this Rotary year, I look forward to working closely with each of you (members). Together, we will tackle the pressing issues that our focus addresses, expand our outreach, and make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.”

Rotarian Metus said under

his leadership, the club plans to embark on several impactful projects, including donating water treatment chemicals to existing boreholes, renovating toilet facilities, and providing toiletries to identified areas within Adeniyi Jones. They will also donate insecticide-treated mosquito nets and bed sheets to the Adeniyi Jones Health Centre for newborns and mothers, provision of teaching aids and materials to primary and secondary schools within Adeniyi Jones, Ikeja, and donation of school uniforms and sandals to a good number of pupils and students.

According to him, the club also aims to offer financial support and micro-credit loans to women running small and medium enterprises, engage in HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns and malaria screening, and continue its active participation in polio eradication efforts.

He revealed plans to invest in peace building, conflict prevention and resolution.

“We will continue to strive for excellence in all that we do, seeking not only to meet but to exceed our goals through innovation, collaboration, and unrelenting dedication to our cause,” he said.

reduction in CO2 emissions, signifies a major step in Lafarge Africa’s ongoing commitment to sustainable building solutions.

Produced from its Mfamosing plant in Cross River State, ECOPlanet will be unveiled nationwide by the end of the year, as Lafarge Africa aims to double its market presence and enable low-carbon construction at scale,” the company said.

Speaking at the launch event held at Carlton Swiss Hotel in Enugu, attended by key industry stakeholders, government officials, and enthusiastic customers, The Group Managing Director/ CEO, Lafarge Africa Plc; Lolu Alade-Akinyemi emphasised the company’s dedication to sustainability and innovation.

“At Lafarge Africa, our vision has always been to lead the building solutions industry in innovation and sustainability. The launch of ECOPlanet Unicem is not just about introducing a

new product; it’s about redefining the way we think about construction and its impact on our environment.”

He elaborated on the benefits of ECOPlanet Unicem, noting its significant reduction in emissions compared to traditional cement, making it an excellent choice for sustainable construction projects. Despite its low-carbon nature, ECOPlanet provides superior performance, suitable for a wide range of applications, from complex infrastructure projects to residential buildings. The product is perfect for concreting, plastering, and on-site block-making.

Globally, within the Holcim Group, ECOPlanet is available in over 35 markets across all regions and supports the most advanced sustainability building certifications, from BREEAM, LEED to EDGE. With Holcim’s industry-leading formulation expertise, ECOPlanet’s sustain-

ability profile is driven by innovative low-emission raw materials. Its lower carbon footprint is further enhanced by decarbonizing its production process, led by the use of alternative fuels, contributing to our net-zero pledge.

Gbenga Onimowo, Commercial Director, Lafarge Africa Plc added: “Over the years, Unicem has built a strong reputation, earning the trust of consumers as a reliable and dependable option. At Lafarge Africa, we remain committed to leading the promotion of green products to drive sustainable construction within Nigeria’s built environment and we are proud of this significant achievement. ECOPlanet Unicem combines sustainability with superior performance. Our goal is to make ECOPlanet Unicem the go-to-choice for anyone looking to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising on quality or reliability,” he stressed.

Ubosi Eleh Report: 2023 Required Conservative Approach to Investments

Fadekemi Ajakaiye

The Ubosi Eleh Real Report, in its review of real estate activities in Nigeria in the year 2023, described the previous year as one that was not only uncertain for economic activities, but that it also required conservative approach to investments. According to the report, “2023 was an election year. In an election year, people are skeptical, the investment environment is uncertain and many would rather hold on to their money. Real estate responds to the atmosphere as well. It was a year to be conservative.”

The Report, which debuted in 2017 and now in its eighth edition, noted that aside the election, two other factors that defined economic activities during the year were the full withdrawal of petrol subsidy following the inauguration of the Tinubu government on May 29, 2023 and the galloping devaluation of the Naira against other currencies in the world.

In the observation of the Report, the withdrawal of petrol subsidy triggered energy cost-induced inflation because transport cost increased by 30-50 percent. Similarly, it noted that the official exchange rate of the

Naira increased from N457.314 in January of that year, specifically to the dollar, to over N794.53. On the whole, the Report posited that Nigeria’s economy experienced mixed performance in 2023, characterized by a relapsed growth and persistent inflationary pressures. In its analysis of the 2024 Budget of N28.7 trillion, infrastructure and housing had a portion of N1.32 trillion for projects across the country, representing 5 percent of the budget allocation. The Report considered this allocation grossly inadequate, moreso in the light of the depreciated Naira value.

Usoro

Bennett Oghifo

Fadekemi Ajakaiye

Mr. Osinachi Nnajieze, at the official launch of Nigeria’s first low-carbon multipurpose cement, ECOPlanet by Lafarge Africa Plc, held at the Carlton Swiss Hotel, Enugu… recently

Kayode Tokede

Cement manufacturing companies, Dangote Cement Plc, BUA Cement Plc and Lafarge Africa Plc, saw a cut in profit before tax to N379.71 billion in half year (H1) ended June 30, 2024 on the back of rising foreign exchange loss and hike in operating expenses (OPEX).

However, the three cement manufacturing giants’ profit before tax grew by 2.2 per cent when compared to N371.6 billion in H1 2023.

THISDAY analysis of the three firms’ results for the period showed that Dangote Cement emerged most profitable cement manufacturing company, generating N292.96 billion PBT in H1 2024, about 22 per cent increase from N239.86billiion in H1 2023.

Foreign Exchange loss and operating expenses impacted

negatively on BUA Cement and Lafarge Africa’s PBT in H1 2024.

While BUA Cement reported N40.13 billion PBT, about 47 per cent decline from N76.42billion in H1 2023, Lafarge Africa declared N46.63 billion PBT in H1 2024, representing 15.7 per cent decline from N55.32 billion reported inn H1 2023.

The likes of BUA Cement was faced with N39.98 billion foreign exchange loss in H1 2024 from N2.1 billion in H1 2023, while Lafarge Africa declared N19.91 billion foreign exchange loss in H1 2024.

Despite growing revenue driven by hike in price of cement product, these companies felt the impact of rising cost of sales, operating expenses and foreign exchange loss in the period under review that weaken profit and threatened shareholders return in 2024 full financial year.

For instance, Dangote Cement

with about 85 per cent increase in revenue to N1.76 trillion closed the period under review with N1.24 trillion cost of sales and operating expenses, an increase of 113 per cent from N581.8 billion reported in the corresponding period.

Also, BUA Cement reported N282 billion cost of sales and operating expenses, representing 109 per cent from N135.11 billion in H1 2023 while Lafarge Africa declared N218.35billion cost of sales and operating expenses in H1 2024, about 50 per cent increase from N145.81billion reported in H1 2023.

In the period under review Naira depreciated to N1,482.982 against the dollar as of June 2024, from N770.38 against the dollar June 2023, while inflation rate stood at 34.19 per cent June 2024 from 22.79 per cent June 2023.

Analysts stated that despite facing significant economic challenges such

as elevated inflation, a depreciating exchange rate, and ongoing security concerns, the companies have been resilient over the years.

In a recent report, analysts at CardinalStone stated, “In 2024, the Nigerian cement industry is expected to benefit from renewed government focus on infrastructure development and construction projects, which could stimulate demand for cement products.

“With increased budget allocations to critical sectors and ambitious infrastructure initiatives (N1.32 trillion to infrastructure, which represents five per cent of the total FG 2024 budget), the construction industry is likely to experience a resurgence.

“Cement manufacturers, in response, are beginning to recalibrate their production strategies in the form of capacity expansion and improved efficiency to meet the anticipated rise in demand. While challenges

may persist, the outlook for Nigeria’s cement industry in 2024 is one of cautious optimism, with potential growth opportunities emerging amidst the recovery phase, “the report said.

The Chief Executive Officer, Dangote Cement, Arvind Pathak in a statement said: “We effectively navigated macroeconomic headwinds to deliver positive results in the first half of the year. Group volumes were up 3.8per cent, with our Nigeria operations achieving double-digit volume growth of 10.9per cent.

“This growth was driven by improved efficiency across our operations and supported by increased market activity levels compared to the election year and cash crunch in 2023. Despite the challenges of elevated inflation, high borrowing cost and a further weakening of the currency in the

first six months of the year, our business demonstrated strong resilience. This was due to our rigorous focus on cost minimisation and our diversified business model.

“Group revenue and EBITDA rose 85.1per cent and 50.3per cent to N1,760.1B and N666.2B, respectively. Our PAT reached N1,89.9 billion, marking a 6.3per cent increase. I am pleased with the performance of our business, as key financial indicators are showing positive trends. By leveraging our robust export-to-import strategy, Dangote Cement completed 14 shipments of clinker from Nigeria to Ghana and Cameroon. This effort resulted in a 55.2per cent surge in our Nigerian exports, underscoring our commitment to fostering African self-sufficiency.”

Nigeria’s external reserves witnessed substantial increase of $4.35 billion over the past three months to reached a 16-month high of $36.5 billion as of July 26, 2024.

This significant growth, as reported by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), reflects a positive trend in the nation’s financial health and stability.

The last time Nigeria’s external

reserves were within this range was on March 28, 2023, when they stood at $36.66 billion.

In the past three months, the country’s external reserves have shown a consistent upward trajectory. Starting at $32.15 billion on April 26, 2024, the reserves experienced steady growth, reaching $33.99 billion by June 25, 2024. The reserves crossed the $34 billion mark on July 1, 2024, continuing their ascent to $35 billion by July 8, 2024, and

ultimately peaking at $36.5 billion on July 26, 2024.

A three-month breakdown showed that the reserves began their climb from $32.15 billion on April 26, 2024, to $32.23 billion by April 29, 2024, showing an increase of $80 million in just three days. By April 30, 2024, the reserves had risen further to $32.25 billion, marking a total increase of $100 million by the end of the month. May continued the upward trend with the reserves reaching $32.73

billion on May 24, 2024. On May 27, 2024, the reserves had slightly increased to $32.69 billion, indicating a minor dip before stabilizing. By the end of May, the reserves had shown a steady accumulation, reaching $32.69 billion on May 31, 2024, demonstrating an overall increase of $440 million for the month.

However, June saw a significant rise, with the reserves hitting $33.3 billion on June 13, 2024, an increase of $610 million from the end of May.

This upward trajectory continued with the reserves reaching $34.1 billion by June 28, 2024, reflecting an impressive growth of $800 million within just 15 days. By June 30, 2024, the reserves stood at $34.19 billion, marking a total increase of $1.5 billion for the month.

Furthermore, July marked the most substantial growth, with reserves rising from $34.34 billion on July 1, 2024, to $36.5 billion by July 26, 2024. This period of rapid

Nume Ekeghe

Rescuing Nigeria Local Refineries from Mafias

SerikiAdinoyi

Recent developments in Nigeria are gradually revealing that the repeated cries over Nigeria’s inability to refine its own crude oil were mere pretense as it seems that players in the industry are the same frustrating the efforts.

For years, the state refineries in the country had been rendered redundant just so that importation of refined oil will continue at the detriment of the country and to the benefit of the few with vested interests.

Nigerians were beginning to hive a sigh of relief withthe intervention of the Modular refineries and recently Dangote refinery that have come to the rescue, but the cartel seems not to have given just yet.

Modular refineries are simplified refineries that require significantly less capital investment than traditional full-scale refineries. With their scalable and flexible design, they are particularly suited to the Africa and Nigeria’s unique economic and logistical challenges. They offer a cost-effective and efficient solution to meet local fuel demands, reduce dependency on imported refined products, and contribute to regional economic development.

For instance, WaltersmithPetroman operates a modular refinery which was commissioned in 2020. The refinery aims to produce diesel, naphtha, heavy fuel oil, (HFO), and kerosene. Refined petroleum products from Petroman’s modular complex target primarily for states in the south east zone. Anambra, Enugu, Abia, Imo and Ebonyi states are therefore the primary beneficiaries of the Petroman, 5000 barrels per day modular refinery. When upscaled to a processing capacity of 40,000 barrels per day, more states will benefit.

The profitability of modular refineries is influenced by several factors including production capacity, capital expenditure, operational costs, and market prices for refined products.

They have been the ones filling-in the gap for fuel demand before the recent coming of the Dangote Refinery, but not without regulatory, operational, and market challenges.

In Nigeria, modular refineries also mitigate the risk of pipeline sabotage as these refineries become an evacuation system that is completely independent of pipelines. They also have a quick return on investment of approximately two years, enabling developers and their investors the ability to recoup their invested capital in a short period of time, while the country benefits.

Modular Refineries have various benefits to all stakeholders in the market. For the dwellers in the remote locations where the refineries are constructed, they are able to access and purchase the products at a much cheaper price.

Furthermore, since Modular Refineries can be constructed in different locations within a short time span of about 15 to 20 months for a refinery of 20,000bpd, this ultimately eradicates the need for expensive transportation of crude oil through pipelines covering long distances, which in many cases, would still be susceptible to vandalism.

But Aliko Dangote, Chairman of Dangote Petroleum Refinery recently raised serious concerns on the fact that some mafias in the oil sector were hell-bent at frustrating local refining of crude oil possibly for personal gains.

Confirming the concerns raised by Dangote, Modular refineries said that they had raised same concerns severally in the past but received no positive response.

Indeed,major challenges that hinder the development of Modular Refineries in Nigeria include regulatory uncertainties and shortage of feedstock access.

With regards to the problem of regulatory uncertainties, Nigeria allegedly

loses an estimated $15 billion yearly in foreign investments due to regulatory uncertainties, which in turn discourages various institutional and individual investors from setting up and developing innovations like Modular Refineries in Nigeria.

Crude Oil Refinery-owners Association of Nigeria (CORAN), a registered association of modular and conventional refinery companies in Nigeria, recently observed that the merchants in the oil sector have held the country hostage; especially in the area of our domestic petroleum products’ supply thereby crippling the whole economy.

CORAN explained that the rise in food inflation in Nigeria could also be attributed to the hike in the pump prices of petroleum products, especially PMS, stressing that in-country refining would have helped in tackling these costs.

It explained that the reason Nigerian government hasn’t been able to tackle inflation, especially food inflation, in the country is because of the prices of petroleum products.

CORAN argued that the mafias in the oil sector were fighting Nigeria from attaining self-sufficiency in the domestic refining of crude oil because these persons were profiting from petroleum products’ importation into the country.

Publicity Secretary of CORAN, EcheIdoko recently said, “And if they don’t believe us because we are an association of smaller refineries, at least they have heard Dangote say it now. Who are these people fighting the self-sufficiency in the refining of petroleum products in Nigeria? The Minister of Petroleum, who is actually the President, should speak about this.

“He should tell Nigerians what his principle is. Is he looking at creating selfsufficiency in domestic refining of petroleum products or that he wants to continue the regime of petroleum importation? The presidency may need to speak to Nigerians directly, telling us what their policy thrust

is on this matter.”

The truth is there has been the existence of a system where, for 35 years, people benefitted immensely from importation. The system will certainly fight against bringing it to an end with local refineries. That seems to be the current challenge.

A recent report also alleged that international financiers that were meant to fund the construction of about 20 modular refineries in Nigeria had withheld their funds due to the challenge of getting guarantees for crude oil supply to the facilities when they are completed.

Producers of crude oil in Nigeria, who are largely international oil companies, have not been able to provide guarantees to assure the financiers that crude would be supplied to the modular refineries when the plants are set to produce refined petroleum products.

With this, funders of the facilities would rather hold onto their funds pending such time that the Federal Government would be able to impress it on IOCs to provide the guarantees required for crude oil supply to modular refiners.

Although Nigeria prides itself as the largest crude oil producer in Africa, it exports bulk of its crude to earn foreign exchange, starving domestic refiners who find it tough to source the United States dollar required for the purchase crude.Nigeria currently has 25 licensed modular refineries. Five of them are operating and producing diesel, kerosene, black oil and naphtha. About 10 are under various stages of completion, while the others have received licences to establish. Aside from the five that were in operation currently, the remaining plants were allegedly embattled due to the major challenge of crude oil unavailability, a development that has stalled funding from financiers.

It is heartwarming to see that prominent Nigerians have risen in defense of Dangote refinery and other local refineries. Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission should also look into the concerns raised by the refinery operators such that they are not suffocated into extinction.

TRIBUTES

Theitinerantdrummershavegonehome.Gonealsoarethedancersandtheguests–invitedanduninvited.Soaretherevelers andthearmyofspectators.NowitisfitandpropertopaytributetofiveeminentNigerianswhoseexploitsringloudfarbeyond theseshoresafterthehugecelebrationsthatgreetedtheirbirthdaysThisarticlewasfirstrun10yearsagoin“TheNation”in celebrationofthesegreatNigeriansontheoccasionoftheirbirthdays.Itisbeingrerunasatributetotheirachievements.

LET Us Forget About Them All – For A While

By Gbenga Omotoso

The thoughtless impeachment of former Adamawa Governor Murtala Nyako by a band of lawbreakers and erratic errand boys posing as champions of decency; the buffoonery of replicating the #BringBackOurGirls protest; the buccaneering that is the plot to impeach Nasarawa Governor Tanko Al-Makura, his Rivers, Edo and Borno counterparts Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, Adams Oshiomhole and Kashim Shettima. Let’s close our eyes to them all.

It has taken some prompting – tongue lashing, some cheeky fellows insist – from a 17-year-old girl to arouse President Goodluck Jonathan’s sense of empathy. He has eventually met the parents of the abducted girls - not in troubled Chibok , but in the cosy banquet hall at the Villa.

As I said, let’s push them all aside today.

It is a season of birthdays. Prof. Wole Soyinka is 80. Aremo Segun Osoba is 75. Prince Henry Odukomaiya is 80. Chief Ajibola Ogunsola is 70. Prof. Olatunji Dare is 70. Editorial Notebook is joining the celebration of these giants, whose stories have been told by better tested hands. But, here, dear reader, are just some testimonials.

Long before I met him physically, I had encountered Prof. Wole Soyinka. I read his books at school. His photographs would land on my table as a young sub-editor at Rutam House, and I would look at them and hail his bravery and strength of character. Then, an opportunity came in 2010 for me to see the genius at close range. Kunle Ajibade of The News and I were with him at the African Development Bank’s (AfDB’s) Eminent Persons Lecture Series in Tunis.

The Nobel laureate’s lecture, “Caution…Intellectuals at work”, was vintage Soyinka. Those who felt Africa’s intellectuals were not doing enough about the continent’s troubles got an answer. Amid applause, Soyinka enumerated the roles of the intellectual and lambasted dictators, saying there is no benevolent dictatorship. Needless to say, some months after, the Arab Spring hit Tunisia. Zayn al-Abidin Ben Ali, “the benevolent dictator”, who led from November 1989, fled. Prescience. Talk of the writer as a prophet.

After the lecture, it was time for lunch and some questions for the distinguished lecturer. Soyinka asked Femi Fatoyinbo, an official of the AfDB who facilitated his acceptance to deliver the lecture free of charge – the professor had never met Femi before then – to fetch some wine. Femi went round the gigantic hotel for some 30 minutes without bringing a bottle. Soyinka was getting impatient. At last, Femi returned with a piece of bad news. The hotel does not serve alcohol. “Let me go somewhere else. I’ll return before lunch,” Soyinka said. Before he could step out, AfDB President Donald Kabaruka and all the other big officials had arrived for lunch. They shook hands with Soyinka, congratulating him for a great job. At lunch, Prof. refused to eat. He would not answer questions. He needed some wine, and he told his hosts. The managers of the hotel thought it was a problem they could easily handle. One rushed down to the bar and showed up with a glass full of something that looked like red wine. Soyinka could not be tricked. “My friend, take it back; get me the real thing,” he fired back at the official whose smiling face had melted into some scowl of confusion. In a few minutes, the man walked briskly down the hall, holding a glass of wine, real wine, which he covered with a snow-white handkerchief. Soyinka tasted the stuff, nodded in satisfaction, and smiled in triumph.

He had forced the hotel to change its policy. We were to learn later that the hotel was built with a grant from Saudi Arabia after it was agreed that alcohol would not be served there for 25 years. Lunch over, it was time for the eminent lecturer to sign the guests’ book. Television cameras were rolling, and photographers were struggling for vantage positions. Soyinka bent down and, in a few seconds, he delivered a potentially combustible verdict in Yoruba: “Iru ibi ti o daa bayi, otin to daa

loye ka maa mu nibe” (we should be drinking nice wines in a good hotel such as this).

Amid laughter, later at his hotel’s reception, after learning that the book he signed actually belonged to the bank, Soyinka asked Femi Fatoyinbo, my friend who works at AfDB, to fetch it for him to write another comment.

The lesson: Soyinka’s sense of freedom is allembracing. It includes even the right to drink a good wine. And Expresso coffee– his favourite, I suspect. anywhere.

A young restaurateur was so excited at Soyinka’s visit to his place. He said his late father would have been glad to see the lifetime experience of the Nobel laureate’s presence at the restaurant. He urged Soyinka to accept as a mark of his appreciation, the gift of a 25-year-old gin brewed specially by his family. Prof. was moved. He thanked the young man and accepted to be photographed with him beside his late father’s portrait.

I recall vividly that night when the late Mr. Mac Adetoyi Alabi, our Night Editor at “The Guardian”, had a visitor who stayed unusually long, slowing down the first edition. Baba, as we all called him on account of his old age and long experience, even saw off this visitor. That was unusual. Asked a few minutes after he had settled down again who that visitor was, Baba looked up, his face expressing some incredulity. “You don’t know him?” He shook his head slowly and raised his voice. “That’s the last editor of “Daily Times” , Henry Odukomaiya.” I left Baba, smiling and wondering… “the last editor of Daily Times”. Prince Odukomaiya left “Daily Times” to midwife the birth of National Concord, which was financed by the late billionaire and politician, Chief M.K.O. Abiola. He was also the man who set up the Champion, mentoring

many journalists. Prince Odukomaiya deserves all the encomiums being poured on him. He has done well.

“A friend of mine who was an editor at “The Punch” told me of how relieved he was when he stopped getting short messages from Chief Ogunsola. He felt the chief was being fastidious, pointing out errors that many a reader would overlook and a journalist would explain away as the “printer’s devil”.

I disagreed with my friend. If Ogunsola had not been thorough, perhaps “The Punch” would not have been as prosperous as it is today. The paper was at a low ebb when he took over as chairman. Now, it is celebrated as a successful business.

My former boss, Mr. Lade “Ladbone” Bonuola, once said he needed to have a word with Ogunsola.

“I will like to preach God to him,” he said. I don’t know if Mr. Bonuola eventually did. In case he didn’t, somebody should, even as the Chief reserves the right to his opinion on any issue, including the existence of The Almighty. Aremo Olusegun Osoba came into journalism by chance. Many do not know that he was a sub-editor, one of those guys who mould the character of a newspaper but who are never seen or heard, unlike reporters who are the glamour boys of the trade. For Osoba, reporting is the soul of newspapering. He excelled in it and became a reference point for editors telling their reporters how to do it. His newspaper days have been well documented by Mike Awoyinfa and Dimgba Igwe in his biography.

If Osoba is the Aremo (the chosen one, the favourite) of reporting in Nigerian journalism, Prof. Olatunji Dare is the Jose Mourinho (the Special One), the master satirist. To him, humour comes naturally. But many do not know that Prof. Dare was a physics teacher.

I have gained immensely from his amazing talent. In fact, to him, I owe the name of this column. Dare finds it so easy to write on any subject, making something out of nothing and spicing it all up with a huge dose of humour, forcing you to laugh in a country where there is little to provoke even a smile. Like the late Baba Alabi, Dare detests errors. You dare not second guess him. He will reprimand you severely. But, ironically, he believes a newspaper is a miracle. “Every time a newspaper hits the newsstand, I know a miracle has happened,” says the professor, “because in the course of production, a thousand and one things could have gone wrong.” Many have written about Dare’s resolute stand on the June 12 debacle, how he refused to join The Guardian team that went to burnish the late Gen. Sani Abacha’s ego for him to reopen the newspaper, which he shut down in a senseless show of power, how their week was incomplete without reading Matters Arising and how he quit Rutam House.

None has, however, recalled that Dare actually wore a lush beard for months – in protest against all that he went through. It is a tribute to his forgiving spirit that Mrs. Maiden Ibru, the publisher of The Guardian, was at MUSON Centre last Thursday when Dare was being honoured. Mrs. Ibru spoke of how great and influential the newspaper was, ascribing it all to the presence of many, including Dare. That was a remarkable tribute. How I wish we could have more of our greats to celebrate. But will the situation in Nigeria–another bomb went off yesterday, in Kaduna, killing scores–allow us to?

•Omotoso is Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Lagos State. Thiis article was first published in July 2014. It is being rerun to celebrate the eminent Nigerians who are its focus

Prince Henry Odukomaiya

Chief Ajibola Ogunsola

Prof. Wole Soyinka

Prof. Olatunji Dare

Aremo Segun Osoba

Te STI mon IA l S

‘Obaseki Empowering Citizens, Enhancing Transparency in Trade Practices’

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Managing Director, Edo State Investment Promotion Office (ESIPO), Mr Kelvin Uwaibi, has said that the state Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has prioritised the enhancement of digital infrastructure, recognising its critical role in modern economic development.

Uwaibi, who spoke to newsmen in Benin City, said improved digital connectivity has attracted more businesses to the state, fostering innovation and making Edo State a hub for technological advancement.

He noted that Obaseki tech savvy ideas has not only empowered citizens and enhanced transparency but positively impacted businesses in terms of fairness in trade practices.

Uwaibi added that the state

economic development and infrastructure improvement, coupled with the establishment of the Edo State Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Office stands out as a strategic initiative.

He added, “His executive order on Right of Way (RoW) procedures sets a maximum fee of N145 per linear meter for broadband deployment and outlines a streamlined process for obtaining RoW approvals within 30 days. This initiative simplifies and regulates the process for broadband deployment, encourages investment in digital infrastructure, and ensures timely processing of applications.

“By promoting widespread access to broadband services, the order aims to boost technological infrastructure, enhance business operations, and support the state’s economic

development. Improved digital connectivity will attract more businesses to the state, fostering innovation and making Edo State a hub for technological advancement.”

Uwaibi said ESIPO commitment to attracting private investments and managing risks effectively aims to enhance economic growth and infrastructure development through the PPP Office.

Uwaibi described Obaseki’s six executive orders as a bold and comprehensive strategy to enhance the ease of doing business in Edo State.

“As these policies take effect, Edo State is poised to become a model of economic development and good governance, attracting investments, fostering sustainable growth, and improving the quality of life for all its citizens,” Uwaibi said.

50,000 Households to Benefit from Access Bank Campaign

No fewer than 50,000 households across the country will benefit from the Access Bank ‘Switch to Solar’ campaign targeted at supporting a transition to a low-carbon economy.

With this drive, the bank said it would provide accessible financing solutions for individuals and businesses to acquire solar power products, including solar panels, inverters, and batteries through their partnership with accredited vendors.

Speaking at the launch of the programme in Lagos, Group Head Consumer Banking, Njideka Esomeju, said as a bank ‘Switch to Solar Campaign’, recognizes the critical role that renewable

energy plays in reducing carbon footprints and fostering environmental sustainability.

According to her, “The campaign aims to significantly improve the quality of life for many Nigerians by providing a reliable and sustainable energy source. It will reduce dependence on fossil fuels, lower energy costs, and support environmental conservation efforts through the reduced carbon emission on power products hence improved living. We intend to impact over 50,000 households with this drive.”

Commenting on why the bank was focusing on Economic, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, Unit Head, Consumer Assets, Thelma Nwoye, said the bank is committed to sustainability

by supporting SDG 7.

“This commitment underscores the bank’s role in advancing global sustainability efforts and supporting a transition to a low-carbon economy with the development of products and services that promote renewable energy solutions and clean energy initiatives, thereby fostering environmental preservation and energy security. With the ‘Switch to Solar’ we provide accessible financing solutions for individuals and businesses within our community to acquire solar power products, including solar panels, inverters, and batteries through our partnership with accredited vendors to ensure the availability and quality of products,” she said.

Transcorp Group Reports 114% Revenue Growth, Declares 10K Interim Dividend

Transnational Corporation Plc (Transcorp Group), for the period ended June 30, 2024, reported a substantial 114 per cent increase in revenue, growing from N82.1 billion in 2023 to N175.4 billion in 2024.

Also, profit before tax surged by 283 per cent to N70.9 billion, underscoring the Group’s robust performance despite economic challenges. In line with its commitment to rewarding shareholders, Transcorp Group declared an interim dividend of 10 kobo per share, maintaining the amount declared for the full year 2023.

This interim dividend, the company said in a statement, highlights the group’s dedication to delivering progressive returns

to its investors as its long-term investments continue to yield impressive results.

“The group’s total assets grew by 18 per cent, from N529.9 billion in December 2023 to N625.1 billion in H1 2024. Shareholders’ funds increased by 25 per cent, rising from N187.3 billion in December 2023 to N234.4 billion at the end of H1 2024, driven by profit accreting to retained earnings.

“Operating expenses increased by 50 per cent to N21.2 billion in H1 2024, reflecting the impact of inflation and operational costs.

Net finance costs rose by 8 per cent to N7.1 billion in H1 2024 from N6.6 billion in H1 2023, due to higher interest rates.”

Group Chairman of Transcorp

Group, Tony Elumelu, stated: “Transcorp exemplifies delivering a vision, executing through operational excellence, and consistently creating the transformative impact that we are renowned for. We are building to last across key sectors in Nigeria. In power, our generating capacity and output continue to increase, the turnaround at AEDC is beginning to bear fruit, and we are innovating with our recent commitment to embed power in Abuja, bringing our vision of an integrated energy business even closer. In hospitality, the Transcorp Hilton provides Nigerian excellence to our domestic and international guests, and our occupancy rates reflect our investment in infrastructure and service.

Winners Emerge from the Stanbic IBTC Savings Promo

Winners have emerged in another round of Stanbic IBTC Reward4Saving 3.0 promo draws as 70 customers have been rewarded with cash prizes of N100,000 each.

The bank in a statement noted that 10 winners were selected from seven zones during the 10th monthly draw held at the Bank’s head office in Victoria Island, Lagos. The statement added that the ongoing Reward4Saving Promo has so far rewarded over 1,770 customers with a

total of N283 million since 2021 when the initiative kicked-off. Head, Entrenchment at Stanbic IBTC Bank, Sadiya Ojo, thanked the customers for choosing the Bank as their preferred financial partner. She emphasised that the Reward4Saving promo aligns with the Bank’s commitment to promoting a savings culture and helping customers achieve their financial goals. Notably, the promo will culminate in the grand finale,

where seven individuals will receive N2 million each, and an additional seven will receive N1 million each. 70 customers will continue to be rewarded with N100,000 every month until August 2024.

Since the launch of the third season in September 2023, the Bank has conducted 10 draws, with 721 customers winning cash prizes ranging from N100,000 to N1 million. The Bank has awarded N91million in prizes since the beginning of season three.

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

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).

First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu (Right) and Group Head Marketing and Corporate Communications, FirstBank, Folake Ani-Mumuney (Left), while exchanging pleasantries during the National Diaspora Day and Diaspora Merit Award 2024 which held at the State House Conference Center, Presidential Villa Abuja...recently

Stories by Nume Ekeghe

FCMB Group Set to Raise N110.9bn from Capital Market

Kayode Tokede

FCMB Group Plc, yesterday launched its public offer seeking to raise N110.9 billion additional capital through the issuance of 15.197 billion shares at N7.30 per share.

This strategic move is part of the bank’s comprehensive plan to meet the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) capitalization requirements.

The Group CEO, FCMB

Group, Mr. Ladi Balogun during its “Facts Behind the Offer” Presentation at the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) noted that in addition to its public offer, the Group has adopted a three-phased approach to raise up to N397 billion additional capital to drive its diversification plans including incorporating a Technology Holding Company by 2026.

Balogun stated that “The first phase, which aims to generate

N150 billion through a public offer of 15.12 billion shares at N7.30 totaling N110.9 billion.

Also, a private placement of about $40 million to $50 million which will close by the end of the year and convertible by next year. The public offer of will enable us to swiftly meet market demands while ensuring simplicity and speed in execution.”

He added the second phase involves selling minority

interests in one or two of its subsidiaries, with the aim of raising between N80 to N100 billion bringing the total capital raised to approximately N250 billion. “By selling minority stakes, we avoid over-diluting our shareholders and recognize the undervalued potential of our subsidiaries,” Balogun explained.

According to him, the final phase, set for the end of 2025, will involve a private

placement with identified potential investors. FCMB aims to complete all phases with less than 50 billion shares in issue, targeting around 45 billion. “Our goal is to ensure we sustain and grow earnings per share for our investors despite the significant share issuance,” Balogun noted.

The proceeds from this capital raise will primarily drive business growth, focusing on lending to key sectors

such as agriculture, SMEs, and non-oil exports. “We believe these sectors are vital for Nigeria’s development,” Balogun said. Additionally, investments in technology will bolster cybersecurity, enhance service quality, and reduce both financial and environmental costs. Significant funds will also be allocated to human capital development, ensuring a robust leadership pipeline within the organization, according to him.

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF j U LY 29/24

Crime&Punishment

Man Bags Life Imprisonment for Having Unlawful Sexual

Funke Olaode

The Lagos Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court has sentenced a man, Peter Odu, to life imprisonment for the defilement of a 14-year-old girl.

Justice Rahman Oshodi sentenced Odu after finding him guilty of a one-count charge of defilement brought against him by the Lagos government.

The convict committed the offence sometime in 2020, having unlawful sexual intercourse with the girl (name withheld) at No. 25 Kayode Street, Ogba, Lagos. His offence of defilement of a child is contrary to section 137 of the Criminal Law, Ch. C17, Vol. 3, Laws of Lagos State, 2015.

Odu pleaded not guilty to the charge when he was arraigned before the court on February 11, 2022.

The prosecution, therefore, commenced the trial and called three witnesses. PW1, a social worker; PW2, the prosecutrix; and PW3, a police sergeant Esther Sunday, the investigating police officer (IPO) from Pen Cinema Police Station, who handled the initial stages of the investigation.

The defendant also called three witnesses for his defence.

However, while delivering judgment, Justice Oshodi said that he had carefully considered the facts of the case and the evidence presented.

The court said that the prosecution proved the case of defilement beyond reasonable doubt. He also said that he held the prosecution’s comments and

Intercourse with His Mother’s Housemaid

the impact of the convict’s actions on the young victim.

The judge stated, “The crime strikes at the heart of our society’s duty to protect its most vulnerable members. At the tender age of 12, the prosecutrix was placed in your family’s care, far from her home and bereft of her parents’ protection. Instead of providing her with safety and guidance, you exploited her vulnerability for your desires.

“The physical and emotional trauma you have inflicted on this child is immeasurable and likely to have long-lasting effects on her life.

The law recognises the severity of such offences against children, and this court must enforce those laws to their fullest extent. Section 137 of the Criminal Law mandates life imprisonment for the defilement of a child, reflecting society’s utter condemnation of such acts.”

After pausing for a moment, the judge declared his ruling.

“Therefore, according to the law and considering the grievous nature of your crime, I now sentence you, Peter Odu, to life imprisonment. You shall also be registered as a sex offender,” the judge.

The judge “hopes that this sentence will serve not only as punishment for your actions but also as a deterrent to others who might contemplate similar heinous acts against children.”

During the trial, the defendant maintained his innocence and called three witnesses. The defendant testified as DW1, denying the allegations against him.

He was cross-examined with a certified copy of his extrajudicial statement dated June 9, 2021 (Exhibit F). His mother, Mrs Dorathy Odu, the prosecutrix’s guardian in Lagos, took the stand as DW2. Finally, as DW3, the court heard from Mrs Blessing Chukwudike, the prosecutrix’s aunt, who had initially arranged for the prosecutrix to live with the Odu family.

The court said the story of the young prosecutrix, in this case, is one marked by loss, vulnerability, and alleged exploitation.

Her mother passed away, leaving her without maternal care, and her father’s whereabouts remain unknown. In the wake of her mother’s death, the prosecutrix found herself in the care of her aunt,

Chukwudike (DW3), in Imo state. Chukwudike arranged for the prosecutrix to live with Odu’s mother (DW2) in Lagos. At the tender age of 12, the prosecutrix left her rural home to work as a domestic help at 25 Kayode Street, Ogba, Lagos, which the prosecution said was the crime scene. The defence does not dispute this part of her evidence.

It was in this new environment that the prosecutrix alleged the traumatic events unfolded. In her testimony, she recounted two incidents of sexual abuse by the defendant, the son of her guardian. Her account of these events was both direct and disturbing.

“In 2019, he (the defendant) was staying with us in the house, and

first of all, he first raped me, and he said I should not tell anyone. So, I didn’t tell anyone. In 2020, he left the house before 2020.

“So, one day he came to visit his mother, and nobody was around the time he came to the house. So, I was lying down in the parlour, so he started touching my body and pulling my clothes,” said the victim.

The defence argued that the prosecutrix said she did not know the meaning of “menstrual cycle.”

However, the blood was not the result of menstruation, as she stated in her evidence-in-chief. The prosecutrix’s journey to reporting these alleged incidents was not straightforward. After the second incident, she confided in another

girl named Mercy, who was living in the house. Mercy encouraged her to tell Odu (the defendant’s mother), but the prosecutrix claimed that when she did, Odu made a phone call and took no further action.

The situation came to light when the prosecutrix, desperate to escape, told her teacher at school that she wanted to return to her village. When pressed for a reason, she revealed the alleged abuse: “So, when she (my teacher said education was important, I now opened up to her that my madam’s son is raping me in the house, that I cannot stay there again. So, she quickly went to tell the headmistress, the headmistress now called the social worker.”

Wale igbintade

First Deepwater Discovery Limited, an oil marketing firm, has discontinued a suit filed against Petroli Energy Marketing & Supply Limited and two others over alleged illegal berthing.

Other defendants in the suit are Shellplux Nigeria Limited and MT. Ayodeji. The notice of discontinuance, signed by the claimant’s lawyer, A. B Ogunba (SAN), said, “Take notice that the

plaintiffs hereby wholly discontinue this suit in its entirety against all the defendants.”

Justice Yelim Bogoro had on June 19, 2024, in suit numbered FHC/L/CS/1004/2024, ordered the defendants to provide security of $100,000 and N10 billion within 24 hours, failure of which a warrant of arrest will be issued against the vessel, MT. Ayodeji with IMO No. 9235701; MMSI: 636018839.

However, following a motion on notice filed by Ikechukwu Ukadike,

Haulage Operator Appeals Against Bench Warrant Order

Wale igbintade

A haulage operator, Mr. Adolphus Peter, has asked the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division to set aside the bench warrant issued against him by Justice Akintayo Aluko of the Lagos Division of the Federal High Court over the alleged diversion of diesel.

Justice Aluko had issued the bench warrant after listening to an ex parte application filed before the court by the Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU).

Dissatisfied, the appellant and his company, Adokhai Global

Resources Nig. Limited in their notice of appeal, filed by their lawyer, Dele Igbinedion prayed to the court to allow the appeal and set aside the decisions of the lower court made on November 23, 2023, and the bench warrant issued on July 2, 2024, respectively. Specifically, the appellants are praying the court to hold that the lower court does not have the jurisdiction to entertain the case after considering the appellants’ notice of preliminary objection. Alternatively, the appellants are praying for an order remitting the case back to the chief judge of the

Federal High Court to assign the case to another judge of the Federal High Court to entertain the appellant’s notice of preliminary objection.

The appellants, through their lawyer, Igbinedion, further argued that Section 330 (a) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015 only empowers the lower court to make such order(s) as it thinks fit for the proper custody of property pending the conclusion of proceedings or trial.

He stated that the lower court made the order to deliver the appellants’ trucks into the custody of the prosecution without hearing

from the appellant on the issue, contesting that it was contrary to the applicant’s fundamental rights to a fair hearing, which is guaranteed by Section 36 of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as Amended).

He further argued that “Contrary to the mandatory provisions of Section 330 (a) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, none of the two trucks in relation to which the lower court made the order was produced before the lower court at the time of making the order or at any time at all.

counsel to the third defendant (MT AYODEJI), to discharge the ex parte order, the court adjourned the case to October 3, 2024, for hearing.

In the said application, Ukadike, while urging the court to set aside the order or discharge it unconditionally, stated four grounds thus:

In the said application, Ukadike, while urging the court to set aside the order or discharge it unconditionally, stated that the court lacked jurisdiction to grant the said prayers of the plaintiffs.

He submitted that the plaintiff’s cause of action is a simple contract, not an admiralty action under relevant laws.

He further stated that the plaintiff concealed and suppressed vital and material facts when they applied for the order to be made, which was subsequently granted on June 19, 2024.

He said, “The third defendant, vessel M T Ayodeji, is not owned by the Petroli Energy marketing supply limited and Shellplux Nigeria Limited, who are the first and second defendants) but an entirely different entity. There is no privity of contract between the plaintiffs and the vessel.”

In an affidavit sworn to by Mr. Efe Ogaga, a litigation manager in the law firm of Queen Ukadike & Associates, counsel to MT Ayodeji, he stated that after being served with the court’s order, M T. Ayodeji was puzzled by the order, which

inter alia directed it to provide security for $100,000 and N10 billion within 24 hours, failure of which a warrant of arrest will be issued against the vessel.

According to court documents, the vessel owners did not hire, rent or contract with any party for the berthing of the vessel at the plaintiff’s jetty/tank farm and had no privity of contract with the plaintiffs. By a charter party agreement dated 23rd May 2024, Petroli Energy Marketing and Supply Limited chartered the ship for the carriage of petroleum product.

“It was the responsibility of the said charterer to arrange jetty/harbour where its cargo will be discharged, and all such arrangements were to be on the charterer’s account,” noted the court document. “It is not true that the ship or her owners illegally berthed the vessel at the plaintiff’s jetty.” It stated that the ship “is owned by Owolmart Maritime Company Limited, as clearly shown on the certificate of registry duly issued by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).”

As of June 13, 2024, when this suit was commenced, and subsequently June 19, 2024, when the order was made, the voyage evidenced by the above charter party agreement had since ended, the cargo fully discharged, and the vessel departed, the court document noted.

Ogochukwu Odogwu, ARM Pension Employee Allegedly Raped by Colleague in Lagos

ARM: We are cooperating with law enforcement in ongoing investigation

An employee of, Ogochukwu Odogwu, has allegedly been raped by a colleague of hers, Executive Director (Technical) of the company, one Abisola Onigbogi.

According to information available to THISDAY, the 36-year-old lady who works at ARM Pension as a Human Resource Business Partner, had gone to a party on July 18, 2024, with a number of her colleagues.

“I would like to officially report that I was sexually assaulted i.e. I was abducted and raped by Abisola Onigbogi, ED technical at ARM Pension on the night of July 18, 2024 when we had the office party.

“Abisola Onigbogi of ARM Pension had penetrative sexual intercourse with me, without my consent. The assault was done at a certain hotel I woke up to find myself, called Limeridge hotel at Chevron drive, Lagos,” she said in a report.

In her report, she chronicled the events that led to probably one of the worst days of her life.

“On the evening of the office party just like every other staff member at the party I had food and drinks. I had mixed a small amount of Jameson whiskey and coke. This whiskey bottle was opened by Francisca Azie on the table I was seated at with other colleagues.

“However, being part of the planning committee I had to stand up from my table at intervals to coordinate the serving of food and at such times left my drink, food and other personal effects in the care of Damilola Oluyori, who is a colleague and one I am very friendly with.

“My last memory of the party was at about 7.30,8ish. However, Dami claimed that I mentioned to her that I was tipsy and could not drive. So she offered to find a way for me to go home and then approached Abisola Onigbogi to drop me off since he lived around the same axis as me,” she narrated.

Lost Memory

In her report, she stated that the last memory was still around the time she

mentioned earlier. ” Along with the Jameson whiskey which was like ¼ of a plastic cup, I had one cocktail from the bar that is the last I remembered.

“I lost total memory of every conversation and activity as my last memory of the night was from 7.30pm. My entire memory was wiped out which was very unusual even for someone who might have drunk excessively which I didn’t and have quite a good alcohol tolerance from precedent”.

Piecing the Puzzle at the Hotel Room

For someone that went to party and had no plans to lodge in a hotel, it was a puzzled Odogwu that woke up on July 19, 2024, in an unknown location, on a strange bed and to cap it all, fully undressed.

“Next thing I know I wake up and realise I am in a room fully undressed. I look around and I realise it was a hotel. I find my clothes in a pile and my wig, my phone and my handbag.

“I checked the time it was around 3am and my private parts were sore and felt like someone had invaded me. I walked out of the room, looked around for a clue of the name of the hotel to even have a sense of where I was, I saw the name Limeridge hotel, I googled it and I found that it’s on chevron drive.

“ I ask the receptionist and security man to help me get a taxi so I can go home. I further checked my WhatsApp messages and I saw that Abisola the perpetrator had sent me a message that he was with my laptop bag and ID Card.

“Damilola had sent me a couple of messages that sounded frantic wanting to know if I was okay and if Abisola dropped me at home. I sent her a message to tell her that I do not understand why my memory is wiped out and it's unusual.

“When it was morning, I tried to call Abisola twice and he didn’t pick up. I messaged him that I’d like to talk to him and shortly after he called me. When he called, I asked him how

I ended up in a hotel since I was in his car as my colleagues said and he was to drop me at home.

“He said he asked me for my address and I was incoherent and so he took me to that hotel. I further asked why I was naked when I woke up and he said he didn’t know that he just dropped me and left. I later spoke to my colleagues Damilola and Odera because I needed to find my car and I was told that my car was safe in the office.

“Damilola further mentioned that she sent videos of me and her dancing at the party to Abisola as he requested her to. I have no recollection of her making any video except for some pictures we had earlier taken at the start of the party and an 11 seconds video.

“However she shared videos with me this morning of me and her dancing and another colleague was in the video. Again my memory is blanked out on this. I messaged Abisola later on Friday morning to ask how I could get my laptop bag and ID card and he said he had given the security guards in the office to put it in my car,” she added.

Personal Preliminary Investigations

Still not convinced about the explanations she got, she set off to personally investigate what happened to her at the party and after. Thus, she went back to the hotel that Friday morning after she dropped off her kids at school.

“I asked to see the CCTV footage to ascertain when he brought me there and if he really just left after dropping me. The receptionist first confirmed that he paid for the hotel room at 22.05, showed me evidence and then went ahead to show me the footage, I was seen leaning on him and he was holding my shoes and a hand on my back guiding me into the hotel and hotel room at about 15.52 and was seen leaving at 17.36.

“Now this time I am quoting is because the CCTV time in the hotel was not West African Time (WAT) but the time interval was about 1 hour 45 minutes he was in the hotel room with

me. I called my family and informed them of this.”

Rape Test Confirms Suspicion

Probably hoping her suspicions were unfounded, the rape test she did same Friday shattered her hope and threw her into pain.

“I have had a rape kit test done at Island maternity on Friday. I made a formal report at the Ikoyi Police station on Saturday morning. My private part was bruised and I have been in pain.”

While stating that she had formally reported to the Head of HR, who is her immediate boss, as well as the Managing Director and another Executive Director in the report, she said her life has been disrupted badly.

“I am a single mother with two kids and my mental and physical state has been impacted by this incident and I need to take care and show up for my kids in all of this,” she stressed.

Armed with the confirmation of the assault, she went further to ask more questions. “I sent him another message that Friday morning asking why he didn’t ask Dami or any of my other colleagues for my address if truly he had the intention to drop me at my house which he had no response to.

“I did not remotely have any conversation with Abisola Onigbogi or give any consent to be involved with him in any remotely personal way. He asked me at the party to come sit with him and I refused and sat with my colleagues who I was comfortable with.

“He took me against my will, most likely spiked my drink with the help of someone or by himself and took me to a destination I didn’t know or want to be and raped me. It is beyond sad that I could not be safe at an office function and instead my whole world has been overturned.”

“I am on some very strong medication given to me at Island maternity, antibiotics and HIV post exposure prophylaxis and have requested some time from work to recuperate. I believe he is a serial rapist and I might not be the first person he would have done this too,” she explained.

Infant Mortality in Nigeria: Rotary Club of Ikeja-Alausa Steps Up Campaign

Peter Uzoho Rotary Club of Ikeja-Alausa has successfully carried out awareness programmes in three strategic health institutions under its catchment area in Lagos, aimed at combating infant and child mortality in Nigeria, in line with Rotary Area of Focus: "The Rotary Maternal and

including Opebi Primary Healthcare Centre; Onigbongbo Primary Healthcare Centre; and the Beko Ransom Kuti Primary Healthcare Centre, Police College, Ikeja. In a statement sent to THISDAY, yesterday, the Club said the programme was equally aimed to educate and sensitize healthcare professionals, caregivers, and community members on the best practices to reduce infant and child mortality rates. It informed that the programme brought together women of reproductive age, mothers, grandmothers, expecting and nursing mothers, healthcare workers, nurses, midwives, care givers, social workers, as well as aid workers. According to the club, "The event was designed to provide a platform for these professionals to share practical insights and expertise on ways to prevent infant and child mortality.

Call for Justice

Although attempts to reach Odogwu proved abortive as she didn’t take her calls or respond to the message sent to her, her call for justice was as heart-wrenching as it was affirmative.

In the report made to one Opeyemi, she wrote: “I am requesting that Lagos State takes (…sic) this case up fully and this predator who has tried to ruin my life and cause me this trauma be prosecuted to the full extent of the law, he and whoever aided him.”

Arrest of Suspect and Investigation Underway

After the alleged victim made her report, the suspect was arrested by the Ikoyi Police Division where initial questioning was done, as was confirmed by the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, and the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin. While Vivour-Adeniyi declined to give further details about the case, especially as regards whether the agency ran tests, understandably to protect the survivor, she however said they were on the case.

Hundeyin on the other hand, said the case had been moved to the Gender Unit at the Lagos State Police Command headquarters in Ikeja, adding that it would be given top priority.

He however declined to state the level of investigations carried out so far and the confessional statement given by the suspect.

THISDAY however gathered that their investigations would not be limited to the allegations of rape alone, but would work to unravel possible collaborators, what drug was used to spike her drink and the role of the hotel in the act.

Attempts to reach out to the said Damilola also proved abortive as she didn’t take her calls or respond to the message sent to her for clarifications.

Limeridge Hotel Provides Clarity on ‘Safety Lapses’

The burning question was how a hotel would allow anyone bring in an ‘inebriated’ woman or ‘semi-conscious’ and didn’t think to question their moves or involve the police.

A quick search on Google had unearthed the number of the hotel which THISDAY proceeded to call. Upon revealing the reason for the call, the reporter was re-directed to the right number to call the manager.

The manager, who didn’t give her name for print, provided some clarifications to these questions, including asking the reporter to come in to watch the CCTV recording with the proper identity card.

However when asked why their hotel didn’t provide any protection for Odogwu, she clarified that when the duo came to lodge in, she walked into the hotel, although Onigbogi had his arms wrapped around her. She said: “You can come and check the camera if she was unconscious. If someone was unconscious, we would not even allow that in the first place. It’s not possible to allow the person into the room. We can never allow such.”

Also asked why they would allow the man in question to check out and leave the woman in the hotel room without fulfilling the basic safety room of calling the woman to ensure she was okay, she alluded that the man left deceptively without the hotel knowing. According to her, the first time the man tried to leave, the porter had asked him if he was checking out and he said he merely wanted to go to his car to get stuff and put in the fridge. The manager said it was based on that information that the porter did not query the man again when he came downstairs the second time, because he assumed he still wanted to carry the second tranche of things from his car to the room.

The hotel only realised the man had left when the lady called them to know what happened to her and who brought her into the hotel.

ARM Reacts...

However, a top official of ARM Pension who pleaded anonymity, told THISDAY late last night, that the company does not condole such abuse. "It is not our policy to tolerate this kind of behaviour described by one of our staff. We are cooperating with law enforcement agencies to get to the bottom of this very unfortunate incident."

What the Law against Rape,

‘Consent’ Under Intoxication Say

Under the Criminal Code, Section 357, rape is when any person has sexual intercourse with a woman or girl, without her consent, or incorrectly obtained consent.

It further stipulated that such consent can be incorrectly obtained where it is obtained by force/threat/intimidation; by means of false and fraudulent representation as to the nature of the act; or by a person impersonating a married woman’s husband in order to have sex. Also, under the Criminal Code, sexual intercourse with underage girls or people with unsound mind (intoxication inclusive) is the offence of defilement, and so technically a person could be charged for rape and defilement. Essentially, under the existing law, a man or woman under state of intoxication cannot give valid consent.

Chiemelie Ezeobi

NatioNal EmErgENCy CoordiNatioN ForUm mEEtiNg CoNvENEd by NEma oN Flood...

L-R: The Head of Office, United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN-OCHA) Nigeria, Mr Trond Jensen and Director General, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) , Mrs Zubaida Umar during the National Emergency Coordination Forum meeting convened by NEMA on flood in Abuja... yesterday

Launch of new aLternative Bank Branch in Lekki...

L-R: Dr. Mrs. Iyabode Are, customer of The Alternative Bank; Fatai Tella, Chief Operating Officer, The Alternative Bank; Korede Demola-Adeniyi, executive director, The Alternative Bank;

vice chairman; Noor Takaful, Alhaji Omotosho Kamoru, President Lekki Muslim

Hardship Protests Start Tomorrow Nationwide, as Court Restricts Movement in Lagos

Restrains activities from 8am to 6pm Shettima:Tinubu needs support to actualise policies, says he’s not anti-north or anti-Islam

IG meets protest organisers, rights lawyers NCoS warns custodial centres are red zones Abbas: President working to address concerns Silverbird announces mall closure Ododo, Aare Musulumi, catholic bishops, Anglican primate, others insist on engagement Sylva attacks Diri, says divisive, shocking Police parade violence instigator, vow to resist hostility, PSC begs for peace to mitigate risks, protect the rights of all citizens, and protect the well-being of all involved.

Deji elumoye, chuks okocha, Michael olugbode, adedayo akinwale, Juliet akoje, ikechukwu aleke in Abuja, wale igbintade in Lagos, Segun awofadeji in Bauchi, ibrahim oyewale in Lokoja, kemi olaitan in Ibadan, Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti, ahmad Sorondinki in Kano, Blessing ibunge in Port Harcourt, James Sowole in Abeokuta

There appears to be no going back on the proposed #Endbadgovernance nationwide protest slated to commence tomorrow, an idea said to have been stoked by the prevalent hunger and hardship across the country.

The protest meant to register the displeasure of the Nigerian people against the policies of the government of President Bola Tinubu, is conceived to run for 10 days except there’s a major intervention along the way.

Curiously, an initiative by a Lagos High Court, presided over by Justice Emmanuel Ogundare, which has restricted the movement and activities of the protesters to just two venues with definite timeframe, might have allayed the fears of those who were worried the protests could be hijacked and turn violent.

This development was said to have followed a request by some of the leaders of the planned protests for permission to hold peacefully assemble and also possible venues to hold their rallies.

But Vice-President Kashim Shettima has solicited the support of Nigerians for the actualisation of the programmes and policies of President Tinubu's government, insisting that the president meant well for all Nigerians, and was neither anti-north nor anti-Islam.

At the same time, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, yesterday, met with organisers of Take It Back Movement, and prominent human rights lawyers on how to fashion modalities for the protest, even as he cautioned against violence protest.

Similarly, the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has declared that custodial facilities (prisons) across the nation was a red zone and that no protester should get to their perimeters.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, while rallying support for the president, assured the Nigerian people that Tinubu was working round the clock to address their plights.

Interestingly, and out of the fear of the unknown, the management of Silverbird Mall, an entertainment facility, has announced a “difficult decision” to temporarily close the mall, until further notice, ahead of the protests.

Also, more prominent Nigerians, including the Kogi State Governor , Mr. Usman Ododo; the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, Alhaji Dawud Makanjuola Akinola; the Catholic Bishops of the Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province, the Anglican Primate, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba; and an activist cleric, Bishop Wycliffe Khaemba, among several others, have pleaded with the protesters to shelve the idea and engage the government instead.

However, in furtherance of their enmity, a former Petroleum Minister (State), Timipre Sylva, has described the alleged claims by the Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, that he (Sylva) was supporting the protest as shocking, insensitive and divisive.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Police, yesterday, paraded a 34-year-old social media influencer, Suleiman Yakubu, resident in Jos North, for allegedly inciting violence through the social media.

The police, therefore, vowed to resist any form of violent protest in the country, while enumerating the severe negative effects that such demonstrations could have on the Nigerian society.

In the same breath, the Police Service Commission (PSC), has called on Nigerians to give peace a chance and support the federal government in its efforts to improve the living conditions of its citizenry.

Court Restricts Movements in Lagos

Granting preemptive exparte application on the protest, Justice Ogundare, restricted protesters in Lagos to the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park in Ojota and the Peace Park, in Ketu area of the state.

The court gave the restriction order following the application filed the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lagos, Mr Lawal Pedro, SAN, seeking to maintain and secure public safety and prevent irreparable loss of lives and property in the state during the period of the protests.

Listed in the application as codefendants were Adamma Ukpabi and Tosin Harsogba (for Active Citizens Group); Comrade Juwon Sanyaolu and Hassan Soweto (for Take it Back Movement); Persons unknown and Commissioner of Police, Lagos State.

While moving his application before the court, Pedro argued that as the Chief Law Officer of the state and having been privy to notices by different interests, who were for and against the nationwide protest, there was the need to protect the critical infrastructure of the state and prevent

an irreparable loss of lives and property as witnessed during the EndSARS protest in 2020.

He stated that the police in the state did not have sufficient manpower to provide security support for the protesters, who planned to participate in the protest in all the local government councils and public highways and other areas of public access in the state.

He further argued that there was need to prevent the protest from being hijacked by hoodlums, who were prepared to breach law and order and cause destruction in different locations in the state on the pretext of public protest against alleged bad governance.

"In recognition of the citizens’ fundamental right to stage public protest against government policies and actions but prevent unlawful destruction of lives and properties in the process, the Lagos State Government has designated two public spaces and locations in the State where citizens can meet and converge to protest or express their displeasure against government. The locations are Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park, Ojota, Lagos State and Peace Park, Ketu, Lagos State.

"Public protest in all the local government councils and public highways as well as other areas of public access in the state for 10 days is a deliberate plan to shut down the state and if this is allowed it will amount to economic sabotage.

"An order of court is required in the circumstances so as to protect the fundamental rights of 1st to 5th Defendants/Respondents to protest and other residents opposed to the protest to go about their lawful without harassment, disturbance and destruction of public buildings/ properties."

After listening to his argument, Justice Ogundare granted all the reliefs sought in the application.

He held: "An Order of Pre-emptive Remedy by way of interim injunction is hereby granted restraining the 1st to 5th Defendants/Respondents whether by themselves, their agents, privies, servants or any other person(s) acting through them from converging and carrying out their proposed peaceful public protest, rallies, procession and meetings in Lagos State from the 1-10" August 1-10, 2024 excerpt in the approved designated location for peaceful public protest, rallies and meetings, to wit: Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park, Ikorodu Road, Ojota, Lagos State and Peace Park Ketu Lagos from 8 .00 am to 6pm pending compliance with the pre-action protocol by the Claimant.

"An order of pre-emptive remedy by way of interim preservative order is hereby granted directing the 6th Defendant to protect the fundamental rights of the 1st to 5th Defendants/ Respondents to freedom of association, peaceful public protest, procession and tallies in the approved designated location for peaceful public protest, rallies and meetings in Lagos State, To wit: Gani Fawehinm Freedom Park, Ikorodu Road Ojota, Lagos and Peace Park, Ketu Lagos from 8am to 6pm on August 1-10, 2024 pending compliance with the pre-action protocol by the Claimant.

"An order of pre-emptive remedy by way of interim preservative order is hereby granted directing the 6th Defendant to provide security support and traffic management support to the 1st to 5th Defendants at the approved designated location for their proposed peaceful public protest, rallies and meetings in Lagos State, To wit: Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park, Ikorodu Road, Ojota, Lagos State and Peace Park Ketu Lagos from 8am to 6pm on 1st -10% August, 2024 pending compliance with the pre-action protocol by the Claimant.

"An Order of substituted service of the Order of this Court in this matter, the Memorandum of Claim/ Letter of Claim and all other pre action protocols documents on the 1st- 5th Defendants/Respondents by Newspaper publication in a National daily to wit: any other widely read newspaper and the service shall be deemed as good and sufficient service on the Defendants/Respondents."

Shettima: Tinubu's Govt Needs People's Support to Actualise Policies, Programmes

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has solicited the support of Nigerians for the actualisation of the programmes and policies of President Bola Tinubu's government, insisting that the president meant well for all Nigerians.

According to him, contrary to speculations in some quarters, President Tinubu was neither antinorth nor anti-Islam, noting that he had reflected this in appointments to key positions in federal government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

Shettima spoke yesterday when he hosted representatives of media practitioners from the northern part of the country on a courtesy visit at the State House, Abuja.

Commenting on the planned nationwide protest, he acknowledged the right of citizens to protest, noting, however, that it has its own demerits

that were not pleasant.

"Today, if they say there will be a protest, it will amount to a lot of losses. Protest is the right of the people, but let it be known that historically, it has been hijacked by unscrupulous elements," he warned.

He said current statistics of appointments into MDAs showed Tinubu's choice of northerners for key areas such as agriculture, security, communications technology, health and allied services, among other positions in the Federal Government.

Shettima maintained that the present administration has genuine intentions to transform the lives of many in the North through laudable initiatives geared toward addressing the issues confronting the people.

IGP Meets Organisers, Rights Lawyers

The Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, yesterday, met with organisers of Take It Back Movement, and some prominent human rights lawyers to fashion modality for the nationwide protest, while cautioning against violence protest.

A statement by Force Spokesperson ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, noted that the meeting which held virtually, had in attendance prominent human rights lawyers, Femi Falana (SAN), Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa (SAN) and other key members of the Take It Back Movement.

He explained that the meeting was held at the instance of the planned nationwide protest, adding that the engagement was part of the Nigeria Police Force's efforts aimed at ensuring the safety and security of all citizens while upholding the constitutional right to peaceful assembly.

Egbetokun emphasised the importance of maintaining public order and safety during the planned protests, even as he acknowledged the group's right to express their concerns through peaceful protests and reiterated the Police Force's duty to facilitate such rights within the bounds of the law.

The IG further advised the Take It Back Movement, to engage with the respective State Police Commissioners to coordinate and plan the protests in a manner that ensures the safety of participants and the general public, while pre-empting any security challenges and ensuring that the protests proceed peacefully. He also advised against unplanned open and unnecessary processions due to the potential dangers they pose, stressing that organising and coordinating with the police and other security agencies were essential steps

NcoS: Custodial Centres Are Red Zone

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), has declared custodial facilities (prisons) across the nation red zones and that no protesters should get to their perimeters.

In a statement by its Public Relations Officer, Abubakar Umar said, “In view of the purported national protest scheduled to hold on the first day of August 2024, the Nigerian Correctional Service wishes to inform the public that the Custodial Centres have been designated as red zones. Therefore, any person or group of persons, who have no business whatsoever, should steer clear.

“Furthermore, the Service wishes to enjoin the public that Custodial and Non-custodial Centres are critical national assets which are germane to public safety as well as national security. Tampering with or attacking them will lead to breakdown of law and order, and further exacerbate the security of the society in general.

“The Service strongly advises all members of the public to join hands with the Service to ensure the protection of correctional facilities. Adequate security arrangements have been put in place to ensure that no correctional facility is defiled.

“The Ministry of Interior Joint Taskforce (MOIJTF) has been activated to provide extra security in and around custodial facilities nationwide.”

Abbas: Tinubu Working to Address Plights

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has assured Nigerians that President Bola Tinubu was working round the clock to address the plight of Nigerians.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi, Abbas said the present administration was not relenting in its efforts to bring succour to Nigerians. He, therefore, appealed to the planners of the protests, especially the youths, to shelve their action in the interest of the country and its citizens.

"I address you today with a heart full of empathy and a deep sense of duty. We are living through challenging times, and I want to acknowledge the difficulties that many of you, especially our youth, are facing.

continues online

Aminu Tukur,

Ummah, at the launch of the new Alternative Bank branch in Lekki Lagos, ... yesterday

Onyeka Onwenu Reportedly Dies At 72...

Renowned singer, songwriter, actress, journalist, Ms Onwenu is feared dead.

Babachir Lawal: Dispersed Pockets of Frustration, Malcontents to Blame for Nigerians’ Anger

Charges Tinubu to address nation, rejig cabinet, fix alleged nepotism Alleges S’west dominates government ‘excessively and obnoxiously’ Says people can’t be intimidated under current climate Declares legislature slavish, senate operating dictatorship States north unhappy with treatment of Nasiru, Ningi, Ndume, Dangote

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and estranged ally of President Bola Tinubu, Babachir Lawal, yesterday, claimed that dispersed pockets of frustration and malcontents were responsible for the current bad blood against President Bola Tinubu and his government.

He, therefore, called on the president to immediately address Nigerians, reshuffle his cabinet with a view to fixing the alleged nepotism in his appointments.

Lawal, who said the president’s broadcast should outline the challenges confronting the nation, added that the idea would afford the president an opportunity to also outline the immediate and the long-term measures out of the current economic quagmire facing the country

These measures, the former SGF said, would assuage organisers of the national protests and show his seriousness in containing the economic challenges facing the country, and help to stave off the planned protests against his administration.

The SGF, in a statement, yesterday, called on the president to reshuffle the cabinet to include “a mix of technocrats and politicians,” adding that Tinubu should, in his address,

come up with persuasive arguments intended to placate the angry and hungry citizens.

His words: “Under the current climate, Nigerians cannot be intimidated by this government nor do they respect it. So, avoid the macho tough talk.

“In the proposed address to the nation, enumerate concrete and believable policies of government intended to address current challenges on an immediate, medium and long term basis,” he stated.

He called for a mix of technocrats and politicians in the cabinet, stressing that politicians were more adept at communicating with the people and have more stake in the successes or failures of a government.

“These Lagos technocrats who now fill the MDAs lack knowledge of the workings of Nigeria. Majority of them are rude, inaccessible, clannish,” he warned

The former SGF, who also told the president to purposefully address the excessive nepotism in this government, noted that, “The Southwest dominates this government excessively and obnoxiously.”

Lawal also expressed concern that the current Senate leadership “operates a dictatorship in which no dissent is tolerated. This is insidiously building an imperceptible revolt that might soon explode.

“For example, Senator Ndume was sincerely speaking truth to power, when he said the president is unreachable. A slavish legislature is neither good for your long-term interests or that of the country at large.

“People are taking exceptions to these ways of handling contrary opinions in the polity. In the north we have taken great exception to how you (or people acting on your

behalf) maltreated, Nasiru, Ningi, Ndume and lately Dangote.

“Your very close associates are also busy meddling in the affairs of senior traditional institutions in the North West, which we believe has the intended purpose of dismembering northern political and social harmony and hegemony. In the South East, your fixation on Peter Obi and the unfair treatment of Igbo businesses in Lagos is unsettling.

“There is also no denying the fact that political crises in Rivers State would been long settled had the president shown an inclination to resolve them. It is instructive that no individual or institution in the South West has suffered such unjust treatment.

“These kinds of situations are some of the triggers of the current discontents across the nation because they generate dispersed pockets of

frustration and malcontents that eventually aggregate into a large whole resulting in bad blood against the person of the President and the government,” said Lawal.

The former SGF said that the military has blatantly ignored the fact that internal security was wholly the constitutional responsibility of the Nigerian Police Force, and wondered why they have been warning against the planned protests.

Minister: Youths Not Feeling Impact of Govt, Abuse of Drugs Getting Out of Hands

NEDC fixing education in N’east, says Alkali

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has expressed concern that the youths and the young ones were not feeling the impact of the government in the north, adding that their resort to abuse of was already getting out of hands.

Olawande, who commended the North East Development Commission (NEDC) for its intervention

in the North East states, stressed that if the ministry and the commission collaborated, they would have greater impact, especially in the area of youth empowerments.

“I have been to all states of the North East and I saw your impact, you have done well. If you go around the country, everybody is talking about protest, engagement. I discovered that the government is too far away from the youths and the young ones are not feeling the

impact of the government.

“We are here to complement your efforts. It is one government. The large number of young people that are into drugs is getting out of hand.

“What are the things we can do to tackle the use of drug abuse that has become so rampant? We need an aggressive engagement, because if we don't do it now, a time will come that we won't even be able to sleep in our house.

“We have a roadmap, we have an

EFCC Interrogates NAHCON Boss, Arabi over Alleged Hajj Fund Mismanagement

Alex Enumah in

Abuja

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Tuesday had as guest, the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Malam Jalal Arabi. Arabi's visit to the headquarters of the anti-graft agency, in the Jabi area of Abuja, was in connection with allegations bordering on mismanagement of hajj fund, Thisday learnt.

When contacted, EFCC's Spokesman, Dele Oyewale, assured that he would make necessary inquiries and get back to our correspondent in due course. Meanwhile, a source at the EFCC's headquarters claimed that the NAHCON boss was invited

to give explanation on an ongoing investigation of about N200 billion fraud that occurred around 2020 and 2021, but another said Arabi was invited over series of petitions that arose from the just concluded 2024 Hajj exercise.

The administration of President Bola Tinubu had doled out the sum of N90 billion to subsidize the cost of travel to the holy land for Nigerian pilgrims.

Confirming Arabi's presence at the commission to Thisday on Tuesday morning, the source who craved anonymity, stated that the NAHCON boss arrived the headquarters few minutes before 10:00 am and is already been interrogated by a team of detectives.

“As of now, NAHCON chairman has been invited; he is already being interrogated by our crack detectives to provide explanations on some issues that border on allegations of fund mismanagement in the commission" the source said.

When asked if Arabi's investigation was in anyway connected with the management of the 2024 Hajj funds, the source, explained that the commission has been investigating the Commission "since 2021 over the mismanagement of N200 billion", adding that three officials from NAHCON already "have made useful statement", and the CEO being the custodian of the records at NAHCON was invited to tell what he knows by the records.

"The investigation is an ongoing

thing, since 2021", he said before adding that investigators described findings as very messy.

The three NAHCON officials who had already made useful statements to the anti-graft agency include the directors of procurement, finance and programme.

“Now today, the Chief Executive Officer is invited to explain how the fund allocated to the commission is being spent.’’

Although, the source could not ascertain how long Arabi would spend with the agency during the interrogation, he however assured that before the close of work, he would be allowed to go and return the following day if the need arises. He stated that the commission in

pursuit of world's best standards no longer keep suspects beyond necessary periods. "You can see that the last ministers we invited none was detained", he said.

According to him, once there is a guarantee that a person would present himself whenever he or she was asked to do so, there would be no need to keep them in custody.

“The CEO has been invited; he has honoured the invitation. He will go back; there is no reason to keep him in the custody when he is already complying.

“The new EFCC is operating in accordance with international best practice. You can see that most of the people invited are always allowed to go if they comply”, he added.

agenda, let us come together, support what you have been doing. “One Youth One Ward” is an initiative to fight drug abuse among the youths starting from the grassroot.”

On his part, the Managing Director of NEDC, Mohammed Alkali, has revealed that the commission had embarked on training of teachers, building of mega schools and provision of scholarship scheme to students as part of efforts to resuscitate the education system in the region that was destroyed by the Boko Haram insurgent. Alkali disclosed this yesterday in Abuja, when the Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, paid a courtesy visit to his office.

He explained that youth empowerment and education were fully entrenched in the master plan of the commission, noting that when they were inaugurated about five years ago, they took a challenge to visit all the states of the North East. He said the tour of the states was an eye opener, as they garnered first hand information on what was needed to transform the region.

“When we started, we realised that the education system in the North East, particularly Borno state, had been destroyed. We have built 18 mega schools, three in each state, one in each senatorial district,” he said.

BOOSTING WATER TRANSPORTATION…

L-R: Head of Operations, Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), Famuyiwa Ibrahim; Company Secretary, LASWA, Ms Oyindamola Ade Ali; General Manager, LASWA, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel; Project Manager, Caverton Marine, Olakunmi Agbaje, and Project Consultant Equus , Abayomi Balogun, welcoming passengers from Badore Ferry Terminal to Falomo Terminal in Lagos…recently

Finally, Police Succumb to PSC, Endorse Constable Recruitment List

Ikechukwu Aleke in abuja

The Nigeria Police Force has finally submitted to the authorities of the Nigerian Police Service Commission (PSC) on the final merit list for the ongoing recruitment of Police Constables into the Force.

Earlier, the Inspector General of Police (IG), Kayode Egbetokun, had discredited the ongoing recruitment exercise, alleging that the PSC manipulated the process. He argued that the exercise was marred by alleged corruption and irregularities.

The IG, in a statement signed by the Force spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, explained that the PSC list of successful candidates was subjected to scrutiny following receipt of

Four Policemen Shot Dead in Imo

Tony Icheku in Owerri

Four police officers on stop and search checkpoint along Owerri- Onitsha Road near the MOPOL headquarters were shot dead on Monday by unknown gunmen in Owerri, Imo State.

A lady selling along the road was also shot dead during the incident, which occurred late in the evening

An eyewitness narrated that the gunmen stormed the police checkpoint near SaveMore Market Place, Irete, Owerri, around 6:30 p.m. and began shooting sporadically at the policemen killing four officers on duty, and a lady nearby. Several people were also wounded in the gun attack and were rushed to the hospital. In a statement that was issued by Imo State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Mr. Henry Okoye, said that the State Commissioner of Police, CP. Aboki Danjuma, has strongly condemned the attack and gruesome murder of four police operatives and a civilian by the unknown gunmen and has deployed the command’s tactical units with the available operational assets and intelligence to go all out in synergy with other security agencies and hunt down the hoodlums responsible for the attack.

Cholera Claims Seven in Delta

Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba

Cholera has claimed the lives of seven people in Delta State. The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme, who confirmed the casually figure while briefing newsmen in Asaba yesterday, described Cholera as a disease caused by poor sanitary environmental practices, adding that its outbreak remains a national challenge.

The health commissioner spoke at a press conference organised by the Commissioner for Information, Dr Ifeanyi Osuoza, to sensitise and update members of the public on the outbreak vis-a-vis intervention

efforts of the state government to contain the disease.

He also explained why persons who contracted the disease have not been quarantined, noting the relevant department of the state health ministry has since taken full charge of controlling the disease.

Dr Onojaeme said: “We have done so much to respond to the challenge with a view to controlling it through the Epidemiology Unit of the Health Ministry.”

We don’t quarantine Cholera patients because the disease is not airborne, but we treat victims and advise them to avoid the risk factors.

29-year-old Man Kills Father in Niger

a series of complaints from candidates, alleging corrupt practices in the recruitment exercise.

He said the published list

also contained several names of candidates who allegedly “failed either the computer-based test (CBT) or the physical screening exercise or both.”

Egbetokun added that some of those disqualified over medical issues also made the list of successful candidates as published by the PSC.

Edo 2024: Uhunmwode LGA in Standstill for Ighodalo

Adibe EmenyonuinBenin-City

The people of Uhunmwode yesterday stood still for the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr Asue Ighodalo, and his running mate, Osarodion Ogie in September 21 governorship election in Edo State as the Ward to Ward campaign train of the party rolled into the Local Government Area(LGA).

The duo and their entourage were received by a large crowd at the Ehor Primary Health Centre open field by party supporters from Ehor ward 1, Uhi ward 2, Igieduma ward 3 and Irhue ward 4. Addressing the jubilant crowd, a community leader, Mr. Charles Egbe, declared that Uhunmwode is already locked down for AsueOgie and PDP, urging the people to come out enmasse to support the ‘Umbrella’, the symbol of the PDP.In a significant speech, a member of the factional Legacy Group of the PDP in the state, Elder Dickson Imasogie, told the people that Asue Ighodalo is a candidate that is trusted. He told the people that he was a member of the aggrieved Legacy PDP but seeing Asue and his capacity, he had to dump the Legacy Group to support Asue Ighodalo knowing he will do better for the state and party and the fact that he is the best by far among all the candidates.

Wike Rewards Local Vigilance Group for Rescuing Four Victims from Kidnappers

Olawale Ajimotokan in abuja

The Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has rewarded members of local vigilance groups in Kwali Area Council for rescuing four kidnapped victims.

Wike gifted a vehicle and cash to the security outfit as a

motivation when the rescued victims were presented to him at Kaita Gembu, a community in Kwali, when he visited the area to inspect an ongoing 11km road project. The minister charged residents to collaborate with FCTA towards elimination of all criminal elements in the territory.

He also called on community

leaders to shun individuals who want to disguise as antigovernment protesters but have the intention to unleash mayhem.

Wike said: “I don’t know anything about protest and those who are protesting. We have said before that the Renewed Hope Agenda is not just for the city, it is also for the rural areas.

Three More People Gunned Down in Awka by

David-Chyddy Eleke in awka

Three persons were shot dead at different places in Awka, the Anambra State capital, last Monday.

This is coming after last Sunday morning shooting at Ifite, which left an unidentified Kogi State indigene, who was said to be a tricycle operator, dead.

The Monday’s shooting

happened in diverse places within Awka, and according to sources, about three persons lost their lives in the incidents.

A journalist, who pleaded not to be named, who notified THISDAY of one of the incidents around her area in Ukwuorji, said the incident happened at about 5p.m.

“The victim is said to be a private security operatives

“So we are happy, it is to tell some Nigerians who don’t understand and who just don’t have the opportunity to go and see what is happening.

“If you come to the FCT, you will appreciate the fact that it is working, and if FCT is working, why are you telling its residence to come and protest.”

Suspected Cultists

living in our area. He hails from Abagana and was living with his elder sister until his death on Monday,” she stated.

Another source said there was also shootings at St. Faith Cathedral area close to the popular Eke Awka Market and Amawbia area, where one person was also killed.

The source said: “That of Amawbia saw the death of a

young boy who makes and sells ‘Shawarma’ close to Eke Amawbia market.

“Eye witnesses said four bullets were pumped into his head, while residents scampered for safety.

“The scene of the incident is a pole away from the State CID and the state Police Command Headquarters, but the gunmen leisurely drove away without any challenge.

ZEAB Climate Summit to Address Pollution Link to Cancer Mortality

Ayodeji Ake

for up to 80 per cent of the risk factors.

ZEAB Therapeutic forthcoming climate summit will proffer solutions to pressing issues relating to climate change, crucial opportunities and challenges that accompany the shift to sustainable energy systems.

According to statement by ZEAP, research has shown that in Nigeria pollution is a major contribution to cancer cases and deaths, accounting

State Police Command Public Relations Officer Superintendent of Police Wasiu Abiodun, when contacted promised to “find out and get back” but did not do so until the time of going to the press.

A 29-year-old man, Muzamir Abubakar, has allegedly killed his 60-year-old father, Abubakar Adawa Tsonga, in the Barkin- Sale area of Minna, the Niger state capital. Investigations revealed the deceased had been missing since Monday causing a search for him by neighbours and good Samaritan’s. However, it was learnt that the mutilated body of Tsonga was found in a shallow grave within his house. According to the findings, the body was found in a cement sack in which he was buried with the head, legs and some other body parts missing. The son, Abubakar, has already been arrested and detained at the Kpakungu Police Station as investigation into the incident begins.

“In view of the foregoing, the national summit, which will take place from August 26 to 28, 2024 at Transcorp Hilton Hotel Abuja, will showcase innovative green solutions, and discussions around problem identified in Nigeria, particularly Rivers State, which has caused immense environmental pollution, and the health of residents in the state continuously deteriorating,

with increased disease occurrence statistics,” it said.

“The conference aims to raise awareness about the advantages of renewable energy and the pressing need to address climate change.

It will also discuss comprehensive strategies for mitigating climate change through sustainable energy practices, create a platform for collaboration among various stakeholders, including governments,

the private sector, and civil society, and explore novel financing mechanisms and policy frameworks that support the growth of green energy,” it added. The statement explained this conference will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, academics and environmental advocates to foster collaboration, share insights and develop actionable strategies to accelerate the adoption of green renewable energy technologies.

NAPTIP Urges Nigerians to Raise their Voices against Human Trafficking

The Director-General, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Prof. Fatima Waziri-Azi, has called on Nigerians to begin to raise their voices against any activity suspected to be human trafficking.

The director-general made the call after a road walk and march pass by all state task forces against human trafficking in Abuja on

Tuesday.

Waziri-Azi said that the road walk was to commemorate the 2024 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, which is celebrated annually on July 30.

“The commemoration of the 2024 event started on Saturday with a novelty football match, we also had a successful town hall meeting where everybody showed up.

“We are here today for more activities, and the event still goes on till Friday. The theme of this year’s celebration is “Leave No Child Behind in the Fight Against Human Trafficking.”

“Based on this theme, we have a dedicated event for survivors of human trafficking, with a grand finale event tagged “Survivors

Got Talent.” We have victims from some of our partners here. “Today shouldn’t just be the day when we speak out against human trafficking; it is something we should do every second.

“If you see somebody doing something wrong with a child or you suspect foul play, please use your voice to expose wrongdoing.”

Laleye Dipo in Minna

Ogunsemilore Exits Paris 2024 Without Throwing a Punch

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Nigerian female boxer, Cynthia Temitayo Ogunsemilore’s adventure at the ongoing Paris 2024 Olympic Games ended yesterday without throwing a punch!

The Nigerian boxer was scheduled to fight for glory in the women’s 60kg category but was found to have spiked her system with Furosemide, a substance prohibited by WADA at all times and is classified as a “Specified Substance” under S.5 Diuretics and Masking Agents of the 2024 WADA Prohibited List.

That test was carried out few

days to the Games,during an outof-competition doping control on July 25, 2024.

Of course, she was given the benefit of doubt and asked to appear before Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) officials on Monday. She had no legitimate medical condition to resort to the use of the banned substance.

The Single Judge of the CAS ADD held a hearing with Ogunsemilore and issued his decision later the same day, confirming the provisional suspension imposed by the IOC on Ms Cynthia Temitayo Ogunsemilor on 27 July 2024 and continuing through the duration

of the Olympic Games Paris 2024.

It was on the strength of CAS ruling yesterday that IOC directed that Ogunsemilore should vacate the Games Village.

Press Attachee of Team Nigeria, Tony Nezianya, early yesterday issued a terse official statement, decamping the female boxer.

“The international Olympic Committee (IOC) has directed the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) to evacuate Cynthia Ogunsemilore, Nigerian female 60kg boxer from the Games' Village.

“This follows her provisional suspension on account of her alleged

Paris 2024: Super Falcons Condemned to Win against Japan Tonight

Against two consecutive defeats at the ongoing Women’s Football Tournament of the Olympic Games, the Super Falcons are condemned to win to be mathematically sure of qualification into the event's next round.

The Nigerian team had suffered two narrow defeats first against Brazil in the opening match, followed by another lone-goal loss to World Champions, Spain on Sunday.

However, reports from the camp of the Falcons last night paint the picture of players who believe they can do the needful by beating Japan in commanding fashion at the Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes this evening to earn a place in the quarter-finals, albeit as one of the two best third-placed teams heading into that stage.

Japan fell hard to the Super Falcons in a Women’s Olympic Football Tournament match in Piraeus, Greece in 2004, when Vera Okolo’s strike was the only goal of the match and earned Nigeria all three points.

That win, which also handed the Super Falcons their only quarter-final

berth at the tournament so far, is also the only victory the nine-time African champions have celebrated at the Olympics since they started participating 24 years ago.

“Victory over Japan is possible. We will work hard so that we can accomplish that. The Super Falcons have done it before and we can do it again,” said captain Rasheedat Ajibade. Ajibade, Asisat Oshoala and Chinwendu Ihezuo had gilt-edged opportunities to become only Nigeria’s fourth-ever scorer at the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament, but none was able to utilize the chances that came their way in the game against world champions Spain on Sunday.

Mercy Akide-Udoh, the elegant forward who is now FIFA’s Goodwill Ambassador for Women’s Football, is the run-away top scorer for Nigeria with four goals. She netted two at the Sydney Olympics, in the 1-3 losses to Norway (in Canberra) and the USA (in Melbourne). She also scored twice in Athens four years later, in the 1-2 defeats to Sweden and Germany.

Four-time African Player of the

Nigeria’s U-18 Basketball Teams Begin Battles in Abidjan

Nigeria's male and female U18 national teams arrived in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire last Thursday ahead of the FIBA U18 qualifying tournament scheduled for July 29 through August 4. The tipoff is scheduled for today in the Ivorian capital.

As of press time, the exact fixtures had not been decided with the pre-competition meeting billed for last night.

It is a fiesta in Paris, France as the Olympic Games continue, but for these young Nigerians it is a chance to develop, win some games and qualify for a bigger competition in South Africa and eventually ultimate growth into D’Tigers and D’Tigress teams.

The boys and girls teams were able to train for two weeks in Nigeria preparatory to the trip to Abidjan as the

Nigeria Basketball Federation remained resolute to keep their youth programmes going

The Leader of Delegation and Vice Chairman of the Youth Committee on the Board of the NBBF, Ugo Udezue said from the Abidjan centre that the NBBF remains focused on their set developmental goals.

He then expressed deep gratitude to the NBBF President Musa Kida for his resilience creating an enabling environment and all those that volunteered time and resources to bring the team to Abidjan.

“We are grateful to Ministry of Sports Development and the Nigerian government in general for making the platform available to these young ones. They genuinely understand the set goals of the NBBF.

Defeated Opeyori Battles China's Feng Tonight

Team Nigeria's sole representative in the Paris Olympics Badminton event, Anuoluwapo Opeyori lost his first Group match in the Men's Singles yesterday.

The Team Nigeria captain lost to Tobias Kuenzi of Switzerland by two sets.

Opeyori came very close to winning the first set, leading by three set points, but ended up

losing it on a tie-break (22-20).

The Nigerian was no match for Kuenzi in the second set as he lost 14-21.

Opeyori will be back on the court this evening to redeem himself to face China's SF Li.

After making his first appearance in the Olympics last time in Tokyo, he became the first Nigerian to attain back-to-back appearances at the games.

doping violation contained in a result of sample test.

In compliance with the the directive, the Team Nigeria management will cooperate with the IOC and any other relevant bodies to ensure she is moved out the Village,” the Team Nigerian press officer concluded in the statement.

News of the dope scandal involving the boxer broke early hours of Friday as the global world was gearing up to witness once-in-lifeopening ceremony put in place by France.

The International Testing Agency (ITA), on behalf of International Olympic Committee (IOC), fingered the Nigerian boxer in that out-competition testing carried out there at the Games Village. And as it is mandatory, a provisional suspension was clamped on her with immediate effect pending her appeal to CAS.

As at press time last night, there was no official response from the Nigerian Boxing Federation on how Ogunsemilore got entangled in dope that denied her the chance to participate in the Games she spent

months to prepare for.

At the last Olympic Games in Tokyo, 10 Nigerian athletes were disqualified from competing in their events after they failed to undergo mandatory tests ahead of the global sports fiesta.

But the biggest scandal for Team Nigeria was the suspension and subsequent banning for 11 years of Blessing Okagbare from the Games.

Elegbeleye

Chairman of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, has explained that clubs in the league stand to reap financial benefits in the future from the partnership with Spanish side, Sevilla FC.

Elegbeleye spoke from Spain where he travelled to put pen to paper in formalising the collaboration that would see NPFL clubs Coaches receive training facilitated by the club.

"In the long run, there would be the possibility of the NPFL youth players attracting offers from international clubs and this will go a long way in ensuring financial stability for our Clubs and reduce their dependence on government for those clubs funded by states",

Elegbeleye told NPFL Media.

As part of the deal, a team selected during the NPFL U-17 Youth League would be embarking on a training tour to Spain and would be hosted by Sevilla. While in Spain, they will receive training at the club academy and play friendly games.

"The tour of Spain will provide

international exposure to the young players and an opportunity to exhibit their natural skills to attract offers. It is a career development path for the youth team members of NPFL Clubs", added the league chairman. The players numbering 30 have

of competition test in Slovakia on July 19. She was banned for 10 years and later extended to 11 years, effectively ending Okagbare’s track and field career.

Ofili Shocked Excluded from Women's 100m Duro Ikhazuagbe

Nigerian sprinter, Favour Ofili, has expressed her disappointment with her exclusion from the women's 100m event of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The petit sprinter learnt her fate in the event when World Athletics published the entries for the women's 100m heat without the Nigerian speedster.

Ofili took to X (formerly Twitter) last night to vent her anger on those who made such costly error.

The error must have occurred between the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) and the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC).

Ofili wrote last night: "It is with great regret that I have just been told I will not be competing in the 100 meters at this Olympic Games. I qualified, but those with the AFN and NOC failed to enter me. I have worked for 4 years to earn this opportunity. For what?" queried the distraught sprinter. She recalled that she was similarly disenfranchised to compete at the last Olympic Games in Tokyo.

NPFL, Sevilla Deal

been training in a camp at the FIFA Goal Project since July 21 and have played trial matches with some Abuja-based clubs.

Elegbeleye also said that the partnership with Sevilla also aims to strengthen sporting and diplomatic

relationship between Nigeria and Spain. This, he stated has already culminated in a visit to the Spanish ambassador to Nigeria.

In Spain, the NPFL Chairman was hosted by top officials of the LaLiga club led by the President, José María del Nido Carrasco. Carrasco expressed delight at the opportunity to partner the NPFL, adding that it would grow the club's fanbase in Africa's most populous nation.

"We are very happy to be able to work with the Nigerian Premier Football League. Sevilla FC is convinced that this alliance can help NPFL clubs to continue improving and encourage the development of youth players.

"It is a new decisive step in our internationalisation process and will help our brand to continue to grow in Africa, in a country like Nigeria from which we are receiving a lot of support after the signing of Chidera Ejuke,”

The partnership made the NPFL a member of Sevilla's ‘World Club Alliance Programme’ which aims to establish the club's presence globally.

The 2008 Beijing Olympic Games long jump silver medalist was stopped from competing in the semi final of the women’s 100m after she tested positive for human growth hormones in an out

Super Falcons captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, attempts to beat her Brazilian maker in he opening match last Sunday

Cynthia Ogunsemilore

NPFL Chairman, Hon Gbenga Elegbeleye exchanges jersey with Sevilla FC President, José María del Nido Carrasco

Femi Solaja

Year Perpetua Nkwocha trails with two goals, scored in the 1-3 defeat by China in Canberra in 2000 and the 1-3 loss to Brazil in Beijing eight years later.

MISSILE

Nyame to Protest Planners

“Whereas every Nigerian has the right to complain or protest against bad governance, the language employed by the planners is threatening, divisive and clearly aims at removing a democratically elected government. This action can only worsen the situation and endanger the lives of thousands of people. There is already a constitutional means of removing a bad government through the ballot box...” --FormerTarabaStateGovernor,Rev. JollyNyame,warnstheprotestplannerstoeschewviolenceandbrigandage.

MagnusONYIbe

Protests: ‘Should I Kill Myself Or Have A Cup of Coffee?’

Some Nigerians are reportedly planning to begin tomorrow a ten-day street protest under the hashtag #EndBadGovernance2024.

In response to the fear instilled in many Nigerians by the threats from the protest organizers—who have warned of severe consequences (which, to be fair, is a lawful action in a democracy if conducted peacefully)—those who can afford it are stocking up on groceries and other essentials to last at least ten days, should the protests actually take place.

While people have prepared for potential food shortages, concerns remain about the safety of individuals and property, which are common issues during street protests. Despite the organizers’ promises of a peaceful demonstration, the reason behind the protest—#EndBadGovernance, HungerProtest

These worries are amplified by the disastrous outcomes of the 2020 #EndSARS protests. The youth organized these protests to voice their dissatisfaction and anger towards the Nigerian Police unit, SARS (Special Anti-Robbery Squad), known for its brutality and extortion. Although the protests started with good intentions, they were derailed by individuals with malicious agendas, which has left the nation’s leaders feeling uneasy.

The authorities are justifiably concerned because it’s been less than five years since the #EndSARS incident, from which the country has yet to fully recover due to the massive loss of life and property caused by likely criminal elements who infiltrated the initially peaceful protest and caused chaos.

The current anxiety among those in power is exacerbated by the fact that the levels of hunger and anger in the country, spurred by the recent removal of subsidies on petrol, naira, and electricity, are much higher than during the 2019/2020 period when the COVID-19 pandemic led to a national lockdown and economic shutdown, making life extremely challenging, particularly for those who live hand-to-mouth.

This bleak outlook on the coming days prompted the title of my piece this week, which may seem unusual to readers. I ask for their understanding as the odd title is meant to reflect the dire situation described in the opening paragraphs, and it represents my contemplation of the potential consequences we might face if the planned street protests materialize tomorrow

As I pondered the upcoming protest, which I believe is almost certain to escalate into riots—as was the case in Kenya on June 25/26, where 40 people tragically lost their lives and a vast amount of property was destroyed—the thought that came to mind was: “Should I kill myself or have a cup of coffee? In the end, it takes more courage to live than to take one’s own life.”

Before proceeding further, I want to clarify that the quote used in the title is not my own. It is attributed to the French philosopher Albert Camus, who was also a novelist, playwright, and journalist. Camus is best known for his concept of “absurdism,” which suggests that humanity’s search for meaning and purpose is fundamentally at odds with the indifferent nature of the universe.

The absurdity of the current crisis our country has been facing over the past year, and the potential

crisis we may face starting tomorrow if the planned protests occur, led me to ponder the stark choices reflected in the title, “Should I Kill Myself Or Have A Cup Of Coffee?”. Personally, I know I will choose coffee, but there are valid reasons why our hard-pressed compatriots might feel compelled to protest the tangible hardships they are experiencing.

Hence the question posed in the title is not just about me; but it is directed towards our young population, who may be driven to join the protests out of hunger and anger. This emotional state could lead them to act impulsively, potentially putting themselves at risk.

Given this context, I urge everyone to approach the situation with caution if the protests go ahead as planned. My appeal is grounded in the philosophical insights of Albert Camus, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1957 “for his significant literary work, which with clear-sighted earnestness illuminates the problems of the human conscience in our times.” Camus’s ideas continue to influence contemporary thought and culture, making him one of the most important and thought-provoking figures of the 20th century. This piece is intended to raise awareness among potential protesters by reflecting on some of Camus’s thought-provoking quotes, which are interpreted below in the context of our current situation, in the hope that they may resonate with Nigerians considering protest.

1. “In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.”

This means that despite the hardships we are currently facing, there is a potential for a brighter future, which we need to remain hopeful about.

2. “You will never be happy if you continue to search for what happiness consists of. You will never live if you are looking for the meaning of life.”

This suggests that instead of constantly seeking happiness, we should focus on making the best of our current situations, embodying the resilient ‘Nigerian Spirit.’

3. “The only way to deal with an unfree world is to become so absolutely free that your very existence is an act of rebellion.”

To me, this means that we can resist and overcome challenges that threaten to derail us by embodying a spirit of resilience and determination.

4. “You can’t create experience; you must undergo it.”

This implies that by enduring the current difficulties, we will gain valuable experience that will help us handle even tougher situations in the future.

5. “Life is very long when you’re angry, and very short when you’re happy.”

This is straightforward: when we are angry, time seems to drag, but when we are happy, it seems to fly by.

6. “The only real progress lies in learning to be wrong.”

This suggests the importance of recognizing and admitting when we are mistaken and choosing to refrain from actions if the timing isn’t right.

7. “I would rather live my life as if there is a God and die to find out there isn’t than live as if there isn’t and die to find out there is.”

This encourages us to live with faith and put God/Allah at the center of our actions.

As an eternal optimist, and a trained diplomat I hope my appeal resonates with the protesters and helps calm their anger. For the government, my advice is twofold. First, it needs to strengthen the relationship between the leadership and the citizens. Currently, there is a noticeable disconnect between the government and the people it governs. Communication between the administration and many Nigerians, especially those active on social media, has been too confrontational. Regardless of whether these individuals—who are likely supporters of the opposition—voted for President Tinubu or not, the current administration should make efforts to engage and win them over.

It is recommended that the government actively engage in dialogue with the youth, who are yet to see many proposed interventions come to fruition. Failing to communicate effectively with them can be compared to the public relations cliché of winking at a pretty lady in a dark room—you know what you’re doing, but nobody does,which means you’re not actually communicating. Without engaging with disillusioned, possibly frustrated, and angry youths, how can they understand and support the government’s programs and agenda? This is where the role of the youth minister becomes crucial. However, the youth minister appears to be conspicuously absent or ineffective.

If the current government can negotiate with the Nigeria Labor Congress (NLC) and agree to increase the minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000—a 125% raise—then there is no reason why our hungry and angry compatriots cannot be persuaded to hold back from protesting. According to media reports, President Bola Tinubu is currently consulting with various stakeholders, including faith leaders, traditional rulers, and others, which is a positive step. However, the youth seem to be missing from these discussions. Remarkably, President Tinubu’s approach contrasts with the administration of Goodluck Jonathan, which failed to engage in consultations,

leading to his failure to prevent the protests that forced him to reverse the decision to remove the petrol subsidy in 2012. The open consultations by President Tinubu’s administration suggest that Jonathan’s administration lacked the strategic skills to manage the situation, which contributed to his being labeled as clueless by opposition parties and ultimately losing power.

The reality is that every Nigerian leader in the past four decades has understood the potential unsavory fallout from removing subsidies on petrol, the naira, and electricity. Even military leaders like Olusegun Obasanjo, Muhammadu Buhari, Ibrahim Babangida, and Sani Abacha did not eliminate subsidies. However,there was a consensus among the major presidential candidates in the 2023 elections that subsidies needed to be removed due to the corruption associated with them. Unlike previous leaders, Tinubu has shown the boldness to remove these subsidies and is standing firm in his decision, believing it is in the best interest of the country to eliminate a system that has nearly suffocated the nation. As a skilled political strategist, he has been using all the tools at his disposal to navigate the challenges facing his presidency. His adept handling of the upcoming street protests, expected to begin on August 1, has been commendable so far. However, the President and Commander-inChief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria needs to communicate directly with the Nigerian public through a live media session where anyone can call in and share their views with him. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as our President, should not avoid this important responsibility.

We have also not seen legislators and members of the president’s cabinet reaching out to their constituents via video or direct engagements enlightening them about the programs and policies of government and the need for them to eschew bitterness and should not engage in violent activities if they must protest.

There are valid concerns that some organizers of the protests might have plans to escalate them into riots with the intention of forcibly removing the President, who was elected by the people. Nevertheless, he should reassure those who feel marginalized that he is the President of all Nigerians, open to their ideas and support. Those who disagree with him should follow the appropriate process, which is to wait for the 2027 election cycle if they believe he is unpopular. By then, hopefully his policies, which seem harsh now, are expected to have started showing positive results for the masses, who may then vote for him in large numbers. Apparently he introduced these tough policies early in his term, starting on May 29 last year, in order to have sufficient time to implement them and improve the economy before the next national elections. Based on my analysis, if President Tinubu takes these steps, he will overcome any efforts to remove him from office. With time running out, the need for action is urgent.

•Magnus Onyibe, an entrepreneur, public policy analyst, author, democracy advocate, development strategist, alumnus of Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University, Massachusetts, USA, and a former commissioner in Delta state government, sent this piece from Lagos, Nigeria.

President Bola Tinubu

G u EST COL um NIST