FRIDAY 4TH AUGUST 2023

Niger Crisis: In Search of Resolution, Tinubu Dispatches 3-man Team to Niamey

Abdulsalami Abubakar leads delegation Sends another team headed by Kingibe to interface with leaders of Libya, Algeria

We'll convey regional heads' displeasure to coupists, says Ex-head of state DHQ: ECOWAS military chiefs yet to receive battle order to engage in Niger Atiku, ACF, Addo advise AU, ECOWAS against military action, harp on diplomacy

Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja, John Shiklam in Kaduna The Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and

Government, President Bola Tinubu, has dispatched a three-man delegation to Niger Republic with

a mandate to expeditiously resolve the current political impasse in the country.

The development emerged just as the Defence Headquarters yesterday, said defence chiefs of ECOWAS

Pension Assets Hit N16.76tn, Recorded N1.7tn Growth in Q1 2023, Says PenCom...

NLC Threatens Nationwide Strike from August 14 over FG’s Contempt Charge

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in

At Ganduje’s Coronation, Tinubu Says His Election Most Credible

Declares his policies are for Nigerians, not to punish them APC NEC ratifies Ganduje, Basiru as national chair, secretary Rubbishes EU report, empowers NWC to fill other vacancies New chair promises strict adherence to internal democracy Ruling party’s national legal adviser resigns amid graft charge

CORONATION BY CONSENSUS...

L-R: President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio; Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; New National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and the New National Secretary of the Party, Senator Ajibola Bashiru, during the 12th National Executive Committee Meeting (NEC) of the Party in Abuja .... yesterday .

Report: NNPC ‘Spuds’ Nasarawa Well, Four Months After Ceremony

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has finally spud Ebenyi-A well in Nasarawa State, four months after it officially made the announcement.

Besides, the company is also frantically working to spud the Wadi-B in Borno state, tentatively by the second week of August, 2023, the Africa Oil & Gas Report said. The national oil company had staged two events on the drill sites of

the two wells that gave the impression that drilling had commenced, the report indicated.

“The spud date for Ebenyi-A, which means the date that the drilling actually began, was July 22, 2023, close to four months after the event at which former President Muhammadu Buhari ‘kicked off the exploratory drilling campaign’.

“The one-trimester of a year delay was largely due to logistical challenges thrown up by access to water required for drilling,” the

report added. It noted that President Buhari's widely reported ‘kicking off of the exploratory drilling campaign”, on March 28, 2023, was at best ceremonial, as it did not translate to actual spudding the well.

Buhari had said the move was in line with the campaigns for the exploration of crude oil and gas in the nation’s frontier basins.

The former president listed the assets the nation intended to explore as those in the Chad Basin, Dahomey

Basin, Anambra Platform, the Calabar Embankment, Sokoto Basin, Bida Basin, Benue Trough as well as the UltraDeepwater Niger Delta.

For Wadi-B well in Bornu State, NNPC, the report said. was also presented with a technical disruption; including heavy rains which washed off the constructs of the drill site, such that the pre-drill infrastructure had to be re-installed.

NNPC Ltd has carried out extensive geological mapping and geochemical sampling, as well as stress field surveys

in several basins in the north of the country in the last six years.

Based on the results of the surveys, it acquires focused three dimensional (3D) seismic data, which is how it arrived at the specific drilling locations in Nasarawa.

“When we shoot 3Ds, we are prospect specific. It is not random”, NNPC insiders told the news medium. “If we make a find, we'd drill one or two appraisal wells and then offer the blocks up to the private sector for development,” the source added.

AT GANDUJE'S CORONATION, TINUBU SAYS HIS ELECTION MOST CREDIBLE

Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Adedayo Akinwale and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, said he believed strongly that the election that brought him into office was the most credible in the country’s political history. Tinubu stated this at a meeting with members of his governing All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abuja to officially ratify former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, as National Chairman of the party.

The president told the APC National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting that the party and government must find a way to satisfy the yearnings of the people. He said it was important that the policies being implemented by his administration worked for Nigerians, and not punish them.

The NEC meeting approved the choice of Ganduje as APC national chairman, and Senator Ajibola Basiru, from Osun State, as national secretary. The duo replaced Abdullahi Adamu and Iyiola Omisore, who recently resigned as national chairman and national secretary, respectively.

The APC NEC, at its meeting, rubbished the election report by the European Union (EU) monitoring team. APC said an organisation, whose identity and address it did not know, had resorted to campaign of calumny and incitement of Nigerians against the party and government, forcing the party to pass a vote of confidence in the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The NEC devolved more powers to the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), with a mandate to fill all other existing vacancies in the NWC.

Ganduje declared that on his watch, internal democracy would be strictly adhered to, with a deliberate policy to engage in wider consultation and make the party functional.

However, APC National Legal Adviser, Ahmed El-Marzuk, yesterday, resigned from the

party’s NWC, amid allegations of corruption.

Nonetheless, addressing APC faithful in Abuja, Tinubu said the ruling party got the trophy by winning the election, saying the reward for hard work is more work.

He stated, "The party has a responsibility to promote unity, stability and love among ourselves. And we have to fulfil your dreams and the dreams of our founding fathers.

"To be sure that Nigeria remains the focal point of our domestic and foreign policies. You are the drivers of the party, when we have all other passengers, the drivers and co passenger must not fall asleep and the break working. Party loyalty becomes very important.

"Yes, we are facing challenges in the court, but I think this is the most credible election in Nigeria. So, we must congratulate ourselves. As a democrat, those who cannot accept the results of a free and fair election do not deserve the joy of victory."

Tinubu admitted that there were governance issues, which the federal government was tackling head on.

He said, "We must oil the wheel, grease it. I have submitted ministerial list to Senate for screening and approval. We are in the process of establishing fully the government of the people, for the people and by the people.

"I can see a number of my friends here and you have not been able to see me. It is what you all fought for to bring me here, we have governance issues and you will not see me often as you want to."

The president noted that the country was going through issues, some of which he had sufficiently addressed in his nationwide broadcast last Monday.

According to him, "We will face it squarely to reengineer the economy of this country. We must find a way to satisfy the yearnings of the common man and we must ensure that all the policies we roll out work for the common man. Our policies are for the people, not to punish

NLC THREATENS NATIONWIDE STRIKE FROM AUGUST 14 OVER FG CONTEMPT CHARGE

decision to suspend further protest on the nationwide mass protest

The communiqué stated that the NLC would maintain the required vigilance needed to hold government accountable on its assurances and governance in general

It also stated that it was committed to the terminal date of August 19th 2023, within which the issues around the petroleum price hike woulf be agreed given the assurances of the President and the National Assembly.While commending the national leadership and all the state officers for the effective coordination of the protest, the NLC urged all affiliates and State Councils including its Civil society allies to stay further action but to remain focused and eternal vigilant.

The labour centre further gave highlights of its meeting with the president on Wednesday, saying

President Bola Tinubu personally guaranteed action on the key demands of the workers during

the people.”

Tinubu also spoke to some foreign issues.

He said, "To the International community, I sent a message to Europe and America yesterday.

To our partners, I ask how can you handle a barking dog and mad dog and prevent a barking dog from eating from the plate of your enemy. We are hungry and the continent depends on Nigeria. We need help, but not at the expense of our joy, peace and happiness.

"The party is in your hand, let us redirect this party. Let us show the rest of the country that we are united for a purpose and if

we veer from the path, posterity will not forgive us.

"So, ladies and gentlemen, let us take a few items on our plates, vote the chairman and secretary, while we devolve some powers to NWC to fill the others after consultation. Let us do what we can today."

Ganduje declared that on his watch internal democracy would be prioritised, and there would be a deliberate effort to engage in wide consultation, and make the party more functional.

The former governor, who is the sixth national chairman of APC in 10 years, made the pledge after his ratification by

the NEC.

The NEC, at its meeting held at Transcorp Hilton, also appointed Basiru, a former Senate spokesman, as the party's national secretary.

Ganduje assured that his focus would be to promote party unity, and defend and increase the number of executive and legislative seats the party currently held.

He stated, "Under my watch, internal democracy will be strictly adhered to, with a deliberate policy to engage in wider consultations and making the party functional throughout the year. More reforms will be carried

“The proposed Wadi-B drilling is the latest incarnation of the Chad basin campaign, in Nigeria’s far northeast, which has been on and off for the past 40 years.

“As head of state in February 1985, Muhammadu Buhari, then a serving Military General, visited a site of the (then) Chad Basin drilling. At the time, 22 wells had been drilled, with only two of them indicating hydrocarbon shows. Wadi-1 was one of those with such evidence, ” the report said.

out in the party in alignment with the current political landscape.

"We all agreed that we must unite our members to achieve support for our government to respond adequately, urgently and assertively to the challenges that Nigerians confront on a daily basis."

The former Kano State governor added that the challenges included unemployment, poverty, insecurity, social cohesion, and rising cost of living.

He appealed to Nigerians to bear with the president at this trying moment, considering that

Continued on page 35

NIGER CRISIS: IN SEARCH OF RESOLUTION, TINUBU DISPATCHES 3-MAN TEAM TO NIAMEY

order to engage in Niger Republic in furtherance of the decision of the regional bloc, ECOWAS, to deploy military assets to dislodge the coupists in that country.

However, former vice president and the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 presidential election, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), have advised the African Union (AU) and ECOWAS against the use of force in restoring democratic governance in Niger Republic.

The three-man delegation dispatched by Tinubu, according to a statement issued yesterday, by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, was in line with the resolution reached at the end of the extraordinary summit of the ECOWAS held on Sunday in Abuja.

On July 26, Muhammadou Bazoum, the elected president of Niger was over thrown in a military coup d’etat led by Brigadier General Abdoulrahame Tchiani.

The delegation, headed by former Nigerian Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (Rtd), left for Niamey on Thursday following a briefing by President Tinubu at the State House in Abuja.

The former Nigerian Head of State is joined in the delegation by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar III and the President of the ECOWAS Commission, H.E. Omar Alieu Touray.

Abubakar, disclosed that the task before his team was to express the displeasure of the ECOWAS leaders with the developments in Niger to those who hijacked power in the country.

He said: "We have just been give our marching orders to go to Niger and convey the feelings of our heads of state in the region that they are not happy with what happened. And they gave them an ultimatum that the coupists should desist from what they are doing and give back power to an elected President and again, to make sure that this message is sent loud and clear to them.

"That’s what we are here for. So far, we are going there to convey this message to them and hear their response and report back what they have said".

Also speaking, Kingibe said talking with Libya and Algeria, two countries bordering Niger to the North, would stimulate the solidarity required for peaceful talks.

According to him: "Of course, this kind of situation requires solidarity. It requires coordination with all parties that are relevant to the situation.

"In that regard, Libya and Algeria are also very important neighbours of Niger. So, my mission is to go there with a message from President Tinubu. To brief them on the ECOWAS position and solicit solidarity and cooperation."

action in Republic of Niger.

"The AFN is yet to receive any order from the appropriate authority to commence military action, against the military junta in Niger.

"It’s no longer news that some members of the Republic of Niger Armed Forces seized power from a democratically elected government through un-constitutional means.

"In reaction to this illegal takeover of government the ECOWAS Heads of Government met and a series of options were reached on how to intervene in the crisis", it said.

"Military option was the last option to be taken in case every other option fails to reverse the situation and return the Government of Republic of Niger to constitutional order.

"At the moment, ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff is currently holding an extraordinary meeting in Abuja to discuss the political situation in Republic of Niger and submit their plans to the committee of Heads of States and Government of ECOWAS for consideration", it said.

The statement affirmed that "the Armed Forces of Nigeria cannot proceed on any operation in any of the member states of ECOWAS without the mandate from the Authority of Heads of States and Government".

governance in that country.

"While the expectations that fall on Nigeria as the sub-regional leader is not a quick fix, it must be expressed that the role taken so far by ECOWAS has been commendable," Atiku stated.

The former vice president added: "As ECOWAS continues to work towards reinstating democracy in the Republic of Niger, it must be reinforced that the regional body should not travel the road of military hostilities that may exacerbate the status quo.

"The crisis in the Republic of Niger requires diplomatic engagements, and that must mean that the channels for dialogue should be well sustained.

"While the world expects Nigeria to take a leading role in this process of peaceful conflict resolution, it must be clear to the military insurrectionists in the Republic of Niger that the world cannot afford to wait for too long before this crisis is resolved reasonably.

"This is undoubtedly a challenging time for the West African region. However, any actions taken towards the prompt resolution of the crisis in the Republic of Niger must prioritize democracy as the ultimate victor," the former vice president advised.

their close-door meeting

It listed the areas to include an immediate restructuring of the framework for engaging the consequences of petrol price hike in line with the input of the labour leaders, assurance that the Port Harcourt Refinery would commence production by December this year and a pledge to ensure that agreement is reached on the Wage Award for Nigerian workers immediately.

In addition, the NLC said the president promised to unveil a workable roadmap to the CNG alternative next week.

Earlier, the NLC and the TUC had threatened that if the president fails to call the Justice Ministry to order, they would be forced to review their position and immediately resume the nationwide protest.

At an emergency meeting of the NLC and TUC, the two labour centres had announced the suspension of the nationwide protest.

The president also sent a separate delegation led by Amb. Babagana Kingibe to engage with the leaders of Libya and Algeria on the Niger crisis.

Briefing the two delegations, Tinubu charged them to engage all stakeholders robustly with a view to doing whatever it takes to ensure a conclusive and amicable resolution of the situation in Niger for the purposes of African peace and development rather than a move to adopt the geopolitical positions of other nations.

"We don't want to hold brief for anybody. Our concern is democracy and the peace of the region," the president said.

Speaking after the meeting, General Abubakar said the delegation would meet the coup leaders in Niger to present the demands of the ECOWAS leadership.

Both leaders of the two missions expressed optimism on the outcome of the assignments.

Speaking with newsmen before departing State House for Niamey, former Head of State, General

He expressed optimism that the talks would avert a possible military intervention saying, "we hope to find a diplomatic solution. Nobody wants to go to war, especially with neighbourly, brotherly people across the border with whom we share a common language, culture and religion."

Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters yesterday disclosed that defence chiefs of ECOWAS were yet to receive any battle order to engage in Niger Republic.

The clarification came following reports that the Nigerian military had received orders to mobilise troops and other naval assets for the planned Niger operation.

A statement signed by the Acting Director, Defence Information (DDI), Brig Gen Tukur Gusau, stated that the Armed Forces of Nigeria cannot proceed on any operation in any of the member states of ECOWAS without the mandate of the Authority of Heads of States and Government.

"The attention of the Armed Forces of Nigeria has been drawn to an online report stating that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) is assembling its forces for military

However, the ACF has advised AU and ECOWAS against the use of force in restoring democratic governance in Niger Republic.

ECOWAS heads of state and government had in a communique issued at the end of the 51st Extraordinary Summit held in Abuja on July 30, 2023 issued a one-week ultimatum for the coupists to return power to the democratically elected Bazoum, or face a range of sanctions including, among others, economic, land and overflight blockade already imposed or military intervention.

However, Atiku Abubakar has cautioned against military engagement in resolving the Niger Republic coup saga, stressing the need for dialogue as a means to resolve the crisis.

In a statement he signed, Atiku said the military intervention in the Republic of Niger had created tension across the West Africa subregion, adding that the development had caused international attention to neighbouring countries, including Nigeria.

"Of course, the world expects Nigeria to take up leadership in ensuring that the crisis of political leadership in the Republic of Niger is not just curtailed, but also ensuring the restoration of democratic

Also, the ACF, while commending the position of the regional bodies in a statement in Kaduna, yesterday, said military action against the coupist would be counterproductive considering the relationship between Nigeria and Niger.

The statement signed by the Secretary General of the forum, Murtala Aliyu, said the ACF was concerned about unfolding events in Nigeria's immediate neighbour and the potential impact on the region.

The statement noted that, “Nigeria and Niger share a long historical boarder of more than one 1,500 kilometers with families, communities sharing common facilities including farmlands, markets, cultural bonds and languages for many centuries predating the Trans Saharan Trade and colonial times.

It said, “The two countries have enjoyed harmonious brotherly and mutually beneficial inter communal relationships from time immemorial.”

Aliyu said, “The measures being contemplated should have taken into consideration the historical antecedents and mutual interests of the two countries and weighed the consequences of the use of force.”

The statement said, “While

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

SULTAN VISITS TINUBU...

NUPRC Denies Workers’Allegations of Wrongdoing

External political forces instigating crisis at commission, says CSOs

The management of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has dismissed as wild, baseless and unfounded allegations by some elements in the workers’ union, accusing it of wrongdoings.

In a statement yesterday, the regulatory agency challenged those behind the allegations to publish details of the wrongdoings and to produce other documentary evidence to support their case.

The local branch of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) had while protesting what they termed, among others, the escalating critical concerns affecting staff welfare in the commission, made several allegations against the Gbenga Komolafe-led organisation.

However, in a response, the NUPRC stated that the allegations were deliberately aimed at seeking cheap attention and disparaging the integrity of the commission’s chief executive for purely sinister motives.

In a seven-point response, the NURPC responded to all the allegations.

It stated that there was no truth in the accusation of inflation of contracts at the NUPRC, stating that the commission approved a sustainable template for the engagement and payment of external solicitors engaged by the commission.

“The purveyors are challenged to publish the account details and invoices supporting the transactions in their nefarious claims,” it added.

“It is worth indicating here that the CCE is not a sole administrator, but operates under the guidance of supervisory structures emplaced by the PIA 2021 and the federal government,” the NUPRC stated.

Meanwhile, the Civil Society Network for Good Governance (CSNGG), an umbrella body of 87 CSOs has alleged that some external forces are instigating crisis at the NUPRC.

Its President, Adefila Kama, while addressing a press conference yesterday, in Abuja, said the external forces were not happy with the smooth operations and success stories of the commission whose only job is to implement the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) to the last line.

The group said it observed that the Commission under the

leadership of Komolafe, had embarked on laudable reform to reposition NUPRC in the promotion of sustainable value creation from Nigeria's petroleum resources for shared prosperity.

The group noted that the commission, in less than a year of operation has ensured strict adherence to all rules and regulations guiding approvals and issuance of licensing in the upstream sector.

It said the regulations, within a few months of its introduction have resulted in the transparent bridging of oil and gas products and price equalisation management that have saved the government billions of naira.

Kama, stressed that the commission has been praised for its sterling performance and ability to raise about N174 billion in signature bonuses paid for marginal oil fields and developed regulatory initiatives within a short period.

He said: "The CSOs Network is also not unaware of the plot by a few misguided members of the public who are anti-reform to bring the name of the Commission and that of the CEO to disrepute over fabricated and unsubstantiated claims.''

The group stressed that they have among others, accused the management team of nonremittance of pension deductions, poor working environment, and insufficient working tools.

It added: "This is a misrepresentation of facts, all evidence available to us showed that as one of the most experienced public servants who put in many years, Engineer Gbenga prioritise staff well-being and this is evident in many welfare packages he rolled out for them.

"We know the antics, it’s all about playing the agenda of some external forces who are not happy with the smooth operations and success stories of the commission whose only job is to implement the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) to the last line."

While urging members of the public to disregard further lies that would be dished out by the detractors it described as antireforms, the group cautioned staff behind it not to allow themselves to be used by the nay-sayers to stagnate the Commission.

It also denied wasting money on sensitization workshops and renovation of offices across the country. It accused the union of being out to tarnish the

UNICEF: Diphtheria Claims 122 Lives in Nigeria

Identifies Lagos, Katsina, Zamfara, Kano, others as worst hit states

Francis Sardauna in Katsina

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has said the Diphtheria outbreak has claimed 122 lives with a case fatality rate of 8.7 per cent in 27 states in Nigeria.

The United Nations agency explained that as of July 2023, 3,850 suspected cases were reported in the country with 1,387 confirmed as diphtheria.

UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Cristian Munduate, who disclosed in a statement issued to journalists in Katsina, yesterday, stated that the victims of the disease were mostly children.

She identified Kano, Yobe, Katsina, Lagos, FCT, Sokoto,

and Zamfara, as worst hit states, which account for 98 per cent of the suspected cases, adding that 71.5 per cent of the cases occurred among children aged between two to 14 years.

She said: "UNICEF Nigeria is amplifying its efforts to counter a growing outbreak of diphtheria that has affected children in 27 states. As of July 2023, 3,850 suspected cases were reported with 1,387 confirmed as diphtheria. The disease has tragically claimed 122 lives, with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 8.7 per cent.

"The outbreak has affected mainly Kano, Yobe, Katsina, Lagos, FCT, Sokoto, and Zamfara, which account for 98.0 per cent of the suspected cases. Most confirmed cases, approximately 71.5 per cent,

have occurred among children aged 2 – 14 years."

He reiterated that most of the affected children, especially those who died, had not received a single dose of the vaccine, adding that the need to reach the unreached has never been more critical in the country.

Munduate, who described the situation as heartbreaking, however, noted that only 22 per cent of the confirmed cases received their routine childhood immunisation vaccinations.

She said UNICEF was collaborating with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the affected States and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) to provide technical support to

plan and operationalise response.

The UNICEF country representative expressed the agency’s commitment to supplying laboratory consumables and biosafety cabinets for testing of suspected cases at the NCDC.

She added that the agency would implement and fund risk communication and community engagement activities as well as transporting vaccines and related equipment to the affected states to strengthen routine immunisation.

Munduate, stressed that the agency would also train health workers and volunteers for service delivery, risk communication and community engagement, and procure and supply face masks, and hand sanitisers as well as antibiotics to treat the disease.

image of the Commission Chief Executive, GBENGA Komolafe and to undermine his outstanding achievements. It also defended recent recruitments in the commission saying the exercise was done in strict compliance with

all procedures and compliance certificate issued by the relevant agencies. It urged the public to disregard the wild allegations sponsored by some political jobbers seeking to replace the management of the commission.

Probe Alleged Looting at NSITF, Group Urges Tinubu

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

The Centre for the Vulnerable and the Underprivileged (CENTREP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to set up a panel of inquiry into alleged monumental fraud ongoing at the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF).

The group said Tinubu should immediately direct the anti-graft agencies to beam their searchlights on NSITF following report that its Managing Director, Mrs. Maureen Allagoa, recently approved and paid herself over N47 million as gratuity while still in office against the extant rules.

The National Chairman of CENTREP, Oghenejabor Ikimi, at a press conference in Warri, yesterday, expressed disapproval at the development, wondering why the agency has not been investigated since the exit of the former managing director of NSITF, Dr. Michael Akabuogu.

“As noble as the objective of setting up the NSITF is, sadly it has failed in recent times in meeting its core mandate of providing a safe shelter net for employees, but had become a cesspool of unbridled corruption and fraudulent activities since the time of Dr. Michael Akabuogu, and the current MD, Mrs. Maureen Allagoa,” he alleged. He added: “We had thought that after the unceremonious sacking of the immediate past Managing Director, Dr. Michael Akabuogu by former President Muhammadu Buhari over NYSC certificate forgery and the expiration of the tenure of the former Minister of Labour and Productivity, Dr. Chris Ngige who serially undermined the extant rules of the agency and was running NSITF as his personal estate through his stooges, one would have thought that the Fund will heave a sigh of relief.

“This was not to be as the media was awash last week of how the current Managing Director of NSITF, Mrs. Maureen Allagoa, another stooge of Dr. Chris Ngige, approved and paid herself over N47 million as gratuity while still in office against global best practices and extant rules of NSITF," he further alleged.

The group said further "The MD, Mrs Maureen Allagoa, through an internal memo with a Reference Number: NSITF/AC/I&A/5/S.4/ B117 dated 3rd July 2023, from PM, Audit & Inspectorate, routed through AGM, Head, Audit & Inspectorate to the DGM, Head, Audit & Inspectorate reportedly paid herself N47m gratuity.

“In the memo titled; “RE: Gratuity Computation for Mrs Maureen Allagoa- (Aa/11272) for the period of service from September 2016 to February 2023 as General Manager and Executive Director respectively;” she approved and paid herself gratuity for the period she served as General Manager and Executive Director, a development that has created tension amongst the management and staff of the agency.

“This gratuity payment to herself was made as over 500 staff who retired in the past 5 years are been owed their retirement benefits. The DGM Audit should explain how she approved the payment when she denied other retired officers their entitlement.

“We have not forgotten that the current MD, Mrs Maureen Allagoa was alleged by the sacked former NSITF MD, Dr. Michael Akabogu of buying a house worth 180 million Naira through contracts she used her companies to float when she was ED Administration, and till date, the MD has not issued a statement to deny the allegation.”

L-R: Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, (SGF), Babagana Kingibe; Sultan of Sokoto, HRM, Sa’adu Abubakar III; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; former Head of State, General (retd) Abdulsalami Abubakar and President, ECOWAS Commission, Omar Alieu Touray during their visit to the Presidential Villa, Abuja ahead of Abubakar-led delegation's trip to Niamey …yesterday GODWIN OMOIGUI

Emmanuel Addeh and Adedayo

Akinwale in Abuja

HONOURING LEGENDS OF SAMUEL OGBEMUDIA SPORTS REVOLUTION...

Pension Assets Hit N16.76tn, Recorded N1.7tn Growth in Q1 2023, Says PenCom

Unveils 5-year strategic plan to improve customer satisfaction

The National Pension Commission (PenCom) has disclosed that pension assets have hit an all-time of N16.76 trillion after achieving N1.77 trillion growth in the first half of this year, compared with the N14.99 trillion

it was in December 2022. The Director General PenCom, Aisha Dahir- Urmar, who disclosed this at the 2023 journalists’ conference organised by the commission in Lagos, said PenCom's proactive regulatory approach made the significant growth possible having strengthened its

oversight and governance of pension funds, promoting transparency, accountability and safeguarding the interests of pension contributors.

“Consequently, pension assets have risen by N1.77 trillion in the first half of 2023, from N14.99 trillion in December 2022 to N16.76 trillion at the

UBA Partners Medplus, Oriki, i-fitness to Enhance Customer Experience, Drive Healthy Lifestyle

The United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has entered into exciting partnerships with three health-based organisations aimed at creating robust synergy to enhance customer experience.

UBA’s partnership with MedPlus Pharmacy Nigeria, I-Fitness Gym Nigeria, and Oriki Spa and Wellness Centre, was expected to drive financial inclusion, promote brand loyalty and promote healthy lifestyle in the ever-evolving societal landscape.

According to a statement, Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, who spoke during the signing ceremony with the three organisations, said the bank was continuously on the look-out for meaningful collaborations that will excite customers, while driving the bank’s vision of providing services that would be beneficial to its huge customer base across the continent.

She said, “The partnership brings together UBA's innovative solutions with the distinct market presence of Medplus Plc, a renowned health and beauty retailer, Oriki's premium skincare and beauty products, and i-fitness' cutting-edge fitness and wellness offerings, and by combining their strengths, the companies are poised to revolutionise the financial and lifestyle experience of its customers across various demographics.”

According to her, with this collaboration, the parties would leverage their wide customer base and with the joint marketing initiatives, innovative campaigns, and events, they will be able to reinforce their position as a customer-centric institutionsand

cultivate long-term brand loyalty.

While stating that customers would enjoy exciting discounts, she explained that as part of the partnership, UBA will deploy the latest cutting-edge technology in the form of NQR (Nigeria Quick Response) codes. These codes would revolutionise payment systems and provide customers with a swift and efficient way to make transactions across various platforms.

The Founder/Chief Executive Officer, Medplus Pharmacy, Joke Bakare, expressed excitement at the partnership with UBA, saying that as Nigeria's Leading Health and Beauty Retail Pharmaceutical Chain with over a hundred branches nationwide, UBA customers will be entitled to discounted prices on drugs and other health services to our customers, as they would enjoy a 7.5 per cent discount off drugs and 2.5 per cent off non-drug products when they shop at any MedPlus Pharmacy nationwide.

“We are very pleased to enter into this partnership with UBA Group. The bank not only strive to make banking seamless for customers, but also offers ease in a key aspects of their lives which is health. At Medplus, we are passionate about our customers, health, beauty, lifestyle and wellness. We are excited to welcome UBA into the Medplus family,” she stated.

The Founder/Chief Executive Officer, I-Fitness Gym Nigeria, Folusho Ogunwale, said as Nigeria’s First & Fastest Growing Fitness Chain with 21 branches across the country (18 in Lagos); the partnership with UBA would

entail a 30 per cent discount on joining fee, “to our customers as well as a 12 per cent, 17 per cent and 20 per cent discount on monthly, quarterly, and annual subscription plan.”

"We are serious about being able to contribute meaningfully to the lives of Nigerians,“ Ogunwale stated.

end of June 2023. “Membership also increased by 146,920 new contributors, from 9.86 members as of the end of 2022, to over 10 million members as of June 2023,” she said.

The PenCom Director General who was represented at the event by the Head, Corporate Communications Department, Abdulqadir Dahiru, said the prevailing Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) has ensured that public and private sector workers build retirement savings throughout their working lives and fostered financial security during their golden years. She said the conference was a testament to PenCom's commitment to enhancing the knowledge and understanding of the CPS and its impact in the lives of contributors and retirees.

She added that it was an occasion to interact with the media and discuss developments shaping Nigeria's

pension landscape.

According to her, the theme of this year's workshop, "Transforming Service Delivery in the Pension Industry: Strategies for Improving Efficiency and Customer Satisfaction," was both timely and crucial.

She also disclosed that PenCom has introduced new strategic plan to provide Retirement Savings Account (RSA) holders with the care they rightfully deserve and enhance customer service delivery. Dahir-Umar, said the essence of the new plan was to protect the retirees, contributors rights, quality service delivery, continue safety of pension assets and consistent and effective service delivery.

“PenCom’s new strategic plan would highlight the Commission’s latest initiatives to elevate customer service and engender more confidence in the Pension Industry.”

The DG stressed further that regulatory oversight for improved service delivery in the Pension Industry would explore how regulatory measures that can effectively bolster the quality of services provided in the pension sector.

“Regulatory oversight is pivotal in maintaining transparency, fairness, and efficiency, which are the cornerstones of our pension system,” she said. She said it reflected PenCom's commitment to continuous service improvement in the pension industry so that contributors and retirees received the best possible experience.

“I am delighted to announce that today's conference will feature three enlightening papers addressing essential aspects of our pension system's service delivery,” she added.

FG to Send Over 500 Directors on Compulsory Retirement in Compliance with PSR

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

As many as 500 Directors in the civil service may be asked to proceed on compulsory retirement after the Head of the Civil Service, Dr. Folashade Yemi-Esan, issued a circular to Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to ensure compliance with the revised Public Service Rules (PSR) that was unveiled last week.

The circular dated July 27, 2023, from the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, had advised Permanent Secretaries, the Accountant-General of the Federation, the Auditor-General for the Federation, and Heads of Extra-Ministerial Department to ensure compliance.

Yemi-Esan had declared that the implementation of the of PSR had commenced after it was unveiled at

the public service lecture held at the Presidential villa in Abuja.

One key provision of the PSR is a tenure system for Permanent Secretaries who shall hold office for a term of four years and another renewable term based only on satisfactory performance.

The new rule also stated that a Director (GL 17) or its equivalent as may be prescribed by other MDAs

shall compulsorily retire upon the attainment of eight years in that position.

It was, however, learnt that over 500 Directors on GL 17 have spent more than eight years in their positions would be affected in the Federal Civil Service.

The new policy is to enable more Deputy Directors in the service on GL16 rise to the next level.

Ondo Announces Free Shuttle Buses for Students, Public Servants, Other Palliatives

Fidelis David in Akure

As part of measures to cushion the effect of the fuel subsidy removal, Ondo State government yesterday, announced free shuttle buses for students and public servants in the state till December 31st, 2023.

The State Commissioner for Finance and Chairman, Palliative Strategy and Implementation Committee, Mr. Wale Akinterinwa, who stated this at a press conference in Akure, said unconditional cash transfer of N10,000 for three months would be given to selected vulnerable

persons in every local government and all pensioners in the state will get N10,000 each starting from August till December 2023.

His words: "The government will restore free shuttle buses for students starting from resumption in September, till December 31st.

“Thereafter, affordable rates will be charged from January 2024. In like manner, free shuttle boats equipped with life jackets for students in riverine areas starting at resumption in September, till December 31st. Thereafter, affordable rates will be charged from January 2024.

"We will immediately deploy all existing buses in all MDA'S to serve as free shuttle buses to public servants till December 31st. Additional CNG BUSES will be purchased to convey of public servants, to and from work at no cost to them, till December 31st.”

Akinterinwa noted that free food packages would be distributed to one million households across the 18 local governments in the state while farm inputs at subsidised rates would be made available to farmers.

"Our poultry and fish farmers will be given free drugs, maize, and

feeds for their birds and fishes. In addition, training on local feed formulation and production will be given to them, to help them look inwards.

“Agrochemicals, seeds, drip lines, farm tools and power tillers will be given at subsidised rates. In riverine areas, free fishing nets and subsidised kilns will be made available.

"To ease the movement of farm produce, tricycles will be given free to farming communities. This will be supervised by officially recognised, community-based stakeholder groups.

Ebere Nwoji and Ugo Aliogo

L-R: Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku; Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa; Olympian, Dr. Bruce T. Ijirigho; Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Olympian, Dr. Godwin Obasogie; Mrs. Grace Agbamu, and Olympian, Dr. Charlton Ehizuelen, during a State Dinner in honour of legends of the Samuel Ogbemudia sports revolution in the old Midwest/Bendel State, at the Government House, in Benin City.

2023 GRADUATION CEREMONY OF START RITE SCHOOL...

Kano Anti-graft Agency Apprehends Businessman over N4bn Fraud

Ahmad

The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) has apprehended the principal suspect, one Bala Mohammed, in connection with alleged fraudulent diversion of over N4 billion belonging to the State Government.

Inuwa is the founder of Association of Compassionate Friends and the sole signatory of a business named Limestone Processing Link, allegedly used primarily for the diversion of the fund.

The Commission's Chairman, Muhiyi Magaji Rimin Gado, in a statement noted that Inuwa was arrested after breaking into sealed

warehouses that were confiscated pursuant to Section 40 of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Law 2008 (as amended). "The seizure was in connection with the alleged criminal misappropriation, diversion, and making false statement or return of over N4,000,000,000.00 Kano State Government funds remitted to the Kano Agricultural Supply Company (KASCO) as grant.

“Also in custody is Bala Inuwa Muhammed (Jr), a co-signatory who along with his father allegedly misappropriated and diverted the sum of Three Billion Two Hundred and Seventy-Five Million Six Hundred and Eighty-Five Thousand Seven Hundred and Forty-Two Naira

CBN Restates Commitment to Supporting Businesses, Economic Diversification

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has pledged to continue supporting businesses in the country in order to promote economic diversification through interventions in agriculture, health, manufacturing and other key sectors.

It also pledged to sustain efforts towards ensuring availability of currency, urging Nigerians to see the naira as a critical symbol of national identity.

The Director of Corporate Communications, CBN, Dr. Abdulmumin Isah, gave the assurance while speaking at 2023 CBN Fair in Lokoja, yesterday.

Abdulmumin, urged Nigerians to respect the naira and keep it clean.

"Do not spray, hawk, mutilate or counterfeit the naira,” he added.

He explained that the fair was designed as a platform to interact with members of the public on the policies and strategic interventions of the central bank for sustainable economic development of the country.

"The CBN as a responsible and responsive corporate citizen has continued to demonstrate its passionate commitment in

supporting businesses and promoting diversification through arrays of interventions in agriculture, health, manufacturing and other key sectors of the economy," he stated.

Furthermore, he pointed out that the objectives of the engagement were among others, to sensitise members of the public on how the bank's several initiatives could grow their businesses and contribute positively to the Nigerian economy, inform them about efforts of the Bank in driving financial inclusion and ensuring that consumers of financial products are protected in Nigeria.

The Director who was represented by Mr. Esu Imo, added that the CBN would continue to ensure that it delivers on its core mandate of ensuring monetary and price stability, stressing that it was instructive to state that the central bank shall also continually roll out proactive and innovative policies which would ensure that all economic sub-sectors receive the desired support.

The Permanent Secretary, Commerce and Industries, Mr. Salihu Ameh, explained that the State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has made Kogi safe for businesses and investors.

(N3,275,685,742.00) through the bank accounts of the Association of Compassionate Friends.

"The Association which was registered under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act

and whose objective does not include conducting any kind of business, " the statement added.

"The the sum of Four Hundred and Eighty Million Naira (N480,000,000.00) was diverted

through the bank account of a business name 'Limestone Processing Link' which is being manage by the founder of Association of Compassionate Friends.

"Out of which Four Hundred

Million Naira (N400,000,000.00) was allocated as a fixed deposit and some amounts were transferred to bank account bearing the name of Bala Mohammed Inuwa" the statement added.

TotalEnergies Seeks Attractive Fiscal Environment to Encourage Investments in Big Gas Devt Projects

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Multinational oil firm, TotalEnergies, has stressed the need for the Nigerian government to put in place adequate fiscal framework that would attract more investors in the development of big gas fields in the country.

The company explained that a favourable investment climate was urgently needed for oil and gas companies willing to embark on projects that would enable Nigeria explore and produce more of the abundant gas resources existing in the country and move away from just Associated Gas (AG) to Non-Associated Gas (NAG).

The Deputy Managing Director (Deepwater), TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited, Mr. Victor Bandele, made the call in Lagos, during a panel session at the just-concluded Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition (NAICE), with the theme: “Balancing Energy Accessibility, Affordability, and Sustainability: Strategic Options for Africa”.

He said TotalEmergies was contributing efficiently in natural gas sustainability in Nigeria.

Speaking on the topic: "Role of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the Efficient Development of Natural Gas Reserves to Meet Africa’s Energy Security Demands,” Bandele stressed that gas needed to be developed not only as a byproduct of oil, but as a standalone product of high value.

He said: "There is no way we will develop energy today based on the same terms and conditions that we are using for associated gas.

"When we look at the fiscal terms that we have today, honestly, we will spend a lot of time discussing and discussing. I don’t think that people will come in.

“When I want to develop associated gas, I can run my economics on oil, and gas will just be bonus, we have past that era.

"I don’t think that people will come in to do NAG development on a large scale if the fiscal terms are not convenient and not appropriate."

Acknowledging steps being taken by the government on energy transition, Bandele, however,

stressed the need to take bold steps in finding the right environment to carry out energy development in Nigeria similar to what other countries were doing.

"In Nigeria today, we have more than 200 trillion cubic feet of proven gas reverse. In 2022, the total production of gas was about 1.4tcf. Of this 1.4tcf, less than 1tcf was for Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG).

“If you are looking at the statistics, you will ask whether what we did in 2022 is where we are supposed to be.

"If our proven reserves is in excess of 200tcf, and we are monetising in the neighbourhood of about 1tcf in a year, we are really not playing the game. So, this is the first instance that we have to bear in mind. We talk about this reserve - 200tcf, where is the 200tcf, where are they locked," Bandele asked.

Maintaining that about 50 per cent of the gas in Nigeria was associated gas, he stated that what it meant was that they were produced as oil was produced.

According to him, there are

available infrastructure producing oil to some extent but there is also need to achieve the clean energy transition as fast as possible.

"Let’s assume we have a means of producing some of our associated gas, about 50 per cent of the 200tcf is non-associated, meaning that we need to find infrastructure that will be suiting for gas development, find environment that will suit people to bring money to develop gas as a single item, are we doing that," he asked.

He disclosed that for the past 10 years, TotalEnergies had ensured that all its new projects were nonroutine flaring compliant.

"TotalEnergies supports Alaoji gas plant for gas, supports the Indorama for gas,” he added.

Bandele however, stated that TotalEnergies was desperate to remain relevant in Nigeria, adding the company has presence in the upstream, midstream, in the downstream, as well as in the renewables.

He said the company was optimistic about Nigeria and sees the human resource in the country as enormous.

Onuesoke Faults Nomination of Ministers, Commissioners Without Portfolios

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

A Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Sunny Onuesoke, has faulted President Bola Tinubu and governors’ nomination of ministers or commissioners for legislative screening without attaching portfolio to them.

The former governorship aspirant in Delta State at a press conference

in Warri,yesterday, described the action as outdated, noting that it was retrogressive and no longer in vogue in developed climes.

He emphasised the fact that portfolios were not assigned to the nominees was a drawback, making the screening process a blind one and wondered how a person could be screened for competence without knowing his intended assignment.

“If we are as serious as our

problems deserve, the prospective ministers and their respective ministries ought to be known a few weeks after the results of the presidential election.

“It is an unusual practice and I am not sure it is still done in any serious democracy that appoints ministers and send them for clearance without assigning portfolios to them. This is a culture that we have continued to practice

in Nigeria.

“In the United States, those who are nominated already know their portfolios. You do not appoint someone before allocating the portfolio. I do not know where we got this retrogressive idea. The lawmakers should know which ministry a nominee is going to so that their questions will be tailored to the assignment in that ministry,” he said.

Sorondinki in Kano

L-R: Chairman Start Rite School, Senator. Victor Ndoma Egba; Principal Start Rite School, Mr. Femi Akinlade; Graduating Student, Aliu Araoluwapo Eriifeoluwa, during the 2023 Graduation ceremony of Start Rite School in Abuja…recently KINGSLEY ADEBOYE

POLITICS

Dangiwa’s Feat in Housing Sector as Dividends of Democracy

Qudus Balogun writes about the delivery of democracy dividends to the citizenry through the transformation of the nation’s housing landscape by the Chief Executive Officer of Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, Ahmed Dangiwa.

Prior to the appointment of Ahmed Musa Dangiwa as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria in 2017, the Nigerian housing sector had been facing serious challenges that appeared insurmountable.

Immediately he assumed office, Dangiwa embarked on revolutionary moves that changed the face of housing in the nation, and his legacies will obviously stand the test of time.

Dangiwa is an example of the wisdom of putting a round peg in a round hole when it comes to appointing people to run national institutions.

This came from his over 30 years in the real estate and infrastructure development sectors, which enabled him to have specific ideas about the challenges of providing affordable housing to Nigerians and how to meet these challenges.

“We have provided over 9,000 houses, and have provided mortgages worth more than N110 billion within the last three years,” he said with relish after spending some years in office.

He continued: “Apart from that, we have also created a micro finance loan which is given to individuals, especially to renovate their houses.”

Supervising several outstanding projects in diverse areas and sectors across the country opened his eyes to the enormity of the nation’s housing deficits.

Dangiwa knows why people are reluctant to go for the mortgage option in addressing their housing needs.

He once said that a civil servant cannot pay 30 percent equity for a house, which is what is on offer in commercial banks. So he led FMBN to come up with a drastic policy.

“So we had to reduce the equity to 10 percent for a house that he has to buy for N10 million. The equity for houses between N5-10 million was reduced to 10 percent. But any mortgage that is below 5 percent is 0 percent, which means they don’t pay any equity. With that I was able to get more mortgage for Nigerians, especially the low and middle income earners, and some in the informal sector.”

One of the challenges in the housing sector that he grappled with is “how to make affordable mortgages more accessible, and even if you have to provide mortgages there have to be underlining houses.

“Most of the houses I met were those built by developers, who sourced their funding basically from open markets at high interest rates and high cost of land, other costs which majorly increases the cost of houses.”

To address the issue of affordability, especially among civil servants, he said, “we had to enhance our construction panels in such a way that you will have to provide construction panels for developers, to give them affordable interest rates to create affordable houses and then we give mortgages.”

Innovations:

When he assumed leadership of FMBN, he realized that many of the houses that banks had built were not subscribed because people could not access them due to their equities being too high. “So we created another program called “Rent to Own”.

With this, subscribers approach FMBN offices in the states, who will give them access to the house as tenants. While living in the houses as tenants, they pay either monthly or annual rents until the houses become theirs.

Dangiwa also brought an insurance scheme to the mortgage housing sector. In the event that the house is destroyed by a storm, rain or other causes, insurance will be there to cover the loss, you, whose insurance also covers the eventuality of death, paying up the house on behalf of the deceased’s family.

Another innovation that Dangiwa introduced is the use of certificates of occupancy (C of O) for lands. “Instead of them buying houses, we can give them individual construction loans to build the houses at their own pace on any location the land is situated,” he explained. Money is given to subscribers in three phases

— 30 percent to start it; we give you 30 percent to roof it and the remaining 40 percent for finishing.

He identified land availability as one of the major constraints to the delivery of housing, due to the stringent conditions state governments attach to allocation of land.

He noted that “some government agencies

take a lot of time to issue C of O. State governments have to ensure that they make access to land easy and they also have to make it easy for estate developers. Governments have to make sure that even if the lands are subsidised, there should be access roads into the land.”

Other ground-breaking milestones recorded by the FMBN Management under Dangiwa

include zero equity contribution for mortgage loans that are N5 million and below, reduction of equity for loans of up to N15 million from 30 to 10 percent as well as increased tempo in the provision of housing loans to Nigerian workers under the National Housing Fund (NHF).

Under Dangiwa, FMBN’s increased nationwide public sensitisation program, high-level engagements with stakeholders including state governments, labour unions and other housing industry persons and increased transparency saw the increase of workers who contribute 2.5 per cent of the monthly salaries to NHF scheme rise above five million. Thus, expanding the pool of finance available to the FMBN.

Notably, the bank pooled a total of N134 billion from the NHF within three years, with N121 billion in loan approvals. This implied an average of N44 billion in total contributions per year! The difference is stark when compared to total collections of N232 billion between 1992 and 2016 at a yearly average of N9.6 billion.

The astonishing improvements recorded by the Dangiwa-led team within three years are significant in the history of housing development in Nigeria at a two fundamental levels. One, they provided solid proof that the often-criticised NHF Scheme, despite its suboptimal impact in the first two decades of its establishment, is indeed, a good and viable scheme for catalysing affordable home delivery.

Two, they show that the scheme possesses great potential to act as impact as an institutional enabler of affordable housing delivery and above all, under the right type of leadership. The strides signaled what is possible and should encourage the government and relevant industry stakeholders to support and encourage the current management to sustain the momentum.

-Balogun writes from Lagos.

NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

Revisiting Ibori’s Legacies in Delta

Allison Abanum writes about the aura around the former governor of Delta State,

Chief James Ibori and his legacies in the oil-rich state.

Nature and history have their peculiar ways of shaping the destiny of a man or a nation. For Chief James Ibori, the courageous, fearless, the combination of nature and History has been generous, abstract and kind to him. Here is a lucky gentleman, a compatriot, a protagonist of good governance, a man who is well misunderstood by some persons because he chose to carry all the crosses meant for his people, the best Governor Delta State has ever had.

Writing about Ibori, a multi-talented and many-sided man, may not be exactly easy. But having known this man fondly called Odidigborigbo, I can say that what stands this leader of men and astute manager of resources out is his patriotism, determination, selflessness and his strength of character to use his office and indeed, his all, for the achievement of the good of the majority. He is a dogged fighter who will stop at nothing to pursue any cause he believes in. He is honest, diligent and forthright as well as always willing and available to help others grow and flourish. Every leader anywhere in the world has a record which contains the deeds and misdeeds of the leader in question.

As for Ibori, his only misdeed is that he refuse to expose the bad and ugly side of his people. He has chosen to receive all the bullets on behalf of his people in Delta State.

What a Father!

Am a proud Deltan from the Urhobo extraction. Even though am not a polymath, I know a little about virtually everything as far as

Delta State is concerned.

For the sake of the younger generation, and for those who had ignorantly passed lopsided judgements on Ibori, permit me to speak in parables so the wise among us may know peace.

There was a very rich man in a community and there were 12 other rich men in the same community. Residents of the community get their food, clothes and empowerment from the 12 rich men and wondered why the extremely rich man never gives them anything.

The people of the community call the superrich man stingy and greedy to his face.

One day, the rich man in question died and the people called him abusive names such as “the stingy and greedy one,” to the extent that they didn’t attend his burial ceremony.

Immediately the said rich man died, the other 12 rich men stopped feeding, clothing and empowering the entire people in the community.

One day, the community people gathered and asked the 12 rich men why they stopped doing good to them and the rich men said the late super rich man that they had nicknamed “stingy and greedy” was the one behind their free feeding, clothing and empowerment, and now that the he was gone, they could no longer feed themselves let alone feed others.

The super-rich man had told the 12 rich men not to mention his name as the man behind their free feeding. This is the case of Ibori.

He is like the super rich man being ignorantly called abusive names.

Furthermore, there was a fast moving train carrying many passengers on a railway.

A fisherman on his way to the stream saw a segment of the railway broken, and if the train got to that broken section, it would be catastrophic. The fisherman knew that there was no amount of shouting that could stop the fast moving train, so he decided to lie down on the broken part of the railway so the train could pass successfully to avoid the big catastrophe.

God intervened, the fast moving train passed succesfully and the fisherman did not die, neither did he get hurt. The fisherman is like Ibori, and all the people in the fast moving train are like some Deltans.

-Abanum writes from Yenagoa.

NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

www.thisdaylive.com

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, FEMI AJISAFE

TUNDE OLUSUNLE pays tribute to his long-time friend and confidant, Femi Ajisafe at 63

NIGERIA AND THE COLUMNIST’S DILEMMA

See page 29

THE PLIGHT OF REFUGEES

RAJENDRA ANEJA narrates what Hari Chand and Prakash went through in their first night in India

Ever wondered how columnists decide what issues to focus on when they write? Very often there are a myriad of pertinent issues begging to be addressed, yet every columnist is constrained by space and word communicate one’s point of view despite them. I call it, ‘The Columnist’s Dilemma’. I googled to see if it exists so named even when the situation is commonplace.

Two issues dominated my thoughts since last week and it seemed one would hold sway on this page today. In the end both lost to an issue I thought I was not going to revisit until a later date. Last week, I wrote about the reactive nature of the current administration’s response to subsidy removal. President Tinubu’s speech three days later could have passed for a direct response. It is the reason I am remaining with the post subsidy removal theme.

See page 29

EDITORIAL AVERTING PREVENTABLE DISASTERS

When I shared ‘To Serve Nigeria…?’ on X (née twitter), I said that a change management process of the post fuel subsidy regime was absent even though there was time enough to still get things right. The article itself addressed that position in detail. The most important person in that change management process – President Tinubu – spoke to the nation, addressing some of the concerns highlighted in the piece. That speech, though belated, was a necessity. And whilst those in perpetual opposition to everything-government might not see any good in it, the more objective ones agree that the president is going in the right direction on the matter.

It is often said that the road to hell is paved with good intentions. This means, intentions are one thing; having the right people and the system to deliver them is quite another. In his speech, the president announced a number of prospective interventions.

I particularly like that the monetary interventions are in form of soft

out grants would have amounted to exchanging one form of subsidy for another, creating another category of elite who will feed fat and leave crumbs for the teeming majority.

As with every intervention ever embarked upon by government, there are people who are currently setting up systems to circumvent these policies. The president has shared the

what and we the people know the why. The real challenge is the how.

do we identify and ensure that only deserving nano-businesses get the 50,000? I know the value of 50,000 to a nano-business because I have worked with partners to support such businesses. We worked with hundreds of companies and deciding who got what sum was a herculean task. In a country where data is mostly non-existent or dubious, your guess is as good as mine what ordeal those tasked with the assignment will face.

One would expect that the ‘75 enterprises with great potential’ to 75bn would be easier to identify but it is common knowledge that with anything perceived as a government largesse, there are no easy ways out. The loans disbursed during the Covid lockdown are a recent reminder. The president’s speech outlining the programmes to cushion the essential part of the post subsidy change management process and I am willing to wager that the appointment of Mr. Ajuri Ngelale as is a part of it and an attempt to enhance the communication bit of the process.

It would appear that a lot is being nsensus that there is a lot more to still do. The how of getting the job done – whether it is managing the post fuel subsidy regime or the general business of moderator of how the government is able to anticipate and respond to the needs of citizens. Crucial to this is the ongoing ministerial screening.

I share with many Nigerians, a

serious angst concerning the, ‘bow and go’ tradition of the National Assembly. Listening to Wale Edun’s take on the economy, Dele Alake’s interventions and the little that Nasir El-Rufai was permitted to say about power, I wondered why the thought of jettisoning such an opportunity would cross anyone’s mind especially if according to the constitution, the primary purpose of government, (and the collective aspiration of the citizenry), is the security and welfare of the people.

No one loses. It is a win for the National Assembly because those who wonder about its utility given the portion of the commonwealth assigned to them, can see what their role in a presidential system of government is, and perhaps they can begin the onerous task of winning the hearts and minds of Nigerians. It is a win for the president because the public has a chance to evaluate his choices of members of his cabinet, because we are in dire straits indeed. It’s a win for the nominees because it gives them the opportunity to show the world something of themselves and their capacity. It is indeed a win for the country because we can form our own opinions of the candidates and begin to see if there is an alignment between campaign manifestoes and actual governance. Why deprive the country of the

Everyone loses out in a game of mediocrities. Nigerians, nay the world, is watching keenly. There is too much riding on this for it to fail.

The other subject on my mind is the potential money spinner Nigeria is ignoring by not paying more attention to its tourism industry. My thoughts were inspired by a conversation with Nigerian fashion entrepreneur, Sandrah Tubobereni of TUBO, in which we talked about her experiences in Japan and how they could be replicated in Nigeria for great economic gain. The conversation was as interesting as it was essential and I hope to return to the subject soon. I guess it’s less of a dilemma if you manage to say something about everything. Wrong.

Omojuwa is chief strategist Alpha Reach/ author, Digital Wealth Book

President Tinubu will deliver on palliatives, reckons JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

EDITORIAL

AVERTING PREVENTABLE DISASTERS

Regulators should be alive to their responsibilities

Statistics from the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service (LSFRS) paint a dreary picture of avoidable disasters in the LSFRS tackled three explosions; two considerably from the same period compared to the previous year said that carelessness and negligence were the major causes of the disaster. She advised the advent of gas as alternative source of stay.

We must commend the Lagos State government for keeping records of these incidents. It is worthy of emulation by other states. But prevention is still better than cure. From vehicular accidents that have be concerned about the growing numbers of preventable disasters.

Several reports have shown that these disasters arising from the failure of citizens to abide by basic rules and regulations established by extant town planning and physical development laws. Few extinguishers at strategic and accessible points for

While non-compliance with safety regulations might have been largely due to ignorance as many professionals to handle the construction of their

EDITORS WALE OLALEYE, OBINNA CHIMA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA

T H I S D AY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Letters to the Editor

diligence by property developers who compromise the failure of enforcement of regulations that has physical development and ensure that building codes and safety standards are complied with at safety corps are mandated to ensure compliance vehicles.

What is found generally is that regulatory prefer to arrest a criminal rather than prevent the commission of a crime. reactive approach to enforcement is fraught response time to distress

before the intervention of the management agencies. the reactive approach to enforcement of regulation must change if the nation is to fundamentally check the spate of disasters enveloping it. Regulatory agencies need to apply the rules in accordance with supervision of physical development at every stage of construction. We also consider it necessary for the various regulatory agencies and disaster management bodies to collaborate and embark on a dangers of non-compliance and basic steps to take in the event of any untoward occurrence.

regulatory bodies and draw the curtain on the increasing spate of disasters plaguing the country.

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

LETTERS

NIGER, ECOMOG AND US MILITARY BASE

Faso and democratic countries across the world. United States of America has a military base in Niger Republic. Will the milibase immediately after the coup. Can Niger military confront on electricity from Nigeria to develop its economy. Nigeria has in darkness.

All Five countries that Nigeria shares borders with speak French. Only three of these countries are in ECOWAS. Chad and Cameroon are in Central Africa. But here is the dichotomy: Nigeria has a much larger population than both.

Nigeria has always played a senior brother’s role in the West

any situation without much stress.

the wheel.

any military intervention in Niger to restore deposed Presi-

nancial sanctions on the putschists.

Force. USA has two military drone bases in Niger which mightcounter the Islamic State group and other terrorist organizasub-Saharan Africa with the Center for a New American SecuriInwalomhe Donald, inwalomhe.donald@yahoo.com

Reactive approach to enforcement of regulation must change if the nation is to fundamentally check the spate of disasters enveloping it

Dipo Kehinde

“Aman is not dead while his name is still spoken?” says English humourist, satirist, and author, Sir Terry Pratchett OBE in his fantasy novel, Going Postal.

Today, Pratchett’s words speak to the memories of Tafa Balogun, the one-time Inspector General of Police whose footsteps made long-lasting impressions on the Nigeria Police Force.

Balogun, a colossus and pacesetter who took several giant steps as Nigeria’s 11th indigenous IGP, died on August 4, 2022, but thousands of police officers and millions of Nigerians whose lives were touched by his policies will not forget him in a hurry.

On March 6, 2002, Balogun, a fellow of the national war college, who was Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 1, Kano, was appointed by President Olusegun Obasanjo as IGP, and he resumed with a smoking gun and a battle cry – ‘Fire for Fire!’ as he set out to reinvigorate the Nigeria Police Force and stem the tide of surging crime wave and insurgency. It was the days of political assassinations, cross-border banditry coordinated by the infamous Republic of Benin-based Hammani Tijani; the era of OPC, MASSOB, and Arewa uprisings.

The Justice Minister and Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Bola Ige, was also assassinated in his bedroom at Bodija Estate in Oyo State, in broad daylight, on December 23, 2001.

Balogun launched an 8-point crime control strategy. Under his command, the police reportedly arrested 19,135 robbery suspects, 6,815 were killed; 12,006 firearms and 472,020 ammunition were recovered, as well as 2,148 stolen vehicles.

Balogun’s 8-point strategy included fast and decisive crisis management, a comprehensive training programme for qualitative policing, an anti-corruption crusade both within and outside the force, robust public relations, community partnership in policing, inter-service/agency cooperation at all levels and improved conditions of service and enhanced welfare package for all officers, inspectors and rank and file.

Balogun’s legacies included the clearing of the backlog and promotion of 170,000 police officers between 2002 and 2004, the highest number since the establishment of the NPF. He sent over 147,347 officers on various courses locally and internationally, created alternative Mobile Police Training School at Ila Orangun, in Osun State, set up computer training school for the police in Abeokuta, Ogun State, and ensured regular payment of salaries and allowances.

With the advent of democracy and the need to make the police more humane, Balogun created a female mobile

police squad to attend to rioting women.

Balogun also brought an end to the horror at Okija Shrine, a dreaded dispute settlement shrine at Ihiala local government area of Anambra State, Eastern Nigeria, where people with personal, land and business issues go for adjudication by the gods. Balogun physically led his men to the site where several bodies were exhumed.

Balogun was the father of Community Policing in Nigeria. Alongside a five-man delegation from Nigeria, he visited three police departments in Houston, Atlanta, and Chicago in the United States, to understudy proven implementations of community policing and how it could be adapted to the Nigerian situation.

After his visit to the US, he introduced changes in the NPF. In 1999, Nigeria had 130,000 policemen (roughly 1-policeman-per-1000-citizens), but Balogun got Obasanjo’s approval for a 40,000 annual recruitment exercise, and the manpower of the NPF was increased to over 300,000 to inch close to international standards

in his time. The United Nations guideline on police to population ratio is one officer to 450 citizens.

After the nationwide EndSARS riot that shook Nigeria in October 2020, Balogun was engaged to pacify striking police officers to return to work.

On December 15, 2020, Balogun also led the flag-off of Community Policing sensitization in Ikeja, Lagos, alongside Oba Riliwanu Akiolu of Lagos.

He said that he was happy to be part of the rebirth of Community Policing, as he reminded the audience of how he introduced the concept as a Philosophy when he became IGP in 2002 and made it one of his 8-point agenda, and how he sent officers to Britain for six months to train as community policing officers, after seeing how it had reduced crimes in some European countries and the United States.

Born on 8th August 1947, at Ila-Orangun in Osun State, South-west Nigeria, Balogun was the first IGP with enviable educational qualification. He had bagged a BSc Hon in Social Sciences with distinction at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) in June 1971; LLB Hon Second Class Upper, UNILAG, BL, Nigerian Law School, and a master’s degree in strategic studies at the University of Ibadan. He joined the NPF in May 1973 and began his policing career as the Best All-Round Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police (Course 3). He was awarded IGP’s Sword of Honour by the late IGP Kam Salem on May 11, 1974.

At the War College, Balogun became the first Nigerian officer and the only one ever since to win the Commandant’s Prize. He had also bagged the National Honour of the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR).

Earlier in his career, Balogun had worked in various positions nationwide. He was the Principal Staff Officer to former IGP Muhammadu Gambo-Jimeta. He was the first-ever Principal Staff Officer to an IGP. He also served as deputy commissioner of police in Edo and commissioner of police in Delta, Rivers, and Abia states.

Balogun retired as IGP in January 2005 and faced a trial after the EFCC commenced an investigation, which was seen in some quarters as politically motivated. He promised to bounce back, and he did on November 21, 2020, when all first-class Igbomina traditional rulers in Kwara and Osun states along with several eminent personalities converged on the ancient town of Ila-Orangun in Osun to confer the traditional chieftaincy title of Oluomo (Star Child) of Igbominaland and award of excellence on him.

Chief Douglas Adeyinka Oyinlola, the Obalotin of Ila, who once spoke about Balogun’s sterling qualities and what he had done to put Ila-Orangun on the world

map, said, “Tafa Balogun’s personality is colossal, so is his contributions to developments in Igbominaland. Because of his performances, we gave him the traditional title of Oluomo of Igbominaland.”

Shortly before his death, Balogun’s son – Abayomi married Oluwafeyisayomi, the daughter of Chief Kehinde Fakeye and a granddaughter of the late Minister of Justice – Chief Richard Akinjide, at the Harbour Point marquee, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Eminent personalities to the wedding included Osun State governor, Chief Adegboyega Oyetola, Lagos State governor – Babajide Sanwo-Olu; former FCT Minister, Chief Jumoke Akinjide-Balogun, who represented the Akinjide family; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; Oba (Dr) Adedokun Abolarin, the Orangun of Oke-Ila; Oba Sakariyawu Oladimeji, the Orangun of Ika; the Oluwo of Iwo – Oba Abdulrasheed Telu, Oba Fatai Aremu Ojora; the Oniru of Iruland – Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal; retired Inspectors General of Police Aliyu Attah, M.D. Abubakar, Solomon Arase, former Chief of Defence Staff – Gen. Alexander Ogomudia CFR, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Femi Sulyman; AVM Sule Lawal; the first female Deputy Inspector General of Police in Nigeria – retired DIG Cecilia Bisi Ugowe; DIG Azubuiko Udah Rtd; DIG Marvel Akpoyibo Rtd; DIG Oshodi Glover Rtd; DIG Taiwo Lakanu Rtd, and DIG Olufemi Folawiyo who represented IGP Usman Alkali Baba.

The attendance list also included AIG Hilda Harrison Rtd; AIG Tunji Alapini Rtd; the first Lagos State commissioner of police, CP Yemi Odubela rtd and his wife – DCP Morayo Odubela Rtd; CP Lawrence Alobi Rtd, CP Fatai Owoseni; CP Edward Ajogun; Ogun State CP – Lanre Bankole now AIG; Lagos State CP – Mr Hakeem Odumosu, former MD of Daily Times and Chairman Governing Council of Obafemi Awolowo University – Dr Yemi Ogunbiyi, Professor Adebayo Williams, legal luminary and boardroom guru – Chief Chris Olufunmilola Okunowo; Senator Ganiyu Solomon, Senator Gbenga Mustapha, Chief Ebun Sofunde SAN and wife – Abah; Chief Yinka Kufile, Mrs O.O. Omiyale, Chief Niyi Akande and his wife – Mrs Opetunde Akande; Chief Kola Balogun; Dr Kola Adeyemi, Chairman, All-Souls Hospital; Dr (Mrs) Phillips, Barr Tunji Baale, Dr Reuben Abati, and the Bashorun of Oke-Imesi, Chief Akin Osuntokun. Balogun died at 75, survived by his wife, Olufunke, and the children.

•Dipo Kehinde is a former President of the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria

Tafa Balogun: A Year After Court Dismisses NYSC’s Objection in Mbah’s Suit

Enugu State Governor, Mr. Peter Mbah, has continued to triumph over allegations of forging the certificate of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) with the latest being the dismissal of the preliminary objection filed by the corps against the N20 billion suit he slammed on it by Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Mbah’s NYSC discharge certificate has been a subject of controversy between him and the NYSC. Recall that the corps had on February 1, 2023, written a letter signed by its Director of Certifications, Ibrahim Muhammad, saying the certificate belonging to Mbah was not issued by the corps.

This made Mbah to sue the NYSC and Muhammad for N20 billion, demanding compensation for what he described as conspiracy, deceit, and misrepresentation of facts. Apart from N20 billion damages, the governor is seeking a declaration that he participated in the NYSC scheme for one calendar year via a call-up letter numbered FRN/2001/800351 with the Lagos code LA/01/1532. He said this was why he was issued a certificate of national service numbered A808297 upon completing his service year in 2003.

The governor is further seeking a declaration that NYSC and its director for corps certification “conspired by fraudulent design, suppressed, and misrepresented facts” in voiding his certificate of national service. He said: “The predominant purpose of the deceitful misrepresentation was intended albeit to inflict damages in legal profession, politics, business, as it was to unlawfully profit the defendants.”

In an affidavit submitted in support of his counterclaim, his lawyers said the governor returned to Nigeria to practise as a barrister and solicitor of the Supreme Court after bagging a law degree from the University of East London in 2000. They said he applied and was admitted into the Bar Part I programme of the Nigerian Law School.

“The plaintiff upon completing the Bar Part I exam had to wait for the Bar Part II programme. He was advised that instead of idling away to proceed on the mandatory one year National Youth Service Corps programme. The plaintiff upon completion of his NYSC service, was issued the NYSC certificate No. A808297 dated 6th January, 2003, certifying that he completed the one year of NYSC from 7th January, 2002 to 6th January 2003,” the lawyers said.

But the NYSC, in its preliminary objection filed on May 22, NYSC prayed for an order dismissing or striking out the suit for want of jurisdiction and competence. It maintained it did not issue the certificate in Mbah’s possession. Giving three grounds of argument, the defendants said Mbah did not appeal to the President as required by the provisions of section 20 of the NYSC Act before instituting the suit against them. It argued that the appeal to the president was a condition precedent to instituting an action against them in any court of law in Nigeria.

“Consequent upon the refusal of the plaintiff/ respondent to comply with the provisions of Section 20 of the National Youth Service Corps Act, this suit is premature for the jurisdiction of the court to crystalise,” they said.

But Mbah’s counsel urged Justice Ekwo to dismiss the objection on the grounds that the sections cited in the NYSC Act were not applicable in the instant suit and that a counter-affidavit and written address had been filed in response to the preliminary objection.

Amongst other reliefs, Mbah in his counter-affidavit said that Section 20 of the NYSC Act, which NYSC’s lawyer referred to, did not apply to him.

At the last adjourned date, the counsel for NYSC had argued that Mbah contravened the NYSC Act in the institution of the suit. While urging the court to strike out the suit, he said Mbah did not appeal to the President as required by the provisions of Section 20 of the NYSC Act before instituting the suit against them.

While the suit was pending, the Director General of NYSC, Brigadier General Y. D. Ahmed, on a live television programme, categorically claimed that the certificate with number A808297, which Mbah is parading, was forged and that it was not issued by them. But Mbah has insisted that it was genuine and issued by the institution.

In his ruling, Justice Ekwo dismissed NYSC’s preliminary objection for lacking merit. He ruled that because Mbah was not a serving corps member, the provision of Section 20 of the NYSC Act, 2004, on which the corps founded its argument, did not apply to him.

“Again, I am minded to agree with the plaintiff (Mbah) on whom the provision of Section 20 of the NYSC Act, 2004 applies. This means that the provision has a category of persons to whom it is applicable.

“A keen perusal of the provision of Section 22 (1) and (2) of the Act would reveal that it sets out the person to whom the provision of Section 20 of the Act applies which is a ‘member of the service corps’ which is defined to mean a person registered as a member of the service corps.

“It is then stated in Section 21 (2) that for the purpose of the Act, the reference to a ‘member of the service corps’ includes, unless to the context otherwise requires or it is otherwise expressly provided, a prospective member of the service corps or any person who is a registered member.

“The major characteristic of the provision of Section 21 (1) and (2) of the Act, is that the draftsman puts wordings thereof in the present tense and not past tense. It makes the provision applicable to ‘a prospective member of the service corps or any person who is a registered member,’” he said.

Justice Ekwo said upon studying the statement of Mbah’s claim, he found no averment or claim thereof where it was stated that the governor was either “a prospective member of the service corps or any person who is a registered member.”

He said it was a settled law, without prejudice to the position of the law, that “the jurisdiction of a court is determined by the subject matter of the action and the claim before the court.”

“Consequently, I find that the substance of the preliminary objection of the defendants is not predicated on a proper interpretation of the provision of Section 20 of the NYSC Act, 2004 and therefore premised on erroneous consideration of the said provision.

“It is rather sad that this preliminary objection has been used to waste the time of the court and consequently divert proceedings in this case from the substantive matter,” he said.

Last May, Justice Ekwo had upon a motion ex-parte by Mbah’s counsel, sequel to the suit, made “an order of interim injunction restraining the defendants and respondents whether by themselves, their directors, officers, servants, legal representatives, counsel or any other person or persons howsoever described and connected, from issuing, publishing or continued to issue, publish disclaimer to the effect that the NYSC certificate of national service dated 6th January, 2003, certificate No. A808297 issued to the plaintiff Mbah Peter Ndubuisi, in accordance with Section 11 of the NYSC Decree No. 51 of 1993 was not issued by NYSC pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice filed in this suit.”

The conspiracy, deceit, and misrepresentation of facts which the governor accused the NYSC of was exposed at the state Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal when the Department of State Services (DSS) and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) debunked claims that he forged his discharge certificate.

With the dismissal of NYSC’s preliminary objection by Justice Ekwo, those who are keenly following the case feel that when it resumes for further hearing on September 21 and 22, which are the next adjourned dates, it would be academic exercise.

Last week’s dismissal of the preliminary objection filed by the National Youth Service Corps to challenge the N20 billion suit slammed on it by Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State is his latest effort to prove the conspiracy, deceit and misrepresentation of facts by the corps against him, Wale Igbintade writes

Tafa Balogun

Mbah

Despite Multibillion Naira Investment, Experts Raise Concern over Snail Pace Growth in Aviation Industry

Chinedu Eze

Despite the huge resources invested in airline business, airport development and airspace management, the aviation industry has witnessed stunted growth over the years, a development industry experts contended, lives much to be desired.

The experts attributed the snail pace growth of the aviation industry to many factors, which include poor return on investment, lope-sided competition and poor credit structure.

The President of Top Brass

Aviation Limited and a member of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), Roland Iyayi, said the aviation industry was not structured for growth despite the fact that airline business is capital intensive where millions of dollars were used to purchase a single aircraft while the government spends so much in acquiring weather equipment, landing aids and other safety critical infrastructure.

“The aviation industry we have is not structured for growth, and the reason I say this is very simple. When the

industry was deregulated in 1982, a deregulation was intended to allow for more people to travel. But Nigerian Airways was not prepared because Nigerian Airways then operated only huge capacity aircraft because of size of the market, which they had a monopoly over. What we have today are airlines that have evolved from the same point that Nigerian Airways operated,” Iyayi said.

According to him, government policies and aviation regulations made investment in the industry very expensive, yet there is poor

return on investment, “and that explains why airlines in Nigeria have short lifespan because they are usually smothered by huge expenses.”

Iyayi gave example with the Air Operator Certification (AOC) policy where the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) keeps an airline on ground until it obtains the certification before it would be allowed to start operations.

“The airline cannot be expected to be profitable, when sitting on ground, waiting for an AOC for 18 months. The airline is not earning income but it is required to pay the

salaries of it staffs for 18 months while the CAA (NCAA) is busy trying to process the AOC. That does not make sense. I will talk about profitability. These are all bottlenecks that try to strangulate the airlines. The NCAA is not police and I am very happy that the Director General has talked about the NCAA not being a police of the industry. The NCAA’s role is to push for industry development and safety oversight. The NCAA cannot focus entirely on its own side of the deal without looking at how to develop the industry. And those policies that are spewed

out of the NCAA must be seen to be friendly for the growth of the industry. So far, all the policies that are coming out of that agency, negate growth,” he said.

Reacting to the new NCAA policy that an airline would have minimum of six airplanes to register for schedule commercial operation, Iyayi said that the cost of an airline developing a route is very expensive; “so, an airline will only grow if it takes its growth plan by piecemeal.

Report: Inflationary Pressure in July Highest in Almost a Decade as Productivity Declined

The Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) of the Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc has shown that Nigeria witnessed its sharpest inflationary pressure in the past nine-and-a-half years in July 2023, which caused overall input cost to increase at joint-fastest pace on record and lowered productivity of the private sector’s enterprises.

The PMI’s survey, which covered around 400 private sector companies in agriculture, mining, manufacturing, construction, wholesale, retail and services sectors, stated that more than 50 per cent of the companies it surveyed “increased their charges over the month.”

The PMI, reported that inflationary pressure also weakened productivity in the economy and caused the PMI to record its lowest

business sentiment in survey’s history. During the month under review, productivity declined from 53.2 in June to 51.7 in July, which pointed to a modest strengthening of operating conditions that was the least pronounced in the current expansionary sequence.

The PMI stated that “steep price pressures acted to limit the pace of growth in the Nigerian private sector in July. Overall input costs

rose at a pace unsurpassed in more than nine-and-a-half years of data collection, with selling prices up rapidly in response,” adding that “rising price pressures impacted demand, with growth of both new orders and business activity softening as the second half of the year got underway. Meanwhile, business confidence hit a new low.”

According to the Head, Equity Research West Africa, Stanbic IBTC

Bank, Mr. Muyiwa Oni, the softer improvement in the health of the private sector reflected trends in output and new orders during July 2023. He said, “In both cases, rates of growth eased to the weakest since the respective returns to expansion following the cash crisis at the start of the year. While some firms reported having been able to secure new contracts amid rising customer

MARKET DATA AS AT THURSDAY, AUGUST 3, 2023

Dike Onwuamaeze

Shippers Council Partners FCCPC on Consumer Protection, Sensitisation

Esther Oluku

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) in collaboration with the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has embarked on a one-day sensitization exercise to enlighten stakeholders on the rights and responsibilities of stakeholders in the port and shipping sector.

The meeting, which held in Lagos was aimed at strengthening compliance with existing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) of product and service providers, cut corruption as well as develop instruments for the implementation of the Consumer Protection Regime (CPR).

The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Mr. Emmanuel Jime, in his keynote address stated that the engagement is to sensitise stakeholders on their rights and privileges as port users and carry stakeholders along in the process of developing the CPR so as to build trust and confidence before rolling out the scheme.

Jime, who was represented by

the Executive Director Human Resources, Ms. Ada Okamm, noted that the sensitisation also hopes to ascertain the challenges of various regulated service providers and users and to propose solutions that may form the inputs for developing guidelines for the CPR to achieve seamless operations with little or no infringements of rights.

He said: “The sensitization exercise is in line with part 5.1.5 of the MoU which states that parties shall jointly or individually, sensitize and enlighten the consumers and stakeholders on the rights and responsibilities in relation to shipping matters.”

He explained that the CPR when instituted will address issues arising from infringements of rights by service providers and users in the industry as well as enthrone sanity and fair-trade practices in the system.

On his part, the Executive Vice Chairman FCCPC, Mr.Babatunde Irukera, expressed commitment to the collaboration adding that at it is important to put the consumer at the heart of the deliberations

Represented by the Director of Legal Services, Mr. Tam Tamunokobia, said; “we must ensure that the consumer is protected and ensure that the welfare of the consumer is uppermost on our minds.”

Stressing the need for integrity in correcting the perception of the Nigeria and Nigerian businesses over the world, the Director of Programmes, CBI Nigeria, Mr. Emmanuel Bosah, stated that transparency in the ports and shipping operations would make for a more consumer friendly environment.

“It is worthy of note that the requirement for clear, transparent Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) cannot only apply to port authorities. Service providers in the private sector, such as Shipping companies must equally introduce transparent SOPs that make clear charges, timelines, and procedures, for example, for container returns as well as shipping charges to various export destinations, without compromising their trade secrets, “ he said.

NCAA Partners ICAO to Foster Sector Growth, Signs C AMP Document

Chinedu Eze

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has signed the Civil Aviation Master Plan (CAMP) with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) in order to foster industry growth.

NCAA signed the plan recently in Montreal, Canada to enable the sector to attain its full potential, while also making significant contributions to the Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The Director-General of NCAA, Captain Musa Nuhu, who disclosed it, said it was high time the sector

played its key role of developing the nation through air travel.

Nuhu represented Nigeria at the signing ceremony, while the Secretary General of ICAO, Mr. Juan Salaazar, signed for the international body. In a bid to ensure its full implementation and development to the industry in particular and Nigeria at large, Nuhu said all relevant stakeholders within and outside the ecosystem would be carried along.

According to him, the aviation industry had played pivotal roles in the development of many countries

AIR WATCH

Stakeholders Laud Uyo’s Aircraft Maintenance Facility

Chinedu Eze

During a recent Aviation Round Table (ART) breakfast meeting in Lagos, industry stakeholders agreed that one of the major challenges faced by Nigerian airlines was about the maintenance of their aircraft overseas.

around the world and Nigeria with the biggest economy in Africa could not operate in isolation of the others.

He said: “CAMP is a process to plan for the short, intermediate, and long term development goals through implementing policy directives and to drive change and transformation. Civil aviation masterplan would be critical to facilitate the growth of the aviation sector and the deployment of required action plans to stimulate the development and growth of the industry, thereby acting as catalysts and enabler of national economy.

FAAN Lays Foundation for Aviacargo Village in Lagos

The management of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has laid the foundation for the one-stop Aviacargo village in Lagos.

Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony, the Managing Director of FAAN, Kabir Muhammed, said the village would be a onestop-centre aimed at addressing most challenges militating against massive avia-cargo exports in the country. Muhammed said the cargo village would have facilities for Cargo processing, packaging, certification, laboratory services, data gathering for traceability of products and produces among others.

The FAAN Managing Director stated that the decision to set up an Avia-Cargo committee was taken by the agency’s management to address the challenges that hinder its capacity

to process enough Cargo in nation’s airports. Mohammed said: “These challenges were identified and articulated via a communique issued at the end of the first Aviation and Cargo Conference in 2021, codenamed ‘CHINET ’21’. Establishing an Aviacargo village was identified as one of the quick wins in addressing the rejection of our Aviacargo exports, and thus, increasing our exports and earnings. With the ground-breaking ceremony, you can agree with me that FAAN’s management is truly determined in implementing all recommendations with a view to taking the rightful number one position in Aviacargo exports in Africa within the next few years.”

He assured Nigerians that in the next few months, cargo planes would

be departing from nation’s airports fully loaded with goods that meet destination standards and acceptance. While officially designating the land measuring 27,357.137 square metres as FAAN Aviacargo Village, and consequently inviting all directors to join him in the ground-breaking ceremony of the site, Mohammed thanked the members of the Aviacargo Committee under the leadership of Ambassador Ikechi Uko.

In his remarks at the event, the Aviacargo Committee chairman and organiser of Akwaaba African Travel Market, Mr. Ikechi Uko, commended FAAN and the committee for their commitment in bringing the cargo village to reality.

Uko said with the foundation today, Nigerian has begun the journey to becoming number one cargo exporting country in Africa.

Olubadewo: Acquisition of Aircraft Spares Need Proper Planning

Managing Director, Airline Management Support Limited, Capt. David Olubadewo has said proper planning must be carried out before airlines can acquire the needed spares for their aircraft.

He said the planning would enable them have spares at any time in order to reduce long aircraft on ground (AOG).

Olubadewo whose company supports the local airlines in the distribution of Dunlop Tyres for aircraft, made this

known at the sidelines of the 27th League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) conference, which held recently in Lagos.

Speaking on the theme of the conference tagged: ‘Aviation Industry: Changing Times, Changing Strategies’, Olubadewo stressed the need for government to support domestic carriers.

According to him, apart from protection, the setting up a leasing company will do the industry a

lot of good. He said countries like China and UAE supported their own to grow.

He said: “Our government sells Nigerian owned airlines cheap to other countries that own airlines. Government creates unnecessary competition on the routes. Nigerian airlines ought to develop in the name of demand and supply. They do not value the domestic airlines, even though we are about the best in the world.

The stakeholders also agreed that Nigerian carriers spend over $1.5 billion annually on aircraft maintenance.

They observed that ferrying the aircraft overseas, allowances for the crew, foreign exchange and the delays encountered in getting a slot for maintenance, constitute another huge cost. These, according to them, are some of the problems the Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility located in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State and owned by the state government, is poised to solve and the project will soon go on stream.

There is something unique about the Akwa Ibom State government. It has a lofty vision to play key role in the aviation industry. It started and never wavered from the first governor of the state who helped with the dream, to the current government. They have all shared and realised the dream. Today, Akwa Ibom State government has one of the best airlines in the country in terms of management, on-time performance and equipment. The commitment of the state government to the sector shows that it will no doubt be the aviation hub of Nigeria in no distance future.

It has functional airport facility, MRO and successful airline, a rarity. Never in the history of Nigeria has a state government shown this kind of commitment to business investment and carried it through under successive administrations. This is why the state government deserves all the commendations.

The new international smart terminal building being constructed at the Victor Attah International Airport in Akwa Ibom State, is set to change the narrative of air travel in Nigeria with a focus on making passenger experience memorable.

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Ibom Air, Mr. George Uriesi, in a recent interview, said the new terminal remained a huge game changer to the industry and Nigeria, adding that this is the first multipurpose built terminal specifically designed to move passengers from flight to flight.

“You can arrive on a domestic flight and connect to an international flight and arrive from an international flight and connect to a domestic flight. You can also arrive on an international flight and connect to another international flight. You can arrive at the same terminal under the same airport experience which is world class and it all adds to the joy of travelling.

“We have a very poor airport experience that Nigerian passengers and visitors to Nigeria have experienced through our international airports over time. For this terminal, if you want to go to Johannesburg, you book a domestic flight out of Abuja and fly into Uyo to connect to Johannesburg. The airport experience you will get, will make you never want to fly out of any other airport,” Uriesi said.

He hinted that the effect of a beautiful transit point in Uyo is having a very nice and competition flight to wherever you are going to, under a very controlled environment.

“We are going to collaborate with all the security services. Any person that has anything to do with processing of passengers will be trained to make the experience through this airport a world-class experience like you find anywhere else you go to.

“By providing this service through this game-changing terminal, we expect to build this hub in West Africa that really has never been seen before,” the COO explained.

He hinted that despite the fact that Lome is a very small city in Togo, situating an airline and having a strategy similar to what Ibom Air is doing, Asky had been able to develop Lome into a huge hub.

He said last year, Asky processed about 1.2 million passengers of which less than five percent were originating or terminating in Lome, observing that these passengers were all transferred passengers and the majority of them were Nigerians who had to go out of Nigeria to Lome to connect to other places. He said this is the problem Akwa Ibom State is trying to solve by making the airport in Nigeria a modern one.

Also, with an on-time performance and modern fleet, Ibom Air has set the pace for healthy competition in the industry already. Uriesi said the strategy of Ibom Air from the very beginning was hinged on being an airline that was planned to be any other competition airline.

“You have to go and compete in a very brutal environment with airlines that have hub terminals and MRO. That is the kind of story we are telling right here in Uyo. Our strategy to be able to build the world class African regional airline is our vision to provide a world class service such as passenger experience, the onboard experience of the passengers, the customer service element through buying of the ticket, thecheck-in, arrival, delivery of bags amongst others,” Uriesi said.

He said the whole idea of the terminal and the MRO is to build a strong airline, just like any other competitive airline in the world.

“We will develop a business plan, execute it and we believe that if we do that in a very disciplined manner under very strong corporate governance rules which we have practiced from the beginning, then there is no reason why we won’t be a successful and competitive international standard African regional airline,” he added.

THISDAY learnt that Akwa Ibom government plans to make its MRO a major maintenance facility line people can find anywhere in the advanced world.

Akwa Ibom targets to become part of the Big Four in Africa among which are the MRO of South Africa Airways, the MRO of Ethiopian Airlines in Addis Ababa, and the facility of Egypt Air in Cairo

“The MRO is massive and can take two Boeing 747-800 standing side by side with the doors closed. In the same vein, it can take eight of our aircraft type, Airbus A220 at once and 10 of our other aircraft type, CRJ900. The MRO facility is very important for Nigeria and West Africa. It is the only facility of its type in the whole of West and Central Africa but more than that, it presents an opportunity for us to move into a different era in the industry in Nigeria because of all the facilities that it has.

“From wheels, aircraft brakes, tires and all the different shops; many of these things have not existed in Nigeria at this scale before. So, we have the opportunity to present this repair and overhaul maintenance facility to all the airlines in West and Central Africa,” Uriesi explained.

He said through the MRO, the company intends to create a centre of excellence that would allow it to provide the services, which Nigerian carriers travel overseas to get.

“Most of our airlines go to Europe and pay millions of Euros to be able to maintain their aircraft. With this facility, we are now going to be able to provide maintenance for other airlines right here in Uyo,” Uriesi further said.

He also disclosed that the company is partnering with Airbus consulting.

“We have contracted them to partner with us to come and assess the facility, which by the way, they are impressed with. They will help us develop a business plan for optimal use of this facility. We want to be able to maintain our fleet, which are the A220 and CRJ900 and also to advise on the best fleet that we can get the most business out of,” Uriesi said.

Abuja as Model of Contemporary Airport Infrastructure

As at December 12, 1991 when the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, took over as Nigerian capital, the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport was a make-shift contraption, whose infrastructure was not close to the popular Maiduguri, Yola, Sokoto or Kaduna airports at that time.

Then the first flight that landed at the airport was a stop-over that the pilot in command persuaded passengers to bear with the flight crew just to make a stop at the new airport.

But many years later, the Abuja airport is only second to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos and in terms of functional facility and modernity. The airport has over stripped the nation’s busiest airport. In the few years to come, it is projected that the Abuja airport would become the busiest airport in Nigeria in terms of passenger traffic and aircraft movement.

Industry observers argue that the airport has room for expansion, which Lagos may not have; as capital of Nigeria it will attract more politico-economic activities in future at the time business expansion in Lagos might have stultified.

After the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport was one of the airports that recorded rapid growth in terms of passenger traffic.

In fact, since 2019, the domestic wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport has maintained its position as the most patronised domestic airport in Nigeria in terms of passenger movements. The total number of domestic air passengers that used Abuja airport was 4.51 million in 2019, 3.50 million in 2020, and 4.75 million in 2021. On the other hand, 4.29 million domestic passengers used the local wing of Muritala Muhammad Airport in Lagos in 2019; 3.11

million in 2020, and 4.09 million in 2021. With modern facilities put in place in the last two years, the airport has become passengers favourite because of easy passenger facilitation, its cleanliness and hassle-free processes. In fact, THISDAY learnt that many Nigerians from the South East, South South, Middle Belt and of course, the north, prefer the Abuja airport when coming from overseas because of the state-of-the-art facilities.

TRANSFORMATION

Staff of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) who spoke to THISDAY gave credit to the immediate past Regional Manager Central and Airport Manager of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, Mr. Kabir Mohammed, who is the

current Managing Director of FAAN. Those who spoke to THISDAY said when he started the transformation process upon his appointment in March 2022, many of the workers thought it was the familiar situation whereby he would lose steam after few weeks but they later realised that the man had a strong plan and the right determination to achieve his plan.

“Then we began to strictly follow his guidelines and instructions. Within just one year he made changes we could never imagine could be done in five years. With vast knowledge in different sectors of Nigeria’s economy and in government, Mohammed remains a seasoned aviator with invaluable wealth of experience in the aviation industry. It was his experience and vision that he brought to bear on the sudden transformation of the Abuja airport.

I know he had a lot of training in aviation because he is my boss. We love his disciplined attitude to work. Some of us that work closely with him know he does not take nonsense but appreciates hard work and commitment,” said a senior FAAN official who worked with him when Mohammed was Personal Assistant to the former Managing Director of FAAN, Mr. Saleh Dunoma and who was also in Abuja under him as Regional/Airport Manager.

LANDSCAPE DEVELOPMENT

Nigerians who use the Abuja airport can recall the anarchic traffic and the haphazard parking of vehicles. The undulating landscape and the unguarded vehicular movement made the parking area very chaotic. But when Mohammed took over, he introduced what is now referred to as FAAN Taxi Solution. This solution was designed, developed and deployed to address numerous challenges that plagued all stakeholders at the airport, including FAAN officials, legacy car hire operators, passengers exiting the airport and chauffeurs who drive their bosses to the airport. The FAAN Taxi Solution was designed to provide some benefits and these include the elimination of touting and consistent passenger harassment; elimination of intensive revenue loss and improved revenue generation; improved security of the airports, riders and drivers; and the provision of seamless and centralised information technology. It also provides platform and solution for car hire companies and their respective fleets.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

In the last few years, the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja has advanced to become the best airport facility in Nigeria. Government should replicate it at other airports in Nigeria, writes Chinedu Eze

Managing Partner, CMC Connect LLP, Raheem Olabode; Executive Secretary, Public Relations Consultants Association of Nigeria (PRCAN), Victoria Bassey; Team Lead, Brands and Corporate, CMC Connect LLP, Omobolanle Ayejuni; and Team Lead, Business Transformation and Acceleration, CMC Connect LLP, Nathaniel Ligbago, during the public presentation of the 2023 BCW Age of Value Report by CMC Connect LLP, held at their office in Lagos…recently

District Manager, West, International Breweries Plc (IBPLC), Hans Dafour; Manager, Phocles Nigeria Limited, Alakija branch, Mmuogbo Calistus; General Manager, Phocles Nigeria Limited, Obienyem Obinna; and District Manager, South, IBPLC, Sylvester Umemezie, at the IBPLC distributors’ award night in Lagos… recently

L-R: Senior Lecturer, Department of Chemistry, University of Lagos, Dr. Abayomi Akeem; Principal Research Officer, Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research (NIOMR), Mrs. Ezekiel Martha; Principal Research Officer, NIOMR, Justina Obienu; Assistant Director, Department of Biological Oceanography, NIOMR, Dr. Juliet Igbo. Behind: Master’s student, Department of Earth and Environmental Science, Dalhousie University, Canada, Chukwuka Orji, at the Unilag Lagoon Front Jetty during the investigation of nutrient nitrogen species in the Lagos Lagoon…recently

A cross-section of members of the graduating class of 2023 of SOFUNIX International Schools during their valedictory/graduation ceremony and prize-giving day in Iroko Town, Ogun State…recently

L-R: Chief Operating Officer, Oando Energy Resources, Dr. Alex Ainojie; Group Managing Director, UTM FLNG Limited, Mr. Julius Rone; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, ND Western Limited, Mr. Eberechukwu Orji; representative of Senior Technical Assistant, Gas, Business Development and Investments, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Brenda Ataga; President, Nigeria Gas Association, Mr. Akachukwu Nwokedi; and Executive Vice Chairman, Gas, Power and New Energies, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited, Abdulkabir M. Ahmed, at a panel session of the NOG Energy Week, with the theme: ‘Accelerating Gas Development for Nigeria’s Energy Transition Journey’, held in Abuja…recently

Former President of Aviation Round Table, Dr. Gabriel Olowo; Director-General, Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB)(Guest Speaker), Akin Olateru; Chief Executive Officer, Topbrass Aviation, Mr. Roland Iyayi; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Mr. Tayib Odunowo; Chairman, League of Airport and Aviation Correspondent (LAAC), Mr. Olusegun Koiki; Chief Executive Officer, Centurion Aviation Security, Group Capt. John Ojikutu; acting Chief Operating Officer, Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited, Mrs. Tosan Odukoya; representative of the Managing Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Alhaji Abdullahi Yakubu-Funtua; and Convener, Akwaaba African Annual Travel Market, Mr. Ikechi Uko, during the 27th annual conference of League of Airports and Aviation Correspondents, with the theme: ‘Aviation Industry: Changing Times, Changing Strategies’, held in Ikeja, Lagos…recently

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Rt Hon. James Cleverly: Strengthening Future-focused, Mutually Beneficial UK-African Partnerships

As Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, an appointment which he stepped into on September 6, 2022, Rt Hon. James Cleverly, has the overarching responsibility for the departmental portfolio and oversight of the ministerial team, Cabinet, Foreign Policy and National Security Council Strategy, Intelligence Policy and Honours for the United Kingdom. Just this week, he was in Nigeria to set out a positive vision for the UK’s partnership with Africa. This was part of the four-day tour of three African nations- Ghana, Nigeria and Zambia. In an exclusive interview with some select journalists in Lagos including CHIEMELIE EZEOBi of THISDAY, the foreign secretary, amongst other things, canvassed for greater partnership with Nigeria in terms of climate change, women empowerment, and agriculture. He also clamoured for respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, selfdetermination and human rights, which he said must prevail alongside democracy, the rule of law, liberty and freedom

To strengthen “future-focused, mutually beneficial” partnerships, the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), Rt. Hon. James Cleverly was recently on an African tour of three nations in the continent, namely Ghana, Nigeria and Zambia.

The four-day tour began in Ghana on Monday, July 31, 2023. Then on Tuesday, August 1, he set off to Lagos, Nigeria before proceeding to the capital city of Abuja for a meeting with President Bola Tinubu. The tour ended with a visit to Zambia on Thursday.

UK Investment for Small Businesses in Ghana

In Ghana, the foreign secretary announced the new UK investment for small businesses in Ghana, one of the UK’s biggest export markets in sub-Saharan Africa.

He also pledged a £40 million boost for Ghana’s businesses. The funding provided by British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution, owned wholly by the FCDO, will deliver long-term flexible capital for up to 150 Ghanaian small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), opening up access to business support services to help them grow.

Boost for Climate Change, Agriculture in Nigeria

In Nigeria, the foreign secretary pledged support to make Nigeria’s agriculture sector more resilient to climate change on a visit to Nigeria.

While in Lagos, he announced a £10 million UK-backed facility in Nigeria, in partnership with finance company InfraCredit that will unlock funding for sustainable and climate-friendly infrastructure development projects, such as providing renewable energy services to homes in urban areas, as well as green housing.

Also, in Abuja he announced a £55 million Propcom+ contract, a UK International Climate Finance programme which aims to support the transformation of Nigeria’s rural economy, and a £2.89 million grant, will support more than 4 million people across Nigeria to adopt and scale up sustainable agricultural practices.

Optimising Security in Nigeria

Earlier, in an exclusive interview with select media houses in Lagos, the foreign secretary admitted that given that prosperity and security go hand in hand as security gives confidence for an investor to invest in any country, he therefore opined that the potential of Nigeria must be optimised.

He said: “We recognise that physical security and prosperity go hand in hand. Ultimately, it is for all governments to take up their primary responsibilities for the security of their own people and for their sovereign government.

“The UK enjoys a long-standing relationship with Nigeria, and we will continue to look for ways that we can help the government in harnessing security for the Nigerian people, whether through joint training and exercising. For example, yesterday, when I arrived, I saw a joint project between the British office and Nigerian institutions that were working to curb people smuggling or drug smuggling.

“This kind of joint project, as well as joint training, helps keep Nigerians safe, which is good for the Nigerian economy. It helps in development and growth, which is good for the country and the UK. So, we will always look for opportunities to work and enhance our mutual security.”

Championing Women Empowerment

On the situation of women’s empowerment, the foreign secretary said the UK recently launched the International Women and Girls Strategy. He said this means that “our bilateral programming in the work that we do with our partner governments, we are determined to make sure that 80 per cent of these projects have a measurable impact on women and girls by 2030.

“And really, what I am hoping for is an 100 per cent. But 80 per cent is a good milestone. That means that we will be relentlessly focused on that, and encourage our partner organisation and governments to also be relentlessly focused on unlocking the economic potentials of women.

“As I said in the speech, It is foolish not to the potential 26 per cent of global GDP could be unlocked if we equalised women participation in the workplace. We know that there is already a lot of economic activity that has been delivered by women in the informal sector, so if we can find a way of increasing the profitability of the work women are already doing, that would have a huge impact.”

Bringing the Right Kind of Investment, Local Processing to Africa

Noting that investment is important, Rt. Hon James, however said they are also conscious that with the right kind of investment, there is a huge mutually beneficial relationship, partnership that can develop between the UK and African economies.

“Much of African history is based on agricultural products and products from its mining industries have been exported in a very grown form to process overseas, and much of the profitability has been added outside the continent from Africa which then has to re-import basically its own product at a much more high price.

“So the UK and I would very much like to see more processing capacity in Africa. Ultimately its not for the UK government to dictate to the nature of their investment, but certainly, we recognise that it is in Africa’s interest and the UK’s interest for more of that value added processing to happen within the continent, generating revenues that could be spent for further economic growth within the continent, which is good for Africa.

“Economic prosperity is good for both of us, and that economic prosperity often goes hand in hand with stability, which is good for everybody. So that

is the kind of investment we are looking to see and a shift in the nature of investment in the future compared to the kind of investment that we have.”

Also speaking on the type of investments that are expected and the criteria, he said the British International Investment (BII) is an investment arm of FCDO, and although it is only owned by the UK government, “ultimately it does make its own investment decisions, but we have other investment vehicles that we doing as well such as finance for example.

“What we seek to do is to make sure that we are effective and flexible to try and make sure that whatever financial vehicle is utilised is the most appropriate for the investment needs at the point. So in terms of the type of investment that we are looking to support, one is the transition into more renewable energy will be something we will keep very close eyes on.

“Also, areas that have not just a short term but long term positive impact on the economic ecosystem within the country is something we will always look positively to support. But ultimately, our response will be dictated by the need, the need will be dictated by the strength of the idea, and the investment opportunity. That will form the foundation of UK ongoing economic support for Nigeria and other African entrepreneurs”.

Forging Ahead with Nigerian Partnership Despite Uncertainty over Tribunal

With the controversial 2023 elections gone and the result being contested in the Tribunal, the foreign secretary noted while the UK government recognises that there is a review process of the elections, as actually testing results through the court using the institutions of the country are the right way of dealing with political disputes as they have had political events tested in the UK court, it won’t however stop the mutual relationship the UK and Nigeria.

“Our relationship with Nigeria is very long standing.

I will be meeting the president tomorrow (Thursday), and we recognise that justice changes of government in the UK have not interrupted the long-standing partnership that we share with Nigeria. Recent changes in Nigeria political leadership won’t delay or deter us in having a really strong, future focused, mutually beneficial partnership with Nigeria,” he said.

Stance on Niger Coup

As regards the ongoing coup d’etat in Niger Republic, he said the UK was very pleased to see regional African leaders take fast and decisive actions and communicate their intentions, “because I think that the message that that sent about African leaders being engaged and taking responsibility for their actions in their continent is very important.

“I had a conversation with the Ghanian president yesterday, and I will be meeting with President Tinubu tomorrow (done already), I will be discussing what the UK can do to support Africa initiatives, and African actions rather than the UK or other country trying to push ourselves to the front of this. So it is absolutely right that African institutions, ECOWAS, the AU and African leaders, are taking the primary position in response to the situation.”

But when asked if Britain would support any form of military intervention against Niger, he said “we have made it clear that the use of force to redraw borders or to take political control of country is something that we do not support.

“We believe in democracy and we very much value ECOWAS explicit commitment to democracy, and we sincerely hope that democracy can be reestablished in Niger without the need for military intervention.

“African leaders are leading in this, and it is right and appropriate that they do so, and the UK will always listen to request from the government and countries with we have long-standing and close relationship. But I am not prepared to speculate on what might happen in the event of future circumstances.”

The UK-Zambia Green Growth Compact

The three-nation tour came to an end in Zambia where through the UK-Zambia Green Growth Compact, new targets were delivered. This aims to drive investment in Zambia’s green economy, strengthening the growing economic partnership between Zambia and the UK, tackling climate change, creating jobs and new business opportunities in both countries.

While there, he announced a UK clean energy partnership with Zambia for new ambitious targets set for green investment include up to £2.5 billion of UK private sector funding and up to £500 million in UK government backed investments. In the first Foreign Secretary visit to Zambia in over 30 years, James Cleverly also toured a copper mine and signed a memorandum of understanding on critical minerals, thus wrapping up the four-day tour of some African nations.

About Rt. Hon James Cleverly

Rt. Hon. James was previously Secretary of State for Education from July 2022 to September 2022. Before that, James was Minister of State for Europe and North America in the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) from February to July 2022. He was also Minister for Middle East, North Africa and North America from September 2020 to February 2022.

James was first appointed as a joint Minister of State for Middle East and North Africa in the Foreign & Commonwealth Office and the Department for International Development on 13 February 2020.

James was Minister without Portfolio from July 2019 to February 2020, and Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Exiting the European Union from April 2019 to July 2019. He was first elected as the Conservative MP for Braintree in May 2015.

Rt Hon James Cleverly with President Bola Tinubu

L-R: CEO FSD Africa, Mark Napier; Foreign Secretary, Rt. Hon. James Cleverly; British High Commissioner, Dr. Richard Montgomery; CEO InfraCredit, Chinua Azubike; and Deputy High Commissioner, Sally Wollhouse

CEO, EbonyLife Place, Mo Abudu with the foreign secretary, high commissioner and acting deputy high commissioner

Martini Brings Together Trade Partners to Launch 160th Anniversary Campaign

Stories by Mary Nnah

Bacardi-Martini Nigeria gathered key stakeholders and trade partners for an afternoon of celebration and networking as they launched the 160th anniversary campaign of Martini on Tuesday, July 25th.

Birthed in Italy in 1863, Martini has become synonymous with being an Iconic, sophisticated and celebratory Brand with a focus on being the Bubbly of choice for celebratory occasions and moments that matter to target consumers. The event, which was held at Radisson Blu Ikeja GRA, kickstarted the round of activities planned to celebrate Martini’s 160th year of delivering great taste globally. Given the significance of this anniversary, Martini confirms a 5-month long celebration that will include activations through all channels.

Thomas Olumagin, Head CPA & Offtrade, emphasised the importance of launching the campaign by hosting stakeholders who made up their distribution chain. “We wanted to bring all the stakeholders that have been pivotal to our success in Nigeria. Without you, there’s no us,” he said.

During the event hosted

by Victory Wilson, the official logo for the 160th anniversary campaign was unveiled. The recognisable Martini logo, which features a ball and bar that represent pleasant warmth through the body, now has the message of the 160 years wrapped around it.

One of the major announce-

ments by Anie Ekwere, Customer Brand Manager at the trade launch event was that the 5-month Martini 160th campaign will conclude with a grand festival in November, the first of its kind for the Martini brand in Nigeria. The celebratory festival is scheduled to hold in Lagos in December and will be the grand event to

AFRICAN ACHIEVERS HONOURS OLUWATOSIN OLATUJOYE WITH EXCELLENCE AWARD IN THE UK

cap a series of designed plans commencing now to drive sales of Martini Rosé across channels through giftings, tastings, events and more from July to November.

Ultimately, Martini has plans for activities that translate to more sales across the market, as well as events to celebrate the milestone anniversary.

Shecluded Celebrates Successful Completion of the Route to Scale Accelerator Programme

Shecluded, the trailblasing organisation dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs, has announced the successful completion of its first cohort of the Route to Scale Accelerator Programme. The programme culminated with participants showcasing their business acumen by pitching to seven esteemed investors, mobilised by Shecluded.

Partly sponsored by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ ) and delivered in collaboration with the Implementing Partner GOPA, the Route to ScaleAccelerator Programme was a resounding success.

Over 20 intensive days, including seven days at the new Shecluded Hub and 13 days conducted virtually, participants

were immersed in a comprehensive curriculum designed to foster growth and innovation in their businesses.

“We are thrilled with the outstanding outcome of the Route to Scale Accelerator Program,” said Ifeoma Uddoh, the visionary CEO of Shecluded. “By partnering with GIZ and utilizing the ICSS Entrepreneurship Development Framework, we were able to create a transformative experience for our participants.”

The accelerator programme featured a team of dedicated trainers, facilitators, and coaches, including Belinda Nkechi Idinmachi, Chief Growth Officer at Shecluded, and the Programmes Director, who recently obtained certification as a business trainer. Alongside five other seasoned Business

Development Experts, they provided invaluable guidance and mentorship to the participants throughout the programme. Testimonials from the participants speak volumes about the programme’s impact.

Tega Gbadagiri, Founder of The Mobile Spa, expressed her gratitude, “I have attended many business training, but the Shecluded Route to Scale Accelerator remains the most practical, relatable, and helpful for my business.”

The immersive curriculum revolved around vital aspects of entrepreneurship and selfleadership, including Growth Strategies and Mapping, Innovation, Technology and Business Digitization, Human Resource Management, Organizational

Culture, Performance and Productivity Management, Access to Market, and Investment Readiness. The comprehensive training empowered the participants to elevate their ventures to new heights.

The culminating event featured participants pitching their business ideas and strategies to a distinguished panel of seven investors, providing them with a unique opportunity to attract potential investments and propel their businesses further.

As Shecluded celebrates the successful completion of the Route to Scale Accelerator Programme, the organisation looks forward to continuing its mission of empowering womenentrepreneursanddriving economic growth in the region.

Queens Borough, NewYork Partners Lagos State Government to Drive Innovation, Economic Growth

The Queens Borough of NewYork City, USA has partnered with the Lagos State Government on a learning exchange programme to drive technological innovations and foster entrepreneurial and economic growth between Lagos and New York City.

The Queens Borough - Lagos State alliance is aimed at inspiring collaboration, highlighting shared interests, and setting the stage for a prosperous and inclusive partnership for future joint initiatives that will create a lasting impact on the innovation ecosystems of both Lagos State and Queens Borough, New York. It is a learning exchange partnership with a focus on areas of mutual collaboration and how Queens Borough, New York can provide access to funding for Nigerian startups.

Only 12 per cent of the jobs in tech in the US are represented by black folks, and the Queens Borough - Lagos State alliance will bridge the gap by giving more opportunities to blacks and Africans to access funding, cross-border opportunities and expand their markets beyond the shores of Lagos andAfrica to New York and become global solution providers.

Donovan Richards, Borough President of Queens, New York, stated that Lagos is the leading tech ecosystem on theAfrican continent and therefore deserves the needed cross-border collaboration to help entrepreneurs, innovators, and policymakers create sustainable solutions for economic growth. “Lagos is setting the stage on the African continent in technology and innovation for black folks and deserves the required collaboration for access to capital to help entrepreneurs scale up and provide economic opportunities for larger inclusion and growth”, Mr Richards said.

According to the Borough President, “Lagos is a hub for black brilliance, black leadership, black innovation and black participation, and we are creating such partnerships and pipelines to help more people of colour get tech funding”, he added

Olatunbosun Alake, the then Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Innovation and Technology, said that the partnership is in line with the mission of the State to provide opportunities and foster collaboration in the tech sector with specific plans on how

to resource, build and create economic value from the tech ecosystems in Lagos State.

“We want to continue to help our entrepreneurs and stakeholders create value through the creation of cross-border partnerships and cross-border relationships that would be of benefit to the local ecosystem. This partnership will create a platform for local companies to expand to new markets, network with experts from New York and partner on new ideas that would transform the ecosystem for growth and inclusivity”, Alake noted.

The ecosystem event was characterised by a fireside chat and a panel discussion with thought leaders from Nigeria’s tech ecosystem. The fireside chat with Donovan Richards, President of Queens Borough, New York was moderated by Victor Afolabi, Founder of Eko Innovation Center, and a key player in the innovation ecosystem in Lagos State. The chat explored the key aspects of the Lagos State - Queens Borough alliance, promoting innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity with a focus on how

the partnership can foster mutual growth, create systemic opportunities, and address challenges faced by entrepreneurs and innovators, with an emphasis on equitable access to resources.

The panel discussion was moderated by Ebony Young, Deputy President of Queens Borough, New York, with top ecosystem leaders like Olatunbosun Alake, Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos State on Innovation and Technology; Iyinoluwa Aboyeji – Founder and General Partner of Future Africa; Akinwande Akinsulire, Startup Support Lead at Co-creation Hub. The panel discussion fostered an engaging and informative dialogue, laying the groundwork for a productive and sustainable alliance between Lagos State and Queens Borough, with a focus on fostering an inclusive and diverse innovation and technology ecosystem in Lagos and New York.

The takeout from the partnership saw the creation of a mutual Enterprise Development Center (EDC) desk where Lagos and New York can support each other, collaborate and provide access

Erudite and astute entrepreneur, Dr Oluwatosin Olatujoye has received an award for excellence in business and Corporate Administration at African Achievers Award in London, United Kingdom.

Olatujoye, the Group CEO of Zylus bagged this award in recognition of his immense contribution to the real estate sector through Zylus Homes, the real estate subsidiary of Zylus Group. This also serves as a testament to his canny business sense and the ability to bring out the best in people.

The Africa Achievers Awards which was held at the Palace of Westminster, House of Parliament, London, UK, is an annual event that recognises and celebrates exceptional individuals and organisations across Africa.

The 2023 theme, “Unlocking Sustainable Trade and Investment Opportunities in Africa – the PPP Approach”, focused on the importance of addressing the challenges in Africa to work towards a prosperous, equitable, and sustainable future in the continent.

The Zylus boss was awarded alongside other prominent personalities like Dr. Yvonne Thompson; Commander of the British Empire & Deputy Lieutenant for the King for Greater London, Olori Atuwatse II; Queen Consort of the Warri Kingdom, Kenneth Raydon Sharpe; CEO, Westpro Holdings Zimbabwe, Viv Ahmun; Founder, African One, HE Amb. Nir Gess; Honorary Consul of Malawi in the state of Israel among others.

Speaking after receiving the award, Olatujoye expressed gratitude to the award organisers for finding him feat out of millions of Africans who are contributing to the development of the communities, countries and the continent at large.

He stated that receiving an award for Business Excellence reflects his tenacity and commitment to the real estate industry, building a sustainable business and leading a team that continues to address the housing deficit in Nigeria.

He further said that the award is a call to do even much more as he looks forward to not only building a business that caters to the housing needs of Nigerians but also extends to the African Continent.

Some of those who have congratulated Dr. Olatujoye include the CEO of Zylus Group, Mrs. Bukola Olatujoye who stated that the tremendous success recorded by the GCEO is indeed an inspiration to all the people around him particularly the staff and Associates of Zylus.

This year’s event, hosted by Simon Woolley, Member of the House of Lords, UK Parliament, brought together industry leaders from Africa to discuss strategies for sustainable development in the continent.

The Africa Achievers Awards founder and CEO, Tonye Rex Idaminabo at the event emphasised the importance of the theme in addressing Africa’s challenges and working towards a prosperous and sustainable future.

BURGER KING NIGERIA LAUNCHES 8TH STORE IN AJAH WITH EXCITING ACTIVITIES

On Saturday, July 22nd, 2023, Burger King opened its doors to eager customers at its new location at Lekki-Epe Expressway. The store launch was highly anticipated, drawing in crowds of food lovers. With a reputation for mouthwatering burgers and a beautiful ambience, Burger King Ajah’s store launch was an unforgettable experience and signified the brand’s commitment to bring the real burger experience closer to its consumers, one neighbourhood at a time.

But before the grand opening, there were a series of pre-event activities that piqued the interest of consumers.

For three consecutive days, from the 18th to the 20th of July, Burger King gave away a whopping 100 FREE burgers each day to customers who purchased the famous Whopper meal. The irresistible deal attracted burger lovers from all corners of Ajah, resulting in long lines outside the restaurant as everyone eagerly awaited their turn to savour the delectable treat.

The day before the grand opening, Ajah witnessed The King’s road storm like never before. The streets were abuzz with burger king ambassadors who handed out fliers, freebies and engaged the community.

Finally, the much-awaited day arrived. The grand opening of Burger King in Ajah was nothing short of fun and flavour. The store’s doors swung open to all who were eager to explore the mouthwatering menu and engage in the delightful activities.

As a gesture of gratitude to the community, Burger King gave away exclusive limited-edition merchandise to guests who purchased above N10,000 during the grand opening.

The grand opening of Burger King in Ajah was more than just an event; it was a celebration filled with laughter, memories, and mouthwatering moments.

With Burger King now a part of the Ajah culinary landscape, residents can look forward to more sizzling moments and delightful experiences.

African Achievers awardee, Oluwatosin Olatujoye

L-R: Market Development Manager, Ontrade, Stephen Enumah; Customer Brand Manager, Anie Ekwere; Head, CPA & Offtrade, Thomas Olumagin and Head, Ontrade & Reserve Brands, Phillip Edafiogho at the event

Nimbus Aid Project Report Highlights Tangible Support for Nigerian SMEs

Gilbert Ekwugbe

The Nimbus Aid Project, a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative by Nimbus Media Limited, has released its 2022 Impact Report showcasing significant achievements in supporting Small and Mediumsized Enterprises (SMEs) and non-profit organisations in Nigeria.

The Impact Report also highlights key insights from the Nimbus Aid Project, emphasising the importance of targeted support for SMEs, collaborative selection processes, and leveraging digital platforms to amplify impact.

Since its launch in 2016, Nimbus Aid Project has provided marketing support and market penetration access to

13 organisations, 11 of which are women-led. In 2022, the initiative awarded N20 million worth of advertising support to 10 women-led SMEs and startups in Nigeria. Through these efforts, over 2.8 million unique advert views have been delivered to beneficiaries across high-traffic locations in Lagos, the economic hub of West Africa.

CEO of Nimbus Media Limited, Wale Adegoke, expressed his vision behind the Nimbus Aid Project: “At Nimbus Media Limited, we believe businesses have a profound responsibility to contribute positively to society. The Nimbus Aid Project embodies our commitment to giving back and making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most. Through this initiative, we have set out to

empower and uplift communities in Nigeria by providing valuable support to organisations that are empowering communities and creating economic opportunities.”

Managing Partner at HeadFort Foundation and one of the beneficiaries, Oluyemi Orija lauds the Nimbus Aid Project as a game-changer for businesses adding, “The Nimbus Aid project is a great opportunity to create huge awareness for businesses, as winning the grant can change the trajectory of one’s business and strategically help reach new communities.”

Looking ahead, the Nimbus Aid Project aims to expand its support for SMEs and nonprofit organisations through collaborations with like-minded partners, media organisations, and public-sector entities.

Bankly Launches Microfinance Bank, Unveils New Products

Bankly, the popular Fintech company that specializes in payment processing through POS terminals, has announced the launch of Bankly Microfinance Bank.

The launch of Bankly Microfinance Bank marks a significant milestone in Bankly’s journey to provide accessible financial solutions to individuals and businesses across Nigeria.

The launch event was held in Lagos and was attended by lifestyle influencers, journalists, and Bankly customers. During the event, guests were given an exclusive look at some of the newly introduced Group Savings

features within the Bankly App. Bankly’s journey began in 2019 with a mission to address the financial challenges faced by groups of individuals saving collectively in local markets. These small business owners lacked access to formal banking institutions but needed a secure place to save money from their sales.

Speaking on the remarkable feat, Co-founder and CEO of Bankly, Tomilola Majekodunmi denoted, “We are thrilled to announce the launch of Bankly Microfinance Bank. At Bankly, we have always been committed to easing financial processes and addressing the pain points of everyday people through

a wide range of financial products and services. With the launch of the Bankly Microfinance Bank and the group savings feature on the Bankly app, we have taken this commitment a step further, making it easier for the everyday Nigerians to save, invest and spend without hassles.”

“Every product, service and feature at Bankly is designed to create new avenues for customers to access unique, safe and seamless savings, investment and payment features — and the new developments at Bankly are no different,” said Uwem Ekanem, Vice President, Marketing at Bankly.

Promo: Access Bank to Reward Customers with N135m

Nume Ekeghe

Access Bank Plc, has announced it would reward customers N135 million in cash prizes to 844 lucky customers in its season 15 DiamondXtra promo.

The bank also noted that in 15 years it had rewarded cumulated reward to customers is N 6.38 billion.

The bank also emphasised that its commitment to encouraging savings and rewarding loyal customers remains unwavering, with this year’s goal aimed at reaching an even larger number of customers compared to previous years

Speaking at the launch of DiamondXtra season 15, in Lagos, the Group, Head, Consumer Banking, Access Bank, Njideka Esomeju

said: “DiamondXtra is one of the best things that has ever happened to banking in Nigeria, and it has transformed the lives of Nigerians who have been patronising this special savings and reward scheme by Access Bank since 2008. Since inception of the rewarding scheme, we have rewarded over 26,000 customers to the tune of over N6.38 billion and today we are here to launch the 15th season and the bank will be rewarding over 844 lucky customers with a total sum N135m.”

She added that this year’s promo would see winners emerge from different categories of rewards namely, Loyalty rewards, Regional Draws, Regional Onsite Draws, Free Digital Marketing Training and Digital Cluster Draws.

Also, she reiterated that just as the previous years in order to ensure transparency and accountability of the reward scheme, regulators from National Lottery Regulatory Commission and Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission are in place who monitor all the draws to ensure transparency.

Also speaking at the launch, the Head of Federal Competition And Consumer Protection Commision in Lagos, Suzy Onwuka said: “I want to commend Access Bank because this is a flagship product for them and we have been monitoring it over the years. It has been transparent and over the past seasons we have not had any complaints from anyone who has won something.”

International Breweries Goes Bold with Smart Drinking Message

Driven by a relentless pursuit to promote smart drinking and disrupt the harmful use of alcohol, International Breweries Plc (IBPLC), held the second edition of its Smart Drinking Roundtable Session recently.

The event which took place in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, with the theme: “Exploring Strategies to Promote Responsible Drinking Habits and Reduce the Negative Impact of Excessive Alcohol Consumption,” was used to launch the second round of its Responsible Beverage Service (RBS), a sequel to the maiden event which was held in Lagos last year. In attendance were eminent stakeholders and representatives from the Federal

and State Ministries of Health, Federal Road Safety Commission, Nigerian Medical Association, Hospitality and Tourism Management Association of Nigeria, National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Rivers State, and the Nigerian Police Force, amongst others

During the event, the Corporate Communications Manager, International Breweries Plc, Eniola Alli-Faweya said, “At IBPLC, our responsibility towards our consumers and host communities is at the core of our business and remains unwavering. We share the ambition of the United Nations and the World Health Organization to reduce the

Money

harmful use of alcohol around the world. Through the Responsible Beverage Service, we aim to make a tangible impact on society by actively addressing the issues associated with alcohol abuse.”

The keynote speaker, and President, Society for Adolescent and Young People’s Health in Nigeria, Professor Adesegun Fatusi, enlightened the audience on the theme of the day, highlighting the importance of collaboration: “In the pursuit of transcendent outcomes through the Responsible Beverage Service and other interventions targeting harmful alcohol use, the paramount essence lies in forging unyielding partnerships.

The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $82.06 a barrel on Friday, compared with $81.53 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations.

The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), 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).

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT 17 JULY, 2023

L-R: Wale Adegoke of Nimbus Media and Daniel Adeyemi of TechCabal, with some beneficiaries of the Nimbus Aid Project in Lagos...recently

NGX Admits DMO’s N130bn Sovereign Sukuk

Kayode Tokede

The Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) yesterday announced the listing of the Federal Government’s N130 billion Sovereign Sukuk through the Debt Management Office (DMO) on its platform.

The 10-year 15.64% Ijara Sukuk due 2032.

According to DMO, the

Sovereign Sukuk opened for subscription in November 2022 with an initial offer of N100 billion and garnered immense interest from investors with a remarkable subscription level of N165.25 billion. This represented over 165% of the amount offered. In a bid to accommodate the needs of diverse investors who subscribed to the Sukuk, N130 billion was allocated.

The total Sovereign Sukuk issued from 2017 till date currently stands at N742.557 billion and the proceeds have facilitated the construction and rehabilitation of over 75 roads and bridges across the country. DMO said in a statement.

“The listing of the N130 billion Sovereign Sukuk on the NGX will expand the range of financial offerings available to

investors in the capital market. The opportunity to buy and sell the Sovereign Sukuk will provide liquidity to investors and promote price discovery.”

The Divisional Head of Capital Markets at NGX, Jude Chiemeka in a statement commended the DMO under the leadership of Director-General Patience Oniha for their effective implementation and commitment to following

due process in infrastructural financing. He emphasized the significance of the Sovereign Sukuk issuance and subsequent listing on NGX.

=“This listing demonstrates the federal government’s dedication to developing critical infrastructure through innovative and cost-effective financing structures. NGX is fully committed to providing

a robust exchange infrastructure that facilitates efficient capital accessibility for the government to raise essential funds, addressing the infrastructural gap and boosting economic growth.

“The listing of the Sovereign Sukuk on the Exchange is seen as a positive move, offering an exit opportunity for existing investors and further strengthening the Nigerian capital market”.

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF AUGUST/3/23

COMMEMORATING WORLD BREASTFEEDING WEEK…

Lagos Reaffirms Commitment to Fostering Enabling Environment for Businesses

CIBN launches next generation forum

Nume Ekeghe and Oluchi Chibuzor

The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for economic growth across all sectors in the state.

Also yesterday, the Chartered Institute of Bankers Nigeria (CIBN) kicked off the 'Generation Next

Forum,' an initiative targeted at attracting youths into the financial ecosystems and educating them about the trends that would shape the future of banking.

The Governor who was represented by his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hazmat, reiterated his commitment yesterday, while speaking at the inaugural edition of the CIBN Generation Next Forum.

Boat Mishaps: NIWA Creates 13 Rescue Stations amid Reoccurring Incidents

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

The National Inland Waterways (NIWA) said it has set up 13 rescue stations among its 24 offices nationwide to mitigate boat mishap incidents on the country's waterways.

NIWA, made the disclosure in Abuja, during the signing of a two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) on provisions of navigational facilities.

The Managing Director, NIWA, George Moghalu, who said this while speaking with journalists shortly after signing the agreement said: "To improve navigation for us in all our waterways, we have the information to work with. If we have information with regards to weather conditions, we can advise our boat operators not to put their vessel on the water at a particular time based on the prediction from NiMet.

"It hurts us to see accident on the waterways. In many instances, some of the incidences are avoidable but they happen most time due to human error. They overload vessels despite knowing the capacity of the vessel, refusal to use life jackets, operating at the wrong hour which is operating after 6pm especially for vessels that don’t have night navigational aids.

"Sometimes, being who we are, we try to stretch our luck. We were confronted with a situation where

we gave life jackets to some people, but they say they don’t need it because they are fishes and they can swim very well but I tell them that even fishes die in water."

According to Moghalu, "When we have information, we will be guided in our actions. We are conscious of the fact that information is powerful and that is why we feel the relationship we have started will improve the efficiency of both agencies and serve the interest of Nigerians.

"We already know flooding will happen, but we need to take measures like opening up the drainage and managing of refuse. We also need to dredge the channels to open them so that the water can find comfortable routes to move around.”

Similarly, the Director General of NiMet, Prof. Mansur Matazu, while speaking on the importance of the partnership, said there was need for close monitoring of activities on the waterways to prevent loss of lives and livelihood.

He added: "We have a very busy navigational activities and this is confronted with lots of extreme events that have led to loss of lives and livelihood in Kwara State. It is time for this partnership. We have eight marine weather stations being manned 24/7 and we recently established central marine forecast office in Lagos and we will have another central office under this partnership.

Delivering the speech, Sanwo-Olu said the theme of the forum, 'Industry 5.0 Banking Revolution: Insights for Generation Next' could not be more timely or relevant as the nation's teeming youth continued to search for and lay a solid foundation for a fulfilling and rewarding career in the various sectors of the economy including the banking sector.

He said the concept of Industry 5.0 represented the convergence of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, the internet of things, block-chain, and robotics, with the core elements of humanity and society.

According to him, it heralds a new era, “one that would transform every aspect of lives, including the banking and finance industry.”

He acknowledged that in the face of such transformation, the

banking sector must be at the forefront of innovation, adaptability and inclusivity.

He opined that the nation must recognie that the time to empower and prepare its youth to contribute meaningfully to the economic ecosystem was now.

According to him, "As a government, we are committed to fostering an enabling environment that encourages the growth and development of all the critical sectors including the banking sector in our state.

“Lagos, as the commercial hub of Nigeria and a leading financial center in Africa, has a unique role to play in embracing and leveraging Industry 5.0.

"Our young generation is naturally inclined towards technology and innovation, and they hold the key

to unlocking the full potential of Industry 5.0. Today's forum presents us with an invaluable opportunity to examine the criticality of this revolution and explore how it will profoundly impact the banking and finance sector, with specific focus on how it affects the young generation."

For the President/Chairman of Council, CIBN, Dr. Ken Opara, the event marked a significant milestone in the institute’s relentless quest for excellence and innovative solutions within the banking and finance industry.

He noted that in pursuit of progress, "we find ourselves at the cusp of a new era, one that has been termed the Fifth Industrial Revolution."

According to him, unlike its precursor, the Fifth Industrial Revolution goes beyond the

boundaries of technology and efficiency-driven practices. He maintained that it encompasses a profound paradigm shift that incorporates the principles of sustainability, human-centeredness, and concern for the environment.

"Esteemed audience, this inaugural edition of the CIBN Generation Next Forum is dedicated to inspiring the younger generation to pursue rewarding careers within the banking industry.

“The recent spate of exodus of young Nigerians to foreign countries in what is known as the ‘Japa syndrome’ propelled the Institute working in consonance with the banking industry to establish a human capital development fund for the purpose of building capacity for the Nigerian Banking Industry,” he added.

NAPTIP DG: War against Human Trafficking Needs Input of All

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Director General, National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Prof. Fatima Waziri -Azi has called for input of all in the fight against human trafficking.

Speaking in Abuja, at the launch of the compendium of State Task Forces on Human Trafficking, Waziri-Azu said: “We must all remember that to control human trafficking, we must equally recognise the fact that it is a battle that no one entity can tackle alone and collaboration serves as the backbone of a successful fight against this crime for several reasons.”

She explained that human trafficking remains a highly organised and intricate network of criminals.

“It operates within and across borders, making it difficult for any one entity to address effectively. And only through joint efforts can we dismantle these criminal networks and bring the perpetrators to justice,” she added.

She lamented that human trafficking victims often face multiple

challenges when seeking help and support, insisting that collaborative efforts between government and NGOs could ensure that victims receive the necessary protection and rehabilitation needed, stressing that: “By working together, we can provide a safety net that helps survivors rebuild their lives and find hope for a brighter future.”

She noted that raising awareness and educating communities was crucial in preventing trafficking, adding that: “Collaboration allows us to pool our resources, expertise, and outreach capabilities to create comprehensive awareness campaigns.

“By joining forces, we can empower individuals to recognise the signs of trafficking, thus preventing potential victims from falling prey to the traffickers' schemes.”

Waziri-Azi said: “Let me particularly emphasise the need to strategically partner with traditional institutions because the role traditional rulers play in the society due to their influence as custodians of cultural norms and values cannot be overstated.

“With their extraordinary moral authority, they are able to influence thinking, foster dialogue and set priorities for members of their communities and advocate for social and legal change.”

She added that: “We must recall that human trafficking is a moral crisis that demands a united response and collaboration is the key that unlocks our collective strength in this battle.

“Let us put aside our differences and work together with determination and compassion. Together, we can create a world where human trafficking is nothing but a dark chapter in history. Remember, our success in this fight depends on the strength of our unity.”

She explained that: “This compendium serves as a repository of information and resources that would be useful in your work.

“Most importantly, no matter how fantastic an initiative is without deliberate and targeted funding that initiative will die a natural death. Which is why funding task forces

is paramount importance.

“As this is an essential investment in our collective commitment to combatting human trafficking. Only by providing the necessary financial resources can we build a robust response to the problem and strive towards a world where exploitation has no place.”

Also speaking at the occasion, the United Nations Office on Drug and Crime (UNODC) Team Leader, Trafficking in Persons/Smuggling of Migrants Portfolio, Abimbola Adewumi, who was actively involved in the drafting of the compendium said the document would build the capacity of State Task Forces (STFs) to chronicle their journey, showcase the milestones and achievements of STFs in combatting human trafficking in Nigeria to enhance state government interest and the drive for sustainable solutions She noted that it documents the peculiarity and dimensions of human trafficking in the states to inform tailored interventions by project implementers.

L-R: Chairman, Association of Nigeria Private Medical Practitioners (ANPMP), Dr. Makinde Akinlemibola; Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Health District VI, Dr. Abimbola Mabogunje; World Breastfeeding Week Desk officer, Federal Ministry of Health, Nutrition Division, Mrs. Adenike Bayode; Managing Director, Multiglobis Properties/Representative of the Lagos State First Lady, Mrs. Ogunnubi Olamide; Project Director, FHI 360 - Alive & Thrive, Dr. Victor Ogbodo; President, NECA's Network of Entrepreneurial Women (NNEW), Mrs. Funmilayo Arowoogun, and Chief Executive Officer, FSDH Merchant Bank, Bukola Smith, during the private sector commemoration of World breastfeeding week organized by NNEW and Alive & Thrive in Lagos…recently

ANNUAL PETROLEUM ENGINEERS’ CONFERENCE...

Ex-FRC Boss Raises the Alarm over Smear Campaign, Vows to Seek Redress in Court

Wale Igbintade

A former Chief Executive Officer of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN), Mr. Jim Obazee has raised the alarm over smear campaign against him over some imaginary financial impropriety, describing it as “outrageous falsehood.”

Obazee was recently appointed by President Bola Tinubu as a special investigator to investigate the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and related entities.

However, following the announcement of his appointment, he alleged that there were series of negative narratives published by some online media to tarnish his reputation.

Addressing newsmen yesterday in Lagos Obazee's lawyer, Anayo Mbah, stated that the malicious campaign was meant to abuse the

minds of the people so that Obazee can be viewed by members of the public as corrupt and fraudulent while he was in public service.

He stated that contrary to the false and malicious publications, there was never a criminal charge or conviction of Mr. Obazee in any court in Nigeria.

He said: "We challenge the peddlers of the false and malicious statements to produce the Petition(s) and Criminal Charge(s) filed against Mr. Obazee as well as the judgment(s) of Court convicting or sentencing him for any such criminal offences.

"We state categorically that what Mr. Obazee is aware of is a purely employment related civil suit filed at the National Industrial Court by one of the employees of Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN) for wrongful termination and other claims

against FRCN and wherein Mr. Obazee was joined as a party as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Judgment was given in the case and FRCN and Mr. Obazee have since appealed against the decision of the National Industrial Court. There was never a criminal charge or conviction of Mr. Obazee in any court in Nigeria. The news is totally malicious and false.

"The news peddlers also stated in their publication that Mr. Obazee was linked to corruption, siphoned public funds into his pocket, took bribes to recommend federal takeover of banks and removal of Lamido Sanusi as CBN Governor and that EFCC is closely monitoring him over legion of petitions. No mention was made of any particular petition or petitioner or case file relating to all these spurious allegation of corruption.

"We are still waiting for further

details from the news peddlers but there is not yet a single piece of evidence to support their publications. We had expected this campaign of calumny against his person because he has refused to be compromised and be enticed by several carrots being dangled at him to lure him away from the truth by the sponsors of these publications.

"Our client, Mr. Obazee, is a consultant and a global expert in international financial reporting and had worked in the capacity of the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC), the 29th Chairman of the International Standards of Accounting and Reporting (ISAR) of the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, and the Chairman of the National Committee on Road Map to the Adoption of International Financial

Reporting Standards (IFRS) in Nigeria and currently appointed as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Special Investigator by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

It should be noted that the issue of the authenticity, falsity or otherwise of the report of the Senate Committee on Public Account relating to FRC now published by the news peddlers, being the gravamen of our client’s defamation case against the newspaper houses earlier mentioned, is sub-judice being the subject matter of the suits earlier mentioned, and should not have formed the basis of any news report until the case in court is decided one way or the other.

Therefore, it is condemnable and unacceptable that these media houses are publishing a report that its truth is being challenged in court.

"The publications have caused our client and his immediate family national and international backlash and embarrassment and have done incalculable damage to him and subjected our client to unspeakable hatred, opprobrium, ridicule, scandal and contempt in the eyes of reasonable members of the public and the entire world.

"Let it be known that these false publications about our Client constitutes offences under Section 373 of the Criminal Code Act and punishable under Section 375 of the Criminal Code Act".

Envoy Lauds Growing US-Nigeria Creative Industry Ties as Headies Returns to Atlanta

Segun James

Obaseki Warns of Looming Crisis

Works on Federal Roads in Edo

without Remedial

Awaits response from letter to Tinubu

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has again raised the alarm over the poor state of federal roads in the state, warning of a looming crisis in the next few weeks if remedial works are not carried out on the dilapidated federal roads.

The governor also disclosed that he had written to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the deplorable state of the roads and the need for urgent intervention to ameliorate the sufferings of the people, noting that he is currently awaiting the response of the President.

Obaseki spoke when he received the Zonal Commanding Officer of Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in charge of Edo, Delta and Anambra states, Assistant Corps Marshal (ACM) Chukwuma Njoku, and the Edo State Sector Commander, Paul John Okpe, who were on a

courtesy visit at the Government House, in Benin City.

The governor said it was regrettable that the extensive network of federal roads in the state which was supposed to be a blessing has now turned into a curse because the roads have been abandoned by the federal government.

A statement quoted Obaseki to have said, “Edo is blessed and also cursed with an extensive network of federal roads. A blessing because we are connected and a curse because the federal government has abandoned its network of roads in the State and it's causing us lots of problems.

“We have to continue to provide services to Edo people as they must move across the State and country and it has put pressure on us and you.

“We must look for solutions

in light of the bad federal roads connecting Edo State. Something has to be done to reduce the risk of roads to users.”

Obaseki added, “The carnage on Ovia River Bridge can't be described. We thought working with the Federal Ministry of Works, we could put in place some remedial steps to reduce speed and save the lives of Edo people on that axis. Remedial work should be done on all the federal roads in the State like the Benin-Auchi Road, which will soon be impassable for passengers and goods.”

Warning of the looming crisis on the roads, the governor said, “We have to gear up for another major crisis in the next few weeks unless remedial work is done on those roads today. I have written to the President and hope that he

responds to us.”

Noting that the roads have become a major cause of concern in the state, Obaseki stated, “At our last three Security Council meetings in the State, the issues of accidents have come out top as major security issues in Edo State. We have seen a dramatic increase in the loss of lives as a result of the accidents. Last month was particularly bad, arising from the issue from the Ovia River.

“As a state government whose duties and responsibilities is to protect lives and properties, we are quite concerned and thought we should have a meeting with you being the federal government agency to manage traffic and see how to raise the alarm on reducing the incidence of loss of lives on our roads.”

The US Mission in Nigeria has hailed the creative industry’s collaboration between the United States and Nigeria, saying that it would bring the two countries closer in music, film, fashion, arts, tech, professional and educational exchanges.

The US Consul General in Lagos, Mr. Will Stevens, stated this while delivering his remarks at the pre-award reception in honor of the 16th Annual Headies Music Awards.

Stevens explained that the return of the Headies award to Atlanta symbolised the Nigerian music industry’s dynamism, creativity and growing global reach.

He highlighted the important role of an inclusive and sustainable creative ecosystem in advancing economic growth and strengthening bilateral people-to-people ties.

“Afrobeats is dominating the American music scene right now and we are so proud to be partnering with the Headies and the Lagos State Government to work together to continue to build on our longstanding bilateral people-to-people ties through music.

“We remain committed to

supporting programs and initiatives that promote artistic expression, encourage cultural exchange, and strengthen the capacity of Nigerian artists and professionals in the creative industry,” he added.

Nigerian Consul General in Atlanta, Ambassador Amina Smaila, noted that the upcoming 16th Headies awards in Atlanta offers an opportunity to celebrate African culture, resilience, and creativity.

“Nigerian music has truly become a global force. This demonstrates the impact of Nigerian music beyond borders and its role in shaping the global cultural landscape,” Smaila said.

The Founder/Executive Producer of the Headies Music Awards, Ayo Animashaun, expressed excitement at the growing cultural and artistic exchanges between the United States and Nigeria.

He noted that the 16th Headies provides an invaluable opportunity for US artists and entertainment professionals to engage with their Nigerian counterparts, fostering meaningful connections and inspiring new collaborations. “Our goal is to continue to support the development of talent and nurture innovation in the music industry,” Animashaun added.

L – R:, SPE International President,Mr.Medhat Kamal; Director, SPE Africa Region, Mrs. Oghogho Effiom and Chairman, SPE Nigeria Council, Mr. Felix Obike, during the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition (NAICE 2023) held in Lagos...recently.

LAGOS MANGROVE MARATHON...

Ahead of Kogi Guber Poll, Tinubu Preaches Peace, Unity among Okun People

Promises to look into allegation of marginalisation

Deji

President Bola Tinubu has advised the people of Kogi West Senatorial District to maintain peace and unity ahead of the forthcoming gubernatorial election in the state.

Speaking yesterday at a meeting with leaders of Okun Development Association, led by Professor Micheal Ikupolati, at State House, Abuja, Tinubu assured the people of his commitment to look into their concerns regarding marginalisation and the need for fair representation in the governance of their state.

The delegation had pledged

unwavering support for the Tinubu administration and requested the president's backing for Kogi West Senatorial District to have an opportunity to produce the next governor of the state. They emphasised that this would be the first time the district would have a chance to produce the governor in 27 years since the state's creation in 1991.

Responding to their appeal, the president told the delegation, “Democracy is about horse-trading, numbers, about conflicts and conflict resolution. I appreciate your leadership and your position.

FCTA to Train 1500 Workers on Civil Service Strategy Plan

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Federal Capital Territory Administration, (FCTA), is expected to train 1,500 staff on the new Federal Civil Service Strategy and implementation plan 2021 - 2025.

The Director, Human Resource FCTA, Mohammed Bashir, disclosed this yesterday, at the maiden capacity building for 150 staff of FCTA on the new civil service plan in Abuja.

He said the policy was an initiative of the Head of Service of the Federation, which the FCTA through the Reform Coordination and Service Improvement has fully embraced.

He said the training was to bring all workers up to speed with the new policy across the Secretariats, Department and Agencies (SDAs) of the FCTA towards enhancing effective service delivery in the territory for national development.

"It is a training to make our staff acquainted with the new Civil Service reforms for effective service in FCT. The training cuts across all cadre from level 12-16 in all SDAs, mainly admin officers.

“The reform seeks to achieve new phase of civil service, where the practice of analogue civil service will be gone," Bashir added.

He said the reform would enable every staff within the system to have a schedule and be assessed based on the new form of performance management system which was drawn from Standard Operation

Procedure.

"And once there's any problem, someone will be held responsible. By this, civil servants will now own the project and people will put in their best for Nigeria to succeed," he said

Also, the acting Director, Reform Coordination and Service Improvement, Dr. Jumai Ahmadu, stressed the need for all civil servants to move with the global tide of embracing technology and get themselves acquainted with the utilisation of computers for proper record keeping.

She emphasised the place of hard work and reward system for outstanding civil servants, noting the government has mechanism in place to reward discerning workers.

"One of the major component of FCTA is the culture of change, arriving to work early and you will finish your work early. And doing the right thing would go a long way to enhance your productivity.

“We must be ready to move from our old ways so that the world would not leave us.

"Just like the Head of Service organised a civil service week, a civil servant won a brand new car and others won N500,000 each.

"We have 150 today and it is going to be in 10 series and this is the first. It is going to be 10 sessions and everyone would be carried along.

I want every civil servant to embrace the new ways of doing things." Ahmadu said.

One of your sons, James Faleke, has worked very closely with me and I know about the issue when late Prince Audu was alive.

“But that was the way of God Almighty. He passed on and the arrangement didn’t work and there was a judgement from the Supreme Court that was the last bus stop. That brought about the present government in the state, who is also a member of our party.”

Specifically, on the issue of power rotation and constitutional

provisions to guarantee equal rights for all senatorial districts, the president said he would thoroughly examine the matter of fair representation they brought to his attention. He recalled the agreement on power rotation made by the late Audu and other leaders, but acknowledged that unforeseen events could impact such arrangements. Tinubu said, “When you talk about domination, I’ll have to dig deeper on the issues. Yes, the

DSS Arrests Man

question of rotation was agreed by Prince Audu and some other leaders, but death didn’t allow him. God Almighty knows the reasons and we cannot question Him."

The president assured the group that having listened carefully to their concerns on issues surrounding the elections in November, he would look into them very carefully to ensure fairness, justice and equity. But he acknowledged that democracy was still a game of number.

He advised them to extend love to one another, be patient and show solidarity with other members of the senatorial district.

Earlier, Ikupolati appealed to the president to intervene by directing security agencies to ensure a fair and peaceful election process on November 11.

Additionally, the group requested the enforcement of the use of Bimodal Voter Authentication System (BVAS) in the upcoming of the election results in Kogi State.

for Impersonating Niger’s Tribunal Secretary

Accused convicted, sentenced

Laleye Dipo in Minna Operatives of the Department of State Service (DSS), has arrested one Idris Baba Hassan of Kusfa area of Suleja in Niger State, for impersonating the secretary of the National and State House of Assembly Election Petition

Tribunal.

Following his arrest, he was yesterday charged before a Minna Chief Magistrate Court on one count charge of impersonation contrary to section 132 of penal code law of Niger State. According to the prosecution, who was also the Principal Staff Officer

Legal Service of the DSS, the accused, through the use of telephone, sent text messages to litigants demanding gratification on behalf of members of the tribunal.

The prosecution added that a discreet investigation was carried out leading to his arrest between the last

days of July and now. When the charge was read to him by Chief Magistrate, Adamu Abubakar, the accused pleaded guilty to the charge and was immediately convicted and sentenced to two years imprisonment. Abubakar, however, gave him an option of N100,000 fine.

NIGER CRISIS: IN SEARCH OF RESOLUTION, TINUBU DISPATCHES 3-MAN TEAM TO NIAMEY

the Arewa Consultative Forum, recognises the ECOWAS position to bring pressure to bear on the coupists, but nevertheless the military option shouldn't be a prerequisite for Nigeria and the ECOWAS’ continuing efforts to enthrone democracy in the region in the 21st century.

“Certainly not an adventure to be led Nigeria.

“Democracy has taken root in Nigeria and her leadership role has inspired many countries in ECOWAS to embrace democratic governance structure.

“We shouldn't throw that away for some misadventure against our brothers and sisters on the other side prejudicial to our Non -interference in a country's internal affairs posture and attendant legal implications.

“ECOWAS is a shining example of a functional Regional Economic Cooperation (REC) on the Continent which should be sustained.

“We believe the peaceful relations with our boarder communities and stability of the entire region should be paramount.

“A military intervention might

yield temporary solution but the repercussions on Nigeria as a leader and the regional body would impact negatively on future relations and a herculean task to rebuild.

“The ACF supports the position to restore democratic rule in Niger but calls on the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government under the able Chairmanship President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR to tow the path of dialogue and diplomacy and certainly not force, in resolving the current impasse in Niger in the interest of peaceful coexistence with our brotherly neighbour and stability of the ECOWAS region.”

Similarly, former Special Adviser to former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and the governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the last governorship election in Adamawa State, Dr. Umar Addo, yesterday appealed to West African leaders to apply diplomacy instead of using bullets to settle the Niger Republic coup.

In a statement he issued in Abuja, Addo said, "For ECOWAS and Nigeria especially, diplomatic

option is preferable and not war in resolving the current imbroglio in Niger. War will only lead to the disintegration of ECOWAS and plunge the sub-region into more violent conflicts to the benefit of the armed industrial west to sell their arms and further plunder our vast natural resources.

“It will increase poverty, death and destructions, insecurity, insurgency and terrorism in the sub-region. At the current height of ideological war between the west and the east, we will only turn the sub-region into a proxy war theatre of foreign superpowers."

Addo said a military coup that was carried out without bloodshed in a sovereign country cannot be enough reason to warrant plunging the entire sub-region into a bloody war.

Specifically, he said, "for Nigeria, going the route of war against Niger Republic does not in any way advance her strategic interest. In fact, it will only compound the problem as war has two downsides: Nigeriens will see us as working against their interests... and that we're in support of the US, UK and France's interests,

thus advancing the interests of neocolonialism;

"It will not only be a major distraction to the fight against ISWAP, it will also lead to a loss of our longstanding major political, economic, diplomatic ally from independence through to the civil war to the current fight against terrorism and insurgency.

"The war will be a long and expensive one as Niger borders eight countries, five of which are under military rule that will for self-survival support Niger, being all geographically continuous.

“Already, Guinea, Mali Burkina Faso and Algeria have pledged support to the Nigerien military junta and the junta has reciprocated by opening its borders with these countries," he exclaimed.

"And for the Tinubu regime, the president should be well advised that declaring war on Niger Republic will make him lose the support of the Muslim North, especially those of the Northwest and Northeast, thereby rendering this part of the country ungovernable for the regime. I believe he needs to know this fact," he stressed.

Elumoye in Abuja

Chairman of Lekki LCDA, Hon Rasak Kasali; Convener of Mangrove Marathon, Mr Jerry Chidi; winner of the Mangrove Marathon; Francis James; Director of Ecology & Conservation Dept, Lagos State Ministry of Environment & Water Resources, Mrs. Tolulope Adeyo; and Director General of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), Dr. Joseph Onoja, during the Lagos Mangrove Marathon held at Akodo Ise, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos... recently

CIBN GENERATION NEXT FORUM...

L-R:

N550.8m Illegal Crude Consignment Escorted By Navy Intercepted in N’Delta

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

A local private security group, Tantita, which has been collaborating with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) to tackle massive crude oil theft in the Niger Delta, yesterday said it had intercepted a vessel being escorted by the navy, carrying about 8,100 barrels

of illegal crude oil.

The 8,100 at the current estimated $85 per barrel would amount to a gross amount of N550.8 million, given about N800/$ exchange rate.

Channels Television reported that the incident came on the heels of the outcry by the federal government that the illegal trade of

stolen crude oil inflicted significant economic losses on Nigeria to the tune of N2.3 trillion in 12 months.

If was learnt that the vessel was intercepted in the Koko area of Delta State while the 1, 117 tons vessel carrying the crude was being escorted by some naval officers.

The matter became public knowledge after operatives blew

the lid on the vessel, tagged MT Praisel, which was said to be flying a Togolese flag and was being escorted by a Navy boat led by a senior naval commander.

The Tanita operatives said they were met with resistance from the navy boat escorting the vessel and that the naval commander threatened to deal decisively with the crew.

...Troops Destroy 36 Illegal Refining Sites in Niger Delta

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The Defence Headquarters yesterday disclosed that troops of Operation Delta Safe destroyed 36 illegal refining sites in the Niger Delta region of the country last week, in a renewed attempt to sustain the momentum against crude oil theft in the region. Speaking at a media briefing in

Abuja, Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj Gen Edward Buba, warned that as perpetrators of crude oil theft had refused to give up their illegal acts, troops, and other security agencies would continue to hunt them.

He said troops of the joint task force discovered and destroyed 61 dugout pits, 32 wooden boats, 87 storage tanks, three vehicles,

126 cooking ovens, three outboard engines, one speedboat, two motorcycles, one generator, two pumping machines.

He disclosed that troops also recovered 310,700 litres of crude oil, 14,675 litres of diesel, 49,000 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosine, one weapon, three ammunition and apprehended 22 suspects engaged in crude oil theft.

He said one of the operations was conducted on July 24, 2023, at Wellhead Cluster Opukushi Community in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State where troops on antiillegal bunkering operations intercepted and destroyed one wooden boat loaded with 1000 litres of product suspected to be stolen crude oil.

Jonathan Mourns Bayelsa Ex-Chief Judge, Abiri

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, has expressed sadness over the death of the immediate past Chief judge of Bayelsa State, Hon. Justice Kate Abiri, describing her as a dedicated servant in the temple of justice.

In a condolence message by his Special Adviser, Ikechukwu Eze, to the family of the deceased and the Government of Bayelsa State,

the country's economy had been in shambles for many years.

Ganduje said he believed that the policies and programmes to be unveiled by the president when his administration fully takes shape, would surely turn things around for the better.

He added, "Our party must remain rooted among the people, must demonstrate a willingness to serve and make sacrifices, and must be willing to acknowledge and address our weaknesses.

"It's a huge privilege and an honour and a great responsibility to take on this job and I will do it with everything I have, to the best of my ability, for my party and my country.

"We will ensure a level playing field for all party members

Jonathan noted that the deceased left an enviable track record of honesty and integrity, adding that the jurist would be sorely missed.

In the message, the former president stated: “I condole with the Abiri and Waritimi families and the Government of Bayelsa State on the demise of the immediate past Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Hon. Justice Kate Abiri who died

that want to contest elections under the party’s platform. Our primary elections would be free, transparent and fair."

He called on party members and the people of Kogi, Imo and Bayelsa states to close ranks and ensure that APC won in the forthcoming governorship elections.

Imo State Governor and Chairman of Progressives Governors’ Forum (PGF), Senator Hope Uzodinma, moved a motion at the meeting to pass a vote of confidence in INEC and the 2023 general election, as APC’s official response to an alleged "campaign of calumny" by the opposition PDP and the Labour Party (LP).

The motion was seconded by

on Thursday August 3, 2023.

“Justice Abiri was a jurist with an enviable track record of honesty, integrity and steadfastness in the pursuit of truth and justice. She was an incorruptible judge, a symbol of courage, hope and inspiration to many across the country.”

He also described her as a dedicated servant renowned for her piety and total commitment

the governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq.

Uzodinma said the opposition orchestrated the EU report that faulted the 2023 elections.

According to him, “Recently, they started blackmailing INEC. They generated an EU report by the EU monitoring team, whose identity and address we don't know. We condemn the campaign of calumny, the incitement of Nigerians and this type of campaign that is going on.”

Similarly, yesterday, Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, hailed Ganduje’s emergence as APC national chairman.

Barau, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and

to upholding the rule of law.

“Her death is a big loss to her family, Bayelsa and members of the legal profession. I urge them to find solace in her notable strides and the fulfilling life that she lived. She will be missed by many Nigerians across the country. I pray that God grants all the bereaved the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” he stated further.

Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, said with the former governor at the helm of affairs of APC, the ruling party would be repositioned and strengthened for the benefit of all its members.

He said with Ganduje’s vast experience, the conflict resolution mechanism of APC would be enhanced to reduce internal wrangling.

Barau stated, "His Excellency is coming on board with enormous experience spanning decades in politics and governance. With him piloting the affairs of our party, internal democracy would prevail.

"We thank His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, governors, and other stakeholders of our party for the endorsement

However, it was gathered that the local security group eventually contacted the National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu and the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Rear Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, who subsequently gave them the go-ahead to inspect the vessel. When they gained access to the vessel, the security company said they noticed that the vessel was authorised to carry products by the navy. but did not have any approvals from Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority

(NMDPRA).

The NMDPRA is the authority responsible for the regulation of the midstream and downstream petroleum operations in Nigeria, especially for such voyages. Experts argue that Nigeria could be losing up to 25 per cent of the nation’s crude oil production. Ex-Niger Delta agitator, Asari Dokubo, recently told journalists at the State House after meeting with President Bola Tinubu that some corrupt military officers were involved in the stealing of Nigeria’s crude oil.

Odinkalu: Nigeria Teetering Towards Genocide Theatre

A former National Human Rights Commission chairman, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, has raised concerns about the state of Nigeria, warning that the country was gradually becoming a genocide theatre.

In his paper titled, "Resetting Nigeria," presented during the 10th-anniversary annual lecture organised by the Just Friends Club of Nigeria (JFCN) recently in Abuja, he emphasised the need to reset core areas of the economy to correct past mistakes.

Odinkalu, highlighted threat posed by ethnic and tribal bigotry to Nigeria's unity and existence.

He stressed the need for an urgent

of His Excellency, Ganduje."

Meanwhile, THISDAY gathered that El-Marzuk’s resignation as APC’s National Legal Adviser happened on Wednesday, following insistence by some of his colleagues that he could no longer be in office due to some allegations of corruption against him.

Investigation further revealed that he had been visiting the office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to answer questions relating to financial misappropriation.

But El-Marzuk, in a statement yesterday, said his resignation was due to the reconfiguration of party offices for national cohesion and adequate regional representation.

shift from focusing on indigeneship to citizenship to address insecurity. The constitutional lawyer also pointed out that lack of national citizenship and forging of nationhood contribute to the country's crisis.

He criticised the country’s politicians for improperly allocating votes and resources and called for genuine counting in these areas.

The President of JFCN, Fred Ohwahwa, on his part also advocated for an urgent reset in Nigeria's economy, infrastructure, and other sectors.

The organisation emphasised the importance of fostering unity, companionship, and philanthropy among its members and society.

The statement said, "In light of the recent developments within our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), with the emergence of His Excellency, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and Senator Ajibola Basiru as National Chairman and National Secretary, and the reconfiguration of party offices for national cohesion and adequate regional representation, the National Legal Adviser found it pertinent that he resigns his position within the party to allow for a smooth reconfiguration of the party's leadership.

"The National Legal Adviser thanks the president and the entire leadership of the party for the opportunity given to him to serve."

Second Vice President, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) Mr. Dele Alabi; President/Chairman of Council, Dr. Ken Opara; Deputy Governor, Lagos State, Mr. Femi Hamzat, first Vice President, CIBN, Prof. Deji Olanrewaju; Managing Director /Chief Executive Officer, FCMB, Mrs. Yemisi Edun, and Registrar/Chief Executive Officer, CIBN, Mr. Akin Morakinyo, at the Generation Next Forum held in Lagos… yesterday

AT GANDUJE'S CORONATION, TINUBU SAYS HIS ELECTION MOST CREDIBLE

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

IMPROVED IMMUNISATION ON THEIR MINDS…

L-R: Senior Scientific Officer, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Fatima Ja’afar Gidado; Principal Medical Officer II, NPHCDA, Adejoke Oladele; Chief Executive Officer, National Solidarity Support Fund (NSSF),Dr Fejiro Chinye-Nwoko; Director, Disease Control and Immunisation, NPHCDA, Dr Bassey Okposen; Programme Manager, NSSF, Dr Amenze Eguavoen; Senior Medical Officer I, Dr Ismail Salihu; NPHCDA official, Ene Gbenewei; and Medical Officer II, Dr Oluwadara Adebiyi, during the take-off meeting between NPHCDA and NSSF in Abuja, recently to improve routine immunisation in Cross River, Kwara, and Ogun States…recently

One Killed, over 50 Kidnapped as Bandits Storm Niger Communities

Anxiety as gunmen kidnap five in Edo

Laleye Dipo in Minna and Adibe Emenyonu in Benin-city

One person was confirmed killed while more than 50 others, including women and children, have been kidnapped in separate bandits attacks on two Niger communities. Similarly, anxiety has

enveloped Igarra, headquarters of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, as five people were reportedly kidnapped by suspected armed herdsmen, who as further gathered, have taken over the various farm roads in the area.

The dead person in Niger was in Tsoho Kabula community

NIPSS Course Participants Laud Ogun Industrialisation Policies

James Sowole in Abeokuta

The study group one of Senior Executive Course 45 of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) has commended the economic policies of the Ogun State Government, pointing out that the state’s legal environment has greatly influenced industrialisation and provided tax breaks as well as duty-free imports.

The lead presenter of the group, Colonel Ibrahim Yusuf, stated this while presenting a report of the “Local Study Tour of Ogun State” at a ceremony that was held at the institute in Kuru, Jos, Plateau State.

Yusuf noted that part of the objectives of the study was to discuss the strategic environmental,

historical perspective and trends in industrialisation, energy security and climate change in the state.

He affirmed that the state has a favourable legal environment for energy security as seen in its energy policy, whose aim is to enhance energy efficiency and promote renewable energy source.

According to him, the Ogun State has done well in the promotion of the Nigerian Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) through the creation of enabling environment in enhancing domestic resource mobilisation through the strengthening of tax administration and other innovations, which has led to a substantial increase in internally generated revenue.

Bayelsa Approves Employment of 2,000 Primary Healthcare Workers

Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

As part of efforts to boost the state healthcare delivery system, the Bayelsa State Government yesterday disclosed that it has approved the employment of over 2,000 workers in the primary healthcare facilities across the state.

The state Governor, Senator Douye Diri, who disclosed this at the 27th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Scientific Conference by the

in the Munya Local Government Area, where not less than 20 people were kidnapped and scores of cattle rustled.

The incident occurred between

Tuesday and Wednesday this week.

The second attack took place in Girigori community of Rafi Local Government

where not less than 35 people, mostly women and girls, were kidnapped on Thursday morning.

The attack at Tsoho Kabula,

according to sources, spread to Zagzaga but the villagers were reported to have got wind of the impending invasion and disappeared into the bush.

PEPC: Don’t Suffocate Judiciary, Group Warns Tinubu’s Lawyer

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja Civil society organization(CSO), the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM), has warned the Lead Counsel of President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Election Court (PEPC), Chief Wole Olanipekun

(SAN), to stop harassing the judiciary.

The group spoke amidst criticisms that greeted the position of Olanipekun at the PEPC where he submitted that there could be anarchy in Nigeria if the election petition court nullified Tinubu’s victory.

Tinubu had asked the presidential election tribunal to dismiss the petition filed by Labout Party (LP) seeking to nullify his victory on the grounds that he did not secure 25 per cent of the lawful votes cast in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Tinubu, through Olanipekun, in a final written address to the tribunal against the petition, said the FCT is the 37th state for electoral purposes and any other interpretation would “lead to absurdity, chaos, anarchy and alteration of the very intention of the legislature.”

Party Chairmen Accuse Kwankwaso of Masterminding Crisis in NNPP

The Forum of State Chairmen of New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has alleged that its presidential candidate in the last general election, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, has been involved in anti-party activities. The chairmen have therefore, advised Kwankaso to resign

his membership of the party or risk suspension. The party chairmen demanded an open explanations of what they described as “unhealthy relationship between Kwankwaso and the All Progressives Congress (APC) during and after the general election.”

The forum in a statement by its chairman and leader, Comrade Sunday Oginni, accused Kwankwaso of allegedly masterminding crisis in NNPP across the country in a move to hijack the party from the original owner and founding members.

Oginni insisted that

Kwankwaso was only using the platform of NNPP to allegedly negotiate himself back into Nigeria’s political scene. He stressed that Kwankwaso’s frequent meetings with President Bola Tinubu is an act of anti-party activities that the party chairmen are against.

Major Setback for Sylva as Key Loyalist Dumps Campaign Train for Diri

Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

The crisis and intrigues surrounding the second coming of former Minister of State, Petroleum, Chief Timipre Sylva as Bayelsa State Governor took another nose dive yesterday as one of his core loyalist and a

Bayelsa State chapter of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) held in Yenagoa, the state capital, said 123 of those employed were medical doctors, while others are nurses, extension workers among others.

Represented by the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Newton Igwele, the governor said those healthcare workers, who will be engaged to man the health facilities across the local government areas, were selected after a careful NEED assessment.

First Lady Visits Buhari in Daura

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, yesterday paid a courtesy visit to former President, Mohammadu Buhari at his Daura residence in Katsina Sate.

Mrs Tinubu, who was accompanied on the visit by the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, said the visit is to check on the former president and thank him for the fatherly support he gives always.

She prayed for long life, good health and more support from him not only for the administration of President Bola Tinubu but Nigeria as a whole.

In his brief remarks after the visit, the former president expressed appreciation, noting that the visit, which was to see how he is settling down to life after public, office was remarkable.

His words: “As you can all see, she came to check up on me and see that I am doing okay.”

former member of the House of Assembly and Federal House of Representatives, Hon Israel Sunny-Goli, has dumped him for Governor Douye Diri.

Sonny-Goli, a strong chieftain of the All Progressive Party (APC) in the state and core loyalist of Sylva, candidate of

the party in the forthcoming governorship election coming up in November 11, quit Sylva’s campaign train, saying the former governor has lost the structures to win an election in the state.

Sunny-Goli, the immediate past member representing

Nembe-Brass federal constituency, at a news conference in Yenagoa, said the former Petroleum Resources Minister, his principal of over 20 years, has no structure to defeat Governor Douye Diri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

NPHCDA: Banditry Cuts 800, 000 Children from Routine Immunisation in Six Northern States

Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has disclosed that over 800,000 children in Kaduna, Niger, Zamfara, Kebbi,

Katsina and Sokoto States were denied access to any routine immunisation due to banditry.

Speaking at strategic meeting with traditional leaders of inaccessible areas in six states on PHC’s delivery held in Sokoto, the Executive

Director of NPHCDA, Dr. Faisal Shuaib, said that the trend is as a result of bandits’ activities in the areas.

Shuaib said that the strategic meeting is a turning point in their approach to reach children for vaccination against vaccine

preventable diseases. He also said that the gesture is a reflection of the commitment of the traditional institution in northern Nigeria for the provision of effective health service delivery to their communities.

20 Deceased/Injured Police Operatives’ Families Receive N42.1m in Nasarawa

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

Families of 20 Police operatives who either died or sustained varying degree of injuries in the course of discharging their duties yesterday received cheques worth N42.1 million in

Nasarawa State.

The gesture was an initiative of the Inspector General (IG) of Police Group Personal Accident and Group Life Assurance geared towards improving the living standard of families of Police operatives that lost

their lives in the line of duty.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Nasarawa State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) DSP Ramhan Nansel.

Nansel said the Nasarawa State Commissioner of Police, Maiyaki Baba, presented

the N42.1 million cheques on behalf of the InspectorGeneral of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, to families of the deceased police officers and officers who sustained injuries during the discharge of their duty.

2023 LG Poll: Three APC Chieftains, Others Escape Alleged Assassination Attempt in Ekiti

Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti

No fewer than four persons, including a businessman, Chief Bode Olayinka, were wounded with property and goods worth millions of naira destroyed when a group of political thugs

allegedly led by one Gbenga Oluwafemi, popularly known as Owolesu, who is currently in custody of the Ekiti State Police Command, allegedly attacked some chieftains of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Efon Local Government Area

of the state. The attack was not unconnected with an alleged attempt by a group allegedly loyal to one of the rival leaders in the local government area to silence other aspirants and impose his preferred candidates ahead of

the local government election coming up in December this year. Narrating his ordeals to journalists at the premises of Ekiti State Police Command in Ado Ekiti, one of the victims of the attack (with plaster on his forehead),.

Police Arrest 14 Suspected Kidnappers, Recover 47 Rifles, Five AK-47 in Adamawa

Daji Sani in Yola

Adamawa State Police Command has arrested 14 kidnap suspects with five AK-47 rifles and two locally fabricated guns with 22 rounds of live ammunition.

The state Commissioner of Police, Afolabi Babatola, made the disclosure while parading the suspects at the force headquarters in Yola, the state capital.

Babatola further explained that he has worked out operational modalities to curb kidnapping activities in the state, hence,

the strategies have yielded tremendous results

He added that measures have equally been taken by the state Police Command to improve response time, intelligence, and promptly visible policing to give the criminals no breathing space to carry out their nefarious activities again.

He said: “The Command is committed to getting rid of kidnapping and other criminal activities, and will diligently prosecute them.”

Meanwhile, he sounded a warning to kidnappers and

WORLD OF ISLAM

Edited by: MJO Mustapha Email deji.mustapha@thisdaylive.com

other criminals to leave the state if they would continue in their criminal activities because the police will go after them.

He advised them to seek legitimate jobs to earn their living better than terrorising innocent individuals and depriving them of their property and money.

Babatola called on the public to report any suspicious movement to the police and go about their normal business without any fear because the police are determined to provide adequate security services for them.

NEMA Partners with Kano to Avert Flood in 23 LGAs

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

Kano State Government has introduced measures to work closely with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to downscale the risk of flooding in 23 local government areas predicted to be affected by flood disasters in 2023.

The Director-General of the agency, Mustapha Ahmad, made the disclosure while flagging off the ‘Downscaling of Disaster Early Warning Measures to Grassroots for Effective Life-Saving Early

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as OJORA SOFURAT OMOSHALEWA, now wish to be known as and addressed as OJORA SAFURAT FOLASHADE and my Date of Birth was wrongly written as 28TH NOV, 1996 INSTEAD OF 28TH NOV, 1999 during my BVN enrolment. All former documents remains valid. The General public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as SHOFELA ABOSEDE DORCAS, now wish to be known as and addressed as ADEWALE ABOSEDE DORCAS. All former documents remains valid. the General public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as MISS. NKOYO DAVID EDEM, now wish to be known as and addressed as MRS. NKOYO-INIE BARIGHA AMANGE. All former documents remains valid. the General public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as MISS AGU-FRANKLYNN NKECHINYERE STELLA, now wish to be known as and addressed as MRS AKIN NKECHINYERE STELLA. All former documents remains valid. the General public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as AHMED TAIYE OZOVEHE SAMUEL, now wish to be known as and addressed as AHMED TAIYE SAMUEL. All former documents remains valid. the General public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as AHMED TAIYE OZOVEHE SAMUEL, now wish to be known as and addressed as AHMED TAIYE SAMUEL. All former documents remains valid. the General public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as MISS ELEFE DEBORAH, now wish to be known as and addressed as MRS OSEZUAH DEBORAH ELEFE. All former documents remains valid. the General public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as ESHUE CINDY OMIYAN, now wish to be known as and addressed as INYAMBE CINDY OMIYAN. All former documents remains valid. Federal College of Education Obudu and the General public should please take note.

The Divine Charter of Human Rights (1)

Aslam Abdullah/IslamiCity

Justice is the essence of faith in an Almighty God, and Humans Rights are its pillars. Without preserving human rights, justice is shallow and hollow. Human rights are eternal and unchangeable. Human rights are not what humans give to each other, but they are what a higher authority bestows on all.

complimenting each other, and none is superior to others. They have different roles in society within the framework of equality.

Actions during 2023 Rainy Season’, yesterday in Kano.

Ahmad said the existence of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) in all the 44 local government areas of the state would enable NEMA to work closely with them to further downscale flood early warning systems to the grassroots.

He said: “This initiative will enable them make appropriate plans that can save lives, livelihoods, critical national assets and the natural ecosystem which is the bedrock for sustainable

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as AYODEJI BISOLA IYANU, now wish to be known as and addressed as ARIKEWUSOLA BISOLA IYANU RAHMAT. All former documents remains valid. the General public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as IBRAHIM AMOBI DAUDA, now wish to be known as and addressed as BELLO DAUDA OLAJIDE. All former documents remains valid. the General public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as DANIEL MARIAM IFEOMA, now wish to be known as and addressed as TONY MARIA ENANG FRANCIS. All former documents remains valid. the General public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as NWAKWUDO ARINZE UDEA, now wish to be known as and addressed as NWAKWUDO ARINZE JOSEPH. All former documents remains valid. the General public should please take note.

development.

“The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) and the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) have released their 2023 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) and Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) of high probability of flooding across the country during the year to safeguard our national food security and engender sustainable socio-economic growth in Kano State.”

Alleged Forgery: Schoolmate Defends Ondo Ministerial Nominee

Convener/National Coordinator of a socio-political organisation, Social Rehabilitation Gruppe (SRG), Dr. Marindoti Oludare, has come in strong defence of the Ondo State ministerial nominee, Mr. Olubunmi Tunde -Ojo, over allegation of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate.

Oludare, a United States (US)based medical doctor and old schoolmate of the ministerial nominee, said while he personally opposed the concept of the NYSC, he has evidence to prove that Ojo duly enlisted in the youth service scheme and was issued a valid certificate.

Humans will always act based on their ideology, faith, race, ethnicity, politics, geography, and culture. Only the creator of all ensures the rights of all. Every religion has its charter of such rights, and Islam preserves human rights in the Quran, a divinely revealed book. Whether Muslims understood or followed these rights is a different story. If we use the following rights as explained in the Quran to evaluate fifty-six Muslim majority countries and hundreds and thousands of Muslim communities and organizations, we will hardly find any that practices them in its real sense. Let us look at these rights.

The Right to Life

It is as evident as the sun and the moon. God gives life, and he ordains his believers to respect and preserve life.

“Because of this did We ordain unto the children of Israel that if anyone slays a human being, unless it is [for punishment] for murder or for spreading corruption on earth, it shall be as though he killed all humankind. Whereas, if anyone saves a life, it shall be as though he had saved all humankind’s lives. And, indeed, there came unto them Our apostles with all evidence of the truth: yet, behold, notwithstanding all this, many of them go on committing all manner of excesses on earth.” (Q5:32)

“Slay not the life which God has made holy unless it is in the cause of justice. Whoever, wrongly slain, We have given the power to his near kin, but let him not indulge in excess. He (the near kin) will certainly find help (to seek redress)” (Q17:33)

“Those who do not associate any other deity with God, nor slay life which God has made sacrosanct unless it is in the course of justice …” (25:68).

The Right to Religious Freedom Religion freedom is an article of faith and free will.

“O MANKIND! Be conscious of your Sustainer, who has created you out of one living entity, and out of it made its mate, and out of the two spread abroad a multitude of men and women. And remain conscious of God, in whose name you demand [your rights] from one another, and of these kinship ties. Verily, God is ever watchful over you!” (Q4:1)

“O, people! Behold, We have created you from a male and a female and have made you into nations and tribes. We did this to help you know one another. Verily, the noblest of you in God’s sight is the one who is most deeply conscious of Him. Behold, God is all-knowing, all aware.” (Q49:13)

“Indeed, there are Muslim men and Muslim women and the believing men and believing women. There are obedient men and obedient women, the truthful men and truthful women, and the patient men and patient women, the humble men and humble women. the charitable men and charitable women, the fasting men and women, the men who guard their private parts and the women who do so, and the men who remember Allah often and the women who do so - for them, Allah has prepared forgiveness and a great reward.”

(Q33:35)

“And thus does their Sustainer answer their prayer: “I shall not lose sight of the labor of any of you who labors [in My way], be it man or woman: each of you is an issue of the other. Some forsake the evil domain, and forced out from their homelands, and suffer hurt in My cause, and fight [for it], and killed. I shall most certainly efface their bad deeds and shall most certainly bring them into gardens through which running waters flow, as a reward from God: for with God is the most beauteous of rewards.” (Q3:195)

The Rights of Religious Minorities and Other Groups Islam declares that there is no “other,” as all human beings are God’s creation. Their rights as equal to the rights of Muslims. Their protection is the essential obligation of the state and society.

“Proclaim: “This is the truth from your Lord,” then whoever wants let him believe, and whoever desires, let him disbelieve.” (Q18:29)

“Do you know who rejects the faith? That is the one who mistreats the orphans. And does not advocate the feeding of the poor. And woe to those who observe the contact prayers (Salat) - who are heedless of their prayers. They only show off. And they forbid charity.” (Q107:1-7)

This is to inform the general puplic that I, DOGARA SIM is the same and one person bearing DOGARA PEACE and DOGARA SIM PEACE. All documents bearing those names remain valid. The general public should please take note.

that RAPHAEL ISONG and RAPHAEL ETIM ISONG refer to one the same person. All documents bearing those names remain valid. First Bank, UBA, Fidelity Bank and the general public should please take note. This is to inform the general puplic that I, SULEIMAN MUSA, my name was wrongly captured as SALMAN MUSA, Henceforth my correct name is SULEIMAN MUSA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

This is to inform the general puplic that I, EMMANUEL ETIM ANIEDI wishes to notify the general public that my DATE OF BIRTH was wrongly written as 29TH JUNE 1982 instead of 30TH MAY 1984 during my BVN enrolment. My correct DATE OF BIRTH is 30TH MAY 1984. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

The SRG boss, in a letter addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, enjoined the lawmakers to dismiss the petitioners as “meddlesome interlopers and insipid Rabble rousers.”

He condemned the petitioners tagged ‘Concerned Ondo Patriots’, stating, “I have watched with great concern/interest, the attempt by some group-’The concerned Ondo Parrots’, to derail the nomination of Bunmi Tunji-Ojo as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This group tried to raise a dud issue over his NYSC certificate which he duly has.

Oludare added, “While I am an avowed opponent of the NYSC, and I have sent a letter of an intention to sue to the federal government, first, I have to point out the intellectual deficiencies in the argument of these meddlesome interlopers and insipid Rabble rousers.

“The NYSC Act never places an age limit on when anyone can be deployed to serve. Olubunmi Tunji- Ojo graduated from a university outside Nigeria; hence, an NYSC call-up letter was not automatically served upon him.”

“And say: “The truth [has now come] from your Sustainer: let, then, him who wills, believe in it, and let him who wills, reject it.” Verily, we have readied a fire for all who sin against themselves [by rejecting Our truth]. The billowing folds of fire will encompass them from all sides, and if they beg for water, they will have water [hot] like molten lead, which will scald their faces: how dreadful a drink, and how evil a place to rest!” (Q18:29)

“And [thus it is:] had thy Sustainer so willed, all those who live on earth would indeed have attained to faith, all of them: dost thou, then, think that thou couldst compel people to believe. (Q10:99)

“And say unto those who will not believe: “Do anything that may be within your power, [while] we, behold, shall labor [in God’s way];” (Q21:11)

“THERE SHALL BE no coercion in matters of faith. Distinct has now become the right way from [the way of] error: hence, he who rejects the powers of evil and believes in God has indeed taken hold of a support most unfailing, which shall never give way: for God is all-hearing, all-knowing.” (Q2:256)

“Unto you, your moral law, and unto me, mine.” (Q106:6)

The Right to Dignity

Everything created by God deserves dignity. Human beings, being the best of His creations, must live in dignity.

“Now, Indeed, we have conferred dignity on Adam’s children, borne them over land and sea, and provided for them sustenance out of the good things of life, and favored them far above most of Our creation.” (Q17:70)

The Right to Gender Equality

Men and women are God’s creation

The Right to Freedom and from Slavery Slavery is wrong. No human must own another human. Everyone is free. God does not create free or slave people, and mothers do not give birth to slaves.

“It is not conceivable that a human being unto whom God had granted revelation, and sound judgment, and prophethood, should say to people. “Worship me besides God,”; but rather [did he tells them], “Become men of God by spreading the knowledge of the divine writ, and by your deep study [thereof].” (Q3:79)

The Right to Justice

Justice is the essence of faith. The universe is a manifestation of perfect justice. Islam commands its followers to keep justice always above one’s interests.

“O YOU who have attained to faith! Be ever steadfast in your devotion to God, bearing witness to the truth in all equity; and never let the hatred of any-one lead you into the sin of deviating from justice. Be fair; this is closest to being God-conscious. And remain conscious of God: verily, God is aware of all that you do.” (Q5:8)

“BEHOLD, God enjoins justice, and the doing of sound, and generosity towards [one’s] fellow men; and He forbids all that is shameful and all that runs counter to reason, as well as envy; [and] He exhorts you [repeatedly] so that you might bear [all this] in mind.” (Q16:90).

D’Tigress Defeat Host Rwanda to Qualify for AfroBasketball Final

Nigeria’s Senior Women’s Basketball team, D’Tigress, defeated host country, Rwanda 79-48 yesterday to book a place in the final of the ongoing FIBA Afrobasketball Championship in Kigali.

D’Tigress who won the last edition of the championship in Dakar two years ago will be chasing their fourth title in a row in Sunday’s final against either Mali or Senegal.

The victory against Rwanda was also the 23rd unbeaten run of the D’Tigress who were denied the chance to play at the last FIBA Women’s World Cup by immediate past Sports Minister, Sunday Dare, in his bid to quell the power-play in the Nigerian Basketball Federation.

Amy Okonkwo once again showed her class after netting 23pts, 10 rebound and 2 assists to lead the Nigeria ladies to their 4th consecutive final

Below is the breakdown of how D’Tigress cruised into the final despite the massive home support for the home team in the semi final at the BK Arena in Kigali.

1st Q: Rwanda6 – 22 Nigeria

2nd Q: Rwanda12 – 22 Nigeria

3rd Q: Rwanda17 – 14 Nigeria

4th Q: Rwanda13 – 21 Nigeria Nigeria’s D’Tigress yesterday defeated host country Rwanda 79-48 to reach the

Morocco Join Nigeria, S’Africa in Battle Against Their Colonial Masters

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses ranked 72nd by FIFA yesterday joined Nigeria and South Africa as three African teams that made it to the Round of 16 of the ongoing Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Now, these three African teams will be up in battle against these European nations that colonised them before gaining independence. While Nigeria will take on England, South Africa have a date with The Netherlands with Morocco in battle for quarter final berth against France. Interestingly, it was France that stopped Morocco’s fairytale run at Qatar 2022.

The Lionesses defeated Colombia

WOMEN’S WORLD CUP

1-0 to progress as runners up behind Group H winner Colombia on same six points. European power house, Germany finished third on four points to crash out. South Korea claimed the fourth place with just one miserable point from a possible nine.

Germany’s failure to beat South Korea means Morocco cruised into the knockout rounds as runners up.

Anissa Lahmari scored the only goal via a rebound after captain Ghizlane Chebbak’s penalty was saved.

Surprisingly, Reynaud Pedros’s Morocco rose from the ashes of a 6-0 drubbing by the Germans in

their opener to claim two famous victories against South Korea and now Colombia.

Morocco will play France in Adelaide on Tuesday for a place in the quarter final.

The Lionesses good run Down Under is a follow up to the feat achieved by Morocco’s senior men’s team at the last World Cup in Qatar. Morocco men’s team became the first African side to reach a FIFA World Cup semi-final.

The country is now seeing a second historic football achievement in the space of a year.

Colombia, who earned two wins in their first two matches and finish

above Morocco on goal difference, will play Jamaica in Melbourne same Tuesday.

This follows the completion of Thursday’s group stage fixtures, Colombia and Morocco have now joined other 14 countries including the likes of Nigeria, South Africa, Nigeria, Japan, Spain, Sweden, United States, France, Australia, Netherlands, Norway and Switzerland in the Round of 16 stages. The Round of 16 fixtures will take place on Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, respectively.

Sadly, women’s football super powers like Germany (2), Brazil (8), Canada (7), Italy (16), China (14), and co-host New Zealand were all knocked out of the tournament at this group stage.

RESULTS

Morocco defeated Colombia 1-0 yesterday to join Nigeria and South Africa as the continent’s representatives that made it to the Round of 16 of the ongoing Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand

NNL Allays Fears Over Diphtheria Disease in Kano

The Nigeria National League (NNL) has dismissed as spurious news of the spread of Diphtheria disease in Kano, venue of it's eightteam relegation play off due to kick off this weekend.

Shortly after the government of Kano State graciously gave the nod to host the NNL relegation playoff at the Sani Abacha Stadium, unconfirmed reports made the rounds that the disease has engulfed the entire Kano State.

NNL Chairman, George Aluo, described the news as false, noting

that he personally made effort to confirm the safety of hosting the playoff in Kano and that his inquiries from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has shown that Kano is safe.

"We are in touch with the NCDC to get the right information on the situation and there is no such censor that we should not go to Kano.”

"We even kept in touch with the

Police Commissioner in Kano, CP Mohammed Usani Gumel, and we were assured of our security and safety.”

"Our advanced party led by NNL Chief Operating Officer (COO), Emmanuel Adesanya, who is working with the LOC for the success of the playoff are on ground and have also allayed any sort of fears.”

"No state of health emergency

has been declared in Kano and it is only normal we place the facts on the table. The NNL relegation playoff will go on as scheduled. We have put logistics in place and thanks again to His Excellency, the Governor of Kano State, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, for investing in the NNL.”

The eight teams are billed to feature in the playoff will arrive the ancient city of Kano today, 4th of August ahead of the draw which holds on Saturday 5th August with the games starting the next day.

final of the FIBA AfroBasketball Championship in Kigali

BACKPAGE CONTINUATION

TINUBU’S ASCENSION TO THE PRESIDENCY (1)

over. A mere 12 days after being sworn in as president, he ordered the suspension and illegal detention of the Governor of the Central Bank Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele on the pretext that investigations into his actions in office were ongoing. I chuckled, when I saw that statement and muttered unprintable words to no one in particular. Investigations? Oh my God! Liars!

It is noteworthy that Emefiele was arrested despite a subsisting court order issued on December 29, 2022, barring the Department of State Services (DSS), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Inspector General of Police and other agencies of government from arresting, interrogating or detaining him over terrorism and other sundry allegations against him.

Justice Hassan had ruled that “it is further ordered that the fourth respondent, their agents, servants, privies and all officers under their control and command are hereby restrained from instigating, arrest or arresting, interrogating and detaining Mr Godwin Emefiele, in respect of any matter or policy decision on the economy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria or for any connected purposes except by an order of a superior court”.

The judge had made the order while delivering judgment in a suit filed by the Incorporated Trustees of the Forum for Accountability and Good Leadership. In the suit, the applicant, among other reliefs, had prayed the court for a declaration that the continuous harassment, intimidation, threats, restriction of free movement, abuse of the right of office, surreptitious moves to arrest and humiliate Emefiele by the respondents were vindictive, unwarranted and abrasive.

In a blatant disregard for this judgment of the court, Tinubu, the pretentious democrat and advocate of the rule of law and his gestapo Bichi-led DSS went after Emefiele in the early hours of June 10 and arrested him in a commando-style operation. And have kept him in detention since then. Two other courts have since ruled against Tinubu-Bichi’s continuous detention of Emefiele all to no avail.

Only recently, a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Friday, July 14, to be specific, nullified the arrest warrant on Emefiele procured by the DSS. The court presided over by Justice Bello Kawu, held that the arrest, detention, and interrogation of Emefiele, was in violation of a subsisting judgment and orders of Justice M. A. Hassan. Emefiele through his counsel had prayed the court to set aside and nullify his arrest and detention, saying that it was illegal and a nullity in view of a subsisting judgment of another court which was delivered on December 29, 2022.

Accordingly, Justice Kawu made an order setting aside any warrant of arrest obtained or procured by the respondents, especially the DSS for the arrest of Emefiele in connection with the allegations of terrorism financing, fraudulent practices, money laundering, and threat to national security before any court. The judge also granted an injunction restraining the respondents, particularly the DSS from arresting, detaining, or interfering with Mr. Emefiele’s personal liberty and freedom of movement. The court equally granted an order of injunction directing and mandating the DSS to forthwith release and set free Emefiele from any arrest and/or detention whatsoever.

Despite these definitive court pronouncements, Tinubu and his lawless DSS refused to comply. Instead, the DSS hurriedly filed two nebulous charges of illegal possession of a single-barrel gun and ammunition against him, while still in breach of the various court orders. It is instructive to recall that the drama by the DSS to arrest the CBN governor started late last year when it secretly sought an order of the court presided by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court Abuja, Justice John Tsoho, to arrest and detain him over terrorism charges. The eagle-eyed judge had spotted mischief and rejected the request on the grounds that the Service had not placed any compelling evidence before the court to grant such a request, considering how weighty the allegations were.

Delivering ruling in suit last December, Tsoho posited that the entire affidavit depositions, especially as per paragraph 4 of the supporting affidavit, purport that preliminary investigation had revealed various acts of terrorism financing, fraudulent activities perpetrated by the respondent and his involvement in economic crimes of national security dimension. The chief judge said these are “no doubt, grave allegations, which the applicant has not presented any concrete evidence to support. And the applicant should have taken the court into confidence, while seeking the exercise of its discretion in favour of granting its application”.

He averred: “It is my respectful opinion that the ipse dixit (assertion) of the applicant,

standing on its own, is not sufficient evidence upon which to deprive a person of his liberty. The respondent in this application is named as ‘Godwin Emefiele’ without disclosure of his status or position anywhere, not even in the affidavit.

“It is left to speculation if the ‘Godwin Emefiele’ is the same person as the serving Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria. If it is, then he is unarguably a high-ranking public official in Nigeria and indeed occupies a sensitive position as one of the key drivers of the nation’s economy. Therefore, an application of this kind should have evidence of the approval of the respondent’s boss, that such measures are authorised to be taken.”

The judge told the DSS in no uncertain terms that his court would not be used to authorise an illegitimate operation. He described the suit as an illegal operation and a ploy by the DSS to deceive the court into granting a frivolous order to help arrest and deprive an innocent man of his personal liberty.

Let me state here without equivocation, in criminal investigations, if you don’t have prima facie evidence, you don’t take a suspect into custody. It is strange that an agency that went to court to seek leave to arrest someone since December last year and finally took the person into custody nearly two months ago, is still “investigating” and trying to come up with an appropriate offence to charge him with. This is indefensible and it is like arresting someone and asking him to prove his innocence. And despite several court orders to release him, the DSS has blatantly refused. For those defending the DSS, let this be your portion someday.

Honestly, I was shocked by the extent these people were willing to go, to destroy a man. And as the judge noted, the DSS did not provide any evidence before the court to support the request to deny Emefiele his freedom. Why? Because there was no such thing. It was all political. It was a hatchet plot to get a perceived enemy out of circulation before the election.

The truth is that the DSS under the current Director General, Mr Yusuf Bichi has become a willing tool in Tinubu’s hands to hound and persecute his perceived political enemies. Chief among those enemies is Emefiele. He became a target, first, for having the temerity and audacity to show interest in the presidency which Tinubu felt was his turn to “grab, snatch and run with it” at all cost.

Emefiele’s second sin and most serious, was the Naira redesign policy and currency swap, which Tinubu openly declared was principally targeted at eroding his chances of winning the election. Many of those in his campaign office then parroted this same line and targeted the central bank governor with all sorts of vile comments, too egregious to repeat here. They boasted then that if they ever got to power, Emefiele would be number one on the list of those to suffer and that he would rot in prison.

reduce such institutions to their own level of incompetence. How did Bichi get this very important appointment in the first place?

Factors extraneous to merit. Same factors that have crippled this country’s progress since independence and prevented it from reaching its full potential.

I can bet an arm and a leg that Tinubu is thoroughly enjoying the DSS show of shame. I can imagine him gleefully laughing and beating his chest that “I am now in charge”. He must be surprised by the enormous powers he now wields. That he can order the detention of any Nigerian who he perceives to be his enemy. Power, the old maxim says, corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Nigerians are about to witness the most dangerous man as President. We should prepare ourselves for the most brutal democratic dictator ever.

Just in case we have forgotten, let me remind Nigerians: In early February 2021, Nigeria’s then information and culture minister, Lai Mohammed disclosed at a press conference that the Nigerian government had uncovered 123 companies and 33 bureau de change service providers that were linked to terrorism financing in the country.

He added that an analysis by the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), in 2020-2021, revealed 96 financiers of terrorism in Nigeria, 424 associates/supporters of the financiers, in addition to identifying 26 suspected bandits/kidnappers and 7 co-conspirators. The announcement was sequel to the jailing of six Nigerians in the United Arab Emirates over allegations of terrorism financing.

Fellow Nigerians, have you heard anything about these real terror financiers and their supporters ever since? No! Have you heard or seen the DSS charging in the wee hours of the morning to arrest any of the people Lai Mohammed spoke about? No!

Even some obnoxious governors were not left out of the vile campaign against Emefiele. Now, they power, they must exert vengeance. Emefiele must suffer. That is what this is about. Nothing more, nothing less. Pure vendetta. One of the deranged supporters of Tinubu wrote a nasty diatribe against the governor following his illegal arrest and detention. It didn’t matter to him that the DSS allegations were nebulous and nefarious.

My biggest disappointment in the whole scheme was former President Muhammadu Buhari, who stayed aloof and pretended he was unaware at whose behest Bichi was acting. No responsible government could have tolerated such an egregious breach of security. When an outsider and politician was using a critical security agency to hound a top official of government because of a policy approved by the president he felt was targeted at him.

But then, was Buhari’s government a responsible government? The answer is capital NO! How could any responsible government fail to take action against Bichi for such compromise of his office? Especially when he was motivated by partisan interest. As a matter of fact, it was Bichi’s conduct that posed a grave threat to national security. He was using the powers of his office to execute a political plot for a candidate seeking election.

While the DSS is obsessed with Emefiele and has charged him with possession of a firearm, another real threat to national security is thriving. Asari Dokubo is brandishing AK-47 rifles about unhindered. His well-armed militia army is openly holding training drills unchallenged. But this same DSS doesn’t see him or his militia as threat to national security so long they continue to profess their support for Tinubu. But it sees Emefiele as a bigger threat to national security for terror financing and owning a single-barrel gun! How embarrassing will these people not get? After whipping up public opinion against the governor with imaginary terrorism allegations and charges of financial crimes, all this partisan agency could come up with is his possession of a gun and 23 rounds of ammunition. This is shameful.

The shame and embarrassment got even worse on Tuesday, July 25, shortly after Emefiele’s eventual arraignment and bail hearing. The judge granted him bail and ordered he remain in the custody of the correctional service until he perfects bail conditions. But Tinubu-Bichi’s lawless DSS would have none of that. For daring to resist the forceful abduction of the governor from the custody of the correctional service while still inside the premises of the Federal High Court, DSS operatives manhandled the correctional service operatives. The viral video of the assault sent chills down the spine of every sane Nigerian except those who issued the orders.

But this is what you get when incompetent people man critical state institutions. They

Is this not the same Bichi who was the Director General of DSS then? Of he was. If this man was so interested in securing Nigeria from bandits, terrorists and their sponsors, all through the length and breadth of this country, we would have seen it from the record of his achievements in curbing their activities. We would have hailed him if he was man enough to go after those identified terrorists’ financiers. He would have become a hero of sorts of the republic. I would have hailed him. But he never did, for reasons best known to him. I dare say most of those real terror financiers are from a particular part of this country that Bichi protects.

Bichi gives terrorists a free pass and then goes after soft civilian targets for possession of the equivalent of a dane gun. Okay, if Emefiele was involved in terrorism financing, what of Abdulrasheed Bawa, the Chairman of EFCC, who has been detained by the DSS without charge for nearly two months now. Was he also involved in terror financing or is his detention related to his role in the naira redesign policy? The truth is that Bichi is carrying on a vendetta against those identified as arrowheads of that policy to satisfy Tinubu’s anger.

If you don’t trust me on this, then Nigerians should ask Bichi, why he arrested Emefiele in the first place despite a court order barring him from doing so. Was it because of illegal possession of the equivalent of a dane gun? Surely, that was not the reason for his arrest. The gun was discovered after the fact. Tinubu and Bichi arrested him first and then went searching for evidence to charge him with. Is that the SOP of DSS? Emefiele is not just a clerk in an office, he is the Central Bank of Nigeria Governor.

Time will tell where we are headed. Tinubu has been given the opportunity to pick his friends out of history’s crowd. He has so far wasted no time in showing us who his friends and enemies are. His cabinet nominees tell us clearly that there is a reward for bad behaviour. Those who worked in cahoots with INEC to change the votes representing the supreme will of the people in favour of Tinubu have been rewarded with ministerial positions. Of particular blight, the Rivers State presidential election result remains an everlasting stain on INEC. The authentic result on INEC’s IRev was ditched, while manipulated results were declared. And someone is being celebrated for “delivering” Rivers State to Tinubu and the APC – clear message here is that if you rig for him, you will be rewarded with a ministerial position or any other appointment.

Many well-meaning Nigerians are utterly dismayed by Tinubu’s reward for bad behaviour. But can anyone do now? A few days ago, a sparring partner mockingly said that kudos should be given to the president for saving the country’s blushes by not including Mahmood Yakubu, the INEC chairman’s name on the ministerial list. But who knows, maybe there is another reward waiting for him.

President Tinubu

Commentators to Presidency

“It will be in the interest of the Presidency to empower the Financial Reporting Council (FRC), to carry out this task to investigate the CBN, so as to ensure credibility. How will the international community take us serious when they know that somebody that was sacked from office is now being asked to be the chief investigator of a critical institution like the CBN?” –Commentators expressing concerns over Jim Osayande Obazee’s appointment as Special Investigator for CBN, by President Tinubu.

SHAKA MOMODU

Tinubu’s Ascension to the Presidency (1)

Fellow Nigerians, let me tell you from the outset and without equivocation that I voted “against” the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC)

Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the February 25th presidential election. And if the opportunity arises again, I will repeat the same thing, whether in the rain or in the scorching sun. It was a promise I made to myself that I cannot in good conscience vote for a man who represented and still represents all the character attributes that generations of our forebears preached against.

Yes, I couldn’t turn a blind eye to all the corruption and vices linked to him and pretend they didn’t matter in this new age where we are being force-fed true lies and outright propaganda. A season when Tinubu scorned every attempt to hold himself accountable. His political trajectory tells a grim cautionary tale about a president Nigeria does not need. Voting against him was one of the happiest moments of my life.

Though he was declared president, courtesy of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s magic and has since assumed office, the facts remain that he did not win the election. INEC, which had assured Nigerians that they were ready and would conduct the most credible elections in the country’s history, betrayed us when it mattered most.

You see, my dilemma really, has been where do I begin to tell the story of what happened on February 25, 2023 for the benefit of posterity? How do I preserve the truth and nothing but the truth of what has befallen this land of our fathers? How do I tell my little children that on a day that would live in infamy for eternity, that the electoral commission deliberately sabotaged the free will of the Nigerian people? That day, this land of our fathers called Nigeria finally lost its soul, as evil menacingly triumphed over good and dared us to talk again.

A day, all those precious values and tutelage under which we were raised and coached to be the persons we are today finally crushed to smithereens and thrown into the dustbin. Decades of righteous morality suddenly meant nothing anymore as a man with no known parents, no siblings, no classmates, no record of primary or secondary schools attended became president! Not because he excelled, nor did he even try to impress the people on the campaign trail. In fact, his campaigning was hogwash, a Richterscale disaster on every level. His speeches were mediocre or gibberish and delivered in a stutter. And to those who mock us and call us moralists, I ask: of what use is a society without morality?

Any wonder why we are failing as a country?

It is because of avarice and wickedness have taken over the land of our fathers.

Tinubu refused to debate with other candidates. He dodged every attempt to interrogate his manifesto. His handlers shielded him all through the campaigns, told and propagated lies about his imaginary abilities. But in his dodges and prevarications, his parsing and evasion of scrutiny, one could sense his arm’s-length relationship with the truth.

Many analysts and his supporters appeared to have been groomed or trained as effective apologists and deniers of his many sins – they became the foot soldiers of his renewed hope mantra that has left a nation disillusioned and impoverished. His style has always been driven

by reflexes - act first and think later. Sometimes, I wonder what his supporters and defenders teach their children at home. What they tell them not to do, or do. Do they correct them when they are naughty or do they celebrate them for being naughty? What values do they ingrain in their children? I am curious. What manners do they teach their children? I need to know. Do they teach them the difference between good and evil?

Do they raise their children to be like Miss Mmesoma Ejikeme who forged her JAMB score and took the nation on a ride or will they condemn her for falsifying her JAMB result and boldly going on social media to tell the world she was incapable of what she was accused of and that she was traumatised by JAMB’s allegation that she manipulated her score? Someone should answer me.

Now, how do I tell my innocent little children that on February 25, 2023, the electoral umpire, INEC, stole the mandate of Nigerians and handed it to Tinubu, the most flawed character that has ever run for the office of president of Nigeria? The election was stolen by an electoral body we had gradually begun to trust to deliver fair and transparent elections owing to its vigorous campaign that with electronic transmission of results, winners and losers would only be determined by the people.

It boasted that the people didn’t even need to wait for it to know the winners, that they could tabulate for themselves scores of each candidate and know in real time who was winning and who was losing. INEC told the whole world that the safeguards it had put in place were foolproof and that no hacker could gain access to its servers. It succeeded in building confidence and earning the trust of Nigerians. We took its assurances seriously and momentarily lowered our guards, believing it was going to redeem itself of all past failures and malfeasance. I personally believed those assurances, and helped in my own little way by sensitising and winning a few skeptics over to believing INEC’s assurances.

On the D-day of election, this same electoral body wilfully damaged the very same election it had campaigned vigorously would be credible.

It wilfully disconnected the transmission of the presidential election results in real time while transmitting the House of Representatives and Senate elections results held the same time. Oh no! INEC! Why did you do this?

If I may ask, why do we have men of such little worth in critical positions in this country? People so easily susceptible to self-gratification? Why are our public officials so demonstrably unpatriotic?

All the while, many Nigerians did not know that INEC was actually a participant in that election. It had vested interests and a grand scheme to win the election for a particular candidate, and was merely fooling Nigerians with assurances of free and fair polls. It had it all planned - how it would steal the presidential election and claim there were “technical hitches” and glitches as a reason for deliberately disconnecting its server to achieve its nefarious scheme, while claiming it suspected it was being hacked. On such nebulous pretext, INEC refused to transmit the presidential result real time on Election Day.

Such a suspect explanation strains credulity, since it is so far removed from anything even remotely close to the whole unvarnished truth. And that truth is, INEC, with its own hands, compromised an election that should have been a watershed moment in our history. Its officials deliberately made what should have worked to fail. This gave them room to resort to manual coalition of results which was subject to manipulations and alterations as can be seen in the eventual outcome. Even INEC couldn’t explain how it was able to read scores in heavily blurred result sheets in court. Who will ever trust INEC again? Yet, it allocated figures to the various candidates and declared winners in those instances. Instances too many to call isolated incidences. Of course, this was the plan all along, to deliberately sabotage the electronic transmission and blame it on imaginary technical hitches.

Because that was the only way it could manipulate the outcome in favour of Tinubu who had boasted he would win no matter what. Months before the election, even his aides boasted that they had the formula to win the election.

Fellow Nigerians, it is clear that what they had was a magic formula, a rigging formula. For the first time in our chequered history with elections, a man was able to buy the presidency of Nigeria which even some corrupt politicians of the past had said was not for sale to the highest bidder.

There is no gainsaying that how Tinubu won the presidential election left much to be desired.

I have been reflecting on the future of Nigeria in the hands of the president – it is almost a hopeless situation we find ourselves in. The ironies and contradictions about this man are too self-evident. They make you want to cry and laugh at the same time. Cry for what we have become, laugh to remain sane in our new nightmare reality.

Imagine Tinubu saying he will fight corruption! How does that even sound in his mouth? Or imagine him preaching to young school children not to cheat, lie under oath, manipulate their age or engage in forgery. How will all that sound in his mouth? Who will listen and take him seriously? Will he use the presidential pulpit to preach moral rectitude to the country when the story of his life as we know it tramples on all the core and sacred values that underpin the moral fabric of society?

In the past, character mattered and society

frowned on bad behaviour. It never rewarded such and one could easily judge someone’s upbringing from his character. How you were raised would betray itself from your character and the behaviour exhibited in the public space. The character code of society was largely a set of behaviours and conducts handed down from generation to generation through parenting and teaching in schools. The values people were taught to practice and live by formed the moral fabric of society and ultimately, defined them and their ways of life and the value proposition for the next generation - passed on to the next and the next - a kind of 400 metres relay race.

Again, how do I even tell my children that I now call Tinubu president and compelled to accord him the full courtesies meant for that high office? How will I even begin the conversation – that all the societal safeguards to keep people like him at bay failed. The effect is both chilling and psychedelic on our values. Nigeria is not going to recover from this. The damage to our psyche is too profound and everlasting.

Well, I will come back to this in more detail in another article soon. For now, let me march on to address an unfolding development that hints at the incipient danger that is to come under this man as president.

THE PERSECUTION OF EMEFIELE

In his inaugural speech, Tinubu tried to rally a country that had become disillusioned owing to the way he emerged as president. He had declared inter alia, “Our administration shall govern on your behalf but never rule over you. We shall consult and dialogue but never dictate. We shall reach out to all but never put down a single person for holding views contrary to our own. We are here to further mend and heal this nation, not tear and injure it.”

Continuing he said: “Nigeria will be impartially governed according to the constitution and the rule of law.” Did you hear that? The rule of law, that is the bedrock of democracy, not the rule of force..

But a leopard cannot change its spots. Tinubu was never going to govern according to the rule of law. That is too civilised for his base instincts to adhere to. He is too dictatorial to accept the rule of law as a governance principle. Each time he mouths rule of law, he is actually referring to the direct opposite. Don’t be fooled by the text of his lofty speeches. They are mere speeches, never designed to drive his actions. They are convenient precepts meant to hoodwink you to letting down your guard. Don’t be fooled.

Tinubu is never going to heal this land no matter how much he tries. Why? He is part of the problems of this country that the Nigerian people are struggling to free themselves from. He is a natural dictator who pretends to be a democrat. He preaches democracy but corrupts the rule of law. Between his speeches and actions, lies a mountain of contradictions and his natural reflexes will always get the better of him. To him, the end justifies the means. He does not believe in free and fair elections to get to power, instead he believes in “snatching,” “grabbing” and running away with it.

The ink on his inaugural statement had hardly dried when his crude and barbaric instincts took

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Tinubu