FRIDAY 23TH AUGUST 2024

Oando Completes $783 Million Acquisition of Eni's Subsidiary, Nigerian Agip Oil Company

Bloomberg: Dangote Oil Refinery Increasingly Skipping US Crude for Local Supply

Facility set to start petrol output in September, IIR says

Impactful, Enriched Nation’s Jurisprudence

Says he’s epitome of hard work, selfless service Swears in Kekere-Ekun today, urges her to carry on baton passed by predecessor Retired CJN seeks implementation of justice summit's decisions Advise governors to obey Supreme Court judgement on LG autonomy, Fagbemi tells state AGs

Deji Elumoye and Alex Enumah in Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, yesterday, congratulated the retiring Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, saying his leadership of the judiciary has been impactful and inspiring for the country's jurisprudence.

Tinubu described Ariwoola’s sojourn on the bench as a testament to the reward for hard work, dedication, and service to country and humanity.

Ariwoola, on his part, observed that implementation of the recommendations of a recent Justice Sector Reforms Summit would go a long way in addressing many of the challenges confronting the courts and the judiciary, as a whole.

Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, called on AttorneysGeneral of states to advise their respective governors to obey the

Continued on page 5

BIG WIN AS OANDO SEALS AGIP DEAL...

Chike Ogeah Eulogises New Asagba

Designate, Says He Was Made to Be King

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

A former Delta State Commissioner for Information, Chike Ogeah, yesterday described Prof. Epiphany Azinge, the new Asagba-designate, as a leader made to be king. He noted that the former Director General of the Nigerian Institute for Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) was a man of candour, intellect and of urbane spirit, yet grounded in deep traditionalism.

Unlike any other Asaba man of his generation, Ogeah who is the Managing Director and Chief

judgement of the Supreme Court, which granted financial autonomy to the local government councils.

Ariwoola, who had served as Justice of the Court of Appeal in Kaduna, Enugu, and Lagos divisions before his elevation to the Supreme Court in 2011, was sworn in as CJN in 2022. He had also served in diverse

Executive Officer of MacFolly Hospitality Ltd, owners of the Lagos Marriott Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, said Azinge is totally 'Asaba-centric' and has always fiercely placed Asaba first in all his past endeavours.

"As an 'Olinzele', a Chief in the Court of the Asagba, he is the ‘Okilolo’ of Asaba which makes him the 'intellectual storehouse' of the Palace. Asaba is indeed lucky to have such an intellectual giant succeed the very massive shoes of the departed equally intellectual giant in the immediate past royal father", Ogeah stated.

capacities as a judicial officer.

Tinubu, in a release by his media adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, commended the eminent jurist for his services to the nation, noting his impactful leadership of the judiciary and his efforts in enriching the Nigerian jurisprudence, as well as strengthening the fibre of the law.

Recalling his younger days as a student of St. Patrick's College, Asaba, Ogeah said Azinge who is also an old boy of the college was like a big brother to him, an extension of the relationship between their families, especially their mother's who were ‘great friends’.

With the peaceful emergence of the Asagba-designate where all the five 'ebos' (villages) voted overwhelmingly for him, the former commissioner said it showed how acceptable he is to the entire Asaba Kingdom.

The president thanked Ariwoola and wished him the very best for the future, and further commended him at a public presentation of a book, “Judging with Justice: The Autobiography of Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola,” at the International Conference Centre, Abuja.

Tinubu stated, "His Lordship's long and inspiring career on the bench is a testament to the reward for hard work, dedication, and selfless service to the nation and humanity.

Ogeah expressed optimism that Asaba and the monarchy were primed for an even greater future under the Asagba-designate.

"Asaba can only consolidate on its position as 'primus inter pares' in the comity of traditional rulers in Nigeria," he added.

Azinge emerged the 14th Asagba on Sunday, August 11, 2024 following the announcement of the kingmakers after Prof. Chike Edozien, the 13th Asagba, joined his ancestors on February 7, 2024.

Azinge also previously served as a judge at the Commonwealth

to the ideals of a just and fair society can also not be overemphasised.

“We have seen this in his exemplary leadership of the Judiciary, and I am thankful for the support the judiciary has extended to the growth and development of our dear country."

Arbitral Tribunal in London, where he was president while representing Nigeria and Africa.

The Asagba-designate who has had years of teaching experience was a senior lecturer at the University of Benin Law Faculty and University of Abuja before he proceeded to the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies as its fifth director general.

He was the President General of Asaba Development Union (ADU) worldwide, the umbrella body of all true sons and daughters of Asaba ancestry.

said of the retiring CJN.

now poised to lead and operate oil and gas assets previously dominated by International Oil Companies (IOCs) in Nigeria.

The transaction, first announced in September 2023, it said, promises a brighter future for the company and industry alike.

“It is rather uncanny that this acquisition comes exactly a decade after Oando's landmark $1.8 billion acquisition of ConocoPhillips' Nigeria interest, a transaction which incidentally made the company a Joint Venture (JV) partner on the asset alongside NNPC E&P Ltd (NEPL) and NAOC.

“The ConocoPhillips transaction propelled Oando’s production from approximately 4,500 barrels of oil per day to 50,000 barrels of oil per day at the time,” the firm added.

Speaking on NAOC’s acquisition, the Group Chief Executive of Oando Plc, Wale Tinubu, said: "Today's announcement is the culmination of 10 years of hard work, resilience, and an unwavering belief that we would realise our ambition. It is a win, not just for Oando, but for every indigenous energy player as we take our destiny in our hands.

“This is a new dawn for the Nigerian energy sector, and we are confident that indigenous companies will play a pivotal role in this next phase of the nation’s upstream evolution. With our assumption of the role of operator, our immediate focus is on optimising the assets' immense potential in contributing to our strategic objectives, whilst complementing the nation’s plan to boost production outputs.

“Looking to the future, we will continue to pursue strategic opportunities that provide enhanced growth and value creation for our stakeholders, particularly in clean energy, agri-feedstock sector, as well as infrastructure and mining.”

The transaction, Oando said, increases its current participating interests in Oil Mining Licences (OMLs) 60, 61, 62, and 63 from 20 per cent to 40 per cent and increases its ownership stake in the Joint Venture (JV) assets and infrastructure which include 40 discovered oil and gas fields, of which 24 are currently producing as well as approximately 40 identified prospects and leads.

It stated that the deal also involves 12 production stations, approximately 1,490km of pipelines, three gas processing plants, the Brass River Oil Terminal and the Kwale-Okpai phases 1 & 2 power plants, with a total nameplate capacity of 960MW, and associated infrastructure.

Furthermore, Oando said that it will significantly boost the company’s production reserves which currently stands at 505.6MMboe to 1.0bnboe.

In the last decade, international oil companies operating in Nigeria have pursued divestment strategies, focusing on exiting shallow water and onshore assets while maintaining interests in the deep waters.

The trend indicates an IOC exodus from mature African basins, driven by factors such as declining production and increasing operational risks.

This is leading to a shift towards frontiers like Namibia and Guyana, where there are opportunities for less carbon-intensive projects and less risky offshore developments.

Oando said that Nigerian oil production had fallen well below its capacity of over 2 million bpd of crude and condensate due to rampant oil theft and sabotage in the restive Niger Delta, as well as underinvestment and sluggish exploration activity.

The country produced 1.47 million bPd in May 2024, according to the Platts OPEC Survey from S&P Global Commodity Insights.

Speaking in an interview with S & P Global Commodity Insights, Dr Ainojie Irune, Executive Director, Oando PLC & Chief Operating Officer, Oando Energy Resources, suggested that indigenous companies were well placed to rejuvenate the sector.

He said: "If you look at the local companies that have stepped forward... there's no doubt that indigenous capacity exists."

Given the successful completion of Eni's divestment to Oando, which has set an industry precedent, Oando said it anticipates further asset divestments as other indigenous players intensify efforts to fulfil the requisite regulatory, financial and contractual conditions for transaction completion.

Aside Oando, Seplat Energy, in February 2022, announced an agreement for the acquisition of ExxonMobil's entire share in its shallow water business, while indigenous player Chappal Energies in November 2023 announced that it had entered into a sale agreement with Norwegian oil company Equinor for its Nigerian entity.

In the same vein, Shell agreed to sell its Nigerian onshore subsidiary, the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC), to Renaissance Consortium for $2.4 billion.

These divestment deals are expected to bring in fresh capital, technology, and expertise, which will help to increase oil production, reduce carbon emissions, and create new opportunities for Nigerians in the industry.

Indigenous companies are also believed to possess a distinct advantage in terms of local knowledge, operational flexibility, and community relations. When coupled with global best practices, this advantage offers unparalleled opportunities to optimise value creation within the sector.

Speaking on indigenous participation, Irune said: "My personal opinion is that having indigenous players will definitely improve issues around fairness and this need to engage in sabotage and theft. Collectively, independents can build a more cohesive and collaborative oil sector.”

“As Chief Justice of Nigeria, His Lordship, Justice Ariwoola, has used his vast experience and capacity to address the challenges facing the Supreme Court and the Nigerian judiciary."

Represented at the book launch by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu recalled the reforms and advancements in the administration of justice during Ariwoola's tenure, including an increase in the retirement age for judges and other judicial officers to 65-70 years.

According to the president, "The pensions of judicial officers have been fairly secured as retired judges will now enjoy their full pay as their pension for life.

“Incisive judgements that provide extensive societal reforms, such as the one that recently liberated the local government councils from the shackles of financial lack, are critical to our society's growth and development."

The president described the exCJN's career as a shining example of what could be achieved through hard work, dedication, and passion for public service.

He stated, "From humble beginnings at the Local Authority Demonstration School in Iseyin, Oyo State, to the launch of his career as a law officer at the Oyo State Ministry of Justice and now as a leading figure in the judiciary, his story inspires us all.

"The vastness of His Lordship's academic and professional career is not in doubt. His Lordship's commitment

Tinubu expressed delight that, as President of Nigeria, he was able to witness the laudable achievements in the country's judiciary. He implored the third arm of government to live up to its constitutional mandate and not be swayed by those prone to criticising it whenever they do not get favourable judgement.

The president said, "I hope his (Justice Ariwoola’s) successor in office will carry on the baton passed on by His Lordship. I urge the Nigerian judiciary to live up to its constitutional mandate and ignore those who never see anything good in the judiciary unless the pendulum of justice swings their way.

"I am hopeful that as His Lordship retires into other endeavours, his successors will continue to deliver on the ideals of justice and improve the standards set by Hon. Justice Ariwoola."

Earlier, the incoming CJN, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, shared her experience working closely with Ariwoola, invoking a quote from James Baikie's "Peeps at Many Lands: Ancient Rome."

Kekere-Ekun said, "When a nation becomes great, it is never by ferocity, or falseness, but always by something in the nation that is good and sterling.

“We have in the person of Justice Ariwoola a living embodiment of these qualities."

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, highlighted Ariwoola's significant contributions, particularly his role in the recent Judicial Office Holders Salaries and Allowances Act 2024.

"This landmark achievement reflects his deep commitment to ensuring that the judiciary is independent, well-resourced and motivated," Wike

FOR LOCAL SUPPLY

pivotal role Dangote already plays within Atlantic basin petroleum markets.

The refinery’s efforts to dial back overseas crude purchases potentially leave more US export barrels competing for buyers elsewhere.

The pivot could even gather pace in the coming months. From October, the Nigerian government is starting a new system in which Dangote will be able to purchase crude in the local currency. The plan could involve as much as 445,000 barrels a day of the nation’s crude.

It’s not yet certain how much supply will be traded under the system but if used to its limit, the process could leave Dangote requiring hardly any overseas crude.

The refinery — near the nation’s commercial hub Lagos — has taken in more than 56 million barrels of crude since December as it completed test runs and

gradually lifted processing. Of that, 78 per cent has been local supply.

A senior Dangote official declined to comment on the refinery’s future crude-procurement plans.

It took six cargoes of crude directly from state oil company Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) for next month, a company spokesman said earlier this month.

Most Nigerian cargoes are about 1 million barrels each. A further two shipments from Nigeria as well as 2 million barrels of WTI Midland are slated for September arrival, the tanker-tracking data show.

The plant will have taken in an average of almost 10 million barrels per month in the six months through September.

Inflows of American feedstock had been expected to increase significantly earlier in the summer.

However some of the US barrels it bought for this month and next

Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, equally, commended Ariwoola's leadership, saying, "Your chairmanship has witnessed unprecedented stability in the justice sector, and because of your focused leadership, Nigeria has emerged more united.

"I am delighted that our country has continued to weather the political storms as a result of the collective will of all Nigerians to make a success of our democracy."

Emphasising the book's title as a potential creed for judges, Abubakar asked every judge to ask themselves, “Have I judged with justice?”

He said the book should be a guiding principle for everyone, no matter their profession.

Book reviewer and President of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria, Justice Benedict Bawaph Kanyip, stated that the autobiography primarily focused on Ariwoola's background and guiding principles, adding that a key theme of the book is that "the only client a judge has is justice".

Tinubu will swear in Kekere-Ekun at State House Council Chambers today.

Ariwoola, speaking at a valedictory court session held in his honour at the ceremonial courtroom of the Supreme Court in Abuja, sought quick implementation of the recent justice summit's decisions.

Constitutionally, judicial officers are not to remain in office beyond the age of 70 years.

The retired CJN was born on August 22, 1954, in Iseyin, Oyo State, and he started his legal career in 1981 as an advocate, before joining the bench as a high court judge in 1992.

Speaking on his experiences as a Justice of the Supreme Court and CJN, Ariwoola said, "It is crystal clear from the foregoing that something needs to be done to ensure that the Supreme Court is not unduly overburdened."

He stated that as part of efforts

were being resold, an official at Dangote Industries said in late July, according to the report. It also scrapped two tenders in which it had been looking to purchase a further 6 million barrels of American crude for September, according to traders.

The changes may also leave fewer Nigerian barrels on offer for sale into Europe and Asia.

Meanwhile, Nigeria's 650,000-barrel-per-day Dangote refinery is undergoing test runs for petrol production, with full operation expected by midSeptember, according to a note by industry monitor IIR Energy.

The $20-billion Dangote refinery, built by Africa's richest man, Aliko Dangote, on the outskirts of Lagos, began operations in January after years of delays.

to address the judicial porosity, the National Judicial Institute, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Justice and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), organised the national summit.

Ariwoola said, "The summit made far-reaching decisions, which will greatly assist the justice sector delivery in our country."

Stating that access to justice should not be regarded as an uncontrolled and unfiltered liberty to bring all forms of cases to the apex court, he warned against trivialisation of the Supreme Court as a court of policy by burdening it with all manner of cases.

The retired CJN disclosed that the apex court in the last legal year received 1,124 appeals, with 89 political appeals. He said despite the huge cases on their dockets, the justices were able to deliver "a total of 247 judgements and rulings in civil and originating summons cases having 92 judgements, criminal appeals having 81 judgements, and 74 judgements delivered in respect to political appeals", Ariwoola lamented that some of the cases ought not to come before the court in the first place, citing a case of 12 goats.

He stated, "Yes, 12 goats were the subject of a matter that came to the apex court. What these type of cases do is to clog the system, thereby depriving other important cases from being heard."

He highlighted the appointment of more judges, during his tenure, for all courts, including the apex court, which, this year, achieved its full complement of justices for the first time, with the elevation of 11 justices to the bench of the Supreme Court. Ariwoola said, "It is my conviction that the right to fair hearing enshrined in the constitution could only be meaningful when litigants have enough judges and justices to hear their cases.

Continued on page 28

Dangote, which has so far only produced diesel and other distillate fuels, had earlier said that petrol deliveries from the refinery would start in July. Before that the refinery had aimed to start making the motor fuel by May. It is possible that there could be further extensions, IIR said in a note to clients. Emails to Dangote were not delivered and calls did not connect, the report said. Once fully operational, the refinery is set to upend the Europeto-Africa fuel trade and reduce Nigeria's reliance on imported refined products.

Also yesterday, oil prices steadied as a drop in US fuel inventories provided a floor, after four days of declines on investor concern over the global demand outlook. Brent crude futures gained 29 cents, or 0.4 per cent, to $76.34 a barrel by 1330. US West Texas Intermediate crude futures rose 43 cents, or 0.6 per cent, to $72.36. Prices had plunged on Wednesday as revisions to jobs data in the United States added to concerns about crude demand after weak economic data out of China last week.

Prof. Epiphany Azinge, the 14th Asagba of Asaba Designate

SWEARING IN OF 7-MAN CARETAKER COMMITTEE OF THE APC BENUE...

L-R:

Ali Dalori, during the swearing In of seven (7)-Man Caretaker Committee of the APC Benue State

NNPC: Oando, President Bola Tinubu, Cousin Do Not Have Stakes in OVH

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) yesterday pushed back on allegations by a former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, that President Bola Tinubu as well as his cousin Wale, had underhand dealings in the national oil company’s acquisition of OVH.

Atiku had lamented “the criminal hijack of the NNPC by corporate cabals around the current president", stressing that the retention of Mr. Mele Kyari as

the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC was a compensation for the alleged acquisition of NNPC Retail Ltd by OVH in which he claimed Mr Wale Tinubu held 49 per cent stake. He further alleged that the NNPC Retail and OVH acquisition deal was part of a grand scheme by Tinubu to integrate his personal business interests into Nigeria’s public enterprises at the federal level. But while attempting to set the records straight, the NNPC in a statement by its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi

Soneye, said the company remains a commercially-focused and profit-driven company managed by professionals who are committed to adding value to the nation. It argued that its investment decisions were strictly determined on the basis of commercial viability and national interest, rather than on the basis of politics.

“At the time NNPC acquired OVH in 2022, Oando (in which Mr. Wale Tinubu has equity interest), had fully divested its equity in OVH to the two other partners – Vitol and Helios.

“Oando actually began its divestment in 2016, with Vitol and Helios coming in as equity partners, leading to the change of name from Oando to OVH. In 2019, Oando fully divested its equity interest in OVH resulting in Vitol and Helios holding 50 per cent equity interests respectively.

“Upon acquisition of OVH by NNPC Ltd, both NNPC Retail Ltd and OVH effectively became subsidiaries of NNPC Ltd. However, based on professional advice and sound commercial considerations, NNPC Ltd opted to merge NNPC Retail Limited

Adelabu Mulls Differential Electricity Tariff, Says Grid Power Still Cheapest Source

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu yesterday emphasised the reliability of grid connection as power source rather than captive power plant currently being used by bulk electricity consumers, noting that despite generating a record 5,155 megawatts, it was not being taken up.

The minister spoke at the board retreat of the Nigeria Electricity Liability Management Company (NELMCO), in Lagos.

“ Majority of bulk electricity users, such as industries, are off the grid due to lack of trust and confidence in the past. They now have their own captive power plants in their industries which is more expensive,” he lamented.

According to Adelabu, continued use of captive power rather than grid connection is more expensive. “The average cost of producing captive power is about N350 to N400 for those connected to gas lines. For diesel, it’s about N950 while petrol is about N550”, he said in a statement by his spokesman, Bolaji Tunji.

He said efforts would be made to encourage such bulk users to return to the grid. “Once consumers and industries see the trust, the confidence and

the stability we are giving, they would be encouraged and reconnect to the grid for cheaper source of power.

“We aim to attain the threshold of a new era in power delivery with a target of 6GW by end of December 2024 in the short term and the federal government is still focused on the vision 30-30-30.

“By 2030, we aim to achieve 30 gigawatts in the medium term, with renewable energy constituting 30 percent and universal access in the long term, it is imperative that we align on the principles guiding our activities and the strategies driving our progress,” he said.

He added that government was currently using a multipronged approach to attain these targets for the Nigeria Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).

The minister also mulled the idea of differential tariff for up peak period in order to stimulate demands.

“Having noticed a drop in demand during the off peak period, we plan to stimulate demands by having a different tariff during the off-peak period. These are some of the efforts we are looking at especially with our smart meters,” he said.

He urged the board members to reflect on how to embed

corporate governance in driving sustainable growth in the sector.

“As we manage the liabilities of the Nigeria Electricity Supply Industry (NESI), it is imperative that we uphold the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and integrity. Our actions and decisions must always align with the principles that safeguard public interests, ensuring that trust is maintained and strengthened across the board”, he said.

He also enjoined the power sector to embrace environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards in their actions. “In today's world, ESG considerations are no longer optional; they are integral to every corporate operation.

NELMCO's role goes beyond managing financial liabilities – we are also stewards of social and environmental responsibilities. We must incorporate sustainable practices into our strategies, ensuring that our actions contribute to Nigeria's broader goals of achieving the nation’s climate ambition and fostering social equity. This commitment to ESG will not only enhance our reputation but also ensure long-term value creation for all Nigerian,” he said.

He implored the board to reflect on sustainable ways to

address the tariff shortfalls in the industry while boosting the financing power of the sector.

“I believe, tackling the tariff shortfall in the Nigeria Electricity Supply Industry requires innovative and sustainable financing solutions. We must balance efforts at addressing the existing obligations while delivering long-term strategies that pave the way for financially solvency sector through costreflective tariffs.

“ We need to focus on ways to help the electricity market stabilize, attract investment, and ensure that every Nigerian has access to reliable and affordable power which will drive the nation’s economic development”.

He also emphasised the need for effective leadership and board agility especially in the electricity industry.

“As leaders, our primary role is to set a strategic course, inspire our teams, and navigate challenges with foresight. We must be proactive and adaptable, ready to pivot in response to disruptions, whether technological, regulatory, or economic. A culture of continuous learning, open communication, and innovation will ensure we remain resilient and not just to survive but to thrive in an ever-changing environment,” he stated.

into OVH, and thereafter retain NNPC Retail Limited as the company name post-merger,” the NNPC said.

The first step of merging NNPC Retail Ltd into OVH, the national oil company said, has been completed and the post-merger renaming as NNPC Retail Ltd was ongoing.

“The management of NNPC, under the leadership of Mr. Mele Kyari, has done very well in growing the company’s fortunes as shown in the 2023 Audited Financial Statement (AFS), where it reported N3.3 trillion as profit after tax.

“NNPC as a commercial entity is devoid of political interest and shall continue to conduct its business full of commitment to national interest and value creation for the benefit of all stakeholders. NNPC shall resist any attempt to draw its board and management into partisan politics,” NNPC maintained.

Contrary to the “false alarm” raised, the NNPC stated that neither Wale Tinubu nor the president has any interest in the OVH acquisition, stressing that as a businessman, the former vice president should know that effectiveness in business leadership is best measured by balance sheets and bottom lines rather than pedestrian considerations.

Obasanjo to Speak at Former Punch Editor’s Book Launch

The immediate past Editor of The PUNCH, Dayo Oketola, is set to launch a book he authored as his contribution to the development of the pen profession.

The book, ‘The Catalyst: Nigerian ICT Evolution Through a Journalist's Lens,’ will be launched on September 17, 2024, at an exaugural lecture to mark the end of his time as an editor and celebrate his nearly 20 years of experience in journalism.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo will be the Special Guest Speaker at the event, which will take place at the Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos, by 10 am.

Oketola, now a senior member of the PUNCH Editorial Board, left as Editor of The PUNCH following the organisation’s management-level shake-up in June.

While serving as editor, he won the Editor of the Year prize at the Nigeria Media Merit Awards (NMMA) in December 2023. He also led the organisation to win the Newspaper of the Year at the same award ceremony. Oketola, a consistent journalism prizeman, also won Editor of the Year Award at The Industry Awards 2022. He is a two-time winner of the Zimeo Excellence in Media Awards in Johannesburg 2015 and Nairobi 2016, among numerous awards during his illustrious journalism career.

In a statement, Oketola said, “I am excited to announce the upcoming launch of my book, The Catalyst:

Nigerian ICT Evolution Through A Journalist’s Lens, scheduled for September 17, 2024.

“On the same day, I will also be hosting an exaugural lecture to celebrate my tenure as Editor of The PUNCH and nearly 20 years in journalism.” Speaking further, the former editor described his years in journalism as one that had driven advocacy and impacted different sectors of the economy.

“My 20 remarkable years of stewardship to the nation via media and leadership practices have driven advocacy and impacted areas such as business and economy, ICT, energy, agriculture, social inclusion, anticorruption, drug trafficking prevention, and nation-building, a testament to the power of journalism in shaping our society,” Oketola remarked.

Other influential guests hosted at the media event are a former Chief Executive Officer of MTN Nigeria, Michael Ikpoki, who will chair the occasion, and the Convener, Centre for Social Media Research, Dr Akin Olaniyan, who will be the book reviewer. The Minister of Information, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, will grace the occasion as the Chief Host.

Similarly, the Managing Director/ Editor-in-Chief of PUNCH Nigeria Limited, Mr Adeyeye Joseph, is the host, while the President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Mr Eze Anaba, is the co-host.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

National Legal Adviser, All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdulkarim Kana; APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje; New Chairman, Caretaker Committee of APC Benue State Chapter, Benjamin Omale and APC Deputy National Chairman (North), Alh.

Chapter, held at the Party's Secretariat in Abuja, ... yesterday ENOCK REUBEN

Umahi Gives Account of Stewardship, Decries N16tn Funding Deficit for 4,000 Projects

Says no new projects for 2025, lawsuits hobbling Lagos-Calabar coastal road

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, yesterday rendered an account of his stewardship at the ministry, stressing that there was a funding gap of about N16 trillion for over 4,000 road projects scattered all over the country.

Speaking during a briefing in Abuja to usher in his first one year in office, the minister said that he would not propose any new projects for the 2025 fiscal year, explaining that the plan was to complete all existing contracts nationwide.

He said: “We will not propose new projects for the 2025 fiscal year unless otherwise dictated by Mr President. I’m going to tell the Ministry of Finance to provide funds for us to complete ongoing projects.

“Right now, we have over 4,000 ongoing projects and a funding gap of N16 trillion, most of them were inherited by this administration. Some of these projects were awarded when the naira was exchanged for N150 to $1USD.”

Besides, Umahi stressed that there are currently over six court cases against the Lagos-Calabar Coastal highway, but assured that the federal government remained resolute on completion of the multi-trillion naira project.

Disclosing that the federal government had been paying compensation to affected owners of structures along the Right of Way (RoW), the minister alleged that a lot of those making claims wanted to rip off the Nigerian government.

“That is the beauty of democracy, and under the guise of democracy we have some fraudulent individuals who want to rip where they did not sow. We have not just one court case, we have over six, but we are equal to the task.

“We are paying compensation, we are following the gazetted right of way; we are following the corridor that is legally allowed for federal government. So, we don’t know

Sorondinki in Kano

The Managing Director of Novomed Pharmaceuticals, Musa Garba Kwankwaso, who is also the nephew of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has vowed to challenge the three Anti-graft Agencies in court for extending invitations to him on the same thing and issue. Kwankwaso spoke with reporters shortly after he

what they are taking to court. We have the certificate on the project and the project is listed in 2023 supplementary budget,” he added.

According to him, the present administration inherited a total of 18,932 kilometres of road projects, stressing that the 2025 budget will focus on four projects per zone with a plan to complete and commission them next year.

Umahi added: “The funding gap to complete all the inherited projects is about N13 trillion as at May, 2023 and will be more than N16 trillion when all projects are reviewed in line with current market realities.”

The minister also decried the poor funding of Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), which has been largely responsible for the poor maintenance of federal roads, noting that only N52 billion was approved for capital projects in the 2024 fiscal year.

He said: “Poor funding of highway projects, which include under-funding of FERMA for effective road maintenance. The agency was allocated N52 billion in 2024 for capital projects, which is grossly inadequate to maintain the existing 36,000km of the federal road network.”

According to the minister, where funds are available, contractors could be paid 30 per cent mobilisation and more funds approved for them under strict conditions to mitigate incessant project fluctuations as is the practice in some states of the federation.

According to him, the government was focused on maintenance and rehabilitation to ensure that the road projects nationwide are sustainable, reducing the need for costly repairs and ensuring that the benefits are long-lasting.

On the problematic KanoMaiduguri dual carriageway, Umahi stated that President Bola Tinubu had directed that the failed sections should be completed while immediate palliatives should be effected to ensure that the People

answered the invitation of the State Public Complaints and Anti-corruption Commission (PCACC), yesterday, in company with his lawyers.

He was accused of connivance to award a contract to Novomed Pharmaceuticals, for the supply of drugs to 38 local government areas in the state, which allegedly violated public procurement laws.

According to reliable

do not suffer unnecessarily.

“18,932.50km of ongoing projects with a total of 2,064 number of contracts. The total value of all the ongoing projects as at May, 2023 was N14,424,982,425,616.40

“Amount certified, 4,734,849,328,306.77. Amount paid is N3,122,628,914,427.12. Amount owed contractors for certified works was N1,612,220,413,879.65.

“The funding gap to complete all the inherited projects is about

N13 trillion as at May, 2023 and will be more than N16 trillion Naira when all projects are reviewed in line with current market realities,” Umahi stated.

Due to the removal of fuel subsidy and the floating of the Naira, though a sound economic decision of the administration, and considering the fact that some of the projects havd lingered for between 5 to 18years, consequently, he said the projects were being reviewed to match with

current market realities.

On the Lagos-Calabar Coastal highway, the minister said that it represents a pivotal step toward improving transportation infrastructure and fostering economic development along Nigeria's southern coast.

Also on the Sokoto-Badagry project, he said that it demonstrates the government's commitment to enhancing transportation infrastructure nationwide.

“It complements the LagosCalabar coastal highway and lays the groundwork for further road development. The 1,068- kilometre Sokoto-Badagry Coastal Highway is a significant infrastructure project in Nigeria.

“It connects the city of Sokoto in the northwest to Badagry in the southwest, traversing multiple states such as Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, and Ogun. The project consists of two carriageway of three lanes each.

Belgian, Australian, Canadian Envoys Back NEITI on Open Data Policy

The Embassy of Belgium as well as Australian and Canadian High Commissions in Nigeria have pledged to support the Open Data policy of the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI).

The diplomats made the pledge shortly after an inspection of the newly completed NEITI data centre during a courtesy visit to NEITI House in Abuja.

The visiting envoys were those of Belgium, Mr Pieter Leenknegt, Australian High Commissioner, Leilani Bin-Juda and the Canadian High Commissioner, Jammie Christoff .

They said the project was an important milestone in the use of credible data to fight corruption in the extractive industry, pledging to support the NEITI centre with skills development, training and technical assistance.

Leenknegt, the Belgian envoy stated that with reliable data, transparency will improve in the country’s extractive sector as the public will begin to as questions

source at the Agency, 38 local governments paid N9.1 million to Novomed for the procurement of drugs, but the drugs were not supplied.

Speaking, counsel to Kwankwaso, Okechukwu Nwaeze said, "Three agencies are investigating one person for the same offences. The ICPC, EFCC and the PCACC, have extended an invitation on the same issue. I don't

of their elected officials.

“They will ask about where the revenue is and how it is being spent and disbursed,” he argued.

Also speaking, Australian envoy, Bin-Juda, said the country remains focused on the importance of openness in the extractive industries which will help to build investor confidence.

Canadian high commissioner, Christoff, stressed that as a wellknown country in mining, the country could offer support and provide some advice in that area, stressing that it was important to have information that is verifiable, and valid.

The Executive Secretary of NEITI, Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji, in his remarks, welcomed the visit of the ambassadors to NEITI House as an opportunity to deepen cooperation and partnership between NEITI and the diplomatic community in Nigeria.

“As supporting countries to the EITI at the global level, your visit is a great opportunity to domesticate the support of your respective countries to the EITI at global levels to connect directly with

think that is allowed under our constitution.

“How many times will we do so? Will we do three times? So, somebody else can wake up tomorrow and say we have to come and invite us and we still go.

"We want the court to make pronouncement. The court has already pronounced on this matter. We are going to stand on this pronouncement and

Nigerian citizens who earnestly desire that the abundant natural resources in this country works for the benefit of all not just a few”.

Orji called for closer partnership between the diplomatic missions and NEITI to strengthen the organisation’s international affiliation under the global EITI.

“Your visit is a huge encouragement to us as an agency and an endorsement of our strong international affiliation and partnership with 57 other resource-rich countries,” Orji remarked.

He told the envoys that the global transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources poses significant risks to countries that depend heavily on hydrocarbonbased natural resource revenues for survival.

“Our country, Nigeria is heavily dependent on oil revenues for survival. Your visit is an opportunity to highlight the importance of partnership and cooperation between under developed, developing and developed countries which are all found within the EITI community to share knowledge, skills and technical

ask for another pronouncement on this particular issue.

"We are taking decisions, we are evaluating everything but three agencies cannot investigate one offense and we are going to challenge that in the Court."

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has directed the anti-graft commission to commence investigation into alleged diversion of about N10

support with our organisation.

“This will help our government and citizens with timely policy decisions and strategies to deal with these complex challenges and unavoidable unfolding developments in the extractive sector,” he added.

He explained that NEITI’s decision to build a data centre was to enable the agency support the reforms in the extractive industries with evidence-based decisions.

The representatives of the National Working Group (NWG), Mathew Adoli pledged the support of the board to deepening NEITI’s existing partnership and collaboration with diplomatic missions in Nigeria and international development partners to expand the scope of EITI implementation in the country.

On the role of the civil society, the representative of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) on NEITI board, Dr. Erisa Danladi Sarki identified the importance of sustainable advocacy to draw local and international attention to issues of gender and environment arising from oil, gas and mining exploration activities.

million from each of the 44 local governments’ accounts to a company called Novomed for the purchase of medical supplies. A whistleblower, Dr. Bello Galadanci, had alleged that 44 local governments in the state were fraudulently instructed to pay N10 million to a company called Novomed for the purchase of medical supplies.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Ahmad

ADIGUN

ÙDÌRÓKÒ CULTURAL FESTIVAL...

First Bank Kicks Off '2024 CR&S Week' with Tree Planting Event

Initiative targets planting 50,000 trees by 2025

Sunday Ehigiator

Nigeria's premier financial institution, First Bank Group, commenced its 2024 Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability (CR&S) Week yesterday, with a tree planting event held at the Lekki Conservation Centre (LCC), Lagos.

The event, led by the bank’s Chief Executive Officer, Olusegun Alebiosu, marks the beginning of a week-long celebration of the bank's commitment to sustainable economic, social, and environmental growth and development.

In his remarks, Alebiosu highlighted the bank's achievements over the past seven years, impacting over one million people and 300 charities, NGOs, foundations, health

institutions, and schools across Nigeria and its subsidiaries worldwide.

He emphasised the bank's dedication to environmental sustainability, particularly through its ‘Tree Planting’ initiative, which aims to plant 50,000 trees by 2025.

According to him, “The CR&S Week is an annual event during which special activities are dedicated to promoting sustainable economic, social, and environmental growth and development in Nigeria and across our subsidiaries all over the world.

“In the last seven years since we commenced the CR&S Week celebration, more than one million people and 300 charities, NGOs, foundations, health institutions and schools have been impacted across Nigeria and our subsidiaries in Ghana,

Sierra Leone, Gambia, DRC, Senegal, Guinea and the United Kingdom.

“In 2023 alone, we partnered multiple organisations and impacted about 60,000 lives with various SPARK (i.e. Start Performing Acts of Random Kindness) amplification projects carried out in 60 orphanage homes, 20 schools, and several hospitals.

“Remarkably, most of these projects were championed and implemented by volunteer FirstBank staff through the Employee Giving & Volunteering Scheme.

“Our SPARK activities for last year however climaxed with the kickoff of the ‘Tree Planting’ initiative which was introduced to spread the acts of kindness beyond humans, to the environment itself, thus showing kindness to nature and mother earth

in appreciation for accommodating human existence and our various never-ending activities.

“This year, we aim at planting 30,000 trees across the country, and we already commenced implementation with the support of the students of Government Secondary School, Karshi, Abuja yesterday, 21 August 2024.

“Today, we aim at consolidating our efforts here in Lekki Conservation Centre to plant more trees and inch closer to our target for 2024. It is always a delight working with your team and I thank you for constantly dedicating your time and resources to ensuring that this project succeeds.

“As a Bank, we will not renege on our commitment to ensuring that

Presco Plc to Construct Ugo-Evboesi Axis of BeninAbraka Expressway under Edo Tax Credit Scheme

Leading agricultural company, Presco Plc, is set to commence the construction of Ugo-Evboesi axis of the Benin-Abraka Road under the Edo State Infrastructure Development and Social Investment Tax Credit Scheme.

The scheme was set up by Governor Godwin Obaseki to enable companies undertake major projects within the state to expand their footprints and engender economic development in their host communities.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the road project, Governor Obaseki said: “The benefits of attracting and encouraging more investment in the state is evident in the huge gains Presco Plc has undertaken today in Orhionmwon.”

He noted that Presco Plc had approached the government that they wanted to take over and construct the Ugo-Evboesi section of the road with their tax credit and the government graciously granted

the approval given the importance of the road to the oil palm development projects in the area.

He encouraged other investors to follow suit and urged host communities to embrace economic development by cooperating with investors which will spur economic growth in their domains.

Chairman, Orhionmwon Local Government Area, Hon. Newman Ugiagbe, thanked the governor for the huge investments he has attracted to the locality, promising to ensure the

sustenance of the growth trajectory by supporting the government in its endeavours.

The 4.30km road construction project, which is expected to be completed in three months, is being handled by Raycon & Co. Nigeria Limited.

The construction of the BeninAbraka Road is expected to improve connectivity, facilitate trade, and enhance the quality of life for residents in Orhionmwon local council and surrounding areas.

Ilorin Emir: AbdulRazaq’s Massive Urban Renewal Projects would Advance Kwara’s Socio-economic Devt

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

Kwara State chairman of traditional council and Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari yesterday said that the ongoing urban renewal infrastructural projects by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration in the state would advance the socio-economic development of the state.

Sulu-Gambari made the declaration in Ilorin while receiving the state government’s delegation led by the Commissioner for Works,

Engr. Abdulquawiy Olododo and the Special Adviser on Special Duties Alhaji Abdulrazaq Jiddah, at his Oja-oba Palace, Ilorin.

The delegation visited the Emir to seek further support for the road project from Works Roundabout to Post Office through Emir’s Road down to Isale Oja and other areas.

The monarch who supported the urban renewal projects in the state however called on the governor not to relent in its efforts to push more massive infrastructural works in the state.

He said: “I am pleased with the

foresight of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq with the ongoing expansion and reconstruction of roads across the state, particularly within the Ilorin metropolis.

"What the government is doing is necessary for the development of the capital city and the state at large.

"I am aware of the massive road projects going on, and as a traditional institution, we will continue to support the administration with prayers to succeed.

"You are doing the right thing.

As I said before, the performance of the Governor is res ipsa loquitur (self-evident). When one embarks on such projects, you don’t listen to the naysayers.

"They will later appreciate it once you do it. So, I urge you to continue with the good job.”

The Emir urged the government to continue with its expansion programme without further delay.

"It is good that you employ traditional approach for your advocacy and I want to assure you of maximum support to succeed. Don't be distracted.

‘Tree Planting’ becomes a fundamental activity in the celebration of our annual CR&S Week as this will help us to continue to play our roles in ensuring a cleaner, safer, purer, healthier and ultimately, wealthier environment that will outlive us and the generations to come after us.”

In his remark, LCC’s DirectorGeneral, Prof. Mathew Onoja appreciated and lauded First Bank’s effort and its contributions towards improving the country’s ecosystem, and its green recovery initiatives.

According to him, “The story of the ‘Green Recovery’ Nigeria will not be complete without the story of the LCC. Today, after several years of conservation, the LCC has become a replica of what used to be Victoria Island to Epe, until we turned it into a complete jungle.

“We have this place to be able to show us that nature will always

reclaim what belongs to it. We have a laboratory here to show people what nature can do only if you allow it.

“Over the years we have seen that Nigeria’s forest cover has depreciated. At independence, we had about 30 to 40 per cent forest cover in the Nigeria landscape. But over time, it has dwindled to less than 10 per cent.

“We have so much destroyed our forest and also didn’t manage them properly and that is why we created the ‘Green Recovery Nigeria’, where we seek to recover Nigeria’s forest cover back to at least 25 per cent as recommended by the United Nations Environment Program.

“And we are very happy that First Bank has seen and caught up with that vision and has come to join us.

“First Bank is a leading financial organisation in Nigeria and truly the first in all the things that it does. We are happy to have you onboard.”

Digitisation: Dabiri-Erewa Calls for Strategic Partnerships Among Nigerian Diaspora

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has urged Diaspora Nigerians to partner in upscaling digital technology in Nigeria.

She stated this when Prof. Adedeji Badiru, a retired Systems Engineer of the US Institute of Engineering for the US Airforce, visited the NiDCOM Headquarters in Abuja.

Dabiri-Erewa commended the Professor's portfolio as a testament of Nigerians in the Diaspora being trailblazers in every field of endeavour.

She said: “I want to say that, you, Prof., represent the very best of Nigeria.”

The NiDCOM Chairman said that more experts on Information and Communication Technology, like Badiru, are needed especially as the country is embracing systems engineering.

She equally added that his knowledge in data analytics is beneficial to the Commission in building an efficient data mapping system, while appealing that the

retired engineer mentor youths back home.

Prof. Adedeji Badiru thanked the Chairman of NiDCOM for giving him the platform to engage with her. He said his retirement will avail frequent visits to Nigeria and anywhere, to share his expertise, as his job did not enable him to. Prior to his retirement, Badiru had donated technical books to institutions in Nigeria as a means of giving back.

In addition, he was influential in affiliating the Airforce Institute of Technology (AFIT) in the US and Kaduna Nigeria, which granted an opportunity for further training to Nigerian students.

Badiru said he is willing to collaborate with NiDCOM in terms of knowledge sharing.

Prof. Adedeji Badiru is a systems engineer professional. Though an indigene of Lagos, he was raised for over 45 years in the US.

One of his achievements was the creation of the Systems Engineering Department in the University of Lagos, where he is described as the “Father of Systems Engineering”, for about 30 years.

L-R: Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; former Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose; Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji; Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe (Aladesanmi III)); Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin and Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Monisade Afuye at the 2024 Ùdìrókò Cultural Festival in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State … Wednesday

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin-City

FAMILIARISATION VISIT TO NASENI...

L-R: EVC/CEO

Remi Tinubu Flags Off Renewed Hope Economic Initiative in Abuja, Delta

Grants N1.8bn to 37,000 Nigerian women traders; recapitalizes 1,000 each in Abuja, Delta

Deji Elumoye, Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja and Omon-Julius Onabu in

The First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu, Thursday, through her foundation, the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Economic Empowerment Programme, flagged-off the recapitalisation grants for 1,000 women petty traders in Abuja and Delta State, respectively.

She said that N1,850,000,000 would be disbursed to 37,000 women petty traders across the country. Each beneficiary will receive N50,000 each to recapitalise and grow their businesses.

The First Lady, represented by the Mandate Secretary Women Affairs Secretariat and the FCT State Coordinator of the RHI, Mrs. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, added that the event would take place simultaneously across the 36 states of the federation including the FCT.

She said the RHI recognised the challenges faced by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), especially the petty traders, who form the backbone of

the local economies.

Also, in Asaba, the capital of Delta State, Mrs. Tinubu flagged-off the RHI Economic Empowerment Programme noting that empowerment was at the core of the goal of the Tinubu administration's initiative.

The programme included commencement of recapitalisation grants for 1,000 women petty traders in Delta State.

She said that the RHI has so far delivered on this promise for both women and youths across the six geo-political zones of the country, to support the economic reforms of the federal government.

Mrs. Tinubu said: "I am honoured to be here today at the empowerment programme of one thousand women petty traders across the nation as part of our continued commitment to drive economic growth towards a better life for families.

"This event is taking place simultaneously across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory. I appreciate our host, the governor of Delta State,

Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and his amiable wife for the warm reception and hospitality accorded us.

"You are all aware of the challenges faced by small and medium enterprises, especially the petty traders who form the backbone of our local economies.

Meanwhile, according to the Mandate Secretary Women Affairs Secretariat and the FCT State Coordinator of the RHI, Mrs. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi: "The grants provided today is to assist our women petty traders in overcoming some of their business challenges, expand their businesses create more jobs and contribute more robustly to our economy."

She stressed that economic empowerment constituted the core objective of the RHI, which recognised has continued to support the economic reforms of the present administration of President Bola Tinubu.

"We recognise that empowering women economically is not just a moral imperative but a strategic one. When women thrive, their families thrive,

and by extension, our communities and nation prosper," Mrs. Tinubu said.

In her remarks, the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the programme as a significant stride towards empowering women entrepreneurs and enhancing their economic resilience.

She expressed the hope that the grants would undoubtedly provide the much-needed support in helping women petty traders expand their businesses and improve their livelihoods.

The minister, who was represented by the FCT Coordinator of Social Investment Programme, Hajia Maijidda Adamu Musa, stressed that investment in human capital through the Renewed Hope Initiative in the areas of Economic Empowerment, Education, Health, Social Investment and Agriculture have been invaluable.

The Mandate Secretary Women Affairs Secretariat, Mrs. Adedayo Benjamins-laniyi, said that the RHI, has become an interventionist programme that has come to stay with a view to supporting women entrepreneurs.

Abbas: Women Underrepresentation in Decision-making Positions Disheartening

Adedayo Akinwale and Aminat Hassan in Abuja

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas has described the persistent underrepresentation of women in decision-making positions across various sectors as disheartening.

He also decried systemic barriers that hinder women's participation and limit their ability to influence policies that affect their lives and communities

Abbas disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja at a one-day high level national summit on women inclusion, saying it was instructive to recognise the critical role that women play within the society.

He said current statistics revealed that women constitute approximately 49.45 percent of Nigeria's total

population as of 2023.

The Speaker said aside the demographic strength of women, they also have the potential to drive transformative change in the country.

Abbas stated: “Women are not just passive participants in our society; they are vital contributors to economic growth, social development, and community resilience.

“Their voices must therefore be amplified and their contributions recognised if we are to realise the full potential of our nation.

“Despite this demographic advantage, it is disheartening to note that women's representation in governance has not kept pace with their numbers.

“Over the years, we have witnessed a persistent underrepresentation of women in decision-making positions

across various sectors.

“This disparity is not merely a statistic; it reflects systemic barriers that hinder women's participation and limit their ability to influence policies that affect their lives and communities.”

The Speaker pointed out that “the summit provides a crucial platform for harmonising efforts among all stakeholders - government officials, civil society organizations, private sector representatives, and international partners - to forge a united front in advocating women's constitutional inclusion.

“Our discussions today should focus on developing strategies for enhancing women's representation in governance and ensuring that their voices are heard at all levels.”

Abbas stressed that the 10th National

Assembly was also concerned about the low level of women representation in governance.

According to him, in examining the electoral outcomes from the 2015 and 20,19 elections, it is evident that women's political representation remains disproportionately low compared to their population size.

In the 2015 and 2019 elections, a total of 2,970 candidates were on the electoral ballot, which accounted for only 11.36 per cent of elected candidates being women. This statistic underscores a significant gender disparity in political representation.

The Speaker said in the 8th National Assembly, seven women were represented in the Senate out of the 109 members; while 22 women were in the House of Representatives out of the 360 members.

In Asaba, Mrs. Tinubu stated: "These challenges, however, have not deterred the strength of our women. I salute you all and celebrate your courage and resilience that keep you going to put food on the table for your families.

"Today, through the Renewed Hope Initiative Economic Empowerment Programme, we are providing one thousand pre-selected women petty traders per state with the grant of N50,000 each to recapitalise and grow their businesses.

"A total of N1.850 billion will be disbursed to 37,000 women petty traders across the nation. And the good news for Delta as mentioned by Her Excellency, Deaconess Tobore

Oborevwori, the governor has decided to support our N50 million grant with another sum of N50 million. So, instead of the women receiving N50,000, they will be receiving N100,000 each.

"The grant that you are receiving today is to assist the women petty traders to overcome their challenges, expand their businesses, create more jobs and contribute more robustly to our economy.

"Economic empowerment remains a core objective of the Renewed Hope Initiative and we have consistently delivered on this promise for both women and youths across the six geopolitical zones to support the economic reforms of this administration.

Sustainability Summit: Lagos State Leads

the Charge Towards Sustainable Future

Mary Nnah

In a bold new direction, the Lagos State Office of Sustainable Development Goals (OSDG), in partnership with the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) and the Lagos State Safety Commission, has announced the inaugural Lagos Sustainability Summit.

Scheduled for September 12, 2024, at the prestigious Eko Hotel & Suites, this trailblazing event is poised to revolutionise how folks think, act, and interact with their environment.

Themed "Building a Resilient and Sustainable Lagos," the summit represents a clarion call to action, beckoning stakeholders from diverse sectors to converge and drive sustainable initiatives that will propel Lagos into a future of unparalleled prosperity, equity, and environmental stewardship.

According to the organisers, the summit's far-reaching impact will be felt across various industries, from government and business to civil society and academia, fostering a collaborative environment that inspires innovation and action.

Under the leadership of Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Sustainable Development Goals, the summit will delve into critical areas such as government commitment to sustainability, community engagement, ethical business practices, sustainable finance, and sustainable supply chains. These pivotal topics will be explored through keynote addresses, panel discussions, and exhibitions, providing a comprehensive platform for stakeholders to share knowledge, expertise, and best practices.

"We stand at a crossroads, and our choices today will determine the Lagos of tomorrow. We must innovate, adapt, and lead the way towards a resilient and sustainable city”, Dr. Finnih emphasised. She noted, "The summit is a testament to Lagos' unwavering dedication to creating a better future, serving as a model for sustainable development in Nigeria and beyond.”

Finnih noted, that the Lagos Sustainability Summit is a timely response to the pressing environmental challenges we face. “By harnessing collective expertise and resources, we can create a sustainable legacy for generations to come."

Asaba

of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu; Deputy Chief of Staff, Senator Ibrahim Hadeija; Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, CFR; and Permanent Secretary, State House, Engr. Olufunso Adebiyi during a familiarisation visit to National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) headquarters in Abuja ... yesterday

FOCUS

FMBN: Mitigating Nigeria’s Housing Crisis Through New Rental Assistance Loan

Nigeria’s housing deficit has been a longstanding challenge, with millions of citizens struggling to find affordable and decent shelter. But with the newly introduced Rental Assistance Loan, an initiative by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), this crisis could be significantly tempered, writes Emmanuel Addeh

That Nigeria grapples with an enormous housing deficit, with quoted figures ranging from 20 million to 28 million housing units, is no longer news. This paints a picture of how dire the situation is, one that is further exacerbated by a combination of rapid population growth, urbanisation and widening economic disparities leading to a significant shortfall in housing supply.

Traditionally, the mortgage market in Nigeria has been somewhat skewed towards the salaried and formally employed population who fall in the minority of Nigeria’s economically-viable population.

According to the National Labour Force Statistics Report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria’s informal employment rate, which is the share of employed persons in the informal sector and informal employment, was 92.7 per cent in Q2 2023. The implication of this is that only a minuscule population of Nigerians are formal sector employees, who are more likely to easily access housing finance, leaving a vast majority of those in the informal sector without viable options for homeownership.

In response to this urgent need for a more inclusive and equitable housing finance ecosystem, the FMBN recently introduced a series of innovative products, in addition to its existing rich bouquet of products, which include the National Housing Fund (NHF) Scheme, the Individual Construction Loan, the Rent-to-Own Scheme, the Cooperative Housing Development Loan, and the newly introduced Diaspora Mortgage Scheme, amongst others.

Among the new offerings introduced by the Bank is the Rental Assistance Loan, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at providing financial relief to individuals and families struggling with high costs of rent. The Managing Director of FMBN, Shehu Osidi, made the announcement during the recently concluded 18th Africa International Housing Show (AIHS) 2024.

This was done in a presentation which outlined the strategic efforts being made by the bank’s new executive management team to transform the bank to optimally deliver on its mandate of mortgage provision for affordable housing solutions.

Understanding the Loan Scheme

The reality of the housing ecosystem is that not everyone will become homeowners. A recent housing report found that at least 80 per cent of Nigerians lived in rented accommodation and spent 50 per cent of their income on house rent. Even for those who have the desire to become homeowners, a lot of assistance is required in the present in the form of rental payment, especially considering inflationary trends in the home rental segment.

The Rental Assistance Loan is a microhousing loan product meticulously designed to alleviate the financial burden of rental payments for eligible Nigerians.

“This product is a testament to FMBN’s commitment to ensuring that all Nigerians, regardless of their income level or employment status, have access to safe and affordable housing. This commitment, which draws inspiration from the Bank’s mandate of providing mortgages for affordable housing delivery to low- and middle-income earners, resonates with the vision of the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Mr Ahmed Dangiwa,” the bank said.

It added that this is drawn from President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for the housing sector. It recalled that while performing the groundbreaking for 3,112 housing units at Karsana, Abuja in February 2024, the president re-emphasised that every Nigerian deserves a decent and affordable shelter, reaffirming his commitment to making this happen.

The innovative rental assistance loan has been thoughtfully crafted to ensure accessibility, affordability and flexibility, making it a viable

solution for many who have found it challenging to secure housing finance through other traditional financial arrangements.

The introduction of the rental assistance loan is part of a broader strategy by the Bank to address the housing affordability crisis in Nigeria.

By offering micro-housing loans, the bank is providing a practical solution to the immediate needs of medium and low-income earners, many of whom struggle to save for homeownership due to the high costs of rent.

The initiative is expected to have a ripple effect across the housing sector, by reducing the financial burden on renters, thereby enabling individuals to allocate more of their income towards savings or other essential expenses.

Over time, this would lead to an increase in homeownership rates, as more Nigerians are able to accumulate the necessary capital for a down payment on a home.

Moreover, the rental assistance loan aligns with FMBN’s broader mission of promoting financial inclusion and sustainable housing development.

By offering accessible and affordable housing finance solutions, the bank is playing a pivotal role in driving economic growth, reducing poverty, and improving the overall quality of life of Nigerians.

“The ripple effects of this will be felt throughout the Nigerian economy. As more individuals secure affordable rental housing, the pressure on urban housing markets is expected to ease, leading to more stable and sustainable housing prices.

“This, in turn, could make homeownership more attainable for a larger segment of the population, further contributing to the nation’s economic and social development,” the FMBN stated.

Eligibility

One of the key requirements for qualifying for the rental assistance loan is that applicants must be contributors to the National Housing Fund (NHF) Scheme. This prerequisite ensures that beneficiaries are actively engaged in a system that promotes long-term financial planning for housing.

By making contributions to the NHF, applicants demonstrate their commitment to securing their housing future, which is a critical aspect of financial discipline.

Unlike traditional loans that may require a substantial lump sum payment, the FMBN rental assistance loan mandates consistent contributions

to the NHF for a minimum of six months. This approach not only encourages financial discipline but also makes it possible for more Nigerians to benefit from the contributory pool.

Loan Limit Tailored to Financial Capacity

The rental assistance loan offers a maximum loan amount of N2,000,000, which is subject to the beneficiary’s affordability. This cap is strategically set to ensure that the loan remains within a manageable range for applicants, aligning with their income levels and financial capacity.

By tailoring the loan amount to the applicant’s financial situation, FMBN is helping to prevent over-indebtedness, especially considering the harsh economic times in the country, thereby promoting long-term financial stability.

Another essential feature of this loan is that the amount borrowed is designed to not exceed one-third of the applicant’s annual gross pay or confirmed income. This prudent measure ensures that the loan repayments do not become a financial strain, allowing beneficiaries to meet other financial obligations without undue stress.

Accessibility

To enhance the accessibility of the rental assistance loan, FMBN is streamlining the application process to allow prospective beneficiaries to apply directly through the FMBN portal or at branch offices located near the property they intend to rent.

This decentralised application process is particularly beneficial for those living in remote or underserved areas, where access to financial services can be limited.

For informal sector workers, there is an additional requirement of membership in a cooperative society. This prerequisite not only fosters a sense of community among beneficiaries but also provides a support system that is essential for managing loan obligations.

Flexible Repayment Terms

The tenor for the rental assistance loan is set at 10 months, offering a short-term, flexible repayment period that aligns with typical rental agreements. This feature allows beneficiaries to manage their financial commitments effectively without the

burden of long-term debt obligations and ability to adjust their payments according to their financial situations.

One of the most significant advantages of the rental assistance loan is the option for early liquidation without penalties. This means that beneficiaries have the flexibility to repay the loan ahead of schedule if their financial situation improves, without incurring any additional costs. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who may experience a sudden increase in income or who wish to avoid paying long-term interests on the loan. Also, loan repayments can be made through the Treasury Single Account (TSA) or, for informal sector workers, through their cooperative societies. This dual-channel repayment option provides flexibility and convenience, catering to the diverse needs of beneficiaries across different sectors.

Affordable Interest, Insurance Rates

The rental assistance loan carries a recommended interest rate of 9 per cent, with 1 per cent of this amount allocated as an upfront insurance cover. The remaining 8 per cent is recognised as the Bank’s income on the product. The inclusion of an insurance component offers a vital safety net for beneficiaries. However, in the event of damage to the rented property as a result of natural disaster, the landlord is responsible for repairs.

The processing fee for this innovative product is set at N24,000, a nominal amount designed to cover administrative costs. In line with FMBN’s customer-centricity pillar, the set processing fee is a small price to pay for the significant financial relief that the loan provides to beneficiaries.

Catalysing Financial Inclusion, Affordable Housing

Nigeria’s informal sector, which includes traders, artisans and small business owners, constitutes a large portion of the economy. However, due to the unpredictable nature of their incomes, these individuals often face significant challenges in accessing formal credit facilities.

By tailoring the rental assistance loan to meet the specific needs of informal sector workers, FMBN is promoting financial inclusion and also empowering a critical segment of the population. This move is strategic because FMBN acknowledges the significant role the informal sector plays in the Nigerian economy. By providing them with access to affordable housing finance, FMBN is helping to uplift a large and often overlooked segment of the population, contributing to broader economic growth and social stability.

In the broader context of Nigeria’s economic and social development, the FMBN’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity in housing finance represents a beacon of hope for a more equitable and prosperous nation. the emergence of the Rental Assistance Loan on Nigeria’s housing scene will undoubtedly play a critical role in bridging the housing gap and ensuring that many Nigerians have the opportunity to live in dignity and comfort.

Indeed, the FMBN rental assistance loan marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to tackle its housing challenges. By providing a tailored solution for middle and low-income earners and informal sector workers, FMBN is addressing the immediate needs of those struggling with high rental costs while also laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and sustainable housing finance system.

This initiative is crucial in ensuring that all citizens have access to safe, decent, and affordable housing. With the right support and effective implementation, this innovative loan product has the potential to transform the lives of millions of Nigerians, paving the way for a brighter, more secure future.

Managing Director/CEO of FMBN, Shehu Osidi

ISA MURTALA urges the APC government in the state to apologise to the people

ZAMFARA'S OPPOSITION POLITICS

Politics is a vast wilderness of absurdities, brazen shamelessness and insidious machinations; it is a terrain exploited by politicians to undo the good works of their opponents who deploy the desired capacity, credibility and commitment to deliver the leadership and good governance to the electorate.

This portrait of politics is most-glaringly Zamfara State. At a time the Save-Our-Soul administration is on the verge of rescuing the state from an administration that sought to devour all aspects of the once-enviable and exemplary peace, security and development of the Farming-Is-Our-Pride state, the forces of retrogression is increasingly unrelenting.

In the 2023 general elections, the political forces, built by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and ably commanded by Dauda Lawal, had commenced the arduous project of rescuing Zamfara from those predator-like political forces holding the state by the jugular. Now, Zamfarans have since May 29, 2023, been breathing the nourishing air of genuine development and growth delivered by the PDP administration of Governor Lawan.

But then, as is the case with the absurdities and contaminated politics that currently seem more marketable and buyable in Nigeria than the credible ones, the erstwhile predatory gladiators, represented by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its leaders now seem hell bent on deploying every avail-

Dauda Lawal-led PDP government at delivering good governance, unsuccessful.

Here was an administration already herding the entire state to the bandits den, throw-tration of PDP's Dauda Lawal succeed where it failed spectacularly. Apparently, the governor’s bold attempts to rescue the state from the captivity of all types while repositioning the state on the path of genuine reconstruction and prosperity, has suddenly become a pain too much to bear.

Instead of reclining to its fate, settling down in the loser status it was relegated to in the 2023 elections, mending its ways and joining hands with the Lawal-led PDP administration to deliver the desired good governance, the APC in Zamfara State is embroiled in schemes to truncate the policies and programmes aimed at rescuing the state from the pangs of banditry and its attendant consequences on the economic and social life of the state.

The current state of Zamfara APC re-echoes the remarks of Bello Matawalle, the ousted governor who, before eventually decamping to it, once described it as a party of bandits. While addressing his then Peoples Democratic Party supporters, Matawalle was then quoted as saying that only those interested in becoming informants for bandits or engaging in actual banditry would leave the PDP for the APC. Ironically, no one from the APC has deigned to challenge the assertion, not even Matawalle himself long after he defected to the party.

it is so said. No wonder, therefore, that Matawalle, before the end of his governorship tenure, realised that he was better suited for the APC.

In spite of the mess that the Matawalle-led APC administration bequeathed to the Lawal-led PDP administration, especially the intractable insecurity, alleged misappropriation and mismanagement of public funds and poor infrastructure, that the APC still has the

guts to show its face in the politics and the affairs of Zamfara can only be explained by the bizarre character of Nigeria’s politics. Coming at a time the governor is repositioning the state for rapid prosperity – a feat the APC administration never came near to achieving – the good people of Zamfara cannot but wonder about what exactly the APC in the state wants.

At this time, every patriotic son and daughter of Zamfara State should be more concerned with how best to contribute and support the Governor Dauda Lawal administration which has, since inception, demonstrated commitment to steer the state out of the woods.

To trace the ugly history of the politics of the state is to understand how the APC and its top members have been at the forefront of misdirecting and positioning Zamfara on the path of underdevelopment and insecurity. The leaders have in various fora accused and counter-accused themselves of being comgovernors, Matawalle and Abdul'aziz Yari have accused each other of being the architects of the insecurity the state is still drowning in. And because the electorate couldn’t have glossed over the accusations and counter-accusations – particularly the situation of Zamfara during the governorship tenures of Yari and Matawalle – these would subsequently lay the foundation for the ouster of the APC by the PDP in the 2023 general elections.

APC, especially between Yari and Matawalle, is certainly not surprising. It mainly presents the picture of a party unable to grapple with the realities of its defeat. Spreading falsehood and engaging in character assassination against the victorious PDP to remain relevant in the politics of the state is in their character. These tactics are used to distract the public from the rapid and fascinating progress accomplished by the PDP government. In just a year, the Lawal-led PDP government has accomplished what the former APC government failed to do in many years. And as typical of politicians drowning in their absurdities and machinations, these political actors of APC extraction naively believe that by launching constant attacks on the PDP, they can divert attention from some scathing the allegations plaguing them with regard to the enduring insecurity and underdevelopment of the state.

Murtala PhD, writes from Abuja

For the first time in 46 years, the oil giant reaped its biggest harvest, writes JIDE ADEKUNLE

NNPCL CLINKS TO MEGA PROFITS

And so, last Monday, the NNPC Limited announced it made a profit of N3.3 trillion as it released its 2023 Audited Financial Statement (AFS). This sum represents an increase of over 700 billion (28%) when compared to the 2022 profit of N2.548 trillion. While the money does not reduce the price of rice or garri, it was indeed a cheery item that reinforced confidence in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) traces its history from 1971 when the Nigerian National Oil Corporation (NNOC) was founded. It was created to oversee the oil industry after the discovery of oil in commercial quantities in Oloibiri in present day Bayelsa State in 1956. It was however, not until 1977 that the NNOC and the Federal Ministry of Mines and Power merged to birth the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC). Retaining its primary role as a state regulator in the oil and gas industry, NNPC mediated between the government and the private oil and gas companies. However, all through its years in this role, the company never made profit until 2019.

It posted a N803 billion loss in 2018 which drastically reduced to N1.7 billion in 2019. It was in 2020 that it declared N287 billion as its first ever profit. In 2021, its profit grew to N674.1 billion and grew phenomenally in 2022 to N2.548 trillion. The recent financials which saw the 2023 profit declared as N3.297 trillion, is the highest since the company’s inception, 46 years ago. Amazing.

If in just about four years, the company moved from loss to huge profits, then its future is very bright. The Chairman of the NNPCL board, Chief Pius Akinyelure, said that the shareholders of the company have approved a final dividend of N2.1trn in line with PIA 2021 provisions. But this accelerated progression towards profitability must be further harnessed as a matter of urgency as it seems NNPCL has potential to earn more. Already, NNPCL’s Executive Vice President, Upstream, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, projected that the company would produce two million barrels of crude oil per day by December 2024. This is exciting news, considering how hard-pressed the country is for increased revenue. Currently, the country produces 1.65m barrels per day of crude oil. Any increase in production is a needed plus.

Under the NNPC’s watch, the country's oil and gas industry lacked superlatives to describe its existence. It rotted with corruption, was largely unproductive, with the four refineries in its care working in fits before conking out. Different sessions of Turn Around Maintenance (TAM) only turned around the allocated funds with no traction whatsoever in productivity. That the sector underperformed would be an understatement. Perhaps, the ‘public corporation’ structure of the NNPC was responsible for its stultified growth. It was not until 2021 during the tenureship of President Muhammadu Buhari that what would become a lifeline for the company emerged in the form of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). By the act, NNPC transformed from a public corporation to a private liability company. Welcome NNPC Limited.

This new found power bestowed on NNPC meant it could pursue commercially viable projects throughout the energy value chain, a role it seems to be adapting well to. “Our fiscal performance reflects both strategic foresight and operational resilience," NNPCL's Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Umar Ajiya, said at the press conference to present the company's 2023 books. "Despite inherent challenges of our operational and economic environment, we have improved the productivity and the financial performance of this great company."

Some of the challenges. For one, not many people knew that NNPCL did not sell fuel at landing cost. Ajiya said the company, acting on behalf of the

federal government, opened credit agreements with PMS suppliers.

“What has been happening is that we have been importing PMS, which has been landing at a specific cost price, and the government tells us to sell it at half price," said Ajiya.

“So the difference between the landing price and that half price is a shortfall. And the deal is between the Federation and NNPC Ltd., to reconcile, sometimes they give us money, so there is no money exchanging hands with any marketer in the name of subsidy.”

The challenges do not dull the gains of the company though. With the new bite the PIA has given NNPCL, the company is set to explore vast commercial ventures. One of those is in the area of gas. Locally and internationally, NNPCL is exploring revenues inherent in gas.

"We are expanding and upscaling our gas and transportation infra structure to meet domestic needs and exports, including LNG," said NNPCL on its website. And realising the downside of fossil-fuels, the company is mindful of its carbon footprints.

"We are creating sustainable, low-carbon energy options supported by our investment in the production and supply of renewable energy."

In a recent interview, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, said the company expanded the scope of the "AHL Gas Processing Plant in Imo State, the ANOH Gas Processing Plant, the 23.3 km ANOH to OB3 Gas Pipeline in Kwale, the IGHF in Oredo, and the Methanol Plant in Bayelsa. Upcoming critical gas projects include the OB3, Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline, and the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline Project (NMGP). These projects aim to enhance domestic gas utilisation, improve power generation, create jobs, and increase national revenue."

It is no longer business as usual. The country should have toed this line many years ago. Soneye also said NNPCL is partnering with downstream players to deepen CNG/Autogas utilisation across the country. Also, the company is further exploring the country's oil and gas reserves. He noted that these efforts have yielded fruits in "achievements like the Kolmani Spud-in and oil discovery in Gombe/Bauchi, the Ebenyi-A Well Spud-in in Nasarawa, and the Wadi-A Well Re-entry in Borno."

While NNPCL backed Dangote Refinery with $1bn, it also aided other local firms like First E&P which it supported to deliver the 60,000 bpd Madu-Anyala fields.

"There are many other businesses in the industry today that speak about how NNPC Ltd’s partnership has been instrumental in their success," Soneye said. And that’s exactly how to ensure the sector grows.

Adekunle writes from Abuja

Editor, Editorial Page PETER

ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

THE DECLINING TELECOM SERVICES

Subscribers are not getting value for their money

The rate at which the services of the nation’s major telecommunications operators have degenerated in recent times is not only embarrassing but unacceptable. With dropped calls and non-completion of calls now standard practices by the telecom providers, the euphoria and relief that greeted the advent of the general system for mobile communications (GSM) more than two decades ago seem to be on the wane as subscribers face the agony of poor services. In their usual penchant to escape a public problem for which they have little or no control, many Nigerians now car-ent networks. Despite that expensive habit, there is indeed no end to the litany of woes which the Nigerian subscriber goes through as there are periods when none of the networks would work.

Meanwhile, the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ALTCN) Chairman, Gbenga Adebayor, has warned that the ongoing decline in telecom service quality may signal further industry crisis. “What we are seeing is the beginning of a bigger problem. I will not say telcos do have a shortage of capacity to contend with the issue. We have been saying that people are not investing,” Adebayor said why explaining that many telecom systems were ageing and going out of scope, with operators struggling to renew their obligations to suppliers. “It has been a challenge even for infrastructure companies totracting new investments. It may be easier to blame the operators, but the reality is that investment is needed.”

Naira, acts of vandalism, decaying infrastructure and poor returns on investment based on the economic situation in the country are also some of the reasons being touted by operators in the sector. But perhaps the worst calamity to befall the industry is the incessant attacks on their facilities and equipment by insurgents and other criminal cartels that seem to have deliberately targeted their locations in parts of the north.

But perhaps the worst calamity to befall the industry is the incessant attacks on their facilities and equipment by insurgents and other criminal cartels that seem to have deliberately targeted their locations in parts of the north

T H I S D AY

EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU

DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

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

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

However, there is abundant evidence that Nigeria remains a major growing market for telecom operators as the nation’s teledensity has continued to grow despite poor services. In fact, the highercome. Due to the declining quality of service by the telecom providers, the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) once imposed some hefty penalties on all the major operators and a further ban on all manner of promotions. At the peak of these promotional campaigns, there was no trick that was not employed by the operators to win over subscribers or to compel them to spend more money on services in return for very ludicrous prizes. At a point, telecommunication operations turned into one big network of gambling business while quality of service took a nosedive.

We are aware telecom operators face challenges of their own. They have practically had to source their own electricity aside a series of other natural and man-made mishaps which have dealt serious blows to their infrastructure and equipment. Mul-

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

Unfortunately, it now seems the sanctions have failed to yield any positive result. If anything, the services of virtually all the network operators are still below standard and practically all of them have resorted to those same promotions again. Therefore, notwithstanding the challenges in the sector, the fact remains that subscribers and consumers of telecommunication services are not getting value for their money. Making calls or using data has benetworks operating in the country today. Whatever it will take to redress the situation must be done to ensure that subscribers are spared the agony of poor service delivery from the networks.

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.

PROMOTING ACCESS TO HEALTH CARE IN FCT

populations. And access is a major concern in health care policy. Accessability.

That is why the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) by the FCT Administration with NISA Premier Medical Group, and sustainable healthcare delivery for residents of the territory is heartening.

That is also why during the signing of the MOU in Abuja, the Mandate Secretary, FCTA Health Services And Environment Secretariat, Dr Adedolapo Fasawe also distributed world class personal protective equipment (PPEs) to Medical Directors to be used for patients free of charge.

The public-private partnership (PPP) is meant to complement governessence of the partnership is to bring quality health care delivery closer to the people, particularly those on the Health Insurance Scheme.

The mantra of the FCT Administration is ‘working the talk’. We are all

here to also demonstrate sustainability through PPP. There are also plans by the secretariat to begin distribution of drugs as palliatives to those in need of health care.

FCT parents are therefore urged to accept the malaria prevention drug intervention that health workers will be carrying from door step to door

The PPEs which were donated to the FCT Administration is targeted at enhancing health care workers safety and patients well-being to prevent transmission of infection.

This is to thank the donors for this gesture, and like Oliver Twist, we are open for more partnership, and appeal to well meaning Nigerians to come and partner with FCT Administration in the provision of PPEs and other consumables. Government alone cannot solve the health care needs of the citizens.

We urge all FCT residents to enrol under the FCT Health Insurance territory.

Dr. Babagana Adams,

Permanent Secretary, FCTA- HSES, Abuja

TIME FOR A SWIFT KICK

How does Donald Trump have the gall to suggest Taylor Swift supportssive one that is easy to prove wrong. At present she had not made any statement supporting a candidate in this election but previously she had supported Biden and criticised Donald Trump. These suggest that she is unlikely to ever support Trump. Why would people vote for a conhave lied, but not on such a grand scale.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

POLITICS

Acting Group Politics Edito r DEJI ELUMOYE

Email: deji.elumoye @thisdaylive.com

08033025611 SMS ONLY

Appraising N’Assembly’s Passage of National Minimum Wage Bill

Ola Awoniyi in this piece defends recent passage of the National Minimum Wage Bill in record time by both Chambers of the National Assembly before President Bola Tinubu assented to it to become law.

The passage of the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Bill 2024 by the National Assembly is now history. The Bill, which President Bola Tinubu has already signed into law, amended the National Minimum Wage Act 2019 by increasing the Minimum Wage from 30,000 Naira to 70,000 Naira and reducing the time for periodic review of the National Minimum Wage from five years to three years.

In passing the Bill, the National Assembly did what the time demanded. But no one is commenting on the parliament’s responsiveness in the prompt or speedy passage of the Bill. Isn’t it noteworthy that the lawmakers did what was expected and did it timeously?

Given the flak that the National Assembly got over the passage of the Bill that brought back the old National Anthem, it is necessary to point this out. Of course, opinions are divided on the issue. Some people have asked: Why revert to the old National Anthem? Some also queried the speed with which the National Assembly passed the Bill, accusing the parliament of failing to subject it to a public hearing, one of the critical stages in lawmaking. But that accusation is unfair; it is like calling a dog a bad name to hang it because the Senate subjected the Bill to a Public Hearing. The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, and senior lawyer, Mike Ozekhome participated in the Public Hearing. But those crucifying the National Assembly for what happened or did not happen missed or deliberately ignored that fact. Some critics didn’t even notice that it was an Executive Bill.

The Nigeria Labour Congress also accused the Executive and the Legislature of prioritising the National Anthem over the welfare of workers for passing the Bill before the National Minimum Wage Bill. Senior lawyer, Femi Falana and some civil society organisations demanded that the National Minimum Wage Bill be passed at the same speed as the Bill to Provide for the National Anthem of Nigeria and Related Matters. Interestingly, the National Assembly was being pressured to speedily process a Minimum Wage Bill that was yet to be transmitted by the Executive.

The lawmaking process has stages. A legislative proposal or a Bill passes through the First Reading, Second Reading, Public Hearing, Clause-by-clause consideration of the Bill at the Committee of the Whole, or Committee of Supplies if it is a money Bill, and finally, the Third Reading. Before the Bill is transmitted to the Executive for Presidential assent, the two Chambers - the Senate and the House of Representatives, must have reached concurrence.

But the pressure was unnecessary. Even when negotiations and consultations were yet ongoing on the Minimum Wage, the President of the Senate, Godswill Obot Akpabio, had assured the nation of “speedy consideration and passage” of the new National Minimum Wage Bill whenever the proposal was presented to the National Assembly:

“Let me assure you that we stand by this commitment. We cannot afford to fail the nation at this critical time,” Akpabio was quoted as saying in a message at a retreat held for some federal lawmakers in Abuja. The National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies organised the retreat.

At the commencement of the Plenary on Tuesday, 23rd July 2024, the Senate President acknowledged the receipt of the new National Minimum Wage Bill transmitted by the President. On the same

day, without delay, the Bill passed the necessary stages of the lawmaking process simultaneously in both Chambers. Falana,

in his earlier statement on the National Anthem Bill, had urged that the Minimum Wage Bill be passed within 48 hours. But

the Senate did even better. It passed the Bill within one hour. That was faster than the passage of the National Anthem Bill. However, the speedy passage of the Bill by the National Assembly was not because of the pressure mounted on it from outside.

The National Assembly was determined to have the issue of National Minimum Wage concluded as early as possible. They decided not to proceed on their 2024 annual recess until the issue was concluded logically. Negotiations involving the government, labour, and the organised private sector were concluded at the tripartite committee level. Also, the President consulted other critical stakeholders, particularly the State Governors, to enhance consensus building. This made the job of lawmaking on the issue easier for the parliament. After all those negotiations and meeting of minds, all that was needed was a parliamentary seal. And this the lawmakers offered in the national interest.

By passing the bill with dispatch, the federal lawmakers loudly stated that they care about the Nigerian workers. Bills may take several months or years to pass. Some are even passed across dispensations.

-Awoniyi, Media Aide to Senate President, writes from Abuja

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

Soludo: Breaking Jinx with Daughter’s Marriage

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra state penultimate week gave out his daughter, Adaora in marriage and confessed that it was a jinx breaking event. David-Chyddy Eleke reports that Soludo has followed a pattern of consistently beaking jinxes.

Two weeks ago, pictures of the daughter of Anambra State governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, Adaora and his heartthrob, Arinze Ibekwe surfaced on social media, where they held their marriage in a London registry in the presence of few family members.

Critics went to work and lampooned the governor for joining the new fad of prominent individuals who hold their daughters marriages outside their ancestry.

Earlier, Senator Andy Ubah had held his daughter’s traditional marriage in Abuja, while Senator Victor Umeh had given his daughter out in a colourful ceremony held in Enugu. Some other individuals had also held traditional events outside the state, including music star, Flavour who quietly ferried his father’s corpse to his hometown, Umunze, Anambra State and conducted a private burial for him, before moving to Enugu for the funeral ceremony, where he entertained his guests.

These actions had been attributed to insecurity in the state, and when Soludo’s daughter’s marriage pictures abroad surfaced, critiques accused him of joining the trend because he had failed in the area of security. But what no one knew was that the governor was not ready to let such a memorable event slip through his fingers, as he was later to confess that the event of his daughter’s marriage would be the very first in the Soludo dynasty, in the past 142 years.

To mark it, Soludo organized a colourful ceremony in his hometown, Isuofia, where he in the company of the larger Soludo family, received their in-laws and performed the traditional rite for their daughter’s marriage. An event that had eluded them for the past 142 years.

Soludo took to his Facebook page after the wedding ceremony to explain that: “To the

glory of God Almighty and in the presence of my family, kinsmen, friends, and my in-laws from Onitsha, I gave out my lovely daughter, Ifeatu Adaora Soludo, to her heartthrob after all traditional rites had been met and certified in line with the customs of the Isuofia community.

“I celebrate this historic event. God has graciously blessed the larger Soludo family with another such marital union after 142 years (by my estimate). This is largely due to the fact that female children have been a rarity in the past three generations of the Soludo family. To break that “jinx,” God has mercifully provided me with four beautiful daughters, whom I celebrate every day.”

Though the governor failed to explain what he called rarity of female kids in his dynasty for 142 years, but sources said that within the three generations mentioned by the governor, only male children were given birth to. While the males in the family were bringing

in wives, the Soludo family never gave out any daughter within the period because it had none to give out.

The source said: “I can not explain to you if it was a curse, but what was important was that Soludo broke the jinx after he got married 31 years ago, by having the first child as a daughter, and the only daughter then in the entire dynasty. Since then, they have been having daughters, and Soludo himself now has four.”

In a press release, Soludo’s press secretary, Mr Christian Aburime eulogized him as a man who has broken jinx in many sphere of life, including academia, governance and now family.

Aburime said: “From his early days as a brilliant student and academic, his stint as a revolutionary CBN governor, his current role as an exemplary leader, to his amazing family story as he just gave out his first daughter in marriage, Professor Soludo has consistently demonstrated a unique pattern of inherent jinx-breaking and pace-setting greatness.

“Of course, his journey as a jinx breaker began in the halls of academia. As a first-class student, he didn’t merely excel; he dominated, winning numerous best prizes during his educational journey. This early demonstration of intellectual prowess laid the foundation for a life dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and achievement.

“In the world of academia, becoming a professor is a significant achievement. Becoming one at the age of 38 is nothing short of extraordinary. Soludo’s ascension to the rank of Professor of Economics at such a young age broke age-related conventions in the ivory tower.

NOTE:

Nigerians Groan as 12kg Cooking Gas Price Increased by 55%

Arthur Eriye

Data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has revealed that the price of 12.5 kilograms (kg) of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), better known as cooking gas, increased by 55.66 per cent year-on-year.

According to the NBS, Nigerians paid an average price of N14,261.57 for refilling a 12.5kg cylinder of cooking gas in July 2024 compared

to N9,162.11 in July 2023.

The NBS latest price watch report on LPG (cooking gas) for July, showed that the cost of refilling a 12.5kg cylinder dropped by 9.37 per cent month-on-month.

“The average retail price for refilling a 12.5kg Cylinder of Liquefied Petroleum Gas decreased by 9.37% on a month-on-month basis from N15,736.27 in June 2024 to N14,261.57 in July 2024. On a year-on-year basis, this rose by

55.66 per cent from N9,162.11 in July 2023,” the bureau said.

In its state profile analysis, the NBS said Gombe recorded the highest average retail price for the refilling of a 12.5kg cylinder of cooking gas with N15,872.22, followed by Yobe and Taraba at N15,823.32 and N15,625.00, respectively.

“Contrarily, the lowest average price was recorded in Bauchi with N13,314.47, followed by Enugu and

Nassarawa with N13,411.39 and N13,413.81 respectively,” NBS said. Across the geopolitical zones, the NBS report showed that the northeast recorded the highest average retail price at N15,075.16, followed by the north-west (N14,454.86) and the north-central (N13,611.68).

In addition, the NBS said the average retail price for refilling a 5kg cylinder of cooking gas decreased by 14.23 percent on a month-on-month basis — from N6,966.03 recorded in

June 2024 to N5,974.55 in July 2024.

On the contrary, the bureau said the price increased, “by 46.69 per cent on a year-on-year basis from N4,072.87 in July 2023”.

“On state profile analysis, Borno recorded the highest average price for refilling a 5kg Cylinder of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (Cooking Gas) with N7,088.59, followed by Yobe with N6,935.50, and Sokoto with N6,750.00,” the NBS added.

It added, “On the other hand,

Delta recorded the lowest price with N5,392.86, followed by Zamfara and Kogi with N5,431.25 and N5,560.63 respectively.”

The bureau added that the north-east recorded the highest average retail price for refilling a 5kg cylinder of LPG with N6,446.53. The agency said the northcentral came next, recording a price of N6,042.33 while the south-south recorded the lowest at N5,654.04.

How Protracted Scarcity of Booklets Paralysed

For over a month and one week, there has been scarcity of passport booklets at all the passport offices of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) nationwide.

This is as the federal government has approved the increase of the price of the document by September 1, 2024.

THISDAY investigation revealed that the situation has created uncertainty and thousands of applicants both in Nigeria and overseas, are waiting for the agency to replenish its stock. So far, the NIS has not explained why the document is scarce.

This is contrary to the promise made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, that such problem would not happen again and that by end of June this year,

applicants would be getting their passports in their homes from strategic passport offices in the country and abroad.

Informed source indicated that over 150, 000 Nigerians apply for passports everyday both in the country and in the Diaspora. So, for the past five weeks, about 5, 250, 000 applicants may have applied for passport and have been waiting to be attended to at different passport offices and at the Nigerian embassies overseas.

Informed source told THISDAY that the scarcity of the document may have to do with the high demand for passport due to the huge number of Nigerians that are leaving the country.

This could be a factor when it is considered that between 2019 and 2023, Nigeria issued about 4.5 million passport copies, but

with the current upsurge in the number of applicants, NIS may not have been able to meet the demand.

“The demand rate of the passport is very high because people are leaving the country in droves. This is a simple principle that when the economy is not good emigration is very high but when it improves people return to their country. That is exactly what is playing out. Since last year demand for passport has almost doubled.

“We were promised that the booklets would be available last Friday but since then we have not heard anything. So, as we are talking now, production is not taking place at any of the passport offices in the country. The Minister has made a lot of improvement in the system and changes are taking place but these

changes come to nothing when the passport booklet is not available,” a senior Immigration official told THISDAY.

Again, THISDAY contacted the spokesman of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kenneth Udo, who did not pick the call made to him nor responded to the WhatsApp message sent to him.

Udo later announced on Wednesday that from September I, 2024, a 32-page Passport booklet with 5-year validity currently charged at N35,000.00 will be N50,000.00 only; while a 64-page Passport booklet with 10-year validity which is N70,000.00 will be N100,000.00 only.

Earlier this year, Tunji-Ojo hinted that the company printing the passport booklet would be changed and the country would directly print the document but

till now, the company, IRIS Smart Technology is still producing the booklet.

Tunji-Ojo had said that the federal government had completed the establishment of its data base, to enable Nigeria start producing the booklets.

There has been earlier complaint that the company may be responsible for the hiccups in the production of the booklets but the minister at various events that he spoke with the media, never suggested that the company was not competent. Rather, he emphasised that Nigeria should own the ability to produce the document by itself.

In December 2021, one of Nigeria’s newspapers, reported that there was protracted scarcity of passports and attributed it to corruption in the process because government began to collaborate with the company

under a Public, Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement that was ‘poorly signed’.

“The corruption-laden, unpatriotic and self-serving Public Private Partnership e-passport production agreement between the Ministry of Interior and Smart Technology Nigeria Limited, whose parent company, IRIS Corporation, is based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Since 2003 when government entered into this controversial PPP arrangement with this company, the country’s international passport has been printed in Malaysia, and all the vital information of Nigerian passport owners are warehoused in the Asian country, with all the national security implications that it entails,” the paper reported.

Chinedu Eze

Nigeria to Develop National Digital Repository for Waste Pickers

Arthur Eriye

In a bid to address the numerous challenges faced by Waste Pickers while performing their duties, the federal government has promised to develop a National Digital Repository.

The Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal, stated this at a meeting on the National Digital Repository for Waste Pickers workshop, in Abuja.

“We cannot discuss sustainable waste management without referencing the operations of waste pickers, who form an integral part of the waste management value chain.

“Waste pickers exist as unsung heroes, but the truth is that they

provide essential services that ensure the protection of our environment and public health,” Lawal said.

The meeting was a collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Environment, International Labour Organization (ILO), and Tearfund Nigeria.

Lawal stated that waste pickers, popularly known as “Baban Bolla,” are the backbone of waste recovery, contributing significantly to recycling and the circular economy.

“They form an informal group whose activities encompass all aspects of waste management, from collection, sorting, transportation, processing, and selling of recovered and recyclable materials to earn a

living.”

He added that the integration of waste pickers would unlock the immense economic potential using them as reliable foot soldiers.

On his part, Country Director, International Labour Organization for Nigeria, Vanessa Phala-Moyo, said that a concerted effort was required to ensure that waste streams were effectively controlled using sound waste management practices.

Phala-Moyo noted that, when managed well, waste offered opportunities for creation of jobs in the circular economy and also contributed to strengthening the resilience of local economies.

Kasi Healthcare, Shenzhen Partner to Launch Rescue Plan

Kasi Healthcare, a leading provider of comprehensive medical services in Nigeria, and Shenzhen Le Medical Technology Co., Ltd., a global medical device and solutions provider, have announced partnership to introduce Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), patient Monitors and Telemedicine Enabled ECG, specifically designed for West African offshore and aeromedical environments.

Under the partnership, Kasi Healthcare Engineering and Consulting Unit, will offer after-salessupport and dedicated engineering team to install and service the devices.

The partnership underscores a shared commitment to advancing Aeromedical, Offshore and Emergency training across West Africa, making life-saving interventions more accessible in critical situations.

Spokesperson for Kasi Healthcare, Mr. Adedayo Osholowu, said: “This

AIR WATCH

United Airlines Begins Daily Flights from Lagos to Washington D.C.

ground-breaking partnership will provide access to Automated External Defibrillators and Telemedicine Enables Devices for injured personnel in the golden hour, including transport for stroke victims, heart attack patients and traumatic injuries with complications, to those who would otherwise have limited access to emergency services in the golden hour. Our partnership with OEM Le Medical will also ensure we offer to the market one year warranty and after sales short on all devices.”

Topship Deploys First Shipping Technology for Service Offering

Topship, a leading shipping technology platform in Nigeria, has announced the introduction of its new Door-to-Door air and sea freight service to the USA, UK, and Canada.

With over 18,000 business customers, Topship said it has been a crucial link for businesses and individuals seeking flexible and efficient shipping and air freight solutions that takes their unique needs into consideration, whether for exports or imports.

With its introduction of sea freight shipping, Topship becomes the first

shipping tech platform in Nigeria to provide both air and sea shipping options in one product, helping businesses to import and export via sea or air at their own will.

This further solidifies the company’s commitment to providing a flexible shipping experience for businesses. The new service, the company noted, would offer practical, efficient, and cost-effective alternative for shipping larger and heavier items to international destinations, opening up new possibilities for businesses.

CEO of Topship, Moses Enenwali, said: “We’re thrilled to be the first

shipping aggregator platform in Nigeria to offer both air freight and Sea freight shipping options. In a market as dynamic as Nigeria’s, we recognise that businesses require more than just solutions for small to mid-sized packages. Businesses and individuals alike need cost-effective options for shipping large volumes and heavier items, especially frequent importers. This service expansion emphasises our commitment to providing Nigerians with a more flexible and less fragmented international shipping experience.”

Ibom Air Unveils Second Airbus A220-300

Ibom Air has officially unveiled its second Airbus A220-300 aircraft, 5N-CBD, which landed in Lagos on August 10, 2024.

The Akwa Ibom State Government, Ibom Air’s shareholder, formally received the aircraft in Uyo on August 20, 2024.

The airline management said the acquisition aligned with Ibom Air’s strategic goal of rapidly increasing capacity and expanding

its route network.

The Airbus A220-300, known for fuel efficiency, sustainability, and comfort, will help Ibom Air expand flight frequencies and destinations.

Chairman of Ibom Air, Pastor Imoabasi Jacob, praised Ibom Air’s management for their resilience and recognized Pastor Umo Eno’s strong support throughout.

Governor Pastor Umo Eno expressed excitement, stating that the new Airbus A220 aligns with Akwa Ibom’s strategic aviation goals and growth plans.

Group Business Editor

Eromosele Abiodun

Deputy Business Editor

Chinedu Eze

Comms/e-Business Editor

Emma Okonji

Asst. Editor, Energy

Emmanuel Addeh

Asst. Editor, Money Market

Nume Ekeghe

Correspondents

KayodeTokede(CapitalMarkets)

James Emejo (Finance)

Ebere Nwoji (Insurance)

Reporter Peter Uzoho (Energy)

Prudential Plc and Google Cloud have announced an expanded strategic partnership to build innovative AI-powered products and applications that will help enhance customer, agent and employee experiences.

Supported by Google Cloud’s deep expertise in health-focused AI, the Lab will initially prioritise ways of using AI to provide improved access to quality healthcare, while supporting agents’ ability to deliver a seamless and personalised customer experience. The Lab will also focus on using AI to improve operating processes – with the goal of delivering a better experience for customers, agents and employees alike, and driving new, bottom-line efficiencies.

Ibom Air’s CEO, Mr. Mfon Udom, emphasised the significance of this addition to the fleet. “We are thrilled to welcome our second Airbus A220-300 aircraft wholly owned by Ibom. This aircraft will significantly boost our capacity in response to the growing service demand,” Udom said

Executive Director of Fidelity Bank, Kevin Ugwuoke, spoke for the consortium of financiers, expressing their shared passion for Akwa Ibom State. He said: “We are delighted to join them on this journey.”

Chief Executive Officer, Prudential plc, Anil Wadhwani, said: “Prudential is committed to leveraging technological innovation to create value for all our stakeholders. We are actively using data, advanced analytics and AI to create an exceptional customer and agent experience – while helping us work smarter and faster. Our expanded partnership with Google Cloud will unlock the innovation and creativity of our 15,000 employees and increase our speed to market, particularly in health insurance, where we see tremendous growth opportunities. By deepening our collaboration, we will build the future of insurance for our customers.”

Chinedu Eze

United Airlines has announced increase in service delivery between Lagos and Washington D.C., from three-times weekly to daily flights.

The daily flights will begin from December 4, 2024 to February 14, 2025, reflecting 133 per cent year-over-year increase in seats for the period.

This will be the first time United’s service between Lagos and Washington D.C. will operate daily and the flight continues to be the only night-time departure from Lagos to the U.S., enabling customers in Nigeria to benefit from more travel options to visit Washington D.C., as well as convenient day-time connections to destinations across the Americas.

Since the launch of United’s Lagos to Washington service in 2021, United has operated flights with state-of-the-art Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft featuring 28 United Polaris business class lie-flat seats, 21 United Premium Plus premium economy seats, 36 Economy Plusseats and 158 standard economy seats. The revolutionary design of the Dreamliner offers customers many features for increased comfort, such as large windows, spacious overhead storage, and modern LED lighting to simulate a full day, helping passengers adjust their internal clock on the transatlantic flight.

United’s Country Sales Manager for Nigeria, Ghana and South Africa, Oluwatomi Bola-Sadipe, said: “Africa continues to be an integral part of United’s global network and we are delighted to announce an increase of flights from Lagos to Washington Dulles during the winter season with our state-of-the-art 787 Dreamliner aircraft. We are proud to not only offer our customers in Nigeria even greater travel choice when booking their next U.S. getaway, but also provide convenient one-stop connections to over 70 destinations across the Americas, including Houston, Chicago, and New York/Newark.”

The increase of flights from Lagos to Washington D.C. comes as United, this year, expanded its presence on the second largest continent in the world, adding Marrakesh, Morocco to its network in Africa from October 25, 2024. United will be the first and only airline to operate nonstop flights from Marrakesh to the U.S. and operates routes from Cape Town, South Africa to New York/Newark and Washington D.C, Johannesburg, South Africa to New York/Newark and Accra, Ghana to Washington D.C.

Bola-Sadipe explained that United Polaris business class is a premium travel experience that prioritizes relaxation and comfort, featuring quality inflight dining, amenity products and services from Therabody and Saks Fifth Avenue and full flat-bed seats with all aisle access.

United Premium Plus features a spacious seat with more legroom, elbow room and recline than a standard Economy Plus or economy seat, as well as an amenity kit, Saks Fifth Avenue blanket and plush pillow.

United Economy Plus offers added legroom and increased personal space. Located near the front of the economy cabin, the seats give the added benefit of a swifter exit from the plane on arrival. Economy Plus seating is available on all trans-Atlantic flights.

United economy offers complimentary food, soft drinks, juices, beer and wine, tea, coffee and inflight entertainment. On most aircraft, seats feature an adjustable headrest and a personal on-demand entertainment system.

United originally served Nigeria from 2010 to 2016 and resumed service in 2021. Today, United offers customers in Nigeria a nonstop three-times weekly service, increasing to daily during the winter season, from Lagos to Washington, D.C. United customers in Nigeria can book flights online by visiting united.com.

United currently operates over 200 daily flights to 107 destinations across the United States and around the world from its Washington Dulles hub. Washington

Dulles serves as the international gateway to the U.S. capital, with United service to 21 world capitals and 29 countries during 2024.

According to United Airlines Director Sales, Continental Europe, Middle East, Africa, Israel and India, Thorsten Lettnin, United has become the largest airline in the world. As pioneer member of Star Alliance, it connects customers to most destinations in the world. The airline also has the largest aircraft on order with a firm order of modern 500 aircraft. Lettnin indicated that United Airlines would be receiving 100 aircraft every year for five consecutive years. Also, the United Airlines app is the ultimate travel companion for its customers’ next flight. From planning to booking, and even on the day of travel, this app has got the airline’s customers covered.

United Airlines, African network would comprise the six new routes from its Newark and Washington Dulles hubs. The most significant development is the start of Marrakech, the first time the ever-popular Morrocan city will have US flights.

While it is not news, it is worth summarizing what is happening with United to Morocco. Flights were announced in early March, becoming United’s fifth destination in Africa with its own metal. Until 2024, Marrakech had never had North American flights. Now, it will welcome United and Air Transat (from Montreal).

United’s three weekly services will begin on October 24 and use the 167-seat Boeing 767-300ER. These are its low-capacity machines with 46 Polaris seats, which seems like an enormous number for the route, which will be a mixture of tourists and diaspora. United routes also include higher-end leisure markets, including Newark to Nice this summer. It will be fascinating to see how the variant does in Morocco, although there are plenty of luxury tours.

Simple Flying reported that United Airlines’ largest transatlantic hub sits across the Hudson River from the bustling city of New York and serves destinations across the globe. The carrier completely dominates traffic at the airport, maintaining a market share of over 68 per cent in 2023, way ahead of second-placed Spirit Airlines, which commanded a 5.7 per cent market share last year.

Unsurprisingly, with more than 33 million passengers annually at the airport, United Airlines’ international route network from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is expansive and dynamic. While the airport serves as a key linchpin for the carrier’s transatlantic operations, the airline also flies to various Latin American, African, Middle Eastern, and Asian destinations.

Given its status as a major transatlantic hub, it is natural that European destinations are at the forefront of the carrier’s international operations at EWR. In total, United Airlines serves almost 20 year-round destinations in the continent, alongside more than a dozen other seasonal locations.

As one would expect, the carrier’s year-round destinations are usually high-volume traditional hub-and-spoke style destinations, such as London Heathrow Airport (LHR) or Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), as well as Frankfurt Airport (FRA), which is a hub for United Airlines’ fellow Star Alliance member airline, Lufthansa. London Heathrow was Newark’s busiest international route last year, with almost 800,000 passengers.

On these high-demand destinations, United Airlines traditionally flies its high-capacity Boeing 777-200 and 777-300ER aircraft. Some smaller year-round destinations see service with Boeing 767 and 787 jets.

The airline’s seasonal routes in Europe are a bit more fascinating to explore, as many are lowerdemand destinations less traditionally served by a hub-and-spoke legacy carrier like United Airlines. Thankfully, the airline has a Swiss army knife of an aircraft on its side - the Boeing 757.

Stories by Chinedu Eze

KHALIL SULEIMAN HALILU: The Visionary Driving Tech, R&D, Industrialisation at NASENI

A year ago, precisely on September 1, 2023, Khalil Suleiman Halilu was named by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the 6th Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Nigeria’s leading public sector organisation for technology and industrialisation. While priotising staff welfare, Victoria Ojiako writes that in the past one year, the entrepreneur, technology enthusiast, and visionary, brought a mix of deep private sector experience and working knowledge of the public sector, amassed from delivering high-impact technology and digital solutions across both sectors to bear, with the ‘New NASENI’ rapidly garnering momentum as it propels Nigeria’s bid to join the ranks of the world’s leading industrial and innovation hubs of the 21st century

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), founded in 1992 to implement Nigeria’s National Science and Technology Policy, and facilitate the development of a national tradition of research and development, got its youngest ever chief executive when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu named Khalil Suleiman Halilu as its 6th Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) on September 1, 2023.

In its three decades of existence, NASENI has strived to implement its founding mandates, and keep up with a rapidly-evolving world. By the start of its fourth decade, it had become clear that incremental progress would no longer be sufficient for an agency as central to Nigeria’s technological and industrial ambitions as NASENI.

Enter the then 32-year-old Halilu, entrepreneur and technology enthusiast, a visionary roughly the same age as the critical institution the president had handpicked him to lead.

Halilu brought a mix of deep private sector experience and working knowledge of the public sector, amassed from delivering high-impact technology and digital solutions across both sectors. In the private sector, he’d founded two start-ups – ShapShap Technologies Limited, a Nigerian logistics startup focused on the last-mile delivery market, as well as OyaOya, Africa’s first on-demand commodity marketplace – and an innovation incubator, The CANs, the first eco-friendly Technology Hub in West Africa.

In his consulting work, Halilu built and deployed solutions tailored to improve the quality of government-citizen engagement, election monitoring, support for victims of gender-based violence, among others.

“We will forge vital collaborations, like this one, and ensure that they result in the production and marketing of commercial products that will benefit Nigerians and the Nigerian economy.”

A year before he assumed office at NASENI, ShapShap won the ‘Mobility and Smart Cities Innovator’ Prize in one of the biggest business competitions in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, held as part of the Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX) in Dubai, UAE.

A combination of these experiences perfectly equipped him to take on the challenging responsibility of running one of the biggest public sector organisations in Nigeria. NASENI operates as a network of 10 ‘Development Institutes’ spread across all six geographical zones in Nigeria.

This structure confers huge potential on the institution to comprehensively transform Nigeria’s innovation landscape through a grassroots approach—a potential that is realisable only under the direction of a leadership that is strategic and intentional. Fortunately, NASENI has that leadership in place, under Halilu. His youth has proven to be a great asset, allowing him to bring perspectives that are a departure from the norm; combined with a restless energy that is always seeking to reform and reposition.

Over a decade ago, it was this energy that nudged him into entrepreneurship, inspiring ideas like learning deejaying and selling blocks of ice to party organisers, during his days at the University of Hertfordshire, in the United Kingdom.

After four years in Hertfordshire, and two degrees – a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, and a Master’s degree in International Business – he returned home to Kano to take up a succession of roles in the decades-old family manufacturing empire. It was in these roles – Factory Manager, Gongoni Company Limited; Marketing Manager, Gongoni Foods; Production Manager, W.J. Bush and Co; Chief Operating Officer, Scirrocco International Limited – that he first honed his skills leading large teams, and managing diverse people and conflicting visions; valuable lessons that have come in very handy at NASENI.

That invaluable learning has inspired him to put “people” at the top of his NASENI To-Do list. NASENI’s Institutes, and its headquarters, are home to hundreds of very talented and capable staff, cutting across the primary mandate of research and development, as well as support functions like administration, finance, communications, and others.

In his inaugural address as EVC/CEO, Halilu very clearly expressed his vision to transform NASENI into a “public sector

employer of choice” in Nigeria. This would mean prioritising welfare, training, and working conditions, as well as giving staff the opportunity to contribute actively to shaping the future of NASENI.

Next was to clarify the vision, a mission that has come to be embodied by the phrase, “A New NASENI” – signifying a clean and bold break from the past; complete with new brand elements. A “Strategic Launchpad” was developed, outlining the four Pillars of the reimagined institution: “Enhance Nigeria’s Manufacturing Capacity; Reduce Nigeria’s Import Bill through R&D; Strategically Reposition NASENI; and Leverage the Comparative Advantages of Nigeria’s 36 States and the FCT.”

And then the three ‘Operating Principles’ of NASENI, to complement the Launchpad: Collaboration, Creation, and Commercialisation. This is a mantra that Halilu seizes every opportunity to reiterate. At a ceremony in December 2023, to mark the signing of an agreement with an Indonesian firm, for the development of a coal-based fertiliser plant in Nigeria, he summarised the linkages between the three principles: “We will forge vital collaborations, like this one, and ensure that they result in the [creation] and marketing of commercial products that will benefit Nigerians and the Nigerian economy.”

Under his watch, NASENI’s collaborations have been substantial, and wide-ranging, covering coalbased fertilisers, lithium-ion battery manufacturing and processing, solarpowered irrigation systems, electric vehicles, computers and mobile phones, motorcycles and tricycles, off-grid solar home systems, solar-mounting racks, UAV assembly plant and training school, tractors, and assistive technology for physically-challenged persons.

A state-of-the-art CNG Engineering, Training and Conversion facility –developed in Abuja, in partnership with Portland Gas – was commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in May 2024. In all, these various partnerships are valued in excess of 3 billion USD. A total of 35 market-ready products have already emerged in the last 12 months.

Halilu has revived a stalled partnership with NASENI’s counterpart agency in the Czech Republic, to finance and support a range of innovation projects combining expertise and talent from the two countries.

NASENI is also actively supporting the ‘Developing Engineering Leaders

Through Her’ (DELT-Her) initiative, which aims to increase the number of Nigerian women in engineering.

Halilu has launched a comprehensive reform of internal processes at NASENI, to promote efficiency and value-for-money; established an Innovation Hub at the NASENI headquarters in Abuja, to seed new ideas and technologies; created ‘HatchBox’, a new initiative to promote STEM among young Nigerians; and recently inaugurated the Agency’s Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU).

One of the areas that has seen a remarkable expansion in NASENI’s footprint, is security and defence, in line with President Tinubu’s eight-point governing agenda. NASENI is providing technical support to the Nigeria Police Force for the reactivation and revitalisation of moribund vehicles and other operational assets, as well as in the implementation of the newly-launched Nigeria Police Green Initiative (NPGI).

NASENI is also exploring partnerships with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), and the Defence Research and Development Bureau (DRDB), to build local defense innovation capabilities.

Halilu believes that peace and security are necessary foundations for technological and industrial development. By supporting Nigeria’s security agencies to deliver on their constitutional mandates, NASENI is contributing to the creation of an enabling environment in which Nigeria’s innovation can be fully unleashed.

The months ahead are going to be even busier at NASENI, at home and abroad. September will bring the 2024 Forum on China–Africa Co-operation (FOCAC)—another opportunity for NASENI to advance ongoing partnerships on that front, in line with China’s new model for engagement with African countries: the China-Africa Cooperation Vision 2035.

There’s also the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), offering new vistas for NASENI to double down on its renewable energy ambitions. On the home front, there are a number of major collaborative projects being finalised by NASENI, some of which will be unveiled before the end of the year. Looking back, it has been a good year for NASENI – the institution is bolder, more visible and more productive. The next 12 months hold great promise for even bigger accomplishments.

As Halilu marks his first year in office as NASENI’s helmsman, on the first of September 2024, the New NASENI is rapidly garnering momentum as it propels Nigeria’s bid to join the ranks of the world’s leading industrial and innovation hubs of the 21st century.

Khalil Halilu, EVC/CEO of NASENI (second left) joined President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at a meeting with the CEO of Samsung, on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in April 2024

PERSPECTIVE

Reimagining Africa’s Growth Through Sustainable Energy and Strategic Partnerships

Olapeju Ibekwe

Africa stands at a decisive moment in its development journey. The continent’s potential is immense, driven by its rich natural resources and a vibrant, youthful population. Yet, the challenges it faces are equally formidable, with the persistent energy deficit being one of the most pressing issues that continue to hinder economic progress, stifle innovation, and entrench poverty.

The narrative of Africa’s development has often highlighted its abundant resources, including vast mineral wealth, fertile lands, and the immense promise of renewable energy. However, despite these advantages, Africa remains paradoxically energy-poor.

More than 600 million Africans still lack access to electricity, a stark reality that underscores the continent’s urgent need for a sustainable and inclusive energy strategy. Energy is the foundation upon which modern economies are built, essential for advancing education, healthcare, and industrialization. The critical question is not whether Africa can secure its energy future, but how swiftly and effectively it can achieve this.

As the 2030 deadline for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) draws near, the urgency of addressing Africa’s energy challenges has never been more apparent. The SDGs, particularly those related to affordable and clean energy, climate action, and sustainable development, are not optional; they are crucial for the continent’s future. Yet, recent assessments show that Africa is not on track to meet many of these goals, a situation that calls for immediate and coordinated action.

One of the significant challenges is the continent’s reliance on outdated energy infrastructure and a continued dependence on fossil fuels. While there is a global movement toward cleaner, more sustainable energy sources, Africa’s transition must be carefully managed. This shift towards renewable energy is not only an environmental necessity but also an economic imperative. However, Africa’s energy strategy must be balanced and pragmatic. The continent cannot afford to ignore its current energy realities, particularly in regions where alternatives

to fossil fuels are not yet fully viable. Recent advancements in energy infrastructure, including large-scale projects aimed at enhancing energy production, must be integrated into a broader, long-term vision that prioritizes sustainability and economic resilience.

Addressing Africa’s energy challenges requires a comprehensive rethinking of development strategies on the continent. The outdated donor-recipient model must be replaced with partnerships that are equitable, transparent, and aligned with Africa’s long-term goals. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) are essential, but they must be built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to the well-being of the African people. These partnerships should focus on creating sustainable value chains that benefit local communities and drive inclusive growth.

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles are central to this transition, ensuring that development efforts are aligned with broader societal goals. ESG reporting provides a framework for businesses and governments to measure and manage their impact on the environment and society. By integrating ESG criteria into investment decisions, stakeholders can ensure that economic activities do not compromise future generations’ ability to meet their needs. Green financing, sustainability-linked investments, and other innovative financial models are critical tools in this endeavor. These instruments can unlock the capital necessary for Africa’s energy transition, promoting growth that is not only profitable but also sustainable and inclusive. To fully realize the potential of these financial models, it is imperative that they are implemented with strategic foresight and a

deep commitment to long-term sustainability.

The Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS) is a platform that is instrumental in addressing these challenges. Now in its third edition, the summit, co-convened by the Sterling One Foundation and the United Nations, in collaboration with over 40 private sector, public sector and developmental partners serves as a vital platform for catalyzing change. The platform prioritizes galvanizing effective multi-level and multisector partnerships for increased impact, driving more catalytic capital, innovative and patient financing into critical sectors and advocating for innovative policy changes in critical sectors.

The theme for this year’s summit, “Reimagining Progress: A New Blueprint for Sustainable Growth in Africa,” is particularly timely as it underscores the urgent need to rethink development strategies and adopt innovative approaches to the continent’s most pressing issues. ASIS brings together leaders from the private sector, public sector, and development community, along with critical stakeholders across various sectors, to forge partnerships and develop actionable solutions. The third edition of ASIS, held recently, featured pivotal discussions on green financing and sustainable development, emphasizing the need for transparency, accountability, and long-term planning in Africa’s development agenda.

The path to achieving the SDGs in Africa is challenging, but it is a path that must be pursued with determination and urgency. The commitments made at ASIS and similar platforms must translate into concrete actions that accelerate Africa’s progress towards these goals. This is not just about setting targets; it is about achieving them in a manner that is sustainable, inclusive, and beneficial for all Africans.

Africa’s future is filled with promise, but realizing this promise requires bold, immediate, and decisive action. The energy transition, supported by sustainable investments and underpinned by robust partnerships, is not an option; it is a necessity. The time for action is now, and the choices we make today will shape the continent’s trajectory for decades to come.

•Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO, Sterling One Foundation

Geometric Power Model is Impressive, Says British High Commissioner

The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, has described the model of the Geometric Power in developing the Aba Independent Power Project in Abia State as impressive.

Montgomery said: “The Geometric model is impressive. It represents the kind of innovation needed to drive sustainable development across Nigeria.”

He made this remark after inspecting the facilities in the $800m power project which comprised a 188-megawatt gas-fired plant with an embedded distribution firm that provides electricity to nine of the 17 local government areas in Abia State.

Montgomery was accompanied by the Abia State Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Mr. Ikechukwu Monday, and was received on arrival by the management of Geometric Power led by its chairman, Professor Bart Nnaji, a former Minister of Power.

Montgomery also lauded the

“state-of-the-art facilities” at the power utility.

The utility, licensed to produce 188 megawatts, has three installed General Electric (GE) turbines and has built four brand-new substations and refurbished three old ones inherited from the defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN).

According to the Managing Director of Geometric Power, Mr. Ben Caven, the utility “has, in addition, provided 150,000 kilometres of overhead wires and cables.”

Caven was a former PHCN executive director in charge of engineering, transmission, and generation.

He added: “Our steel tubular poles, with 10 metres buried in the ground to withstand any natural disaster like an earthquake, match the ones in San Francisco in the United States and Tokyo in Japan.

“We have also built a 27-kilometre gas pipeline from Owaza in Ukwa West LGA to the Osisioma Industrial Layout in Aba.”

Nnaji praised the British High Commissioner for the visit, adding that when Geometric Power overcomes the ongoing gas supply challenges in the next few weeks, Aba would be receiving about 100MW while about 50MW

would be exported to the national grid to boost electricity in other parts of the country.

The Abia State Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities commended Governor Alex Otti for his “relentless support to Geometric

Power for its key role in the state’s industrialisation”

Other Geometric Power executives who interacted with the British High Commissioner’s delegation are the Aba Power Managing Director, Ugo Opiegbe; the Geometric Power Chief

Kidnapped Medical Students: Father Appeals for Students to be Rescued

George Okoh in Makurdi

A father of one of the students abducted by gunmen in Benue has appealed for the release of his son and nineteen others seven days after twenty medical students and their house officer from the University of Maiduguri and University of Jos were kidnapped in Benue State last week The father appealed to the kidnappers holding them captive to release the students unharmed to enable them return to school.

A retiree, Mr. Kwaghaondona Fagar, father of one of the abducted students made the appeal at his residence in Makurdi, while calling for the release of the abducted medical and dental students held hostage.

The pensioner who cited the difficulty most parents are going through during these economic challenges to source the ransom of fifty million naira as unbearable particularly as many of the parents are widows and widower yet to pay school (medical) fees of their respect

children.

The retiree who lamented that since retirement in January 17, 2013 from the state civil service till date he has not received his gratuity except for the monthly pension which the new administration led by Governor Hyacinth Alia started paying, called on both the federal and state government and other well-meaning Nigerians to assist the families to ensure the freedom of all the affected victims during this trial times before the kidnappers carry out their threat of killing the students

one after the other. Mr. Fagar explained that life has become difficult for him and his family to feed as he has sold his two vehicles and other belongings to pay the school fees of his son in medical school at the University of Jos, stating that with the current situation, “how do I get the money to rescue my son in captivity with others, have been looking round with my wife to source the sum of two point five million naira as my share of the money to pay, it has been difficulty”.

Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO, Sterling One Foundation

Dike Onwuamaeze

Financial Officer, Mr. Tony Alozie; the Aba Power Chief Operating Officer, Engr Blessing Ogbe, Facilities Manager, Geometric Power Group, Mr. Adeniyi Adebiyi, as well as Hannah Yangchi, Principal Manager, Projects, Ms. Hannah Yangchi.

Afrexim Bank Boosts Africa’s Creative Economy with Launch of “One Drum”EP

Mary

Nnah

Afrexim Bank’s Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) programme has launched the highly anticipated “One Drum” EP, a collaborative music project that brings together top artists from Africa and the diaspora.

This innovative initiative aims to promote Africa’s creative economy, drive economic growth, and solidify the continent’s position as a global creative hub.

The “One Drum” EP is a strategic initiative to unlock Africa’s creative potential, promote cultural exchange, and drive economic growth. With its global appeal and innovative sound, the EP is poised to resonate with audiences worldwide, further establishing Africa as a key player in the global creative economy.

Afreximbank, having recognised the relevance and opportunities provided by the creative economy as a key driver for development and job creation, established the Creative Africa Nexus programme (CANEX) to support the development of Africa’s Creative and Cultural Industries and address some of the challenges faced by this economy, through the provision of access to finance, capacity building, trade, investment and export promotion, access to new market opportunities, digital solutions, and policy advocacy to fast-track the scaling of Africa’s creative sectors within the global economy.

The “One Drum” EP is a masterpiece of global musical collaboration, celebrating the vibrancy, resilience, and diversity of African music while

embracing global influences. Featured artistes on the One Drum EP include Flavour (Nigeria), Olodum (Brazil), Oskido (South Africa) Commissioner Gordon Williams (USA), Sofiya Nzau (Kenya), Stephen Marley, YG Marley, and Jo Mersa Marley (Jamaica), The Scorpion Kings (South Africa) as well as Tman Xpress, X-Wise, Phila Dloz (South Africa)i, and Olodum (Brazil).

One Drum is more than just music; it’s a celebration of the cultural bonds that unite Africa and its diaspora, shaped by our shared history and the enduring legacy of the TransAtlantic Slave Trade. The EP resonates with rhythms that have traveled across continents— from the global sounds of Afrobeats and Amapiano, to the vibrant drums of Brazil to the soul-stirring Reggae of the Caribbean.

Tinubu, Cardoso, Liberia’s VP, Others to Headline CIBN Annual Conference

The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has said that it is set to host its 17th Annual Banking and Finance Conference, featuring a distinguished lineup that includes President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Vice President of Liberia, and Central Bank Governor Olayemi Cardoso.

Slated for September 10-11, 2024, at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, the conference will gather over 12,000 participants, both in-person and virtually, making it the largest assembly of banking and finance professionals in Africa.

With the theme, “Accelerated Economic Growth and Development: The State of Play and the

Way Forward,” the conference aims to address the pressing issues within Nigeria’s and Africa’s economic landscapes. The discussions will focus on unlocking possibilities through artificial intelligence, diversifying the export base, and exploring the pivotal role of banking in economic development.

Speaking at the press briefing to announce the annual conference, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of United Bank for Africa who doubles as the Chairman of the Consultative Committee for the conference, Oliver Alauaba, emphasised the significance of this gathering.

“This event is the largest gathering of Banking and Finance

Professionals in Africa, and the discussions will focus on Nigeria’s and Africa’s economic landscape, examining key growth drivers and strategies for sustainable development,” he said.

Alauaba also confirmed the attendance of key leaders from across Africa, noting that the Vice President of Liberia will represent the country at the conference.

On his part, the President/ Chairman of Council, CIBN Prof. Pius Deji Olanrewaju, noted that this year’s event is expected to be intellectually engaging, offering a unique opportunity to address thecritical challenges facing Nigeria’s business and financial sectors while charting a course for future growth.

United Capital Group Lunches UCEE Microfinance Bank

Kayode Tokede

In the bid to bridge the financial inclusion gap in Nigeria and increase access to financial services, the United Capital Group has officially launched UCEE Microfinance Bank.

UCEE is a subsidiary of UCAP, which began operations in Lagos and is adopting a hybrid banking model by integrating technology of a neo bank with the operational infrastructure of a traditional bank. The Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of United Capital, Mr Peter Ashade at the launching ceremony in Lagos said the introduction of the UCEE Microfinance Bank was inspired by promoting

financial inclusion as a tool for economic empowerment and to improve lives across Africa.

He described the opening of the bank as a significant milestone in the journey of United Capital services industry, marked by legacy, growth and transformational business success.

He said: “Our activities here today mark not only the unvieling of a new financial institution, but the beginning of a vision that aims to redefine banking experience in Nigeria to bring about positive changes in the lives of our people. The opening of UCEE is a crown to the sixth decade journey of UCAP, which started as a department with the United

Bank For Africa ecosystem.”

Chairman, UCEE Microfinance Bank, Sir Stephen Nwadiuko stated that the bank chose to operate largely digitally because that is what drives business currently.

Nwadiuko added that the bank would leverage other physical platforms to increase its market share in the industry. He said, “We believe that everyone regardless of their background or financial standing deserves equal access to financial empowerment. This fusion enables us provide unparallel financial solutions; by breaking down barriers and bridging gaps, we provide inclusive, innovative, convenient and accessible banking services.

TGI Group’s Advocacy for Inclusive Growth, Sustainable Solutions Echoes at Forums

Tropical General Investments (TGI) Group, a key player in the Nigerian economy, has highlighted the importance of inclusive growth, modernization, and private sector solutions for developing Nigeria and Africa.

At the 21st African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum in Washington D.C., Vice Chairman of TGI Group (Africa), Farouk Gumel emphasized the need for AGOA to evolve by fostering greater inclusion and social impact. “The essence of AGOA is about creating jobs and promoting inclusive growth,”

said Gumel. “We must focus on sectors such as agriculture, where value addition can significantly benefit both African economies and the U.S. market.”

Gumel highlighted the trade figures between Africa and the U.S., noting that while the total trade is approximately $44.8 billion, a substantial portion comes from a few countries and specific sectors. He stressed the importance of diversifying this trade to include more countries and industries that create jobs and drive inclusive growth. “For AGOA to achieve its

goals, African nations and their people must truly benefit from it,” he stated.

Other panellists at the forum included Parks Tau, Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition, Republic of South Africa; Anne Aliker, Standard Bank Head Client Coverage, Corporate and Investment Banking; Catherine Robinson, Senior Director, Pfizer; Hanok Teferra Shawl, Managing Director, Africa, Boeing; and Bobby Thomson, Global Head of Government Engagement, Visa Inc.

Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria),

(Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

Nume Ekeghe

Infinity Trust Mortgage Bank to Raise Additional N50bn

Kayode Tokede

Infinity Trust Mortgage Bank (ITMB) Plc, yesterday announced plans to raise additional N50billion via private placement on the backdrop of expanding to becoming a digital commercial bank.

Speaking to capital market community at the “Facts Behind the Presentations”, in Lagos, the Chairman, ITMB, Mrs. Okwa Ene Iyana stated that capital raising exercise is the

management strategic move to capitalise on new opportunities, expand its reach as a catalyst for financial inclusiveness and to further entrench its position as a leader in the sector.

She expressed that the move is a demonstration of a resounding vote of confidence by shareholders on the bank’s potential, people and prospects.

“As we navigate through the complexities of its dynamic industry, we remain steadfast in our mission to provide innova-

tive, customer-centred solutions, to fostering sustainable growth and creating long term value for all our stakeholders.

“Our unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and transparency has been the compass of our success to date and we will continue to uphold these values.”

She, however, added that since IITMB was listed on NGX in 2013, the management has maintained dividend payout to shareholders in the fifth month

of every year.

“It will interest you to note that this track record began before ITMB was listed on NG, it has become a culture that we hold very dear, and we are committed, to ensuring that this will continue,” she said.

Commenting on the main purpose of the capital raising exercise the Acting Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, ITMB, Mrs. Ngozi Chukwu said the aim is to transform to a digital commercial bank with

focus on providing finance to essential sectors and to deal with other challenges faced by Micro, Small and Mediumsized Enterprises (MSMEs) and unbanked individuals in general.

She pointed to 2022 sectorial allocation of bank credit of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) research that showed that there is a large pool of MSMEs (over 39million) with limited access to finance to grow their business, adding that only 0.3per cent of commercial banking credit

is availed to these group of business owners and over 75per cent of MSMEs rely on internal capital to grow which is considered largely inadequate and in efficient.

On that research, she said, “ITMB will leverage on technology and digital tools to reach the target customers in an efficient manner that would lead to lower interest rates and higher returns through volume of transactions. So, technology here is very key for us.

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF AUGUST 22/24

FACT-FINDING-VISIT TO THE BUREAU OF PUBLIC ENTERPRISES...

Gbajabiamila: State House 2025 Budget for Agencies will be Based on Needs Assessment

Says govt will continue to prioritise food security Stresses BPP Act set for review to meet international best practices, reduce red-tapism Affirms nation's commitment to peaceful use of nuclear technology House committee pledges to ensure strict compliance with budgetary appropriation

Deji Elumoye and Juliet Akoje in Abuja

Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, has disclosed that the 2025 budget for State House agencies would be based on a thorough needs assessment to ensure that funding allocated to such agencies are based on actual requirements.

Gbajabiamila spoke to newsmen in Abuja after a one-day fact-finding tour of some government agencies under the supervision of State House.

He said, "In any country in the world, resources are limited. For us, it is about prioritising. Where are we so far? What have the agencies done?

“How have they measured up to their mandates and how important are their mandates in terms of the

Sulaiman Ibrahim: FG Remains Committed to Ongoing Police Reforms to Achieve Efficiency

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

The federal government has expressed its commitment to fully implement the Renewed Hope Police Agenda which entails a holistic reformation of the nation's Police Force to make it efficient and people-friendly.

Minister of State for Police Affairs, Hon Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim stated this Thursday in Umuahia at the Citizen Townhall Engagement on Strengthening Policing in Nigeria, organised by the ministry.

She said that there had been "a significant shift in our approach to policing" since the inception of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, hence the need for the townhall engagement.

The minister said that the implementation of the police reform "will ensure that our police force is strategically positioned to fulfil its mandate" by imbibing the international best practices.

According to her, an efficient and effective policing would make it possible for government to fulfill its constitutional responsibility of securing lives and properties.

"As a forward-looking administration, we are now committed to these deep reforms, backed by a robust implementation plan and innovative resource mobilization and allocation, which has been the bane of previous reform efforts," the minister said.

"Our collective goal is to see to the emergence of a world-class police force that is inclusive, intelligence-led, technology-driven, and community-based and that is alive to its constitutional responsibilities," she added.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim outlined the strategic frameworks for the police reform agenda to include technical and operational excellence, infrastructure advancement, welfare enhancement, and policy framework development.

She listed other pillars of the reform as community policing and re-branding, strategic communication, and public trust management, adding that building a new image for the police has become a necessity.

"We are working to ensure active engagement with citizens and effective management of public trust through transparent and accountable practices," she stated.

vision of this administration and the Renewed Hope Agenda?

''A lot of agencies are not properly funded. Do we merge some of these agencies, do we scrap some? I’m not talking about State House agencies.

''In 2025, we are not going to budget in a vacuum. We will budget based on needs assessment."

Gbajabiamila visited the Nigeria Agriculture and Land Development Agency (NALDA), Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC), and National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI).

Earlier, in separate interactions with heads and staff of the agencies, he pledged that the presidency would ensure better welfare and working conditions of staff within the agencies under the supervision of the State House.

Gbajabiamila urged the staff of these agencies to embrace innovation, excellence, and professionalism, while supporting their chief executives to succeed.

Gbajabiamila also emphasised the importance of transparency in the procurement process, saying it is critical to upholding the administration’s commitment to good governance and accountability.

During the tour, the chief of staff underscored the importance of the agencies in driving the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the economic and development sectors, and reiterated the administration’s resolve to strengthen the institutions.

He stated that the visit, first of its kind under the current administration, was a follow-up to the recent oneday retreat for Heads of State House Agencies.

The retreat was convened to

reinforce the administration’s commitment to strengthening institutions, ensuring they were well-equipped to fulfill their mandates, and reducing the cost of governance.

Assuring the agencies that their concerns about staff remuneration, office accommodation, and other legitimate challenges would be addressed, Gbajabiamila said measures would be put in place to create a more conducive work environment.

''This government is particular about diversifying our economy and the role the agriculture sector has to play is very important,” he stated during an interactive session with Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of NALDA, Cornelius Adebayo.

''This government is focusing very seriously on agriculture and food security and we trust that NALDA will continue to be innovative in its operations, including developing

greenhouses and supporting the cultivation of more arable land across the country,'' he added.

Responding to a presentation by the acting Director-General, Olusegun Omotola, at BPP, Gbajabiamila commended the agency for saving the federal government some N1.7 trillion from 2009 to 2022 by blocking loopholes that would have been exploited during procurement.

He said, ''The act establishing the bureau is going through a review process that will make it meet international best practices, reduce corruption, red-tape and bureaucracy. ''We will also look at the staff remuneration and why there has not been a review over the years, especially, when compared with sister agencies, like Debt Management Office, whose remuneration and salary structure have been reviewed a couple of times over the years.”

Alleged Extrajudicial Killings: Army to Probe Troops of 1 Division

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The High Command of the Nigerian Army, yesterday vowed to probe troops of 1 Division, over the alleged extrajudicial killings of three unarmed civilians, and massacre of no fewer than 100 cattle at Sabon Birni, in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

A statement by Director Army Public Relations, Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, assured that personnel found culpable after the investigation will be appropriately sanctioned.

He said: "The attention of the Nigerian Army has been drawn to a disturbing news report with gory pictures/video footages published in some mainstream and social media platforms alleging that troops of 1 Division annihilated three persons and some cattle during a recent

operation at Sabon Birni in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

"While the Nigerian Army wishes to sympathise with Sabon Birni community and families of the affected persons, we also wish to state that the allegation will be thoroughly investigated and any personnel found culpable will be appropriately sanctioned".

Nwachukwu also averred that the Nigerian Army, which is constitutionally mandated to protect lives and property of the citizenry, cannot tolerate doing otherwise.

He revealed that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has directed a thorough investigation into the incident with a view to establishing the immediate and remote causes of the incident and unraveling those behind it.

The Nigerian Army, he said appealed for calm and assured the general public that the outcome of the investigation will also be made public.

Regrettably, this was not the first time the military was killing innocent civilians in error during operations, especially in Kaduna State.

Last December, Amnesty International in a statement raised alarm over attempt by the military, particularly the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), to cover up mass killing of civilians.

The International Human Rights watchdog, had in December 2023, tasked the Nigerian authorities to promptly, thoroughly, independently, impartially, transparently and effectively investigate the killing of more than 120 civilians in two military air strikes, in December 2023

instead of engaging in attempts to cover up the crime. According to the statement, "At around 10pm on 3 December, the Nigerian military launched an air strike on a religious gathering at Tudun Biri – a village near Kaduna northern Nigeria. A second air strike was launched around 30 minutes later, killing dozens, including those who rushed to the scene to rescue victims of the initial strike.

"The Nigerian military has since put out two contradictory explanations. An initial statement by the Nigerian army in Kaduna said the air strike was a mistake.

“This was followed by a statement from Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters claiming that suspected bandits had embedded with civilians. The victims were buried in two mass graves on 4 December 2023".

GBAJABIAMILA

L-R: Director General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises(BPE), Mr.Ayodeji Ariyo Gbeleyi, presents a souvenir to the Chief of Staff (CoS) to the President, Rt.Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila during the latter's factfinding-visit to the Bureau....Wednesday

PRESENTATION OF INNOSON CAR G20 SMART TO THE ABUJA WINNER OF THE INDRIVE...

Business Development

Police Invitations to NLC Leader, Ajaero, Not Unexpected Given his Position, Obi Says

Chuks Okocha in Abuja Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in 2023, Peter Obi, has said the police invitation to the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NPC), Joe Ajaero, was not unexpected bearing in mind the position he held as the leader of the workers’ union. Obi further said allegations against Ajaero were so weighty

that could be attributed to an individual alone or his personal conduct, adding that the approach was either aimed to present the federal as autocratic or to make the NLC to bow to the dictates

of government.

In a statement posted on his X account yesterday, Obi said, "The anxiety generated by Nigeria Police's invitation to the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress,

FG Bans Mining at Shiroro Attack Scene, Pledges to Avenge Death of Miners in Niger

The federal government has pledged to avenge the killing of 12 miners shot to death by bandits at Unguwar Magro Village of Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, assuring the people that security agencies were already on their trail and would soon bring them to face the wrath of the law.

Meanwhile, no form of mining would be allowed to occur at the scene of the attack until security agencies had concluded investigations into the attack.

The Minister of Solid Minerals

Development, Dele Alake, who disclosed this in a statement today mourned the brutal killings of innocent workers at the mining site.

He promised that security agencies would not rest until mines across the country were safe from the incursion of bandits and criminal elements seeking to take possession of mineral-rich areas for illegal mining by violence.

The minister said the Mining Marshals were working with intelligence units and other security agencies to make the recent attack a special case of collaboration of all agencies to track the trail and

pattern of operations of the bandits suspected to have infiltrated Shiroro local government from neighbouring states.

“There is a new Sheriff in town, and combatting banditry in the mining sector is a mandate we are taking seriously. Those who think they can invade villages, kill innocent people to make way for illegal mining of their rich minerals, will be shocked to discover that it is no longer business as usual.

“With the Mining Marshals working with the intelligence community, we shall fish out these hoodlums and put their hands to

the fire,” the minister said. Alake said preliminary reports also fingered non-Nigerians active in the mining businesses as funders of such operations, warning that anyone found culpable would be prosecuted for economic sabotage and waging war against the Nigerian State.

He warned embassies in Nigeria to monitor the activities of their nationals in the mining sector as allegations of criminal conduct posed serious threats to the bilateral harmony between Nigeria and other countries in the world.

Niger Govt Confirms 13 Killed in Bandits’ Attack on Community

Niger State Government has confirmed an attack on Maigoro community between Shiroro and Rafi Local Government Areas of the state, killing not less than 13 villagers. The incident, which also left several injured and others displaced occured on Wednesday evening.

GESP:

The confirmation of the incident was contained in a condolence message released by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, Bologi Ibrahim, on behalf of the acting Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba, after several calls to government officials on the development hit brick walls.

Bago had been outside the state

since the beginning of the month for his annual vacation.

Ibrahim in the condolence message described the attack and killing of the villagers "as satanic, insensible, atrocious and callous "It is very disheartening and disturbing for fellow humans to carry out such a barbaric and vicious act on their fellow humans."

Bologi, however, said the

acting governor commiserated "with the affected families, community members and the entire people of Shiroro local government area over the unfortunate incident."

The Acting Governor, Bologi "prays Allah to repose the souls of the departed, comfort their loved ones and grant quick healing to those injured."

Partners UNICEF, Inaugurates ICT Training Programme for 5,250 Young Women

Funmi Ogundare

Yaba College of Technology, in collaboration with UNICEF and other partners, yesterday inaugurated the Girls' Education and Skills Partnership (GESP) Programme to equip 5,250 girls and young women with essential ICT skills. The initiative aims to provide young women with the expertise needed to thrive in their careers and become community leaders. The programme covers skills

such as mobile phone repair and maintenance, computer hardware repair, website development, and mobile app development.

Speaking at the programme's launch in Lagos, the Rector of the college, Dr. Abdul Ibraheem, highlighted the vision of offering crucial life skills, technical training, and leadership opportunities.

"The goal is to create a comprehensive framework by partnering with local communities, government bodies, NGOs, and

industry experts," he stated.

Key elements of the programme include developing TVET institutions to provide market-relevant skills through gender-sensitive teaching methods, training 1,750 primary beneficiaries aged 13-24 in four ICT areas, and supporting women in ICT businesses for better livelihood security.

Dr. Ibraheem emphasized that educating girls leads to healthier choices, economic growth, and community upliftment.

Despite advancements, he explained that barriers such as socioeconomic issues, cultural norms, and limited resources continue to hinder girls' education, adding, "the programme aims to address these challenges by creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment."

Dr. Funmilayo Doherty, the Project Coordinator, described the initiative as a significant step toward gender equality and overcoming barriers to women’s participation in STEM fields.

NLC, Mr Joe Ajaero for an interview should not be unexpected given the critical position he holds as leader of the nation's workforce.

"The NLC is an interlocutor of the federal government on various labour disputes and other national interest issues. On that basis alone, without prejudice to due process, Mr Ajaero represents an umbrella organisation that should inform the authorities of their approach and modalities.

"The alleged infractions listed on the letter of invitation circulating on social media are weighty and there is no clarity on the circumstances and if the authorities are attributing these to personal conducts or responsibilities involving Mr. Ajaero as the undisputed leader of NLC. Extreme caution must thus be exercised in the manner in which this issue is handled.

US-Nigeria

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Nigeria’s public health infrastructure has received a boost with the TB Modular Laboratory located at the Defense Reference Laboratory in Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja officially commissioned.

According to a statement on Thursday by the United States Embassy, the state-of-the-art facility commissioned on August 20, 2024, marks a new chapter in the fight against tuberculosis (TB) in Nigeria, further solidifying the ongoing partnership between Nigeria and the United States in advancing health outcomes across the nation.

The statement added that the TB Modular Laboratory, fully certified in June 2024 by the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, is a cutting-edge facility that will enhance the capabilities of Nigeria’s National TB and Leprosy Programme.

The statement revealed that the laboratory was officially commissioned by Dr. Bello Mutawalle, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defense, and witnessed by Richard Mills, U.S Ambassador to Nigeria, Colonel Eli Lozano, Commander, Walter Reed Army of Research (WRAIR), the Director General of the Nigerian Ministry of Defence Health Implementation Programme, Brig. Gen. NAE Okeji (rtd), the Permanent Secretary,

"It is not unexpected that government will try autocratic methods to vow labour as a potential opposition force invitations like the one to Ajaero are expected.

"But the rule of law and the laws of evidence should be observed. Labour should stick to its strengths and powers in order to maintain democratic order and sanity.”

The Nigeria Police Force had summoned Ajaero, for questioning over allegations of terrorism financing, cybercrime, and other related offences.

The invitation letter, signed by ACP Adamu Muazu on behalf of the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Intelligence Response Team, warned that a warrant of arrest would be issued if Ajaero failed to comply. In return to the invitation, the NLC held an emergency meeting threatening a nation wide strike should Ajaero be arrested.

Nigerian Ministry of Defense, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, alongside other respected health and defense leaders.

The laboratory is equipped with advanced molecular diagnostic tools, including line probe assays and Drug Sensitivity Testing (DST), critical for detecting drug-resistant TB strains. By expanding TB case detection and integrating HIV and TB diagnostic services, the laboratory will significantly improve access to life-saving diagnostic services for both military personnel and civilian populations.

The statement said this milestone is the latest achievement in the long-standing partnership between the Nigerian Ministry of Defense Health Implementation Programme (MODHIP) and the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research Africa (WRAIR Africa).

Established 19 years ago, this collaboration focuses on providing HIV prevention, care, and treatment services to military personnel, their families, and civilians in nearby communities.

Over the years, the partnership has expanded its scope to include TB, malaria, clinical research, and vaccine trials, addressing both emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases in Nigeria.

Speaking on the partnership, Ambassador Mills said that the U.S. government’s investment in the health of Nigerians matches Nigeria’s stature on the continent.

Laleye Dipo in Minna

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

L-R:

Manager, inDrive Nigeria, Mr.Timothy Oladimeji; Driver Acquisition Supervisor, inDrive Nigeria, Catherine Akindele; Winner of "Do X Get Y" (DXGY) Reward Programme Abuja Campaign, Mr Taofeek Junaid, and Branch Manager, Lagos, Innoson Group of Companies, Mr Charles Chukwuma, during the presentation of an Innoson Car - G20 Smart to the Abuja Winner of the inDrive "Do X Get Y" Reward Programme in Lagos ... recently.

ON-SITE INSPECTION AT LAGOSHOMS AJARA...

L-

You Can’t Be PDP Member and Belong to Another Party, Ningi Tackles Detractors

Wike a coward who lacks courage to quit PDP, says party chief

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

A member of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and close associate of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Senator Abdul Ningi, said the party was not the property of any individual and would resist attempts to diminish its influence.

Ningi made the statement during an interview with ARISE NEWS.

In a similar vein, a former national legal adviser of PDP and Kaduna State Commissioner for Justice, Mark Jacob, criticised Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, calling him

a coward for not having the courage to leave PDP, despite his ceaseless disparagement of the party.

In the interview with ARISE NEWS, Ningi emphasised, “PDP has a history and it was not formed a decade ago. It was formed more than two decades ago by some of the best political brains in the country.

“When I look at people comparing their powers to that of the PDP, I’m always taken aback. Remember, 24 years ago, most of these key actors that are in place are products of this party; they would not have been anything if not for the PDP.

“PDP is a party that has produced three presidents; PDP is above

individuals. You need to understand the mind-set of some key actors is that this party must not survive.

“This party does not warrant our sympathy because at a time in the immediate past, some people did not get what they wanted. The key actors are members of the PDP; otherwise, there wouldn’t have been a crisis.”

Ningi stressed, “You cannot be a member of the PDP and be a member of another party. You can’t be a member of the PDP and at the same time be enriching and influencing other members to buy the PDP.”

He emphasised the importance of loyalty.

Ningi also discussed concerns over a sitting PDP governor potentially leaving the party, saying, “It really disturbed us, so we reached out to him, and he confirmed to us that he will remain in the party.

“We came back after talking to him with all the information we had, but we are not bringing this information into the public domain because part of the crisis has to do with the current Minister of the FCT.”

Jacob, on his part, maintained that Wike's continued stay in PDP that he “bashes every now and then” smacked of lack of integrity

He explained that in his time as national legal adviser, such action

Rivers: Court Bars APC from Holding Congresses, Suspending Beke’s Leadership

Blessing Ibunge in Port

Harcourt

A Rivers State High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, has stopped the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from going ahead to conduct planned Ward, Local Government and State Congresses scheduled to hold on October 11, 16 and 26, this year.

Peter Ohochukwu and Hajia Ndidi-chukwuma, had on behalf of themselves and all elected executive members of APC, filed the exparte order, seeking the court to retrain the party

national leadership led by the chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje,and Secretary, Surajudeen Basiru, from conducting the congresses in the state.

Also included in the suit is the state APC, Inspector General of Police, Nigerian Police and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Ruling on the exparte motion, yesterday, Justice Godwin Ollor, restrained the defendants either for themselves, their men, officers or agents from conducting, supervising, holding, monitoring or in any other manner to conduct election to make up

Rivers State executive committee.

Justice Ollor, who insisted that his ruling was based on the merit of the application and oral application by the Plaintiff council, Collins Dike, restrained the national leadership of the party from any plan to suspend the Emeka Beke led executives of the party in the state.

The court further restrained the National Chairman of APC, the Secretary and the APC from doing any thing to interfere in the activities of elected executive of APC in the state led by Beke pending the hearing and determination

of motion on notice for interlocutory injection.

Justice Ollor thereafter adjourned the matter till September 9, 2024 for hearing of Motion on Notice.

Speaking with journalists outside the courtroom, counsel to claimants, Collins Dike, explained that his clients approached the court after the national leadership of the APC ignored the judgement of Justice S. A Aprioku on restatement of Beke's led executive in the state and planned to conduct congresses, a way to forcefully end an ongoing tenure.

would not be tolerated.

Jacob, who also spoke in an interview with ARISE NEWS, said, “Wike is a coward who is not bold enough to leave the PDP and go to the APC.

“Having taken a stance against the PDP, a gentleman who wants to be respected should have resigned from the PDP. You cannot be kicking against the PDP and still claim you are with the PDP; it is complete

irony, ungentlemanly, and lacking in integrity.”

Jacob stressed that it was time people told Wike the truth, stating that no one can, in good conscience, claim to be a member of PDP while actively fighting against it. He expressed his disappointment with the current state of PDP, saying, “It is a sad day for anyone who identifies with the PDP or is a member of the PDP.”

Dissolved Benue APC SWC Drags Party Chair, Ganduje, to Court over Contempt

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The crisis rocking the Benue State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) may be far from over following the decision of the dissolved State Working Committee (SWC) led by Hon. Augustine Agada to drag the National Chairman of the party, Abdullahi Ganduje, to court over alleged contempt.

A Benue State High Court had Wednesday restrained the APC NWC from dissolving the State Working Committee.

But in spite of the court order, the National Working Committee (NWC) of APC later on Wednesday announced the dissolution of the Agada-led SWC in clear contempt ofthe court order.

Against this background, Agada, alongside 8 others, yesterdaym sued Ganduje for contempt.

The dissolved exco prayed the court to issue a punitive measure against the Ganduje-led NWC over the disobedience of the earlier decision of the court.

TINUBU: ARIWOOLA’S LEADERSHIP IN JUDICIARY IMPACTFUL, ENRICHED NATION’S JURISPRUDENCE

“Justice is not a scarce commodity to be queued for. Justice without delay is inherent, natural, and constitutional. In my view, it is antithetical to the concept of justice when litigants are made to wait for years in order to have their cases determined.

"As a Justice of the Supreme Court, it was always a sobering moment for me whenever an appeal was called to be heard, and a learned counsel stood up to inform us that the appellant or the respondent was late. In effect, the litigant had died without is appeal being determined

one way or the other. "It was for this reason that I made it a priority that no stone must be left unturned to ensure that we brought more judicial officers into the system."

Ariwoola commended the executive and legislative arms of government for swiftly granting appointments recommended by the National Judicial Council (NJC), as well as making budgetary approvals required to fund the new appointments.

Other achievements he listed included democratisation of court administration and the signing last

month of new rules of the Supreme Court.

He said the rules regulating procedures in the apex court were those made 39 years ago, adding that they are not just obsolete but inadequate for today's challenges.

In his remarks, Fagbemi thanked the Supreme Court for rescuing local governments from the claws of governors.

The AGF said, "Our government commends and remains grateful to our apex court in the land, the Supreme Court of Nigeria,

for living up to its status as both a court of justice and as a policy court in their landmark judgement that emancipated, liberated and set free our local government system in Nigeria from the claws, tyranny and oppression of those who had held them by the jugulars over the years, which has led to almost total stagnation and absence of development and governance in our 774 local governments all over the country.

"We are not unaware of the threats and noises of reprisal by some (not all)

of the principalities affected by that epic and locus classicus judgement of the Supreme Court, who are threatening fire and brimstone in a matter that has been settled and laid to rest finally by our apex court.

The point must be made that their action in this regard amounts to hoovering round the precinct of contempt of court.

"I urge the Attorneys-General of the affected states to educate and offer sound legal advice, even though very trite and too elementary, to their principals that there can be no appeal

In a motion on notice no: MHC/1585/M/2024, the dissolved exco prayed the court to compel Ganduje-led NWC to adhere to the decision not to remove them from office until the expiration of their four years tenure. In an affidavit deposed to by his counsel, M.T Aiyebo, Agada maintained that the Ganduje-led NWC was duly served the order of the court on Wednesday at about 4pm. He expressed surprised that in the evening of Wednesday, 21st August 2024, at 6pm, Ganduje-led NWC held a meeting where he went ahead to dissolve his executive committee and appointed a caretaker committee against the earlier court order.

"That I saw on several television stations that same evening about 8pm and several other News media that the Benue State Working Committee of the respondent on record has been dissolved against whom the leave of this Honourable court is been sought,” he said

against the decision of the Supreme Court. They should, therefore, abide by the principles and the doctrines of the rule of law, which is the bedrock of constitutional democracy." Fagbemi expressed confidence that the country would now witness a new dawn and era of purposeful governance across all 774 local governments. He appealed to the citizens, professional bodies, and associations to be alert and watchful of how the local governments were utilising their allocations for growth and development.

R: Lagos State Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai; Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Housing, Engr.Abdulhafis Toriola; and Director, Engineering Services, Lagos State Ministry of Housing, Engr. Kazeem Bolarinwa on-site inspection at LagosHOMS Ajara in Badagry LGA...recently

LAGOS SUSTAINABILITY SUMMIT...

L-R: General Manager, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Dr Babatunde Ajayi; Director General/CEO, Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr Lanre Mojola; Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Sustainable Development Goals, Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih, and Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Economic Planning & Budget, Mr. Lekan Balogun, at a press conference, to announce the inaugural Lagos Sustainability Summit scheduled for September 12 …in Lagos…recently

Police Rescue 30 Victims, Recover AK-47 Rifle from Kidnappers in Katsina

Francis Sardauna in Katsina and Laleye Dipo in Minna

The Katsina State Police Command has announced the rescue of 30 kidnapped victims and recovered one AK-47 rifle after raiding terrorists’ enclaves and foiling various kidnap attempts in Dutsinma, Safana, Jibia and Malumfashi Local Government Areas of the state.

The Police Command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Abubakar Aliyu, in a statement issued yesterday said seven of the victims were rescued after raiding the terrorists’ hideouts between Dutsinma and Safana on August 17, while three were freed after foiling kidnap attempt on Jibian-Maje in Jibia LGA.

were also rescued after a fierce gun duel between the police operatives and the marauding hoodlums.

The statement read in part: “In a swift and decisive rescue operation, the Katsina State Police Command raided a

He explained that 20 persons who were kidnapped at Yaba village in Malumfashi Local Government Area on August 20

OAU Loses Final Year Student

Yinka Kolawole inOsogbo

The entire Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, has been thrown into mourning as a final year student of the Department of Foreign Languages was killed by a very reckless driver.

In a release by the Public Relations Officer of OAU, Abiodun Olarewaju, the student, identified as Esu Rita Ema with Matriculation Number FRM/2019/041 was knocked down and killed by a Lexus car with Abuja Registration Number ABJ 427 LQ driven by

‘FUOYE

bandits’ hideout situated between Dutsinma and Safana LGAs on August 21, rescuing seven hostages kidnapped from two villages in Dutsinma LGA on August 17 and recovering one AK-47 rifle.

“The intelligence-led

Condemnation

Onuminya InnocentinSokoto

one Lasisi Sodiq Segun. The student, who was said to be coming to the campus to submit her final year project to her supervisor, was crossing the Ife - Ibadan axis of road at the campus gate when the accident happened.

The members of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) came to recover the corpse of the student and deposited same at the mortuary of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex at about 12:35 p.m. while the officers of the Nigerian Police have arrested the driver for investigation and further necessary action.

has Potential of Becoming Africa’s Best University’

Raheem Akingbolu

The newly appointed Chairman of Governing Council, Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, (FUOYE), Mr. Olukayode Ojo, has promised to ensure that the university would be a globally recognised institution of learning.

Ojo, with other members who was in the school on a three-day working visit for inspection of projects and familiarisation tour of the Oye and Ikole Ekiti campuses of the school, said that he was impressed with what he saw on ground and described FUOYE as

an institution with potentials for greatness.

He commended the management of the school for sustaining the vision of the federal government in establishing the university said the council was determined to work hand-in-hand with the vice chancellor of the school to sustain the tempo and take it a notch higher.

The council’s chairman, however, expressed his reservation over inadequate facilities in respect of the surging student population and promised to bring it to the attention of the federal government and other relevant authorities.

Swipha Bags WHO Prequalification for Malaria in Pregnancy Tablet

Swiss Pharma Nigeria Limited (Swipha), a leading pharmaceutical company in Nigeria, received the World Health Organisation (WHO) prequalification for its Sulfadoxine Plus Pyrimethamine (SP) 500/25mg Tablet for the prevention of malaria in pregnancy.

Malaria remains a significant public health challenge in many parts of the world, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where pregnant women and children under five years of age are most vulnerable. Malaria in pregnancy poses severe risks to both the mother and the unborn child, including an increased

risk of maternal anaemia, low birth weight, preterm birth, and maternal death. Preventive measures, including using SP during antenatal care visits, are essential in reducing these risks and improving maternal and child health outcomes.

Commenting, the Managing Director of Swiss Pharma Nigeria Limited, Frederic Lieutaud, said the achievement of WHO Prequalification for Swipha’s SP 500/25mg Tablet underscores the company’s commitment to providing high-quality, life-saving medicines that meet international standards of safety, efficacy, and quality assurance.

operation conducted by a combined team of police operatives attached to Dutsinma Police Divisional headquarters and members of vigilante led by the DPO, CSP Bello Abdullahi Gusau, was carried out at about 1330 hours.

“The rescued hostages, who were kidnapped from Farar Kasa and Shanga villages in Dutsinma LGA, were successfully rescued unharmed by the team and rushed to the nearest hospital for medical attention.

Trails Death of Sokoto District Head in Bandits’ Captivity

Eminent Nigerians have condemned the death of the District Head of Gatawa, Sokoto State, Sarkin Gobir Alhaji Isa Muhammad Bawa, in the captivity of terrorists.

The Governor of Sokoto State, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu, described the

gruesome murder of the monarch as barbaric, unfortunate and inhumane.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Abubakar Bawa, Governor Aliyu said he received the sad news of the death of the district head with deep shock, describing the monarch as a pious, upright, honest and a peace loving

personality who dedicated his life to the service of his people and humanity as a whole.

Aliyu prayed to the Almighty Allah to admit the late monarch in the best of paradise and give his family and the entire people of Sabon Birnin Local Government Area the fortitude to bear the loss.

The governor reiterated that his administration is doing a lot and would continue to use all the available resources to bring banditry to an end, and appealed to the people of the state to support security agencies with relevant information so as to nip banditry in the bud.

New Aircraft: Consider President’s Safety, Ohanaeze Tells Nigerians

Benjamin NworieinAbakaliki

The apex Igbo socio-political organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has called on Nigerians criticising the purchase of an Airbus A330 business jet for President Bola Tinubu to consider the safety of the president, who is the leader

of the country.

In a statement issued by the Secretary General,Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the apex body noted that the decision to acquire a new aircraft was for the security and safety of the president.

According to Ohanaeze, the tragic incidents involving the untimely

deaths of former Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Malawi’s Vice President Dr Saulos Chilima should serve as a stark reminder of the dangers that could occur to highranking officials when adequate measures were not taken to ensure their safety.

The statement read:, “We cannot

afford to have a similar tragedy occur in Nigeria, and we must prioritise President Tinubu’s well-being. “While we understand the frustrations of Nigerians during these challenging economic times, it is essential to recognise that the safety of our President is paramount.

Group Proposes National Referendum to Address Socio-Economic Challenges

Segun James

The Voice of Reason Advocacy for Social Development Foundation (VOR) has proposed national referendum to address the socio-economic problems facing the nation.

The VOR also called for

the restructuring of Nigeria, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take bold and decisive action to address these challenges.

The group, in an open letter to the President, which was signed by Dr. Ladi Awosika, emphasised the need for a

new Nigeria that is stable, prosperous and united.

It called for immediate, medium-term, and long-term actions to achieve this vision.

The advocacy group recommended the establishment of a National Rebirth Commission to address historical injustices, promote social justice, and foster reconciliation among ethnic groups. It noted that this commission would facilitate truth-telling, reconciliation, and unity, and develop conflict resolution mechanisms to manage interregional disputes.

PIA: Firm Awards Contract for Community Devt in Rivers

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Indigenous Oil Company, Lekoil and Gas Limited, and its JV partners, Green Energy International Limited, has awarded developmental contracts to three of its host communities in Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State.

The contracts, which are in line with the provisions of Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) for oil companies to set aside 3 percent of its profit for the development of host communities, include internal road projects, completion of town

hall building project, construction of culvert and scholarship and bursary schemes from primary to postgraduate levels in Ukama Ekede, Asukama and Asukoyet communities respectively.

Speaking with journalists shortly after the contract signing in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, yesterday, the Chairman, Board of Trustees (BoT), Ukama Ekede; Ayama Ekere, Asukama, Asukoyet Host Communities Development Trust Fund (HCDT), Sampson Asuk stated that the contracts were selected in consultation with the communities.

Don Warns on Wrongful Adoption of Technology in Mass Media

James Sowole in Abeokuta

Concerned by negative effects of wholesome adoption of new innovations, a university don has advised developing nations to devise strategies that would mitigate the negative impacts of the wrongful adoption and

application of technology in the mass media.

A professor of Mass Communication at the Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, Ayodele Odunlami, gave the advice, as part of his recommendations, in the in the 119th Inaugural Lecture of the

institution, which he delivered.

The Inaugural Lecture was entitled “(Re) Moving The Ancient Landmarks? How Technology Deconstructs The Mass Media.”

The lecture, which was attended by principal officers of the university, stakeholders, students’ religious and traditional institutions.

Odunlami said that the recommendations he proffered, were necessary to safeguard the sanctity of the remaining ancient landmarks of journalism profession as the Fourth Estate of the Realm.

Anambra,USAID, Coca-Cola Foundation, TechnoServe Partner on Waste Mgt

Dike Onwuamaeze

The Anambra State Government has forged a partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Coca-Cola

Foundation and TechnoServe that would strengthen its commitment to recycling plastic waste and securing environmentally friendly solutions.

The State Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Felix

Odimegwu, who addressed a stakeholders’ meeting on plastic waste recycling in Awka, said that plastic waste would become a menace to the environment if it is not separated and channeled for recycling.

Odimegwu said that Anambra state has been actively pursuing initiatives that would reduce waste, promote recycling and foster a culture of sustainability under the leadership of Governor Charles Soludo.

HAPPY TO HOST YOU…

Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa(right), and Nigerian-born British Lord Mayor of Leeds, United Kingdom, Councillor Abigail

who is the first elected councilor from Africa to hold the council position, during a visit to Dabiri-Erewa in Abuja...recently

Father of Kidnapped Medical Students Appeals for their Freedom

George Okoh inMakurdi

A father of one of the students abducted by gunmen in Benue State has appealed for the release of his son and 19 others seven days after 20 medical students and their house officer from the University of Maiduguri and University of Jos were abducted in Benue State last week.

The father appealed to the kidnappers to release the students unharmed to enable them return to school.

A retiree, Mr. Kwaghaondona Fagar, the father of one of the abducted students made the appeal at his residence in Makurdi, while calling for the release of the abducted medical and dental students held hostage.

Nigerian Expert Pledges to Lead Global Health Transformation

Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti

A Nigerian medical expert, Dr. Ifedayo Morayo Adetifa, has pledged his commitment to drive diagnostic innovation for global health.

He stated this after his appointment as the Chief Transformation Officer and Chief Executive Officer of FIND, a global non-profit organisation.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as JUDITH KWANASHIE, now wish to be known and addressed as JUDITH KWANASHIE NDOUMBE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS CHERUKEI AMADI WALI now wish to be known and addressed as MRS CHERUKEI NYELEBUCHI AMADICHUKU. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note

I, formerly known and addressed as AMOWOYAGI VICTORIA TOLULOPE now wish to be known and addressed as ABRAHAM VICTORIA TOLULOPE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS IKEM MARTHA KANAYO now wish to be known and addressed as MRS MARK MARTHA KANAYO. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note

I, formerly known and addressed as ADEOJO OLUWADAMILOLA ESTHER now wish to be known and addressed as ODELANA OLUWADAMILOLA ESTHER. All former documents remain valid.

The general public should please take note

I, formerly known and addressed as FRANCIS FRANCIS IWUALA now wish to be known and addressed as EMEKA FRANCIS IWUALA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note

FIND is known for connecting countries and communities, funders, decision makers, healthcare providers and developers to spur diagnostic innovation and make testing an integral part of sustainable, resilient health systems.

Adetifa said: “I am thrilled to join FIND at sxuch a critical juncture for global health and especially for diagnostics. I look forward to leading FIND’s team and collaborating with our global partners to drive diagnostic innovation and ensure these advancements reach those most in need.”

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ANN CHIKAODINAKA OTUONYE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ANN CHIKAODINAKA OBASI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as AJIMOTI GBEMI PHILIP now wish to be known and addressed as AJIMOTI EVANS OLUWAGBEMILEKE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note I, formerly known and addressed as MISS CHERUKEI AMADI WALI now wish to be known and addressed as MRS CHERUKEI NYELEBUCHI AMADICHUKU. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please I, formerly known and addressed as GIFT MGBEOMA NDUNMERI now wish to be known and addressed as GRACE MGBEOMA NDUNMERI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note

NOTIFICATION OF NAME

This is to notify the general public that IDIAGHE SAMUEL ONYINYECHUKWU and IDIAGHE SAMUEL ONYINYE is one and the same person, and now wish to be known and address as IDIAGHE SAMUEL ONYINYECHUKWU. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

The pensioner, who cited the difficulty most parents are going through during this economic challenges to source the ransom of N50 million as unbearable particularly as many of the parents

are widows and widower yet to pay school (medical) fees of their respect children.

The retiree who lamented that since his retirement in January 17, 2013, from the state civil service till

date, he has not received his gratuity except for the monthly pension which the new administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia has started paying, calling on both the federal and state government and other

well-meaning Nigerians to assist the families to ensure the freedom of all the affected victims during this trial times before the kidnappers carry out their threat of killing the students one after another.

Bolt Clamps Down on Inter-country Ride Requests, Fake Orders

Sunday Ehigiator

Ride-hailing company Bolt has revealed that it has taken measures to combat fraudulent activity on its platform, blocking several accounts responsible for requesting and cancelling fake rides.

Additionally, the company said it has restricted cross-border ride requests following a surge in such activity in Nigeria and South Africa.

The move comes after a recent online feud between citizens of the two countries, who engaged in a ‘ride-hailing war’ by ordering

and cancelling rides in each other’s countries.

The incident began after a South African revealed on X (formerly Twitter), that he ordered rides in Nigeria and cancelled them upon arrival, whenever he was bored. This prompted Nigerians to retaliate by booking rides in South Africa. Reacting to the situation, the Country Manager of Nigeria at Bolt, Yahaya Mohammed, in a statement, said the company has taken measures to resolve the issue of fake ride requests.

Irish Envoy Blames Persistent Religious Violence on Political Leaders

Adedayo Akinwale and Amina Hassan in Abuja

The Ambassador of Ireland to Nigeria, Peter Ryan has lamented that religious violence persists in the country because political leaders have refused to

take appropriate action necessary to curb the ugly trend.

Ryan, who was represented by Mr. Samuel Ameh disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja at an event commemorating Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief.

He said there was nothing too difficult to resolve once people agreed to live in peace with one another.

Ryan stated: “We are on several UN platforms where we have been able to point out actions of injustice that are based on acts of violence because one has a different belief or ideology. “We are also there in the UN talking to the Nigerian government. We have pointed out to the government of Nigeria actions that they should have taken to avert religious violence.

N1.4bn Fraud: Court Freezes Accounts of Seven Businessmen, Firms in Eight Banks

WaleIgbintade

Justice Akintayo Aluko of the Federal High Court in Lagos has placed a ‘Post No Debit’ (PND) on the accounts of seven businessmen and four firms in eight banks pending investigation of how N1,426,100,430 was fraudulently transferred from a Lebanese firm. The

court granted the order following a motion ex parte moved and argued by the Department of State Security (DSS), through its counsel, Michael Bajela.

The order subsists for 90 days.

The complainant in the suit is Fouani Nigeria Limited while the respondents affected by the order

and their bank details are: “Haruna Adam Abubakar - 1709985717 (Access Bank), Anthony Godwill Ifeanyi - 1236732473 (Access Bank), Tochukwu Modestus Obodoefuna -1565420706 (Access Bank), M. Munzali Dara Worldwide Business 5601060742 (Fidelily Bank), Anthony Ifeanyi Electronic Trading 5420158002 (Keystone Bank), Kholobekian Joseph Mesrob 1016886802 (UBA), Izuchukwu Stanley Alaman Jo 2137303667 (UBA), A.S. Rano Lubricant Toll Inv. Ltd 1305567771 (Providus Bank), Obioma Emeka Daniel 1005922923 (FCMB), Esto World Mega Venture Resources 2004467010 (Globus Bank) and Mubarak Buhari 8066868814 (Opay).”

Nurse Arrested for Using Pressing Iron on House Help in Anambra

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

A 38-year-old woman, Amarachukwu Happiness Nzekwe, has been arrested for allegedly using hot pressing iron on the back of her house help.

The woman, who identified herself as a nurse from Ezinifitte, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, said the house help stole her money, and that she did it (using the hot iron) to discipline him.

She explained that she placed a pressing iron on a stove and used it to scald the child’s back after he refused to confess to stealing.

Nzekwe made the confession after officials of the Anambra State Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare, led by the Commissioner, Hon. Ify Obinabo, arrested her.

She told the commissioner that: “I have suffered because of this boy. I just had surgery, and I came back home and found out that my money was missing. I didn’t plug the iron to electric, I just placed it on stove to discipline him.” The victim was identified as her nephew, a 13-year-old boy. It was gathered that she also locked the boy up at home without food most times.

Abdul Adetunji Donates Vehicles to Boost Aiyedatiwa’s Guber Ambition

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s governorship ambition has received a boost as the Chairman of Horizon Capital Investment Limited, Honourable Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM) donated campaign vehicles and other materials towards realising his goal.

The donation was made during a visit by Adetunji to His Excellency, Governor Aiyedatiwa at the Governor’s Office to show his support for the upcoming Gubernatorial election in the state.

According to Adetunji, the donation reinforced his commitment and that of his team to the vision of Governor Aiyedatiwa of industrialising Ondo State.

He said: “This past weekend, I had the distinct honour of visiting His Excellency, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to show my support for his upcoming gubernatorial elections. Our delegation presented campaign vehicles and other essential campaign materials, reinforcing our commitment to his vision of industrialising Ondo state. “It was a truly inspiring experience to witness firsthand the enthusiasm and support for the Governor’s leadership.”

Kumuyi Kick Starts Six-Day Mega Crusade in Delta

The General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church, Pastor William Kumuyi, arrived in Warri, Delta State, with his wife, Esther, yesterday for a six-day gospel crusade.

The crusade, which is organised by Deeper Life Church in partnership

with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) will kick off today and end on August 27.

The event tagged: ‘Global Crusade With Kumuyi’, with the theme: ‘Possibilities of Faith in Christ’, will hold at the Urhobo College with the 83 years old Pastor Kumuyi ministering and Jody Mcbrayer as

guest music minister.

The cleric, who was heralded by a tumultuous crowd at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun, said the event would turn around the lost glory of Warri and Delta State at large.

He prayed for the management and staff of the Institute assuring them of their heart desires for a

prosperous school, and thanked them for the reception.

Receiving the General Superintendent of Deeper Life Church members, the acting Principal and Chief Executive of PTI, Mr. Samuel Onoji, briefed the visitor about the aim and objectives of establishing the school by the federal government.

Sylvester IdowuinWarri

Marshall Katung,

Rangers' Captain, Ugwueze, Optimistic of Victory against Zilimadjou Today

Captain of one of Nigeria’s CAF Champions League 2024/2025 hopefuls, Rangers International F.C, Ugwueze Chinemerem and teammate, Uwumiro Frank, have assured the club’s teaming fans and supporters of a better outing

CAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

in the return leg of the preliminary round encounter against U.S de Zilimadjou of Comoros Islands today in Uyo.

20 Clubs Jostle for Abuja Veterans All Stars Invitational Cup

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The fourth edition of the annual Abuja Veterans All Stars Invitational Cup will begin on August 31 with 20 clubs based in the nation's capital; in contention for the trophy.

The opening match will pitch the defending champions, Abuja All Stars against last year's finalists, City Gate All Stars in Group A.

Other teams drawn in the group following the draw held at the FIFA Goal Project Centre are Corporate Kickers Sports Club and Jabi All-Stars.

The draw, which drew many former footballers, was conducted by the Technical Director of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Austin Eguavoen, assisted by former Super Eagles internationals, Samson Siasia and Garba Lawal.

The clubs in Group B are Nyanyan All Stars, the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Mc Steve

All Stars and Lugbe All-Stars, while Group C comprises Gwagwalada All Stars, Unity Sports Foundation, Like Minds All Stars and Capital Spotify.

The teams in Group D are Apo Fitness, Kuje All Stars, Police Machine and Nurudeen Veteran Club while Group E has Games Village All Stars, Karu All Stars, Ex Professionals and Capital City Club.

The Chairman of the Tournament Local Organising Committee 2024, Patrick Bassey, said the tournament would be well organized as it would create awareness about what former footballers are capable of doing.

Bassey, who is also the National U-15 Coach, noted that the competition is to promote friendship and networking among former players.

The top two teams in each group and the four best thirdplace finishers will progress to the round of 16.

Ugwueze, in a chat ahead of the fixture slated for the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, said that he and his teammates were in the best possible shape to do the nation proud and qualify for the next round of the competition.

“Since the end of the first leg which we won by God’s special grace, we have shifted our prepara-

tion gear to the next level which I believe will see us through the second leg. Yes, we won the first leg but are not underrating our opponents rather, we are more focused and determined to play a good game and win well for our teaming fans and supporters,” stated the young midfielder.

Echoing the captain’s optimism is the lanky attacking sensation who netted the winning goal of the first leg, Frank Uwumiro, who stated

that the first leg was difficult at some point but having seen how the team from Comoros Islands played, he and his teammates were better prepared going into Friday, August 23, 2024’ second leg fixture.

“Our opponents are the champions of their country and they showed some stuff in the first leg but with what we have been going through after that encounter, I am very optimistic of a good second

leg which we are hosting,” said Uwumiro.

The ‘Flying Antelopes’, Rangers International F.C will be tackling Comoros Islands champions, U.S de Zilimadjou in the second leg, the first preliminary round of the premier club competition on the continent at the ‘Nest of Champions’, Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State with kick-off slated for 15:00 hours.

NGO Inaugurate LOC For 2024 Delta Ethnic Peace, Unity Football Cup Tournament

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

A Delta-based non-governmental organisation, Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ) yesterday inaugurated a 10-man local organising committee for the Delta Ethnic Peace and Unity Football Tournament created to promote peaceful co-existence among ethnic groups in Delta Central and Delta South of the state.

This year’s event is billed to commence November 16, 2024, at Ode Itsekiri, being International Day of Tolerance, to December 7, 2024.

Speaking at the unveiling/ inauguration ceremony held at the CEPEJ’s Africa for Peace Centre in Ugolo, near Osubi, National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer of CEPEJ, Comrade Sheriff

Iheanacho, Nigerian Stars Chase First La Liga Victories Live on StarTimes

The opening matchday in La Liga yielded a mixed bag of results for Nigerian players, with none securing a win. However, the second matchday fixtures, broadcast live on StarTimes, promise to be exciting as Nigerian stars like Kelechi Iheanacho and Chidera Ejuke seek their maiden victories.

On matchday 1, Sevilla FC, despite not having Iheanacho and Ejuke in action, settled for a 2-2 draw away to Las Palmas.

Mulade explained that this year’s event, the fourth in the series, will have Hon. Kenneth Nwaomucha, as Chairman of the 10-Man Planning Committee.

He disclosed that the competition has been expanded to accommodate more ethnic groups unlike in the past when it involved only Itsekiri and Ijaws alone.

Mulade explained that this year's competition will now accommodate Itsekiri, Ijaw, Isoko and Urhobo to foster peaceful coexistence amongst the people of Delta Central and South areas of the state populated by the ethnic groups.

“This programme, unlike the

previous ones, has been expanded to cover Delta Central and South. The aim is to engender peaceful coexistence among the tribes. Itsekiri, Urhobo, Ijaw and Isoko.

"This is our contribution to promote peaceful coexistence among the people of Delta State. We are expanding it to accommodate Isoko and Urhobo to enable a peaceful environment for the government to bring the needed development to the state", he stated.

Mulade disclosed that a princely N5m with consolidated prizes is at stake in the football competition with the winner going home with N2m, runners up with N1.5m, third place with N1m and fourth place bagging N500,000. Responding on behalf of the committee members, the Chairman of Delta State Sports Association, Hon. Kenneth Nwaomucha commended Mulade for the initiative and efforts in the previous years and therefore urged members of the committee to put in their best when carrying out their duties. I want to appeal to all of us to give our best towards a successful competition", he added. Chairman, Board of Trustees of CEPEJ, Dr. Godwin Orhadhawe, urged the media to give wider publicity on the event to achieve the purpose for which it was instituted.

5th Efunkoya National Cadet T'tennis Championships Hits knock-out Stage

quality of players in the boys’ event suggests the emergence of new champions this year.

events take centre stage as it reaches its climax on Saturday, August 24.

Meanwhile, Chrisantus Uche made a memorable debut, securing a point on the road for Getafe in a 1-1 draw against Athletic Club. Sadiq Umar, however, re- mained on the bench as Real Sociedad suffered a 2-1 home defeat to Rayo Vallecano.

highly anticipated home debut against Rayo Vallecano.

As the second matchday kicks off today, live on StarTimes, Nigerian La Liga stars are eager to make a mark. Sevilla FC will host Villarreal at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán stadium, seeking a win after picking just a point in the corresponding fixture last season. Chrisantus Uche, the rave of the moment, will make his

Having witnessed Vallecano's stunning 2-1 win over Sadiq Umar's Real Sociedad, Uche will be determined to avoid a similar fate.

Also on Saturday, Umar and his Real Sociedad teammates will face Espanyol away, hoping for a fruitful Footballjourney. fans can catch all the action live on StarTimes Sports Premium channel, with the platform also offering every La Liga match for just N600 weekly on the StarTimes-ON app.

The 5th Efunkoya National Cadet Table Tennis Championships has progressed to the knockout stage, set to be the main highlight on Friday, August 23, at the Indoor Hall of the National Stadium in Lagos.

Hundreds of players from 17 states and 20 clubs are competing in this annual tournament, organized by the Efunkoya Table Tennis Foundation in collaboration with the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF).

According to the foundation’s spokesperson, Ranti Lajide, the referee faced a challenging task screening players, with some over-aged participants being disqualified to allow new talent to shine. Lajide noted that the

“We are excited that states and clubs are now focusing on grooming female players, which has been a major concern for the foundation as many national players are ageing. We have more girls participating this year, and we hope to discover new stars who will succeed the older players,” Lajide said.

The tournament features five titles: singles (boys and girls), doubles (boys and girls), and mixed doubles. Funded by former players and table tennis enthusiasts from both within and outside Nigeria, the event will see the doubles and mixed doubles

“We are pleased with the turnout and believe this aligns with the tournament’s goal of nurturing new stars. We will continue to promote education alongside sports, which is the foundation’s core mission,” Lajide added.

The foundation, comprising former players and stakeholders, is dedicated to revitalizing the sport. The late Dr Adegboyega Efunkoya, a surgeon and medical practitioner, began his involvement in table tennis administration in 1962 and was elected Chairman of the then Nigeria Table Tennis Association in 1963.

Frank Uwumiro of Rangers connects home the only goal of the first leg match against U.S Zilimadjou

Friday, August 23, 2024Price:

MISSILE

JAMB to Tertiary Institutions

“We will no longer tolerate admission malpractices. All admissions must be on Central Admission Process System (CAPS). We have automated all our services, and institutions that fail to comply will face severe sanctions from the Minister of Education” –Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Coordinator, Abdulhakeem Abdulhammed, warns Nigerian tertiary institutions against admission malpractices.

AKIN OSUNTOKUN

The Reality of the Nigerian Political Underworld

Given the unacceptable reality that Former President Donald Trump was on course to defeat President Joe Biden in the American November Presidential election, I had shut off myself from news regarding American politics. When the former won the election in 2016 against Hillary Clinton, I started avoiding the CNN and any cable TV news channel that are substantially obliged to carry the news of the American President. Excited at the subsequent growing American alienation from his self-destructive presidency, I returned and enjoyed watching him unravel.

In the belief that he was a fluke, and certain that Americans would collectively sigh never again, I joined in saying good riddance to bad rubbish. Tragically, it was premature optimism. He was about to be gifted the American Presidency again by Joe Biden, and then Kamala Harris emerged. Harris is all that Trump is not. I can put the contrast no better than Nate White “he has no class, no charm, no coolness, no credibility, no compassion, no wit, no warmth, no wisdom, no subtlety, no sensitivity, no self-awareness, no humility, no honour and no grace – all qualities, funnily enough, with which his predecessor Mr. Obama was generously blessed. So for us, the stark contrast does rather throw Trump’s limitations into embarrassingly sharp relief”.

“Now, polling conducted in the immediate run up to this week’s Democratic convention in Chicago shows the vice president entering not just with momentum, but with a slight advantage over Trump nationally and in most key battleground states — a dramatic reversal from the big hole President Joe Biden was in before he abandoned his candidacy just four weeks ago”.

After reading an article written by my close friend Reuben Abati titled “RITUALS, BLOOD AND DEATH, THE SPIRITUAL SIDE OF ASO VILLA”. my sisters called me to verify the experience Abati had narrated- in the light of my related experience as political adviser to President Olusegun Obasanjo. The gist of the article was that the presidential palace politics under President Goodluck Jonathan was demonology personified.The inquiry coincided with my revelry at the dramatic entrance of Kamala Harris into the race for the American presidential election and how it had turned things around for the Democrats.

The change of baton bore semblance to a peculiar occurrence in the 2003 governorship contest in one of the Yoruba states (as alleged). The spiritual consultant to the governor (seeking reelection) had requested the names of all the candidates who would be contesting against him. The governor dutifully provided the names of all those who had indicated their participation in the governorship contest. The spiritual handler then assured the governor that

he had binded all the fellow contestants and rendered them of no consequence. At the last minute, one of the political party platforms was compelled to change the candidate contesting on its platform. Now, the new candidate was not among those who have been thwarted by the spiritualist. The net effect was that the new candidate went ahead to win the election.

Abati recalled “I was given an apartment to live in inside the Villa. It was furnished and equipped. But when my son, Michael arrived, one of my brothers came with a pastor who was supposed to stay in the apartment. But the man refused claiming that the Villa was full of evil spirits and that there would soon be a fire accident in the apartment. He complained about too much human sacrifice around the Villa and advised that my family must never sleep overnight inside the Villa”

“I thought the man was talking nonsense and he wanted the luxury of hotel accommodation. But he turned out to be right. The day I hosted family friends in that apartment and they slept overnight, there was indeed a fire accident. The guests escaped and they were so thankful. Not long after, the President’s physician living two compounds away had a fire accident in his home. He and his children could have died. He escaped with bruises. Around the Villa, while I was there, someone always died, or their relations died. I can confirm that every principal officer suffered one tragedy or the other; it was as if you needed to sacrifice something to remain on duty inside that environment”.

I had a tangentially comparable personal experience. I was in Lagos when I received a call from one of the political bigwigs in the inner circle of President Obasanjo. In the belief that I was in Abuja, he requested I

should come and see him right away. When I told him I was in Lagos, he was flustered. Why should this man become so agitated on account of my non availability, I wondered. So I called an Aunt who usually prays for me and told her of what had just transpired. After praying on it, she called back to tell me that something bad was about to befall the man’s son and wanted to transfer the danger to me. Two weeks later, the man, indeed, lost a son.

I had worked closely with a President who would occasionally wondered aloud how he could have signed off on some memo he objected to especially those with monetary implications or a significant political appointment. You might have heard of members of political cabals who uniformly lost their first born. In my town, all the seven kingmakers who colluded to install a king who was not the choice of the oracle died one after another within a year. There is equally a fable that a decline in the population of hyena in the Kaduna-Abuja forest portends a bad omen. Apparently, hyena is a core element in the preparation of charms targetting somebody’s life at the top echelons of government.

President Obasanjo narrated a spectacle he witnessed. He had gone for a weekend retreat at Otta. He received a guest who was decked in suit and tie. He was playing a popular Yoruba recreational game (Ayo) with an elderly relative. For whatever reason, the man in suit started deriding the Yoruba cosmology as quackery. When he would not relent, the elderly man playing ayo asked him if he really believed what he was saying. So after a few seconds the Yoruba veteran then directed him to remove his jacket, he complied. He again ordered him to remove his shirt and trousers. He did. Obasanjo had to intervene when the man was going to remove his underwear as instructed.

In 1983 at Okemesi, it was time to conduct the primary election to choose the Unity Party of Nigeria, UPN candidate for the state house of assembly election. One was a young charismatic candidate who was overwhelmingly favoured to win the primaries. The other was a mild mannered university academic and Okemesi Prince. The latter narrated his experience at the election to me.

He had a midnight visit on the eve of the primaries comprising a delegation of leading traditional chiefs who could not countenance the idea of a prince losing the election. So they requested from him ingredients for a ritual sacrifice comprising a rat, withered fish, salt, palm oil and the like. They then assured him he would prevail in the contest.

At the primaries the following day, supporters of each candidate were instructed to queue behind their candidate. The voters behind the charismatic candidate were, at a glance, three times more than those behind the prince. When they voted, the result showed the exact opposite of the distribution of the voters. It indicated the prince defeated the

other candidate by a wide margin and all of this was in the open. Because the result was unbelievable, the voting process had to be repeated thrice with the same outcome. It will require a special kind of credulity to believe that those engaged in the desperately transactional pursuit and sustainous of political power will not prioritise a recourse to the marabou, Adahunse and false pastors and prophets in the order of Temitope Joshua as of the essence. The bigger the stakes, the longer the extent to which politicians will go to court divine intervention in their affairs. An ambassador to Riyadh once came to report that a vice president had sequestered the consulate in Jeddah to house marabou engaged to cause the death of his principal. You will recall the drama surrounding the choice of Samuel Akinsanya, as the odemo of Isara as narrated in the autobiography of Professor Wole Soyinka, Ake. If you want to see and hear the oracle speak, all you need to do is to visit and pay homage on the Ooni of Ife. At the level of rhetoric, Nigerian politics is a reflection of the behaviour of the larger society where Newell S. Booth observed that whilst 95% of the Yoruba professed Islam or Christianity, the answer to the question of what percentage practice the traditional religion was equally 95%!.

I had elsewhere argued that among the Yoruba, there is indeed something of a paradox in the contradiction between the subconscious individual belief in the relevance of Ifa to the resolution of any resurgence of crisis in human experience and a conscious social and collective disavowal of its reality. It is a paradox that is borne out in the ambiguity of individual and private accommodation of Ifa by those who simultaneously profess Christianity and Islam.

This subject matter, however, provides the opportunity to caution against the common generalisation of the practitioners of Yoruba traditional religion as amoral. Irked at the persistent and prevailing defamation and demonisation of Ifa, Professor Wande Abimbola retorted “There are people we call Onisegun, they are not Babalawo. Babalawo does not do evil and if they stray from the straight and narrow path they become liable to the severest punishment.

Professor Bolaji Idowu corroborated that it is laid down that a babalawo must not abuse his office in any way.. Therefore no babalawo should use his position to enrich himself in any way; he must not refuse anybody his service on account of money-if any person is too poor to pay the customary pittance for divination, the babalawo must divine for him free of charge; or if the person cannot afford the prescribed sacrifice, the babalawo must take whatever he can afford….it seems, in fact, that the babalawo is under a vow of poverty, to spend himself in service of the community…now that materialism is the order of the day, this sacred injunction is largely disregarded, and there are many who appear not to know it at all. Charlatans abound ”

TRUTH & REASON

N400

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