TUESDAY 29TH AUGUST 2023

We’re in Big Mess, Shettima Declares on Economy

Challenges presidential committee on fiscal policy, tax reforms

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima, yesterday, declared that Nigeria was in a difficult economic situation. Shettima charged members of the

Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms to develop a robust roadmap that would transform the economy and take the country out of the woods. The vice president gave the ad-

vice, when he received in audience members of the committee led by the chairman, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, at State House, Abuja. Shettima told the committee, “The task before you is enormous,

I believe you have the best brains to come up with a robust roadmap that will reposition our economy, addressing some of the fundamental issues underlying our fiscal and tax policies. Fiscal and tax policies

are key to the realisation of any nation’s economic development.

“I believe you will come up with a roadmap to salvage our nation, we are in a big mess, but I have confidence in your team.

This is a great nation chained by poor governance, chained by many challenges and my principal is a man of courage and conviction,

Continued on page 10

Falana to FG: It's Not for Market Forces, IMF, W’ Bank to Fix Forex Rate...

www.thisdaylive.com

Obaseki, Shaibu's Rift Gets Messier as Gov Disbands Deputy’s Media Crew...

Nigeria Gradually Grinding

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), yesterday, alleged that Nigeria was in dire straits and fast grinding to a halt under President Bola Tinubu and his All Progressives Congress

to Halt

(APC). In a statement by PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the party lamented that Nigeria was on the edge of a precipice under the Tinubu-led APC government. It said the administra-

tion lacked the acceptability and followership of citizens. According to PDP, the situation has created an atmosphere and feeling of absence of governance in the country. Ologunagba stated, "Our party

8

Under Tinubu, PDP Alleges

is alarmed that there is a serious disconnection between the government and the citizens arising from ill-planned and hasty implementation of policies that have brought excruciating hardship, horrifying insecurity, and a general sense

of apprehension that is already threatening the peace, unity, and corporate existence of our nation."

The PDP spokesman further stated regarding the Tinubu government, "The administration’s lack of ingenuity, tact and

sensitivity towards the wellbeing of Nigerians in the removal of subsidy and floating of the naira inflamed unbearable high cost of living, crippled our national

Continued on page 10

At Maiden FEC Meeting, Tinubu Charges Ministers to Revive Nation's Ailing Economy

Says unemployment unacceptably high Bars uninvited govt officials from attending UNGA in US Edun: We inherited bad economy

STRATEGIC MEETING ON PROJECT FINANCING...

Story on page 10

L-R: Chairman, Coronation Capital Plc, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; Executive Vice President, Corporate Governance and Legal Services, African Export-Import Bank (AFREXIM), Dr. George Elombi; Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; President & Chairman, Board of Directors, AFREXIM, Benedict Oramah; Group CEO, Access Holdings Plc, Herbert Wigwe, and Managing Director, Access Bank Plc, Roosevelt Ogbonna, during a strategic meeting on project financing between the Lagos State Government, Access Bank, AFREXIM and other partners in Cairo, Egypt…yesterday

SHAIBU BARRED FROM ACCESSING OBASEKI...

L-R: Representative of Delta State Governor, Aniagwu Charles; Edo Governor’s Wife, Mrs Betsy Obaseki, and Governor Godwin Obaseki, watch as a department of state services seems to politely bar the Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu from accessing the governor at the church service to mark the 32 anniversary of the creation of Edo State...on Sunday... Both men were inseparable just weeks ago. The same politics that joined them together has now separated them.

THE REUNION OF OBASEKI AND OSHIOMHOLE...

again

Nigerian Engineers Kick against Planned Electricity Tariffs Increase

Say subsidy palliatives ill-conceived

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) yesterday kicked against the planned hike in electricity tariffs, stressing that after a careful review of the situation, it came to the conclusion that the call to raise power prices was unjustifiable.

Being one of the stakeholders invited to make a presentation by the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) on the issue, the NSE stated that in all their arguments, none of the proponents was able to make an iron-clad case for tariff increase.

For instance, during the hearing held in late July, the NSE President, Tasiu Gidari-Wudil, who briefed journalists in Abuja on salient national issues, said that none of the Distribution Companies (Discos) came up with verifiable evidence of their contracted feeder supply availability index to warrant feeders upgrade or customer reclassification proposed.

Noting that its position on the tariff review debate was based on unassailable available evidence, Gidari-Wudil noted that in defending their applications, the Discos cited changes in economic indices.

However, he explained that although it is the industry norm to use the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) figures, most of the Discos brought figures that were

at variance with the current reality.

In fact, the NSE president stated that figures as high as 30 per cent inflation were used by a leading Disco while quoting a consultancy outfit as their source. “These assumptions will definitely give rise to a high Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC),” the engineers stated.

While citing changes in Operating Expenditure (OPEX) expenditure as the basis for their request for review, the NSE stated that most of the licensees failed to justify the request since they did not show evidence of any increase in their circuit length, transformer numbers, increase in their staff salaries and numbers, increase in their metering and customer numbers.

“It was also observed that the Discos spend a substantial amount of their approved OPEX for payment of consultancy services and technical partnership payments that do not translate to any operational efficiency," it added.

NSE recommended that the NERC should ensure that licensees are only allowed prudent and justifiable cost escalation, as the 'pass-through' costs only, noting that they should be made to look inwards and reduce their expenses on operational line items.

The NSE listed the items as: Payment for technical partners, payment for consultants, payment for vending services/ billing and collections as well as looking into

its over-bloated payroll. It also accused the Discos of making payment for concession services that the staff can provide as well as making heavy management and board expenses.

“WACC should be prudently calculated for the industry and even at that, no licensee should be allowed a new CAPEX review now as they have not demonstrated any firm capacity and commitment in the execution of the earlier approved CAPEX.

“ All unutilised allowed CAPEX can be clawed back for them to execute as a provisional sum only, and to be claimed in the tariff only when executed. Discos must adequately compensate their customers for any

investment made in their network without any excuses.

“Licensees must be made to evacuate power, grow their customer number and metering as a sine quo non for their survival as a business. Discos should bear the consequences of not adhering to the service level provisions in the Service Based Tariff regime on feeders supply availability, by adequately refunding the customers for non-adherence,” the NSE said. In addition, it recommended that the Discos should have an automatic and seamless arrangement in their vending server that will enable refund to all customers that purchased meters under any of its arrangement.

On fuel subsidy removal, the NSE stated that as much as it is in support of its removal, since it had become a criminal conduit for syphoning scarce resources, it explained that the government should have put the mitigating mechanisms in place before the removal of subsidy from the budget.

“The announcement of plans for palliatives at this point that Nigerians are already in penury is ill-conceived,” the society stated. However, it pointed out that the utilisation of alternative fuels like Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) holds immense potential and a viable alternative fuel that has significant advantages since it is a cleaner burning fuel, emitting

lower levels of harmful pollutants and greenhouse gases compared to conventional fossil fuels.

Incidentally, the NSE said it had directed its relevant arms to tackle the challenge by developing practical solutions for effective conversion from petrol to CNG.

Even though it admitted not having any authority to dictate to President Bola Tinubu, who to appoint into his cabinet, it highlighted the fact that only three engineers are among the new ministers.

Urging government to enforce its presentation on the expected flooding, the NSE also said it was envisioning to have a SMART office project which has reached an appreciable stage .

House Vows to Stop Use of Waivers for Recruitment Exercise by MDAs

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The House of Representatives yesterday, vowed to abolish the use of waiver in recruitment exercises in Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDA) of federal government.

The Green Chamber noted that the abolishment of waiver became imperative because it breeds

nepotism, favouritism and was subject to abuse.

It noted that Chief Executive Officers, Directors among others had abused the use of waiver by employing cronies, families and those in their good books.

The Chairman of the Ad hoc Committee on Job Racketeering, and Mismanagement of IPPIS, Hon.

Glo Marks 20 Years of Operations, Thanks Nigeria for Support

Digital solutions provider, Globacom, has expressed gratitude to Nigeria, its subscribers, business partners and other stakeholders for their support for the network in the past 20 years.

The company, which marks its 20th anniversary today, commenced operations in 2003, with the rollout of innovative and affordable telecommunication services.

In a statement in Lagos yesterday, the company said it had been two decades of transforming the telecommunications landscape, fulfilling dreams, and positively affecting the lives of millions of Nigerians.

“Globacom had since 2003 remained committed to providing its customers with world-class com-

munications and digital services through constant deployment of latest technologies in line with the corporate promise to build a robust fully integrated ICT network infrastructure that would consistently deliver value to its esteemed customers.

“Glo has been at the forefront of revolutionary changes in the telecommunication sector in Nigeria. It crashed the cost of acquiring SIM cards in the country from about N25,000 to just about N200.

“The network also disappointed bookmakers as it launched operations on a Per Second Billing platform, a feat others had described as impossible to achieve until another five years,” it explained.

It further noted that promi-

nent among the innovations Glo pioneered in Nigeria were Blackberry, Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS), Magic Plus, Glo Direct, Glo Fonepals, Africhat, Glo Mobile Internet, GloFleetmanager, M-Banking and Glo Mobile Office.

“Glo was also the first to launch 2.5G, 3G and 4G LTE networks.

It also singlehandedly built an international submarine cable, Glo 1 to connect West Africa directly to the United Kingdom and the rest of the world. It also connects 12 nations in the West African sub region, including some of them that are landlocked.

“Glo1 is credited with crashing the cost of internet services and is today the preferred cable system by global OTT providers. It connects

thousands of kilometres of national fibre to all parts of Nigeria.

“As we celebrate our achievements these past twenty years, we wish to acknowledge that Globacom’s huge success is a result of the support of millions of Nigerians. We wish to thank them for their love and patronage and for the unprecedented confidence they have consistently shown in the company”, the statement noted.

Globacom restated its commitment to the provision of world-class communications and digital services in line with the corporate promise it made at launch to build a world class communications and technology infrastructure that would consistently deliver value to its esteemed customers.

Yusuf Gagdi, stated this when the Registrar of National Post-Graduate Medical College (NPGMC) appeared before it in Abuja.

He was of the opinion that granting waivers in recruitment exercises by any MDAs was not for the good of the country, adding that waivers had been severely abused by various MDAs.

He said, "We will abolish the use of waivers, it is not for the good of this country, when they give you waiver, it is subject to abuse."

The chairman explained that any recruitment that would not follow due process in advertising such on the pages of national dailies would no longer be tolerated.

Gagdi, stated categorically that recruitment in MDAs should henceforth be advertised, insisting that any recruitment without advertising the same is unjustifiable.

Against this background, the lawmaker called on MDAs to respect federal character in carrying out recruitment exercises to enable participation across board and to encourage fairness, justice and equity.

Gagdi described the action of NPGMC as unjustifiable by engaging in selective recruitment in some parts of the country without considering others.

His words: “Your action is unjustifiable, you have not respected

the federal character. Your nominal roll keeps increasing while staff keep retiring.

On your recruitment list you have Borno, Yobe, Plateau that are not represented in your organisation.

“In your recruitment in 2021, you did not know that Sokoto, Borno, Kano, Jigawa, Bauchi among others have zero.”

He queried why the recruitments carried out was not shared among the state with zero representation.

Speaking, the Registrar, NPGMC, Prof. Fatiu Arogundade, said all anomalies in the previous recruitment as noted by the lawmakers would be corrected.

He said: "It is not that the college has not involved the people of the North East, we apologised and we will correct the anomaly in subsequent recruitment.”

Responding, a member of the committee, Hon. Ahmed Jaha said with the lopsidedness and exclusion of Borno and North East in the college recruitments, the Registrar was fueling Boko Haram.

According to him, “One of the reasons people join Boko Haram is what you are doing, by excluding Borno and other North East from the recruitment carried out. I speak to express the disappointment of my zone and we will be citing your agency as the cause of Boko Haram.”

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (left), with former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, at the 60th anniversary of the Midwest Referendum, in Benin City... yesterday... Three years ago, it was fight to finish, today they have become allies once

INAUGURAL FEC MEETING...

Reps May Strengthen NEITI’s Powers to Recommend Prosecution of Erring Oil Firms, Others

To back NNPC’s privatisation to boost efficiency

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Federal lawmakers will back any plan to strengthen the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) and grant it powers to sanction erring and recalcitrant oil companies, regulators and others, the House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), has said.

Speaking when he led a team of lawmakers to the new NEITI office in Abuja yesterday, the downstream committee Chairman, Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere, assured that the law-

makers will seek to amend the extant Act to allow it to impose sanctions on entities covered by its audit.

Ugochinyere, who was received by the Executive Secretary of NEITI, Dr Ogbonnaya Orji, said aside that, the initiative would also require additional funding to be able to carry out its statutory duties.

“(We need) to saddle NEITI with the powers to take disciplinary actions against offenders and also empower NEITI to investigate offences and recommend the prosecution of offenders by relevant investigative anti-corruption agencies

of the government.

“Additionally, in the course of such investigations, NEITI should be able to sanction stakeholders who refuse to collaborate with it in the course of discharging its responsibilities like refusal to produce documents requested for by NEITI for investigative purposes.

“Also it will grant powers to sanction manipulative and obstructive tactics by officials of government to prevent NEITI from carrying out its responsibilities,” the lawmakers said. Ugochinyere said that the law setting up NEITI would be looked

into to ensure that the organisation retains some percentage of the funds in situations where its audit reports lead to recovery of monies.

“Also, we have to find a way to restructure in the amendment of the NEITI Act, a provision that will allow NEITI to keep some certain percentage of what they recover to help them to continue to do this work better.

“We also agree that the fund NEITI is receiving is not enough for the detailed work that it is doing. NEITI needs more funding in terms of budgetary allocations. We also

Falana to FG: It's Not for Market Forces, IMF, W’ Bank to Fix Forex Rate

Wants NBA to monitor turnaround of refineries

Alex

Human rights activist and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mr. Femi Falana, yesterday, stated that it was wrong for the federal government through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to allow market forces and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as well as the World Bank to determine Nigeria's foreign exchange rate.

Mixed reactions have continued to trail President Bola Tinubu's decision to float the nation's currency, the naira. While some had commended the federal government for the bold decision, others have condemned it, pointing out that floating of the naira as well as the removal of fuel subsidy had contributed greatly to the harsh economic situation facing Nigerians.

Tinubu met the official exchange rate of the naira to the dollar at around N462, but today, a dollar is being exchanged for over N750 on the official market and over N920 on the parallel market, even though the government believes that with time the currency would firm up against the dollar as well as other currencies.

However, speaking at the opening of plenary at the 2023 Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), in Abuja, Falana, told the gathering of nearly 17, 000 lawyers that fixing of the exchange rate was the exclusive of the CBN.

"Section 16 of the CBN Act gives no room for market forces to fix the

exchange rate.

"It is the CBN that shall determine... it is not for the IMF or World Bank or market forces to fix it," he said.

As part of efforts at turning around the harsh economic situation in the country, Falana, also urged the government to begin trading in naira with countries like China.

He argued that if the about $22 billion import from China was transacted in naira, the high demand for dollar which puts pressure on Nigeria's economy would drop, if not stop.

Besides the federal government, the SAN called on the umbrella body of lawyers in the country to focus on certain aspects of the Tinubu administration to ensure that the government and by extension the country gets it right this time around.

Specifically, Falana charged the various branches of the NBA where the nation's refineries are located, to begin to "monitor" development at the refineries, adding that government has committed $1.4 billion towards the projects.

In a related development, he advocated for the publishing of the details of the monies shared among the federal, state and local governments on a monthly basis, recalling that when the amount shared are made public it would be very easy for citizens to follow the money and also ask state executives relevant questions.

The focus of the plenary was

titled: ‘Getting the Economy Right: Decoding Nigeria's Strategy for Growth, Diversification, Inclusivity and Sustainability.’

Various speakers at the session while observing that the oil sector accounts for 95 per cent of the country's earnings and 87 per cent of its budgetary revenues, noted that if the country must get it right, then there must be a shift to other sectors of the economy.

While they acknowledged constraints as well as bottlenecks such as inadequate infrastructure, tariff

barriers to trade, lack of confidence in currency valuation and limited foreign exchange capacity, the session stressed the need for the involvement of professionals including lawyers in making the necessary shift from a mono-oil dominated to other sectors like agriculture, manufacturing and trade-able services.

Besides, the session expressed belief that attracting investments from Nigerians in diaspora in different sectors of the economy is also crucial to the economy getting the economy right.

have to find a way to put in the Act a provision that will allow NEITI to keep some certain percentage of what they recover to help them to continue to do this work better,” he stated.

On the non-functional refineries, Ugochinyere disclosed that the committee will be working to ensure that the nation’s refineries located in Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna which have been moribund for years are privatised.

“For decades, we have been on these refineries issues and we have spent money that they used to build new refineries we could have had two or three. It is important that these refineries are privatised to make them more efficient and so that the Nigerian people can get the benefits required in refining our products locally,” he stressed. Ugochinyere insisted that privatising the refineries would make them more beneficial to the citizenry since they would provide refined petroleum products domestically.

“Let me also propose to you one of the things our committee is going to be championing in the days ahead which is the privatisation of some of our nation’s refineries.

“You will agree with me that for decades we have been on these refinery issues. We have spent money that if they use it to build new refineries we would have built two or three. And then we keep maintaining them over time.

“It is better that these refineries are privatised to make them efficient so that Nigerians can get the benefits they require in refining our products

domestically,” he added.

He lauded Ogbonnaya for the reforms he had been championing in the extractive industries for the benefit of all Nigerians, affirming that NEITI has taken a commendable position by seeking more investments downstream as it has to do with the building of more private refineries.

In his remarks, Orji promised that NEITI would be available to guide the committee with crucial facts and data it requires to play its oversight role in the industry.

The executive secretary added that the committee came at a time when the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) which NEITI fought for came to fruition after 18 years.

“The implementation of that Act has begun but the fate of that implementation is hanging in the balance. We are waiting for that nerve from a committee like yours to ensure that implementation is effected and continues on the part of success,” he stated.

While inviting the committee to the unveiling of the 2021 NEITI solid minerals audit report on September 4 and oil and gas report on September 18, Orji said the NEITI Act was long overdue for amendment, adding the amendment will place the agency in line with the PIA.

He urged the legislators to ensure that the PIA is implemented faithfully, noting that so far there have been delays in implementing some of its provisions and urged the lawmakers to pressure the relevant stakeholders to do the needful.

Kalu: Farmers-Herders’ Clashes Claimed about 60,000 People Since 2001

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ben Kalu, yesterday, said clashes between farmers and herders in the country have claimed about 60,000 lives since 2001.

Kalu, stated this in Abuja, at the inauguration of the Ad hoc committee to interface with stakeholders with a view to finding lasting solution to recurring clashes between farmers and herders in Yemaltu-Deba and neighboring local government areas, including other regions of the country with similar incidents.

He said the task before the committee was critical and of utmost national importance as it directly affects both national and food security.

The deputy speaker stressed that given its implications for the collective good of the nation, the House resolved to take a critical look into the causes, nature, dimensions, actors, impact, and possible solution to this nagging national challenge.

According to him, “these conflicts have escalated in recent years and it is quite consequential to our national security. What is even more concerning is the appropriation of these conflicts by terror groups, bandits and international criminal organisations.”

Kalu pointed out that this has had severe consequences including the restriction of farmers from access to their farmlands, leading to food price inflation, a high cost of living,

unemployment, and loss of foreign earnings that would have accrued through the agricultural sector.

He noted that it was therefore a grave concern that the otherwise multi-billion-dollar livestock industry was mired with crisis and security challenges.

Kalu added: "What is clear from the foregoing is that we are not only dealing with a national security problem but also a food security challenge. Indeed, the two reinforce themselves. No doubt, these conflicts are in part triggered by the global environmental challenge of climate change.

"In the past, these clashes were viewed as mere communal clashes arising from disputes over farming

land, grazing spaces, and water, which were largely confined to northern Nigeria.

"However, the clashes have long escalated and spread to other parts of the country, taking on political and ethno-religious dimensions. It ought not to be so.

"In addition, there are claims of violent herders infiltrating our borders from neighboring countries and perpetuating killings, cattle rustling, and destruction of property.

"The clashes have resulted in avoidable losses of lives and property. It is estimated that over 60,000 people have been killed since 2001. It ought not to be so."

Enumah in Abuja

L-R: Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike; Minister of State, FCT, Mairiga Mahmud; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar; Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate and the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Tunji Alausa, at the inaugural Federal Executive Council meeting held at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa, Abuja …. Yesterday PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI

SECOND YEAR CORONATION ANNIVERSARY CEREMONY...

L-R: His Majesty Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwatse III and Queen Consort Warri Kingdom, Olori Atuwatse III during the thanksgiving service to end the second Year coronation Anniversary at Aghofen Palace Warri, Delta State... on Sunday

Midwest at 60: Obaseki, Oborevwori, Oshiomhole, Others Chart Path for Devt

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, his Edo State counterpart, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, and the senator for Edo North Senatorial District and former governor of the state, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, among other stakeholders from the South-south, yesterday, converged on Benin City to chart a new path for the region’s development during a colloquium to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Midwest Referendum.

The colloquium, with the theme, “60 years after the referendum, which way Midwest?” had in attendance leaders from Edo, Delta, and Bayelsa states.

Obaseki stated that the region was still bedevilled with numerous social and economic challenges 60 years after the referendum. He reiterated the need to plan better for the future of the people and attain accelerated development with a less cumbersome system of government that promoted competition among sub-nationals and discouraged the constant resort to Abuja for direction and resources.

The Edo State governor said in his welcome address, “The story of the Midwest Referendum is one of unity, resilience, and the power of collective action, as it marked the beginning of a new

House of

era with which we took control of our destinies and that resulted in growth, development and progress.

It is a story that continues to inspire us to this day, reminding us of our capacity to overcome challenges, transform adversity into opportunities, and forge a better path for ourselves.

“Sixty years after the referendum, we are still bedevilled with numerous socio-economic challenges, which require a reset of the institutions and structures that propped the region up in the past.

“This is why we have undertaken holistic reforms of our institutions in Edo State in the last seven years. We have advanced reforms and innovations in various spheres of the economy that have opened Edo up for investment.

“We must continue to work together to overcome challenges, build on our successes, and sustain collaborations toward building a strong and virile region.”

The governor of Delta State, represented by his deputy, Monday Oyeme, said, “It is worthy of note that when the people decide on a stand, nothing can change it, not even intimidation. Eighty-nine per cent of people voted for a referendum to opt-out from the Western region to form the Midwest region without violence,

as the people’s choice prevailed.”

Oshiomhole, who described the event as apt, thanked Obaseki for organising it and bringing stakeholders from Edo, Delta, and Bayelsa states to chart a path for

their future.

Oshiomhole stated, “This is the kind of event that is needed, as it will bring the unity we need for the progress of our people. When I received the invitation

letter personally signed by you, I said to myself that I must be here to solidarise and support you, as Edo is one.

“There are a lot of young people here in this hall and this kind of

event will enable our young people to know when the Midwest was created and formed. The Midwest is truly the only region of unity that came together to fight for its freedom.”

Obaseki, Shaibu's Rift Gets Messier as Gov Disbands Deputy’s Media Crew

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The palpable rift between the Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki and his deputy, Comrade Philip Shaibu, assumed another twist yesterday as Shaibu stormed out of the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub, venue of the 60th anniversary of the Midwest referendum/32 years anniversary of the creation Edo State after his media crew was sent out of the venue.

This was as the Edo State Government has disbanded the media crew attached to the Office of the Deputy Governor, with a directive to Shaibu to henceforth request the Ministry of Communication and Orientation for media coverage of activities of his office.

The deputy governor, who was

Representatives

inside the venue became livid when he discovered that his media team were not allowed to come into the venue.

This angered Shaibu, who was in a discussion with the governor's Chief Press Secretary, Andy Okungbowa, who was trying to explain what happened to the deputy governor.

One of the journalists in the deputy Governor's media team said that they were already seated when they were told to leave the venue by security agents after Okungbowa and Public Relations Officer, Office of the Governor, Ms Osarumwense Margaret Ojo identified them.

"We were at the event to cover the proceedings as the deputy governor media. I got the premonition that things will get ugly when our

Committee Decries

Mismanagement of Mass Transit Schemes

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee to investigate

‘Failure of Federal Mass Transit Schemes in Nigeria Since 1999,’ yesterday decried the mismanagement of humongous government investments in Urban Mass Transit Schemes with abysmal results.

The Chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee, Hon. Afam Victor Ogene, in a statement warned that the Committee would get to the roots of the mismanagement of the funds that runs into billions of naira ploughed into the scheme by successive governments, without commensurate impact since 1999. He expressed displeasure over the seeming reluctance by line ministries and agencies, in releasing documents

relating to public funds expended on previous Mass Transit Schemes.

"This becomes important especially at this period of grueling multifaceted economic challenges that have heightened the sufferings of the people and lowered the living conditions of many," he said.

Ogene, who represents Ogbaru Federal Constituency in Anambra State and also the Labour Party’s caucus leader in the House, disclosed that in 2012 alone, over N16 billion was released through The Infrastructure Bank (TIB), for the purchase of busses for Public Mass Transit, from the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programe SURE-P funds, under the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, from the Public Mass Transit Revolving Fund, PMTF.

"A total of 1,179 vehicles were released to the beneficiaries under the scheme, with a repayment plan covering four years. But according to TIB, many of the beneficiaries defaulted and didn't repay the loans.

“For instance, records show that as at December 2015, only two of the beneficiaries, ABC Transport PLC and The Young Shall Grow Transport Limited, liquidated their loans. Most of the beneficiaries are yet to pay as stipulated in the contractual agreements signed between them and TIB.

"Perhaps because they see the funds as usual government bonanza. But this is where they get it wrong because they can't be living large with our collective scarce resources while the people suffer as a result of poor mass

transportation schemes.

“The Committee shall make the defaulters to account for every government money they have misapplied," he added.

The lawmaker further said on October 4th 2016, the then Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Okechukwu Enelamah, had announced that the federal government had set up a N25 billion revolving loan scheme to enable transport companies in the country purchase Mass Transit Vehicles.

Also, just a year ago, August 2022 precisely, the immediate past Minister of State for Transport revealed that the former President, Muhammadu Buhari, had approved the establishment of yet another Mass Transit Scheme, and a committee set up for its implementation.

bus was nearly prevented from going into the complex.

"After we gained entrance, we were allowed into the hall and we set out to do our job. After a while, the Okungbowa and Ojo identified us and the security agencies walked us out.

"When the deputy governor got

wind of what happened, he came to the door but he was told that they acting on instructions from above. It was at this time that the deputy governor stormed out," he added.

When contacted, Okungbowa promised to respond to the allegation but did not.

Study Centre, Institutions to Produce Literatures to Improve China-Nigeria Relations

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

In order to improve China-Nigeria relations, an agreement has been reached by the Centre for China Studies in Nigeria and some government institutions in China to produce literatures.

The Director of the Centre, Dr. Charles Onunaiju, made the disclosure after receiving in audience some delegation from China.

Speaking about the understanding his organisation had with the Chinese institutions after the meeting in Abuja, Onunaiju, disclosed that those in the meeting were Mr. DU Zhanyuan, President, China International Communications Group;

Mr. HU Baomin, President, Center for Europe and Africa, China International Communications Group;

Mr. HU Kaimin, President, Foreign Languages Press, China International Communications Group; Ms. LIU Shuangyan, Director-General of the Department of International Cooperation, China International Communications Group, Mr. SUN Zhipeng, Deputy Director-General of the General Office, China International Communications Group, and Ms. XIA Weilan, Publishing Rights Executive, Foreign Languages Press, China International Communications Group. Onunaiju, said the institutions

viewed the Centre as a foremost organisation for the study of China in West Africa and Nigeria, adding that, "They have expressed their desire to cooperate with us in joint research, book publishing and a whole range of issues."

He said a liaison officer to liaise with the Centre, propose research topics and take care of other important issues had been appointed.

Onunaiju said: “There are mechanisms for follow-up. For us, it is a milestone. This is the most critical and important meeting we have had.

"We look forward to a whole range of multiple ripple effects by way of growth of this place.

"We don't have an agreement signed but we have an understanding that we are going to have books written by us and published by them.

"They will also send us a lot of their books especially those published in English as a resource material. "

Onunaiju said the main focus of the Centre was to clarify the myths around China's relationship with Africa and Nigeria in particular.

"China/Africa cooperation has one of the most mythologies, and part of our job is to continually clarify this subject, " he added.

As Nigeria Grapples with Fuel Subsidy Removal, Saudi Spends $7,000 Per Person, Highest in G-20 Economies

Citi says naira worst performing currency in 2023

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Saudi Arabia’s total spending on fuel subsidies soared over the past two years, hitting the highest among the Group of 20 economies on a per capita basis, a Bloomberg report has shown.

The revelation is coming amid the harsh impact of petrol subsidy removal by the Bola Tinubu administration, which has cited the unsustainable nature of the decades-long payments. In 2022, Nigeria spent about $10 billion for the purpose.

The report indicated that Saudi Arabia spent almost $7,000 per person, equivalent to about 27 per cent of economic output, across both explicit and implicit energy subsidies, according to a paper published by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Fossil fuel subsidies soared globally since 2020 to $7 trillion last year as governments took measures to protect consumers and businesses from a spike in

prices following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, according to the IMF paper.

It estimated that cutting fossil fuel subsidies could help reduce carbon dioxide emissions, deaths from air pollution and boost government revenues.

“Fossil fuels in most countries are priced incorrectly,” Simon Black, Antung Liu, Ian Parry and Nate Vernon wrote in the IMF working paper. “Unfortunately, current prices are routinely set at levels that do not adequately reflect environmental damages and, in some cases, not even supply costs,” they added.

China-which spent $2.2 trillionwas the biggest provider of subsidies in absolute terms, followed by the US and Russia, according to the IMF. Saudi Arabia spent a total of $253 billion on subsidies last year, it added.

The IMF has been urging Saudi Arabia to push ahead with measures to cut the government subsidy bill and take steps to protect the welfare of low-income households

through increased and targeted social spending. The spending has made Saudi fuel one of the cheapest in the world.

In 2021, the government set a cap for the domestic cost of gasoline to soften the impact of higher living costs on citizens, just months before prices soared to over $100 a barrel.

In its Article IV Consultation last year, the IMF said that the kingdom’s work on subsidy reforms is “continuing unabated through planned step price increases that will lead to their elimination by 2030.”

Implicit subsidies, which the IMF defined as undercharging for the environmental cost of fossil fuel burning and lost tax revenue, made up the bulk of the global total. Explicit subsidies, or selling fuels as below supply costs, had a share of just 18 per cent.

Meanwhile Citigroup has said that Nigeria, Angola and Kenya are among African countries that could draw greater foreign investment flows in the wake of sharp declines

this year for their currencies.

“Countries where we’ve seen significant FX adjustments are clear winners from an investment perspective,” George Asante, Citi’s head of markets for Sub-Saharan Africa, said in an interview in Nairobi. “All these from a local market perspective offer opportunities, ” he told Bloomberg.

Nigeria’s naira is the worstperforming African currency this year, it said, slumping more than 40 per cent against the dollar as the country takes painful steps to patch up its finances by scrapping fuel subsidies and revamping a widely-criticised exchange-rate system. Angola’s kwanza is down 39 per cent and the Kenyan shilling nearly 15 per cent, it added.

Nigerian President, Bola Tinubu, is seeking to retool the economy by scrapping fuel subsidies in place since the 1970s and diverting the money spent on them to increased investment in health services, schools and job creation. In June, the central bank overhauled the

nation’s exchange-rate policies, effectively devaluing the naira.

The removal of subsidies was a “very important reform” for Nigeria, while moves to merge multiple exchange rates will also help to boost liquidity, Asante said. The next task for the government is to make sure the official FX market can function smoothly in the wake of the changes, he said.

“I believe that this will be a significant catalyst for flows back into the Nigerian market,” Asante noted.

Commenting on the prospects for eurobond issuance by African nations, “darlings of the market” including Ivory Coast and Senegal will probably attract most interest from investors when the market reopens, he said. Both countries have long-term foreign debt ratings of Ba3 from Moody’s Investors Service.

“These two countries have fairly consistent high growth rates, diversified economic bases, large IMF programmes with associated

concessional financing and a track record for economic reforms and fiscal prudence as well as low cost of debt service,” Asante said.

As the coronavirus pandemic eased, some African countries started to seek infrastructure financing, primarily for energy and food-related projects and longer-term investment in roads, railways and hospitals, said Ferdinand Zaumu , Citigroup’s head of trade and working capital solutions in the Middle East and Africa.

“A lot of that infrastructure financing is really to solve some of the issues that came out of Covid,” Zaumu said. “The one big shift that we have seen is that the Chinese have slowed down in terms of providing financing for a lot of these infrastructure and we’ve seen a pick up from the west.” African countries with the most financial leeway to seek infrastructure financing include Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Namibia, Botswana and Mauritius, he said.

AT MAIDEN FEC MEETING, TINUBU CHARGES MINISTERS TO REVIVE NATION'S AILING ECONOMY

Deji

Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu yesterday, urged the 45 Ministers that constitute the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to do their best towards turning around for better, the nation's ailing economy.

Also, yesterday, Tinubu directed the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs to stop forthwith, the processing of visas for all government officials seeking to travel to New York for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) without proof of direct participation in the official schedule of activities of the global event.

Addressing the opening session of the maiden FEC meeting held in Abuja, that was also attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, the president charged the Ministers to look beyond titles and offices and stay focused on the day-to-day task of their individual and collective contributions to the transformation of the economy for the upliftment

of Nigerian households.

According to him: "You and I know that expectations are high, and these are tough times. We must work hard and move ourselves to create a buoyant economy that will serve Nigeria.

“We have an employment rate that is unacceptable, and we are facing threats from climate change. In order to turn things around, you have been selected to perform your utmost best. Our policy implementation will reform the economy, ensure inclusive growth, and strengthen security for peace and prosperity. Without security, there can be no investment.

"We shall evolve a homegrown re-engineering of our finances, a reimagined stewardship of our resources, and we will let the economy work for the people of this country. There are so many things we can and will do. Yes, some cynics will say it is impossible. But in your own dictionary of service, everything is possible, and it must be possible.”

NIGERIA GRADUALLY GRINDING TO HALT UNDER TINUBU, PDP ALLEGES

productivity, crashed millions of businesses and sparked massive job loss with attendant escalated poverty, hunger, insecurity, and hopelessness across the country.

"The situation has snowballed into a dangerous loss of investors’ confidence with international companies exiting our nation and leaving millions of Nigerians stranded in the labour market with crippling effect on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which are the real drivers of our national economy.

"It is horrifying that in the last two months, over 150 million Nigerians can no longer afford their daily meals, with families now going to bed on empty stomach."

PDP stressed that it was appalling that the APC government continued to tout their alleged fraud-prone palliative programme, “of a miserable average 1,200 bags of rice to Nigerians in each state of the country”. It maintained that the ruling party “has expanded its capacity to deceive and defraud Nigerians through phony programmes; a situation that has heightened frustration across the country”.

PDP said it was distressing that the APC government had turned a blind eye to the plight of Nigerians, with no concrete commitment towards the safety of lives of the citizens, “despite the killing of over 500 Nigerians in Plateau, Benue, Niger, Kaduna and other states of the federation, with many more abducted since

May

29, 2023”.

The PDP spokesman added, "The failure of the APC government to decisively act since the abduction of eight corps members, who were on their way to Sokoto State for their one-year mandatory national service, is another ugly testament of the APC government’s insensitivity towards the security, safety and wellbeing of citizens.

"More disturbing is the recent downing of a Nigerian military aircraft with attendant loss of lives of our brave and gallant military personnel without corresponding reassuring statement from the APC government."

Ologunagba stated that under APC, life expectancy in Nigeria had plummeted, and citizens and residents lived in constant apprehension and could not move freely across the country for fear of being killed or abducted.

He stressed, "Instead of protecting Nigerians, the APC government is desperate to plunge our nation into a needless war in Niger Republic over a conflict in the nation that does not constitute any threat whatsoever to our national interest.

"Our party is concerned that the general sense of despondency, anxiety, distress and disconnection in the country, if not urgently addressed, could deteriorate into a serious crisis."

PDP charged Nigerians to remain calm, law-abiding, and continue to support one another in their quest for a secure and economically thriving nation.

Tinubu told the new Ministers that the hopes and aspirations of 200 million fellow Nigerians rested on their daily actions and that he would relentlessly provide the focused leadership required to stop failure in its tracks so that sustainable progress can be achieved.

"We have the talent. We have the level of intellectual capacity required to turn this country around. We will make sure that the country is on the right path to succeed on behalf of more than 200 million Nigerians who rely on us," the president affirmed.

Emphasising that anyone thinking that his or her appointment was for a fixed term appointments was making mistake, the president expressed confidence that the carefully selected cabinet members knew that his government was a new one with a new approach and a new mandate to deliver for Nigeria without any lamentation or excuses.

He noted that the country would rely on the experience, skill, intellect, and networking of those who had been appointed to make headway in the challenging times, and failure would not be explained away under his watch.

Tinubu reminded his cabinet that he was only one man and that their innovative thinking to solve problems would shape his leadership as a president who listens.

"It is in your hands now. I am ready to listen and to cooperate. I am ready even to be corrected. Only God is perfect. You have been asked to fetch water from a dry well. The challenges are great, but we will deliver for Nigerians. I am happy to be the captain of this vehicle.

"It is a great commitment that you have made to the country. Since

your inauguration as a Minister, you have become a servant for the people, serving all of the people, all of the time," Tinubu further said.

Briefing newsmen after the FEC meeting, some Ministers said the inaugural meeting centred around plans of the administration to revive the economy.

Five Ministers namely Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris; Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr Ali Pate; Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari; and that of Industry, Trade and Investment, Doris Anite, took turns to address the press on what transpired at the meeting.

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun said he presented, “Roadmap for the Economy” during the meeting noting that the Council agreed that the economy was not where it ought to be.

According to him, FEC examined eight priority areas and identified targets to deliver in the next three years or thereabout, adding that the president has directed the Ministers to roll out policy and programme to turn the economy around.

He said: “First the President congratulated everybody and emphasised the high expectations of Nigerians and he encouraged us to be bold and courageous and innovative and to act with urgency in delivering a better life to all Nigerians.

“Essentially we went through an exercise of looking at where things stood, regarding the economy, the growth rate, the exchange rate, inflation, unemployment and so on.

“The overriding conclusion is that

we’re not where we should be and we also examined the President’s eight-point agenda, that is the eight priority areas for moving the Nigerian economy forward and for delivering to Nigerians and those are basically food security; ending poverty, economic growth and job creation, access to capital, particularly consumer credit, inclusivity in all its dimensions, particularly as regards youths and women, improving security, improving the playing field on which people and particularly companies operate, rule of law, and of course, fighting corruption.

“It is around the matrix that the plans and the targets of what will be delivered in the next three years or so were identified, discussed and imputes were given by various ministers and we’ll now go away with the marching order to refine further the targets in particular and within weeks to start rolling out policies and programmes to turn around the economy and make things better for all Nigerians. That really is the substance of what the discussion was all about”.

Commenting on the economy and what was inherited by the present administration, Edun said the Tinubu administration inherited a bad economy with an unacceptable high rate of unemployment, with inflation standing at 24 per cent.

His words: “Per capital has fallen steadily, inflation is at 24 percent, unemployment is high, you know they are rebasing the way in which it's calculated. Either way, it is high and youth unemployment is even unacceptably high, these are the key metrics that we have met.”

Asked to be specific on the kind of economy the Tinubu administration inherited, the Minister said, "We met a bad economy and the

WE’RE IN BIG MESS, SHETTIMA DECLARES ON ECONOMY

he is a progressive man in the Nigerian political space.”

The vice president noted that fiscal policy and tax reforms were a potent tool for resource mobilisation. He charged the committee to make recommendations that would be quick deliverables in view of the current economic realities.

While assuring the committee of the National Economic Council’s cooperation, Shettima said, “Our focus should largely dwell on domestic resource mobilisation, especially, with trends in the world today, even the biggest economies in the world are faced with this reality.”

Shettima said fiscal policy and tax reforms were critical in meeting national aspirations, and this was taking global dimensions, with global realignment of forces, like the emergence of BRICS and other

geo-political unions.

He praised the composition of the committee, stating, “I think the composition of this committee bears testimony to the seriousness that the president attaches to your mandate. Honestly, I am proud of you. I am personally conversant with some of the members of this committee, who are men and women of impeccable character, high integrity, committed and patriotic.”

Earlier, Special Adviser to the President on Revenue, Zaccheus Adedeji, revealed that the presidential committee would be interested in working with the National Economic Council (NEC), chaired by Shettima, “to ensure effective collaboration with the sub-national governments that are critical stakeholder groups in the task before the committee.” Committee chairman, Oyedele,

said members of the committee were “excited for this opportunity to help our country to redefine, redesign a new fiscal policy framework that is fit for our nation to thrive and deliver the Nigeria we want in order for our people to flourish in their endeavours.

“We are laser focused on our mandate as directed by Mr. President, which covers fiscal governance, revenue transformation and fiscal competitiveness and economic growth facilitation.”

He assured the vice president that the committee would engage with Nigerians both at home and abroad as well as with all segments of the society.

Oyedele also expressed the readiness of the committee to engage with sub-national governments through NEC in achieving its mandate.

promise of Mr. President is to make it better”.

He also said the federal government was not in a position to borrow money at this time, adding the emphasis was on how to create a macroeconomic environment where both local and foreign investors will invest and increase production.

“Clearly, the federal government is not in a position to borrow at this time. Rather, the emphasis has to be on creating a stable, macroeconomic environment.

“Stable inflation, stable exchange rate, an environment within which people can come and invest and thereby increase production and further grow the economy.

“Improve and create jobs and reduce poverty. So, the aim of all reforms at this time is to focus on what we call equity to focus on investment to attract investment by Nigerians.

“Investment by foreign direct investors and even investment by portfolio investors that want to invest in the financial aspects of the Nigerian economy, such as the stock market, such as the bond market.

“So that is the plan. That is the expectation and it is that there will not be a reliance on borrowing. Rather, as revenues increase, as the benefit of removing fuel subsidy and the subsidy on the exchange rate, those mean more money for government at all levels.

“Because, of course, through oil revenue, the federation earns dollars and if those dollars are feeding through, at let's say, N700/N750 or so to one dollar as opposed to N460 where it was before; clearly, that is repairing the finances of government are federal state and local government levels”, he said.

Also speaking, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Anite, said the president plans to create 50 million jobs.

According to her: “In Mr. President’s manifesto during his campaigns, he promised 50 million jobs and that's our target. We will take it in phases; we are looking at different sectors of the economy that will contribute to this job creation chief among them is the creative industry and the digital economy, and then the agric sector, agro-processing zones, and mining, oil and gas. So we're very confident that we will achieve this.”

Tinubu Bars Uninvited Govt Officials from Travelling to US for UNGA in Sept

Meanwhile, Tinubu has directed the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs to stop forthwith, the processing

NMA OFFICIALS' WORKING VISIT TO UZODIMMA...

Again, FG Warns Frontline States May Be Flooded by Opening of Lagdo Dam

The states that might be affected include Benue, Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Anambra, Enugu, Edo, Delta, Rivers and Bayelsa.

chair the Committee.

The federal government once more, warned yesterday, that several frontline states risk flooding in the next seven days by the opening of the Lagdo Dam by the Cameroonian authorities.

The dam is located along River Benue in the Republic of Cameroon and has a history of over flooding some Nigerians states that are along its navigation ways.

The flood warning alert was issued by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, at a media briefing held at the instance of the Presidential Committee instituted by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting in Abuja.

It was also resolved that the Vice President, Kasim Shettima would

Minister of Environment, Dr. Iziaq Salako and Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, were are also members of the committee.

Edu, urged the Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF) to immediately upscale actions by ensuring the evacuation of Nigerians from various communities to safer destinations. She said the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs would work with subnational and local government authorities towards the provision of shelters for the affected citizens.

She noted that some of the people living in most of the communities who may be affected were afraid of losing their ancestral homes, despite the warning.

The minister stressed the resolve of the Tinubu-led administration toward putting necessary measures in place to safeguard the lives of property of Nigerians across the country.

On his part, Salako disclosed that the Ministry of Environment had activated necessary flood warning alerts on hourly basis across the country on the water level of River Benue and River Niger as well as

vulnerability level of the affected areas.

He noted that the Ministry had designed veritable platform that would provide regular and real time information to environmental correspondents on the floor warning alerts without waiting for the ministry.

Salako also said recommendations on long term measures solutions would be presented to the president as part of ongoing efforts towards finding lasting solution to the menace of flooding.

Meanwhile, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has allayed fears of Nigerians over the planned release of excess water from Lagdo dam by Cameroun which had warned that nine states would be affected.

Edo

Explores Partnership with Foreign Groups to Propel Agro Sector Growth

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The Edo State Government yesterday, revealed that it was making substantial strides towards propelling its agro-sector economy to new heights, focusing on heightened productivity and sustainable practices.

It said the commitment had garnered the attention and support of vital development partners, all aligned with the state's core objective of cultivating the sector's growth while ensuring its enduring viability on the global stage.

The Edo government stated this during a high-level meeting held in Benin City, the state capital, adding that key representatives from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), British High Commission Abuja, and Propcom+ gathered to deliberate on the state's visionary agenda.

The Managing Director of Edo State Investment Promotion Office (ESIPO), Kelvin Uwaibi, who unveiled the state's strategic partnership with international development allies on behalf of Governor Godwin Obaseki, noted that the strategic alliance was, "aimed to beckon investments, particularly in the flourishing oil palm value chain and other vital commodities, ultimately diversifying the state's revenue streams."

Uwaibi, who underlined the state's multifaceted approach to the sector, spotlighting oil palm as a linchpin, however, added that Edo State

recognises the strategic imperative of diversification, incorporating additional commodities like cocoa, rubber and cassava.

Other crop products, he further said like maize, rice were also being considered by the government in a move geared towards empowering smallholder farmers, facilitating quicker returns on their investments while prioritising sustainability over mere business profitability.

Responding to inquiries regarding investor reception to The Round Table on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) stipulations for oil palm ventures and the related challenges, Uwaibi expressed optimism about burgeoning support from partners.

He highlighted the potential of a dynamic partnership with Propcom+ aimed at improving robust aftercare services to nurture investors post-engagement. Uwaibi underscored the pivotal role of a comprehensive corporate social responsibility guideline, envisioning Edo State as a pioneering model for sustainable business practices.

Leading the FCDO delegation was Ms. Martine Sobey, the Climate Change and Nature Team Leader at the British High Commission in Abuja.

Sobey in a remark, elucidated the delegation's purpose in visiting Edo State, highlighting their objective to bolster the agro-economy and value chain for enhanced productivity and climate resilience through sustainable

forest management, adding that this multifaceted approach underscores FCDO's broader engagement across Nigeria.

On his part, Team lead Edo Oil Palm Programme, Mr. Churchill Oboh, elaborated on the collaborative efforts between investors and ESOPP to inculcate optimal practices for sustainable oil palm cultivation.

He noted ongoing training initiatives to empower smallholder farmers with the knowledge and skills requisite for sustainable oil

palm cultivation. Oboh, also underscored the broader purview of the Africa Sustainable Commodities Initiative (ASCI) in encouraging sustainable production across various commodities, with oil palm's prominence standing out prominently in Edo State's agricultural landscape.

Central to the discussion of sustainable production in the agro sector was micro, small and medium scale enterprises (MSMEs), particularly smallholder farmers.

The minister further stressed the resolve of the present administration towards working with the Cameroonian authorities towards ensuring that the impacts of the release of Lagdo Dam floodgate do not lead to loss of lives and property while also mitigating damages

In his remarks, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev, tasked Nigerians on the need to take precautions toward clearing drainages while government at all levels play their roles.

He assured that the Ministry will on the long run ensure construction of dams as well as dredge rivers channels the country with the view to ending the menace of annual flooding, which has led to loss of several lives and property.

He added that the Ministry was also meeting with relevant stakeholders at various levels in the bid to controlling the waters, as well curbing the impacts of the flooding.

The agency yesterday, said it was working with critical stakeholders at the federal, states and local government levels to ensure that the release do not cause much negative impacts on the low-lying communities along the states that would be affected. NEMA in a statement released by its Head of Media and Public Relations, Ezekiel Manzo, stated that it had envisaged the release of excess water from the Lagdo dam and had taken note of the likely impacts and considered it in preparations for mitigation and response to the 2023 flood alert.

"Information available from the flow level of River Benue at Nigerian Hydrological Service Agency (NIHSA) gauging station in Makurdi stood at 8.97 meters as of August 25th, 2023, compared to 8.80 meters on the same date in 2022.

"In contrast, NIHSA has also provided that the flow level of the River Niger system, specifically at Niamey, Niger Republic, remains stable at a normal level of 4.30 meters. Similarly, inland dams including Kainji, Jebba, and Shiroro reported consistent flow regimes.

400 Young Nigerians Complete US’YALI Programme

The US Mission in Nigeria has announced the successful conclusion of the Nigerian Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Network’s 6th annual National Conference, themed “Beyond Limits: Innovation for Sustainable Development.”

According to a statement, the two-day event brought together over 400 young Nigerian leaders from 36 Nigerian States between the ages of 18-35, to foster collaboration and drive sustainable development across the nation through keynote speakers, panel discussions, and interactive activities all focused on the participants’ role in sustainable development.

The conference left five YALI

Network members with on-the-spot job offers and HP gave away eight laptops to the winners of a business pitch competition.

The YALI Network National Conference served as a testament to the strong partnership between the United States and Nigeria in supporting youth empowerment and sustainable development.

The US government, through initiatives like YALI, has consistently demonstrated its commitment to nurturing the potential of young African leaders driving positive change in their communities.

The United States provides online courses and materials to the YALI Network of over 200,000 members in Nigeria and throughout Africa, while connecting members with

global leaders in their fields to help members develop leadership skills through speaker programmes and by supporting conferences, such as the one that took place August 25-26 in Abuja.

US Embassy’s Public Diplomacy Officer, Julia McKay, delivered a keynote address which highlighted how the U.S. government supports young people in advancing the shared goal of achieving sustainable economies and inclusive communities in Nigeria.

She stated that, “Studies have shown that nations with gender parity and inclusion experience more economic growth and development, less conflict, and higher literacy rates. Our commitment to inclusivity is reflected in our initiatives and

programmes, like YALI Stands for All…as well as the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), and the Tech Women and Tech Girls’ exchange programs.

“And these are just some examples of how we work with our Nigerian partners to advance our common goals and interests because we believe that by strengthening our people to people ties, we can build a more prosperous, secure, and democratic future for both of our countries.

“And we recognize the important role that young people like you play in the future of Nigeria. We will continue to provide opportunities like the YALI Network to equip young Nigerians with the skills and connections that they need to foster change in their communities.”

NEMA says no need for panic, insists stakeholders abreast with issue Edo, Benue govts issue warning alerts to residents in lowlands Agency distributes relief materials to 19, 752 flood victims in Rivers

L- R: Imo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Prosper Success-Ohayagha, Imo State Governor, Sen. Hope Uzodimma and President of Nigeria Medical Association, Dr. Uche Ojinma, when NMA officials paid a working visit to Governor Uzodimma at the Government House Owerri... yesterday

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Olawale Ajimotokan, Kuni Tyessi in Abuja, Adibe Emenyonu in Benin, George Okoh in Makurdi and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Adedeji: Tinubu Laying Foundation for a Prosperous Nigerian Future

Special Adviser to the President on Revenue,

reforms that

The last 100 days have been turbulent to say the least, following the reforms launched by President Tinubu. While international investors have hailed these reforms, Nigerians have felt the negative impact the most, causing many of them to question the President’s effort to revamp economy. As his SA on revenue, do you think the President is on track to fulfill his election campaign promises?

I know it is symbolic to assess the performance of a new administration within the first 100 days, sometimes even for a shorter period. However for this government, it is not simply about the present moment or what the President has done within the short term of being in office, it is more about the medium to long term vision of how he wants to reposition the economy and make life better for Nigerians.

We are laying the foundation for a prosperous future. You will agree with me that even though the foundation is the most important structure of a building, it is not always the prettiest. Once the house begins to take shape the beauty will not only be apparent for all to behold but also it will provide the much needed shelter to shield the occupants from bad weather and other unfavourable external conditions.

We have done a lot that I am proud of within the short period. These include addressing some critical concerns of the private sector regarding pressing tax issues, removal of wasteful subsidy on PMS to create fiscal headroom and limit excessive borrowing, forex reforms to address market distortions, just to mention a few.

So, overall I can say that we are on track and moving in the right direction.

What approach is the government adopting to help Nigerians who are bearing the pain of high cost of living as a result of the fuel subsidy removal?

You will recall that Mr. President signed some Executive Orders on the 6th of July, 2023 which reversed the tax increases on manufacturers, and suspended the excise tax imposed on Single Use Plastics which would have affected mostly SMEs and potentially trigger higher prices and further inflation. The Orders also deferred the commencement date of various changes introduced via the Fiscal Measures and Finance Act 2023 in order to give individuals and businesses reasonable time to adapt to the changes without major disruptions to their operations and livelihoods. The removal of wasteful subsidies on PMS and forex have stopped the haemorrhage on our treasury and will ensure that government is on the path to sustainable financing with less dependence on CBN overdraft for public finance.

While some of these measures have unfortunately created short term pains for many people, we are confident that Nigerians will start to reap the benefits sooner rather than later. In addition to the various interventions by the federal and subnational governments, more initiatives are being worked on in consultation with key stakeholders which are expected to have positive and more fundamental impacts on the people.

What steps are being taken to diversify Nigeria’s revenue sources and reduce dependency on a single sector for income generation?

We believe that Nigeria is blessed if only we can improve our policy environment and enhance the efficiency of both the private and public sectors. This is one of the reasons why Mr. President recently approved the setting up of a Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee with eminent Nigerians from all spheres of the society to not only advise government on the necessary reforms but also support with the implementation. Ultimately the outcome of the committee’s work along with other policy actions of the government will result in productive diversification of the economy, government revenue sources and foreign exchange earnings.

What strategies are in place to attract foreign direct investment and ensure a

conducive environment for investors in Nigeria and what are the long-term benefits to Nigerians?

Mr. President’s philosophy is that we should not tax investment but returns on investment. We should not tax production but consumption. We should not tax poverty but facilitate prosperity and share it by way of fair and progressive taxation.

This is the reasoning behind Mr. President’s recent remark that this government will tax fruits not seeds.

The market friendly disposition of this administration is already creating excitement in the capital market with over 20% growth this year to date and best performance in 15 years. We are also working on reforms to create more jobs and entrepreneurship opportunities in the digital economy especially for our teeming youth.

We recognise that Nigeria can not continue to rely on the oil and gas sector as the mainstay of the economy especially with the uncertainties around global oil prices which usually creates shocks in

the economy whenever the price crashes like we experienced from 2014 till 2018 when the price started rising again above $50. President Tinubu promised to build a more vibrant and more prosperous economy and he is set to achieve this by ensuring other sectors of the economy like agriculture, solid minerals, maritime, retail, hospitality, tourism and professional services, and others perform optimally.

The president during his maiden address to the nation talked about how government would be injecting the monies saved from the subsidy back into the economy. Can you please expand on the ways in which the country can gain economic stability through subsidy removal?

PMS and forex subsidies were not only wasteful, they promoted inefficiencies in our resource management and created economic distortions making it difficult to attract both domestic and foreign investments.

By removing the subsidies, government at all levels will have less need to keep borrowing to fund public spending while the savings will be channelled towards infrastructure and social services to reduce multidimensional poverty

We are laying the foundation for a prosperous future. You will agree with me that even though the foundation is the most important structure of a building, it is not always the prettiest. Once the house begins to take shape the beauty will not only be apparent for all to behold but also it will provide the much needed shelter to shield the occupants from bad weather and other unfavourable external conditions. We have done a lot that I am proud of within the short period. These include addressing some critical concerns of the private sector regarding pressing tax issues, removal of wasteful subsidy on PMS to create fiscal headroom and limit excessive borrowing, forex reforms to address market distortions, just to mention a few. So, overall I can say that we are on track and moving in the right direction.

and build a competitive economy.

For any economy to be productive you need critical infrastructure that supports business growth and improve quality of life especially roads, power, rail, broadband, pipelines etc. These are heavy and capital projects that only government can mostly provide. Investors will go to a place where they don’t have to worry about all of these.

For ease of doing business and to make our economy more competitive, government will need to spend more on these areas. The government will re-invest the money saved from fuel subsidy to grow the infrastructure stock of the country and fund social services in education and healthcare.

We want to make sure our public schools and public hospitals are up to standard and can meet the need of Nigerians and affordable too as against the more expensive services they get from patronising private schools and hospitals.

You said earlier that the government of President Tinubu is laying a foundation for a prosperous economy. From your point of view as a government official, how is the process going and why do you think Nigerians should trust Mr. President and the team he has put together to work with him on his Renewed Hope Agenda?

The crux of the agenda of this government is economic prosperity which is inclusive and sustainable. Nigerians trust Mr. President based on his pedigree which was the main reason they voted for him as president. You will also agree with me that Mr. President has made his appointments based on competence with a good number of technocrats appointed to manage various aspects of the economy. Even the politicians that have been appointed by Mr. President are those with proven records of performance.

So I can say that we are moving in the right direction and making progress. I am confident that Nigerians will begin to see the benefits of this administration’s policies sooner rather than later. The future is very bright. President Tinubu is guiding us through a challenging time and in the last 100 days in office, he has demonstrated that the confidence Nigerians reposed in him has not been misplaced.

Adedeji

OPARA’S WORTHY ORNAMENTS

Today, Tuesday, August 29, 2023, Rt. Hon. Austin Adiele Opara, former deputy speaker, House of Representatives turns 60. At 60, this likable and humble illustrious son of Diobu, the heartbeat of Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital has stridden into the proverbial and sagacious age associated with insight and wisdom. It is, more so, fascinating that Opara has worthy ornaments to showcase, underlining the significance of his 60-year-milestone. Not only that he has over the years manifested himself as a source of inspiration, leading light and pillar of strength to his people, he has made his mark in the nation’s shadowy political landscape. As a congressional presiding officer for four years, he aided considerably in

debt reprieve for Nigeria. He consolidated this with a moving debt moratorium speech at the event which, in no small measure, helped to secure the obligation of the Paris Club to write-off Nigeria’s $18b debt. As a result, a vast number of his Rivers people, admirers, friends, political associates across the country believe that Opara’s 60-year on earth is inherently worthy and in view of that deserves to be celebrated in an amazing and colourful manner .

Besides, at 60, Opara has been able to manifest intriguing academic sophistication. He bagged a Doctorate Degree in Political Marketing from the Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Port Harcourt in 2021. Unlike most politicians Opara dedicated his time to intensive studying after leaving his political position in 2007. “The determination to pursue higher knowledge even after holding high political office was undertaken to prepare me for greater challenges in politics and business,” he had stated. According to him, the driving force is the understanding that the world is now knowledge-based and therefore in order to add vast value to public and private sectors is a function of knowledge acquisition and deployment.

The NITDA is determined to create an enabling environment for startups and businesses to flourish in Nigeria, writes

BASHIR IBRAHIM HASSAN

AUSTIN UGANWA pays tribute to Austin Opara at 60 NITDA AND JOB CREATION DRIVE

There’s virtual panic in the sphere of human resource management about the spectre of people out of jobs. Indeed, given the almost limitless potential of AI to take on human functions – and deliver on them with predictable scenario seems bleak.

But one man who harbours no such morbid fear of AI is Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). He is an expert with key competencies across policy formulation, administration, growth management, talent development, solutions architecture, resource mobilization and strategy implementation.

Inuwa graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi in 2003. He with

to ensure that government and key social services continue to function, Tech4Covid Innovation Challenge and the setting up of NITDA Virtual Academy.

Under him, NITDA has trained close to a million Nigerians of various cadres in digital skills and awarded scholarships for Masters and PhDs to 49 Nigerians. Just recently, Inuwa embarked on a talent development programme to train one million software developers in 18 months. Furthermore, the second cycle of the Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan, SRAP 2021 -2024 of the Agency, is currently being implemented, which is hinged on seven pillars of transforming Nigeria into a sustainable digital economy.

Due in part to NITDA and Inuwa’s relentless drive for innovation and growth, the contribution of ICT/digital economy sector to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rose from 12 percent in 2019 to 14 percent in 2020, and recently 18.4 percent in the third quarter of 2022, as reported by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

articulating and driving national development trajectories through legislative instruments.

The above affirmation is indeed incontrovertible. For instance, during his four-year-stint as deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, 2003 and 2007, Opara pursued rare legislative governance that impacted positively on the overall nation building and the development of the NigerDelta region. He functioned conscientiously as a unifier, stabilizer and consensus builder of the House. As chairman, House Committee of the Whole with the mandate of presiding over clause-by-clause considerations of all bills when he was deputy speaker, he injected live and robustness to the debates on the bills with his wit, candour and the harmonious approach in moderating the proceedings thereby evoking cohesiveness and colossal legislative accomplishments. While presiding over the consideration of the Third Term Bill in June, 2006 he provided a rallying point to the House that was clearly torn apart over the intense and acrimonious nature of the bill debate.

He was in the fore-front of the horsetrading and intensification of the legislative process that led to the enactment of the Niger Delta Development Commission Act in 2000. Prior to his election as deputy speaker in 2003, Opara was the deputy chairman House Committee on NDDC and it was during the Commission’s formative stage in 2001 and 2002. He was accordingly deeply involved in designing and overseeing, through legislative oversight, the implementation of the institution’s foundational frameworks. Today NDDC constitutes a critical pillar of development for the Niger Delta states and by extension the nation.

At the International Parliamentary Union conference in Manila, Philippines in 2005, Opara who led the Nigerian House of Representatives delegates to the event lobbied parliamentarians from advanced nations for

However, as a political icon and chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party, he has not relented in embarking on far-reaching pursuits needed to promote democracy and the stability of PDP. As the Director of Training of PDP Presidential Campaign Organization during the 2023 general elections, he embarked on various training programmes to enhance the proficiency of a wide range of party functionaries who undertook various tasks in aid of the party’s presidential flag bearer, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and other party candidates nationwide.

Opara and other top leaders of the party in Rivers state including: Mr. Celestine Omehia, former governor of the state; Abiye Sekibo, former Minister of Transport; Uche Secondus, former national chairman of the party; Senator Lee Maebe and a host of others worked for the party success in Rivers State. Opara’s political associates reportedly paid dearly for this move as: Hon. Chinyere Igwe, former member House of Representatives, Jones Ogbonda, former member, Rivers State House of Assembly and Ikechi Chinda, former PDP chairman, Port Harcourt Local Council had their hotel and filling station businesses clamped down by the agents of the state.

In 2020, Opara supervised the party’s congress held in the 18 local councils of Edo state which helped to provide a veritable ground for PDP’s eventual takeover of the party from the ruling All Progressives Congress. He has unmistakably shown great degree of commitment, consistency and assiduousness to the party since 1998. He played a major role with other party leaders to establish PDP in his state.

At 60, Opara’s unassuming nature, openness and cordiality makes him the rallying point of his peers, friends and political associates. These realities account for the large army of supporters, friends and admirers that still mill around years after leaving the political office.

Dr. Uganwa writes from Abuja

the government-owned Galaxy Backbone Limited, a nationwide IT-based network service provider where he started as a network engineer in 2004. Galaxy Backbone was a good training ground for Inuwa. Highly dedicated and passionate, Inuwa worked diligently and was subsequently promoted to the position of Senior Network Engineer and Lead Solution Architect, in 2009, with the responsibility of designing suitable internet backend solutions for clients. He then proceeded to the Central Bank of Nigeria where he rose to the challenge and created the apex bank’s technology architecture repository that gave a 360-degree view of the CBN’s IT infrastructure in realtime allowing for easier decision-making on IT infrastructure and asset investment. After demonstrating optimal technical ability, he proceeded to work as the technical assistant to the Director General and was actively engaged in the design, planning, coordination and execution of NITDA’s strategic goals across various thematic areas. Having exhibited elite technical and administrative capacity, he was subsequently appointed to serve as the Director General of NITDA in 2019.

since his appointment to the position in 2019. Barely six months after his appointment, the world was hit by the Covid-19 pandemic. In and by March, Nigeria ordered a country-wide lockdown. The Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy and NITDA rose to the challenge and came up with the Tech4Covid committee that initiated strategies to curb the include the deployment of digital technologies

Another opportunity has presented NITDA to respond to a dire national challenge. President Bola Tinubu, during his inaugural address, promised that his government will create one million jobs in the digital space.

According to Inuwa, a report by PwC titled “Brain Exports: The Optimal Path to Growing the Nigerian Economy” validated what “we started on one million developers. It says Nigeria’s best resources are not mineral resources. We have seen the proof for instance in sports. Similarly, Nigerians are doing well in music and art. In the same vein, the agency wants to position Nigeria to be a global talent factory. According to the report, there is a vacancy for over four million developers globally. Nigeria can connecting its youths to the global value chain. Hence, we have been providing training and capacity building programmes to equip the Nigerian youths with the requisite skills to compete at international level. For instance, we recently launched the NITDA Coursera scholarship cohort two to train about 8000 Nigerians on high end skills demand. Additionally, the agency is developing a talent strategy which seeks to address the demand and supply side of talent.”

Furthermore, Inuwa mentioned that the agency intends to build technology development and innovation clusters around the 36 states of the federation in furtherance of the implementation of the Nigeria Startup Act. The agency has successfully implemented a pilot in Abuja where it trained and mentored about 219 start-ups from 2020 to date; and they are creating more jobs for Nigerians. The agency would also provide funding to startups in accordance with the provisions of the startup Act which established an investment seed fund to support startups and accelerate the creation of more jobs for Nigerians in alignment with the manifesto of the current administration to create one million jobs in the digital economy.

Hassan writes from Abuja

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

EDITORIAL

MINISTER MUSAWA AND THE NYSC QUESTION

Musawa is not qualified for a ministerial appointment

Introduced in 1973 by the military administration of General Yakubu Gowon as a vehicle for national integration following the bitter civil war, questions remain about why only about 5.7 million Nigerians have been mobilised for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in 50 years. The only plausible explanation is that many of the graduates who ought to have been deployed evade the scheme. Yet, with the exemption of those in the military/ police and security services, NYSC is compulsory for every Nigerian who graduates from tertiary institutions (home or abroad) before the age of 30. They ought to make themselves available for service for a continuous period of one year from the date letter.

Unfortunately, a series of recent scandals and a host of other challenges have limited the scheme’s impact, reduced its appeal, and undercut its ennobling ideal. In the latest of such scandals, the NYSC

mandatory scheme. Musawa was last week sworn in as Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy why the correct status of Musawa wasn’t made known to members of the public before the Senate sensationally failed to screen her as it should,” the of scrutiny being conducted by the Department of State Services so much so that it wasn’t disclosed that the minister is actually a youth corper.”

of Musawa as minister. We recall that in October National Pension Commission (PENCOM) board. On that occasion, Musawa, a nominee for the position

DEPUTY EDITORS WALE OLALEYE, OBINNA CHIMA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

T H I S D AY N

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

Letters to the Editor

of commissioner representing Northwest, was dropped for failure to present her NYSC discharge and neither held a national honour at the time nor was a member of the armed forces, Musawa could not have been exempted from NYSC.

When her name came up for ministerial appointment in July, there were questions about her NYSC status. Unfortunately, Senators in both the ruling and opposition parties conspired to shirk their responsibility.

Yet nothing can be more damaging than for the highest legislative body in a country not to have any abiding principles, as the current Senate has demonstrated on the Musawa case. If without a

to serve in PENCOM by the Senate, the question to be a Minister? Besides, according to Femi Falana, SAN, the Supreme Court has settled this matter conclusively in a case involving a member of the he was a serving corps member at the time of his election.

Ordinarily, no Nigerian should take any appointment until the completion of the NYSC which would earn the person the discharge public and private sectors in the country. Indeed, there have been many cases of young Nigerians denied employment because they could not present of Nigerians who lived abroad but returned home even at over 50 years of age, to serve in anticipation of government appointments. Apparently, that was a youth corps member and member of the federal executive council at the same time?

This is a question for the Tinubu administration that seems to have scant regard for transparency and accountability.

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

LETTERS

LAGOS HOUSING SECTOR AND THE CRAFTSMAN PROGRAMME

As part of strategic moves to bridge the skill gap in the housing sector, Lagos State has commenced a comprehensive training proj ect targeted at artisans and craftsmen in the sector.

The skill acquisition programme, tagged “Master Craftsman Training Programme” commenced on 19th August 2023. It is to enable residents of the State, mainly the youth in the construction sector, to update their skills and acquire other competencies that will make them more employable. The ultimate goal is to improve Kamar Olowoshago, the intensive training, which is for six weeks, is a weekend programme that will be centred on critical construc tion trades.

These include electrical installation and maintenance works, furniture making and masonry (block laying and concreting). There will also be classes on connected areas such as customer relations, Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and trends in the industry.

Locations of the programme include Ikotun in Alimosho Local Government and Ikorodu in Ikorodu Local Government. The op portunity is open to residents that are above 18 years. Applicants must have evidence of being registered with the Lagos State Res idents Registration Agency. They must also have basic training in the skills, either in technical colleges or through the informal ap prenticeship method. The selection process will be based on timeli ness. Forms can be obtained at the Director of Administration and

erment with modern tools of their trade, work gears and stipends from the State government.

Participants are advised to prepare for comprehensive practi cal and theoretical sessions during the training. It must, however, be stressed that the trainees will be fully insured during the en tire training period in the unlikely incident of hazards or dangers during the practical sessions.

This initiative, by the Governor of the State, Mr. Olusola San in safe and decent homes for Lagosians. With the inauguration of

tration, the past four years have, no doubt, brought about vibrant activities in the sector. In order to consolidate on the gains of the past, housing projects inherited from past administrations were strategy, unwarranted wastage, which would have resulted from continued abandonment of such housing projects, was curtailed.

In this category, there were 15 budgetary allocation housing schemes, comprising over 5000 home units at various locations in are Igando, Igbogbo, Ibeshe, Odo Onosa/Ayandelu, Agbowa,

these schemes are completed now. They are now livable cities with enviable community life.

schemes, which were already in existence. There were over 30 pri vate investors who were in joint partnership with the state in de veloping some housing schemes.

Adeola Salako,

If without a discharge certificate issued by the NYSC Musawa was deemed not qualified to serve in PENCOM by the Senate, the question now is what qualifies her to be a Minister?

What Nigeria and Nigerians Can Learn From India and Indians

Iwas rather disappointed at the news that Nigeria was not among the new member countries admitted into the BRICS group of nations at the 15th BRICS Summit, which held in Johannesburg, South Africa between August 22-24, 2023.

And sadly, I have seen some pundits shrug it off as no biggie. Actually, it is a big deal. We need the BRICS countries more than they need us. And one BRICS nation in particular has a lot to teach Nigeria. What some Nigerians fail to understand is that both America and Russia have lost their global positions as dictating superpowers. The new world super power are the BRICS nations. They control more of the world's resources than either the US, Russia, or even the EU. They have a greater population than the US, Russia and the EU combined. Their economies are also growing faster than the U.S., Russia or the EU. That is why Nigeria has to join the BRICS nations and make it BRINCS, with the N representing Nigeria. If indeed we did not apply for membership, then we ought to. We have a lot to gain and nothing to lose. The very first thing that will happen if we are in the BRIC bloc is that our passport will become stronger. And once that happens, trade will blossom. And the effect on our economy will not just improve our GDP, it will also positively affect the value of the Naira and reduce our dependence on the US dollar. Nigeria should apply to be a member. Already, India is taking advantage of the cartel to buy and sell with other BRICS nations in Indian Rupees.

As at August 27, 2023, twenty two nations had signed on with India to conduct their bilateral trade with that Asian giant in Rupees, including Bangladesh, Belarus, Botswana, Fiji, Germany, Guyana, Israel, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Myanmar, New Zealand, Oman, Russia, Seychelles, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uganda, and the United Kingdom.

If Nigeria had such an opportunity, we would not even need the I&E forex window that is putting such a strain on our currency. There is really no need for us to reinvent the wheel. Let us do what India is doing.

Being non aligned is not helping us. And in fact, being non aligned is itself to be aligned to those in that alliance. History will forgive our leader if they take bad decisions. But history will not forgive us if we fail to take any decisions and instead, we just sat on the wall.

And it goes beyond the BRICS idea. We have much to learn from India as a fellow former British colony.

Mumbai in India was renamed Bombay by the colonialists. After they kicked colonialists out, India changed the name back to Mumbai. They did this to many other Indian cities.

India has gone behind just nominal independence to actual independence, and moved on in the continuum of maturity to interdependence with other nations.

India rejected Britain's religion and language but accepted their technology, and today, they have landed on the moon with their Chandrayaan-3 moon rocket, which failed where Russia's rocket failed. Now, tell me, who is the real superpower? Is it a Russia that is bogged down in Ukraine, or an India that is bunked down on the moon?

Africa and Nigeria gobbled up Britain's religion and language and did not embrace their technology, and today, we have landed in debt to India. Our English may be better than India's, but India's condition is certainly better than ours. It may be time

for us in Africa, and especially Nigeria, to consider if having the largest church auditoria in the world has done us any good, especially when we do not have a military-industrial complex to boast about.

And sadly, in Nigeria, English and either Christian Religious Knowledge or Islamic Religious Knowledge are often compulsory, but science is not. We have Bibles translated into almost every language in Black Africa, yet, it is rare, very rare, to find a science textbook translated into any African language.

And when I write against our fascination with obsolete courses like sociology, philosophy, anthropology, political science, library science and so on, Africans and Nigerians attack me. Now see!

And it is not just that India is thriving within the BRICS consortium of nations, individual Indians are taking over the world.

The CEOs of Adobe, Albertsons, Alphabet (Google), Arista Networks, Chanel, Cognizant, Flex, Honeywell, IBM, Micron Technology, Microsoft, Motorola Mobility, NetApp, Novartis, Palo Alto Networks, Starbucks, Vimeo, Wayfair, and YouTube, are all Indians.

So, how and why have Indians acquired so much corporate power in America?

Indians are the richest ethnicity in both the United Kingdom and the United States. Please fact check me. But how do they do it? The first major purchase that a Black African, African American, or Afro Caribbean buys after graduating from university is a car. But the first major purchase British Indians and Indian Americans buy after they graduate is a house.

And since a car loses value with time, while a home gains value over the years, Indians increase in wealth. Plus, Indians hardly rent. They consider it transferring their wealth to others. They will usually graduate and stay in their parents houses and save money that would have been

paid as rent to buy their own homes.

But many Black Africans, African Americans, or Afro Caribbeans can't wait to get out of their parents home and rent, thus spending the bulk of their income making their landlords rich. It is time we as Black people should learn from Indians. Wealth equals power and that is why an Indian is vice President of America, and Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

We need to focus on two things. Education and research and development for the purpose of building our own military industrial complex.

In Nigeria, we can rally round a firm, like Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company Limited, and make it our own Tata. Because one thing we learn from India is that we need our own home grown military-industrial complex. Elsewhere, I have written about how Nigeria can develop Innoson and I do not intend to repeat myself.

Next, we have to tackle our out of school children population, because without that, we will continue producing poverty.

But beyond tackling the out of school children conundrum, we also have to domesticate our education.

What do I mean? Indian schools do not teach students in English, although English is a subject pupils learn. Rather, schools teach students in Hindi, or another indigenous Indian language.

And that will help us solve our out of school children challenge, because the reason many children are out of school is because we have an English based school system and they can only speak Hausa, or Yoruba, or Igbo.

We have been able to translate The Bible into almost every known language in Sub-Saharan Africa. However, few, if any science, technology, engineering and mathematics books are in Black Africa's language.

And until we domesticate STEM education, like India did, we are going nowhere. It is better that we have science books in Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo and other Nigerian languages, than to have Bibles and Qurans in our various languages.

Let us learn to build rockets, cars and refineries first, then we can learn to speak King's English later, if at all. I saw the scientists that put India's Chandrayaan-3 rocket on the moon. They were interviewed on global news networks. Their English was horrible. Their accents were awful. But their science was perfect.

I would rather it was said of Nigeria that our English was nothing to write home about, but that our science was much celebrated at home and abroad. That is what we can learn from India!

Reno’s Nuggets

Love is a verb. Only action can give it meaning. You can’t say you love somebody, and the only thing your love brings are romantic words. Action speaks louder than words. That is why many women lose their love to other women who love by giving generously. As a woman, don't claim to love your man, and he showers you with gifts on your birthday, but on his birthday, all you do is come to social media to post, 'a king was born today.' Read Scripture. After the King of kings was born, He received gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Your own gift is only word of mouth. Oponu!

#FreeLeahSharibu #RenosNuggets

Reno Omokri Gospeller. Deep Thinker. #TableShaker. #1 Bestselling author of Facts Versus Fiction: The True Story of the Jonathan Years. Globetrotter. Hollywood Magazine Humanitarian of the Year, 2019. Business Insider Influencer of the Year 2022.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Financial Issues in the Nigerian Judiciary: Funding and Remuneration

THE

QUOTABLE

‘The three year’s transition programme….. is the sovereign right of the Nigerien Government with their people. So, the invasion of Niger cannot be legitimised, merely because we are opposed to the process they have taken as a sovereign people to evolve their own Constitution.’ - Major General I.B.M. Haruna (Rtd), Former Federal Commissioner for Information; Legal Practitioner

Legal Effect of Negotiation: Whether Parties are Bound

Thereby

Page IV

COLUMNIST

PROF MIKE OZEKHOME, CON, SAN, FCIArb,, PH.D. LLD Constitutional Democracy, means a system of government, in which political and governmental power, is defined, limited and shared by a grundnorm called the Constitution, which provides inbuilt checks and balances. This column seeks to fiercely discuss constitutional, legal and political issues, with a view to strengthening, deepening and widening the plenitude and amplitude of democracy and good governance, without fear or favour.

The writer of this column, Prof Mike Ozekhome, SAN, is a Constitutional Lawyer, Human Rights Activist, Pro-Democracy Campaigner, Notary Public and Motivational Speaker. He co-founded the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Nigeria’s pioneer human rights league, on October 15, 1987, the Universal defenders of Democracy (UDD), in 1992, and with Chief Gani Fawehinmi and others in 1998, the Joint Action Committee of Nigeria (JACON), to push out the military. In his early days, he lectured at the University of Ife. Prof Ozekhome is an author of many books. He is also a Special Counsel at the International Criminal Court (ICC), at The Hague.

Family Faults Evercare Hospital, LASUTH for Death of Lagos Lawyer

Page V

‘Digitalise Our Courts, Unbundle DSS, EFCC’, Adebayo Urges Fagbemi

Page V

Disputes between States and the Federation: Examining the Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court (Part 5)

Page VI

The New FCT Minister: Legality or Otherwise of Title Revocation

PageVII

Magistracy: For the Attention of Messrs Governor and FCT Minister

Now that the Governors should have settled down after three months in office, and the Ministers have finally been sworn in, Nigerians expect that they will all buckle down to serious work immediately.

As far as the administration of justice sector is concerned, it is in dire need of reform and rehabilitation. Sadly, the immediate past Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, SAN, left no meaningful legacies from his eight-year tenure, as he seemed to be more interested only in his role as Legal Adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari, recovering Nigeria’s looted funds from foreign countries, and ensuring that consultant fees were paid to those who worked on the recoveries. He showed little or no concern, for the welfare of Judicial Officers. Lawyers therefore, expect the newly appointed AGF, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, to spearhead the much needed reforms in the sector, in collaboration with the relevant stakeholders.

Today, as I moderate the break out session on Judicial Remuneration and Allowances at our NBA 2023 Annual General Conference, not only will the fact that the poor salaries and allowances of Judges have not been increased since 2007 or thereabouts, be discussed, the plight of the Magistrates will definitely be highlighted. I saw some other payslips of Magistrates with basic salaries as low as N61,000; their extremely ridiculously low furniture allowance ranging from N9,270 - N11,543; Domestic allowance in July 2023 is N27,000+ (which is below the minimum wage of N30,000). I also saw a payslip with Leave Allowance of N74,000. I’m not sure whether N74,000 can purchase a return flight ticket from Lagos to Ibadan!

Last week, my piece, ‘Magistracy: Their Poverty, Our Pain’, placing emphasis on the poor remuneration and conditions of service of Magistrates, elicited so many enlightening comments from both serving and retired Magistrates across the country, some of which are reproduced below and marked for the attention of President Bola AhmedTinubu, GCFR, the Governors, FCT Minister, CJN, AGF, Chief Judges and State AGs, as Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended in 2023)(the Constitution) provides inter alia, that the welfare of the people is the primary purpose of government, and the remuneration of Magistrates is a State and FCT affair.

Dear Editor

Re: Magistracy: Their Poverty, Our Pain

Dear Editor,

If someone on Level 12 cannot conveniently pay his or her children school fees and rent from their salary, not to talk of feeding, electricity bill, transportation, medical bills and other social and contingency issues..... then what do you expect. Corruption by Nepotism, Favouritism and Lobbying crept into the Lagos State Magistracy in 1998, when a Senior Magistrate in Lagos was appointed a Judge of the High Court.

AA

Dear Editor,

Very concise write up. The Magistracy has since been neglected, and it’s about time the bells of change ring louder. The focus should be on the well deserved constitutional amendment/inclusion of the Magistrates Courts. Once this is achieved, every other issue of concern is automatically resolved.

BB

Dear Editor,

Further to your writeup on the plight of Magistrates in Lagos and reference to that of Dr Muiz Banire earlier, the situation and conditions of service of Magistrates in Lagos indeed, call for sympathetic consideration. The salary of a Magistrate Grade II, the lowest grade in Lagos after deductions of tax is about N280,000 (allowances included), and the highest paid Chief Magistrate goes home with about N520,000. Robing Allowance is roughly N100,000 per annum.

However, It is not all tales of woe, as all Magistrates in Lagos have official Cars provided by the Lagos State Government, except for those who are newly appointed, though the type of car is the same model used for Taxi Services within the State. And, with the recent hike in fuel price, many Magistrates have parked their cars, as they cannot afford to fuel and maintain them with the paltry salary.

More so, the Magistrates in Lagos are given Monthly Imprests for the running of their Chambers in the sum of N35,000 which is insufficient to replace the ink cartridge, let alone cover the cost of paper used for Certified True Copies; with the volume of rulings and judgements churned out of these courts on a monthly basis.

Sharing of courts is becoming a norm in Lagos State. Some Courts are also in deplorable condition, as there are no air conditioners in them and courts have to open all their windows and conduct proceedings under harsh weather conditions and loud noise interference.

Magistrates in Lagos State still write in long hand which has its health challenges, with one Registrar,

onikepo.braithwaite@thisdaylive. com onikepob@yahoo.com

ONIKEPO BRAITHWAITE The Advocate

same for Judges. The retired Magistrates of Lagos State, on the strength of this information, petitioned the Governor through the Honourable Chief Judge. That petition written in 2019 has not seen the light of day, nor was there any response though it was received in the Governor’s office. Retired Judges in Lagos State receive an annual medical allowance, nothing of sort for the Retired Magistrates of this State.

Having served as a Magistrate for almost 20 years, it is unfortunate that a retired Magistrate is still treated as a poor relation of a retired Judge. The only thing the Government holds on to, is that the Magistrate is corrupt. Judges are corrupt too. Civil Servants are corrupt. It’s all over. It does not stop the Government, from treating these other bodies better than Magistrates.

XXX

Dear Editor,

When I was told that a Chief Magistrate earns the same as us, I didn’t believe it. But, your article confirms this ridiculous fact. Yes. N561,000 is our monthly salary, even for some of us who have served for over 20 years as Judges. Bribery and Corruption have been lying in bed side by side with us for over 14 years plus, since our meagre judicial salary was reviewed, waiting for when the few good eggs left will give in to it.

I hope this is graphic enough.

High Court Judge

Dear Editor,

(that is, the Court is made up of the Magistrate and just one staff) making the work more tedious for the Magistrates.

Many Magistrates don't have official quarters, they find it difficult to pay astronomical high rents and are at the mercy of landlords. Some have even been brought to court by their landlords for eviction; quite a traumatic, shameful and disgraceful experience.

It has become expedient, now, more than ever, for the review of the Constitution to recognise Magistrates as Judicial Officers, with all the paraphernalia of such office in terms of review of salaries, conditions of service and meaningful emoluments to reflect the status. This would encourage Magistrates in the country; boost the morale; increase productivity; and reduce the pressure for elevation to the higher Bench.

A few States have increased the retirement age of their Magistrates to 65yrs. There is therefore, no reason why Lagos State cannot take the lead on that, especially when it has the highest volume of work at the grassroots. The period to act is now.

ABC, Lagos

Dear Editor,

In Rivers State, the Government tries to support Magistrates a lot. Thank you for this write up.

EO, Rivers State

Dear Editor,

Thank you for highlighting the plight of the Magistracy in Nigeria. It is much worse in other States. I am a Magistrate in one of the Northern States. We want a constitutional amendment, for Magistrates to be expressly recognised as judicial officers therein. To this end, we will welcome your support. What the least paid Magistrate in Lagos takes home, is what a Chief Magistrate II takes home in Kaduna, for example. God bless you for your efforts.

BH, North West Zone

Dear Editor,

I still don't understand the reasons why the Magistrates should be made to go through so much pain, here in Nigeria. Of course, I was unaware of much of these pains before reading the article. Now, I'm moved so much in favour of a salary readjustment upwards in favour of Magistrates. We should return the honour and the pride of our dear judicial officers, as they are the first point of call of the public for justice. May God help Nigeria.

AOX, South East Zone

Dear Editor,

What I hate or dislike about Magistrate Court or Judiciary in Lagos State, is that after putting many years in the system and it's time to enjoy the fruits of your labour, then they will say you are not an indigene, and that you do not qualify to head the sector - too, too bad.

AAA

Dear Editor,

My take is that it's time for a constitutional amendment to accommodate Magistrates as judicial officers, so as to enjoy their salaries and allowances from the consolidated revenue account.

BBB, North East Zone

Dear Editor,

Yes, there should be a constitutional review of the conditions of service of Magistrates and this should also include a review of the retirement benefits ( which does not exist). I am a retired Chief Magistrate, and my pension is not up to N50,000 per month. This is because the Magistrate is under the contributory pension scheme. However, Lagos State has reviewed this for the benefit of the Permanent Secretaries, so a retired Permanent Secretary earns his last salary as pension,

As a retired Chief Magistrate in Lagos State - no gratuity/ no severance package. It took three years to get the pittance of N29,830.26 per month. No medicals. No accommodation. No vehicle. Solitude life, since we don't mix with the public.

ZZZ

Dear Editor,

With the little experience gathered, I can say that the working conditions in some Magistrate’s courts is appalling, horrifying and astonishing. Some Magistrates work under hot and horrible conditions because of power failure, as there is no standby generating power while most of the court rooms are so compacted to accommodate both litigants and counsels. Most Magistrates are without official vehicles to convey them to work, and most of them come from outside jurisdiction with public transport, sometimes by Okada to avoid traffic or to meet up with time. This situation makes some Magistrates commence sitting behind schedule. I know of a Magistrate who commences sitting around noon because of the distance of his residence from the court, and sometimes litigants with their counsels wait to no avail. Counsels are then sometimes left with no option, but take a further date for their matters. Anyway, there's need for Government to improve on the working conditions of all judicial officers. Cheers.

PPP

Dear Editor,

*Top 20 African Countries With the Highest Minimum Wages In 2023 (US$):*

1. Seychelles has the highest minimum wage in Africa at $432 per month.

2. Libya has the second highest minimum wage in Africa at $322 per month.

3. Morocco comes in third with a minimum wage of $281 per month.

4. Next, we have Gabon with a minimum wage of $256 per month.

5. South Africa offers a monthly minimum wage of $242.

6. Mauritius comes in at number six with a monthly minimum wage of $240.

7. Equatorial Guinea pays workers a minimum wage of $200 per month.

8. Congolese workers earn a monthly minimum wage of $154.

9. Algeria offers a monthly minimum wage of $151.

10. Kenya offers a monthly minimum wage of $140.

11. Carbo Verde offers a monthly minimum wage of $132.

12. The Democratic Republic of Congo pays $125.

13. Comoros Island equally pays a monthly minimum wage of $125.

14. Lesotho pays a monthly minimum wage of $112.

15. Mozambique also pays a monthly minimum wage of $112.

16. Tunisia pays a monthly minimum wage of $110.

17. Chad pays a monthly minimum wage of $102.

18. Ivory Coast's monthly minimum wage is $102.

19. Senegal pays a monthly minimum wage of $94.

20. Lastly, we have Liberia which pays a monthly minimum wage of $91.

Unfortunately, Nigeria's monthly minimum wage is less than $50, approximately $39.27.

Credit: Business Insider Africa x OFN

So, when they tell you that Nigerians buy the cheapest fuel in Africa, also tell them that Nigerians earn the lowest wage in Africa. When you compare wages to the price of fuel, you will discover that fuel is more expensive in Nigeria than anywhere else.

“….. placing emphasis on the poor remuneration and conditions of service of Magistrates, elicited so many enlightening comments from both serving and retired Magistrates across the country, some of which are reproduced below for the attention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Governors, FCT Minister, CJN, AGF, Chief Judges and State AGs…”

Legal Effect of Negotiation: Whether Parties are Bound Thereby

Facts

Each Appellant took a loan from the Oceanic Bank Plc. (acquired by Ecobank Limited). In December 2006, the 1st Appellant obtained a loan of N450 million. The 2nd Appellant, on its part, obtained a loan from the Respondent by way of an Underwriting commitment to the sum of N2.3 billion. By a letter dated 14th December, 2011, this loan was later restructured as a five-year term loan with a one-year moratorium. The 3rd Appellant borrowed the sum of $10 million and N200 million. The Appellants utilised the loans, but failed to repay as and when due, despite repeated demands by the bank.

In view of the foregoing, Dr Oba Otudeko, the Chairman of Honeywell Group Limited, who was not a party to the loan contracts between the Appellants and the Respondent, but who has an interest in each of the Appellants, promoted and facilitated a negotiation of their repayment obligations under their individual loan contract to secure a waiver by the Respondent of some of the amount of debt due from each of the Appellants. This meeting, which held on 22nd July, 2013, resulted in an oral agreement that the Appellants pay a collective sum of N3.5 billion as full and final satisfaction of the sum total of their accrued debt which was N5.5 billion. The negotiated sum was subject to the condition that the Appellants pay a collective sum of N500 million immediately on 22nd July, 2013 and N3 billion in a lump sum “immediately thereafter”(before the then visiting Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) examiners who were examining the Respondent’s records departed from the bank).

Further to the said negotiation, the Appellants paid the sum of N500 million on 22nd July, 2013. Regarding the other payment of N3 billion lump sum, the Appellants wrote a letter to the Respondent proposing to pay the balance of N3 billion in three equal half yearly instalments. The Respondent reacted to the letter, reiterating their agreement for a lump sum payment of N3 billion before the CBN examiners’ departure from the bank. This discussion lingered till 12th December, 2013, when parties had a further meeting. As at the date, the Appellants had only paid the sum of N1.35 billion of their indebtedness. After the meeting, a further sum of N1 billion was paid, and the balance payment was agreed to be accelerated. By 10th January, 2014, the Appellants had completed payment of the sum of N3.5 billion. They, therefore, wrote to the Respondent requesting the bank to remove the negative caution on the Appellants’ account on CBN CRMS portal. They equally requested a letter for full discharge from any indebtedness to the bank, and release of all the securities of the Appellants with the Respondent. The Respondent, however, stated that it could not issue the letter of non-indebtedness as the request for waiver was still going through its internal process. Thereafter, the Respondent communicated the refusal of the request for waiver to the Appellants, and demanded the outstanding indebtedness. The Respondent informed the Appellants that the offer of waiver lapsed by August 2013.

In view of the above, the Appellants instituted Suit No. FHC/L/CS/1219/2015 against the Respondent. There was an interlocutory appeal in the suit, which went to the Supreme Court. Upon the final determination of the suit, the trial court found that the Appellants had liquidated their indebtedness to the Respondent and granted the reliefs sought. The Respondent successfully appealed the decision. The Court of Appeal held that the Appellants lacked the locus standi to sue, and this feature robbed the trial court of jurisdiction to try and determine the suit. In the alternative, the court allowed the appeal on ground that the Appellants did not fulfil the condition for waiver of the balance of their indebtedness as negotiated on 22nd July, 2013. The Appellants therefore, appealed to the Supreme Court.

Issues for Determination

The Supreme Court adopted the issues raised by the Appellants in its determination of the appeal, thus:

1. Was the lower court correct that its earlier decision in Appeal No: CA/L/1270/2015 – Ecobank Nigeria Limited v Anchorage Leisures Limited & Ors. (decided on 30th March, 2016 and affirmed by the Supreme Court in SC:406/2016 – Ecobank Nigeria Limited v Anchorage Leisures Limited & Ors. delivered on 13th July, 2018) did not decide/resolve the entitlement/title of the Appellants (as Plaintiffs) vis-à-vis Honeywell Group Limited to have filed Suit No: FHC/L/CS/1219/2015?

2. Did the lower court correctly strike out the Appellants’ claim qua suit at the trial court, for lack of locus standi or absence of a right to proceed against

In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at Abuja

On Friday, the 27th day of January, 2023

Before Their Lordships John Inyang Okoro Amina Adamu Augie Adamu Jauro Tijjani Abubakar Emmanuel Akomaye Agim Justices, Supreme Court SC/CV/210/2021

Between

as customers and their banker and as debtors and creditor, to negotiate the discharge of the Appellants’ debt repayment obligations under their respective loan contracts with the Respondent. Having determined the relationship between parties in the said decision, the Court of Appeal should have refrained from exercising jurisdiction on the question of whether the Appellants were parties to the transactions at the meeting of 22nd July, 2013 which held between only Dr Oba Otudeko and the Respondent. Their Lordships held that by virtue of Section 235 and 287(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and the doctrine of issue estoppel, the decision of the Supreme Court on the issue is final and cannot be re-opened under any guise by any other court. Since the Court of Appeal relied on its determination that the Appellants are strangers and not parties to the meeting of 22nd July, 2013 in reaching its decision that they lacked locus standi to institute the action, the lower court lacked the jurisdiction to determine the question. It is the law that where the determination of a question before a court is predicated on its determination of an underlying question that it has no jurisdiction to determine, then it would lack the jurisdiction to determine the question before it. The Supreme Court, thereby, held that the exercise of jurisdiction by the Court of Appeal on the question is a nullity, and determined issues one and two in favour of the Appellants.

1. Anchorage Leisures Limited

And

the Respondent in the overall circumstances of the case before it?

3. Was the lower court correct in its consideration and resolution of the outcome of the 22nd July, 2013 meeting between the parties, and, the subsequent setting aside of the decision of the trial court which granted the reliefs claimed by Appellants as Plaintiffs before the said trial court?

Arguments

On issues one and two, counsel submitted on behalf of the Appellants that the meeting of 22nd July, 2013 was between the Appellants and the Respondent in their capacities as customers and banker, for the resolution of their obligations arising from the relationship of debtors and creditor. He argued that the Appellants possess the requisite locus standi to commence the action to enforce the agreement reached on 22nd July, 2013. In respect of issue three, counsel submitted that parties are bound by the negotiated agreement reached at the meeting of 22nd July, 2013 and other correspondence and meeting, in furtherance of which the Appellants paid the agreed sum of N3.5 billion as full and final settlement of their

indebtedness.

Appellants

Respondent

Counsel for the Respondent, countered the submissions above. It is the bank’s position that Dr Oba Otudeko, who is the Chairman of Honeywell Group Limited, negotiated with the Respondent at the meeting of 22nd July, 2013. The Respondent posited that there was novation of contract thereby, or transfer of liability from the Appellants to Honeywell Group Limited, and thus, the Appellants lacked the locus standi to institute an action based on the negotiation of 22nd July, 2013. On issue three, counsel argued that the agreement reached at the meeting of 22nd July, 2013 was for the Appellants to pay the sum of N3 billion in a lump sum, before the CBN examiners’ departure from the bank. He argued that having failed to make the payment by August 2013, the offer lapsed thereby, and as at January 2014 when the Appellants eventually completed the payment of N3.5 billion, the bank could not obtain the approval of its board to waive the balance of accrued debt. More so, the account of the Appellants was flagged as “related part loans” by the Central Bank of Nigeria and Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation during a review of the bank, as the Chairman of the Appellants was a former director of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, the parent company of the Respondent.

Court’s Judgement and Rationale

Deciding the first and second issues relating to the locus standi of the Appellants to institute the action at the trial court, the Supreme Court stated that in the interlocutory appeal between parties (SC/ CS/406/2016), though the Apex Court did not specifically determine the issue of locus standi of the Appellants, the court determined therein that the Appellants and the Respondent were engaged in the meeting of 22nd July, 2013 in their capacities

Regarding the third issue on whether the Respondent is legally bound to accept the N3.5 billion collectively paid by the Appellants as complete and final liquidation of their respective debts by virtue of the understanding reached at the meeting of 22nd July, 2013 and the follow-up meetings thereon, the Apex Court held that the minutes of the meeting held on 22nd July, 2013 (Exhibit A) discloses an agreement made subject to the fulfilment of certain terms and conditions. The content of the Exhibit shows that N500 million was to be paid immediately, and the balance of the negotiated sum was to be paid “immediately thereafter”. The phrase, however, fell through the cracks, as parties could not agree on when the balance payment became due. Thus, the argument about part performance of the agreement was unfounded, as the agreement was inchoate. While the Respondent insisted that the sum of N3 billion must be paid as a lump sum and before the exit of the CBN examiners who visited the bank, the Appellants proposed payments in three instalments over a period of time. All the correspondence exchanged show that the Appellants opted out of the mutual understanding of payment of the N3 billion in a lump sum as condition for the Respondent’s waiver of some of their debts, and triggered a new negotiation by a proposal for payment in three half yearly instalments. It follows that the negotiation did not yield any consensus, or create any legal relations between the parties.

Negotiation is negotiation, and in any form, it is governed by the principles in the law of contract. In other words, to be a valid contract, there must be an offer and acceptance, and in addition, consideration. So, negotiation, cannot, and does not on its own, constitute a contract – CHUKWUMA v IFELOYE (2008) 12 SC (PT. II) 291. The Respondent can decide to waive its right to recover all the debts due to it from each Appellant, but it cannot be compelled to waive its said contractual right. If it refuses to waive the right or go ahead with the negotiation to secure its waiver of some of the debts, the debtor must pay all the debts which had accrued under the loan contract. A waiver must be clear, unequivocal and voluntary. Where negotiations have resulted in an agreement by a person to receive a sum of money lesser than what is due to him under a written contract, the agreement must be in writing – AUTO IMPORT EXPORT v ADEBAYO & ORS. (2005) 19 NWLR (PT. 959) 44.

Having resolved issues one and two in favour of the Appellants and issue three against them, the Supreme Court affirmed the judgement of the Court of Appeal in Appeal No. CA/LAG/ CV/975/2019 setting aside the decision of the trial court. The Appellants’ claim at the trial court was thereby, dismissed. Costs in the sum of N3 million was awarded against the Appellants in favour of the Respondent.

Appeal Succeeds in Part.

Representation

Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN with Faith Adanghofua, Esq.; Akintola Makinde, Esq.; Quam Bisiriyu, Esq. and Emeka Ananyi, Esq. for the Appellants.

A.B. Ogunba, SAN with O.A. Divine, Esq.; O.T. Ogunba, Esq. and O.K. Ogunba, Esq. for the Respondent.

Reported by Optimum Publishers Limited, Publishers of the Nigerian Monthly Law Reports (NMLR)An Affiliate of Babalakin & Co.

2. Siloam Global Services Limited

3. Honeywell Flour Mills Plc.

1. Ecobank Nigeria Limited

(Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Emmanuel Akomaye Agim, JSC)

“Negotiation is negotiation, and in any form, it is governed by the principles in the law of contract. In other words, to be a valid contract, there must be an offer and acceptance, and in addition, consideration. So, negotiation, cannot, and does not on its own, constitute a contract”

Honourable Emmanuel Akomaye Agim, JSC

Family Faults Evercare Hospital, LASUTH for Death of Lagos Lawyer

The family of a Lagos-based company Lawyer, has blamed her death on alleged negligence by Evercare Hospital, Lekki, Lagos and the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH).

The 40-year-old Lawyer, Mrs Ijeoma Oparanozie, and her niece were wounded, when their car was hit by a somersaulting vehicle penultimate Sunday night around ELF axis in Lekki, Lagos. The six-year-old son of the deceased Lawyer narrowly escaped death, but sustained head injuries.

According to Mrs Chinwe Chiazor, the elder sister of the deceased, first responders used a crane to remove her and other occupants from the accidented car. She was rushed to Evercare Hospital in Lekki, alongside her niece.

Mrs Chiazor said that though the hospital stabilised Oparanozie, who is also a member of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lagos Branch, and did a medical investigation which indicated that she needed urgent surgery, it took hours deliberating on payment, and they refused to perform the surgery without receiving a N10 million fee for both patients.

“The accident happened around 8pm”, she said. “I would also have been in that car. That I’m alive today, is God’s grace. Ijeoma was unconscious, and was bleeding internally.

“She was stabilised at Evercare Hospital. They sent for CTI scan, and the result came out. They then told us that, she needed to be moved into ICU for surgery. I deposited N300,000. They

‘Digitalise Our Courts, Unbundle DSS, EFCC’, Adebayo Urges Fagbemi

The former Oyo State AttorneyGeneral and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Mutalubi Ojo Adebayo, SAN, has maintained that unless Nigeria’s courts are digitalised and anti-graft agencies unbundled, the dysfunction in the justice system will persist.

Speaking to Judiciary correspondents against background of the swearing-in of the new Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, the learned Senior Advocate also pointed to other issues, such as lack of judicial autonomy and inadequate resources, poor investigation, overhang in the awaiting trial population, low level of adoption of technology and innovation, as needing urgent attention.

‘’Nigeria’s justice sector is beset by a myriad of challenges, ranging from delay in administration of justice, to heavy dockets that confront increasingly overworked judicial officers. Other issues include lack of judicial autonomy and inadequate resources, poor investigation, overhang in the awaiting trial population and low level of adoption of technology and innovation, to name a few.’’

He further added , ‘’Firstly, let me seize this opportunity to congratulate Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN on his well-deserved and fitting appointment as Honourable Attorney-General and Minister of Justice of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He is a round peg, in a round hole.

“Topmost is that, I want the new HAGF to ensure that all the Federal Courts are fully digitalised. Enough of our Judges writing in long hand. He should appeal to, and enjoin the 36 States’ Attorneys-General to also follow

suit in their respective State High and Magistrate’s courts.

“To fully drive home the project and ensure its successful implementation, the HAGF should seek the Federal Executive Cabinet to establish the Justice Sector Reform and Development Fund.

“I envisage and anticipate a hostile challenge from the Judiciary and their sympathisers, who may throw up an argument that the agency should be under the full control of the Judiciary. The HAGF should not be taken in by that selfish and myopic contention, because my experience as the Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Oyo State in 2011-2015, has shown and taught me a great lesson – that our Judiciary lacks the capacity and the capability to do any meaningful capital development for the justice sector without our heads of court getting their fingers burnt in the process, as they are greatly vulnerable to the manipulations of the more experienced but very corrupt Administrative and Accounting Officers in the Judiciary.

“Also, the Honourable AttorneyGeneral must confront headlong, the monstrous corruption in all the nation’s sectors including the Judiciary. Our bane in this country is corruption, which is an existential problem to our nationhood. Once the HAGF successfully prosecutes and secures the conviction of some major politically exposed persons in a transparent and fair manner, all other potentially corrupt persons will sit up and turn over a new leaf. Corruption cannot be totally eradicated, but it can be drastically reduced using the instrumentality of laws.

however, insisted that we must pay N5 million each for Ijeoma and my niece, and that unless they receive the money, they would not commence the surgery.

“I noticed that my sister’s head was beginning to swell and they told me it was because of internal bleeding, that blood was being sucked into her head.

“I was crying; I was begging them to start the surgery. They

asked, ‘What of the N2 million you said you and your husband will transfer?’ I told them that I can transfer N1 million to them immediately, while my husband will transfer another N1 million first thing in the morning, as he does not operate the banking App. This was around 12 midnight.

“Ijeoma’s company doctor, Dr Nwogu, came around 3am and assured them that the company

would take full responsibility and pay the bill immediately they resume work in the morning. They refused to do the surgery, notwithstanding the guarantee given by their professional colleague and the company.

“As promised, the company transferred N10 million to Evercare in the morning. They now jerked the figure up to N30 million! They insisted on the N30 million, or

they would do a referral. I do not know whether it was because they felt the company could pay more. They referred us to LASUTH.”

According to Mrs Chiazor, her sister and niece were in a very bad shape by this time. “Our nightmare did not end with the referral, as Ijeoma was not attended to for four hours at LASUTH. They told us that there were no doctors on duty.

NYSC Members Aren’t Competent to be Ministers in Nigeria

Femi Falana, SAN

Statutory and Constitutional Provisions

By virtue of Section 2 of the National Youth Service Act, every citizen who has graduated at any tertiary institution in and outside Nigeria and is not 30 years old, shall be mobilised for the one year compulsory national youth service. Any person above 30 is not eligible to participate in the national youth service Section 13 of the Act provides that any person who fails to report for service in the service corps in the manner directed by the Directorate, or who refuses to make himself available for service in the service corps, is guilty of an offence and liable on conviction to a fine of N2,OOO, or to imprisonment for a term of 12 months, or to both such fine and imprisonment.

A person who is disqualified by law to be a lawmaker, is also disqualified to be appointed as a Minister. The Constitution appears to have set the same qualifications and disqualifications for the two offices. Specifically, Section 147(6) of the Constitution provides that no person shall be appointed as a Minister of the Government of the Federation, unless he is qualified for election as a member of the House of Representatives. Any person who

did not participate in the national youth service, is not qualified to be a member of the House of Representatives.

Modibo v Usman & Ors

In the case of MODIBO v USMAN & Ors (2019) LPELR-59096(SC), where the Appellant contested and won election into the House of Representatives while he was undergoing the national youth service, the Federal High Court ruled that a youth corps member was not qualified to contest election in Nigeria. The Court of Appeal set aside the judgement, on the ground that a youth corps member is not constitutionally disqualified from contesting election. But, the Supreme Court held that the Court of Appeal erred in law and proceeded to affirm the decision of the trial court.

In the leading judgment of the Supreme Court in Modibbo v Usman, Eko JSC stated inter alia:

"It appears that the lower court had suggested quite obliquely that the Appellant, an undoubted NYSC member and indeed, any NYSC member, could combine the full time activities as a member of the House of Representatives. That, to me, appears absurd. The lower court failed to be guided by the overall public policy p, in

the National Youth Service Act. Neither the lower court, nor the Appellant satisfactorily addressed the point raised by the trial court and the 1st Respondent/cross- Appellant that public policy "under National Youth Service Corps (NYSC scheme and the Bye-Law (Revised) 2011 made pursuant to the NYSC Act, forbids a corps member from going into politics" or holding a partisan political appointment."

In his contribution to the leading judgement, Okoro JSC had this to say;

call-up letter. Section 4(9) of the NYSC Bye Laws (Revised 2011) provides as follows:

'Every member shall "Not take part in partisan politics. Any member who takes part in partisan politics, is liable to extension of service for a period not less than three (3) months without pay.'

By Section 13(i)(3) and (5) of the NYSC Act, it is an offence F not to make oneself available for the service for a continuous period of one year as prescribed in Section 2 of the Act. The section also prescribes punishment for an employer, which aids or abets a Corps member to contravene the provisions of the Act.

It is instructive to note that the National Youth Service Corps Decree has been validated by Section 315(5) of the 1999 Constitution. The Appellant could therefore, not be eligible to contest the said primary election while still undergoing the compulsory one year service period. The law will not allow the Appellant in this appeal, to benefit from his wrongful act. See Solanke v Abed (1962) 1 SCNLR 37."

Having been proved to have contravened some

"Also, it is not in dispute that the Appellant was still a serving corps member, at the time he contested and "won" the primary election. This was a clear violation of Section 2(1)&(3)of the National Youth Service Corps Act and Section 4(9) of the National Youth Service Corps Bye-Laws (Revised 2011). The court below was wrong to suggest that the Appellant could combine the full time activities as a member of the House of Representatives, with his primary assignment as a Corps member. By virtue of Section 2 of the NYSC Act, a person called upon to serve in the Service Corps is under an obligation to serve for a continuous period of one year from the date specified in the cont'd on page VII

Mrs Ijeoma Oparanozie The Car Wreck

Mr Mutalubi Ojo Adebayo, SAN

L-R: Alternate Chairman, NBA Committee on Judicial Remuneration, Olawale Fapohunda, SAN; NBA President, Yakubu Maikyau, OON, SAN; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR; HAGF, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; Alternate Chairman, NBA 2023 TCCP, Mrs Oyinkan Badejo-Okusanya and Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, CFR during a courtesy call by NBA to President Tinubu last Thursday

PROF MIKE OZEKHOME, SAN

Disputes between States and the Federation: Examining the Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court (Part 5)

Introduction

In the last four weeks, we discussed this all important issue of disputes that arise now and again between States and the Federation, and how to invoke the original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court. We discussed the Constitution, the laws and precedent cases. We examined some conflicting decisions. We also looked into the question of whether a private individual has locus standi to invoke the original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court; and instances when the said jurisdiction cannot be invoked at all. We clearly saw a possible shift of the Apex Court in AG of Ondo State v AG of the Federation & 19 Ors (1983) 2 SCNL 269. Today, we shall conclude this treatise with what possible interests and benefits that may accrue, in such actions between States and the Federation. In concluding, as I always do in my several outings, I will advance some recommendations which can help re-engineer the system.

The Nature of Interest and Benefits Accruing from an Action between States and the Federation

To invoke the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court in any action by a State Government, the interest and/or benefit must accrue to the State as a corporate entity. For instance, where the benefit accrues to an individual such as the Governor of the State in his personal capacity, the Supreme Court will not entertain the action. In Plateau State v AttorneyGeneral of the Federation (2006) 3 NWLR (Pt. 967) 346, some of the reliefs sought were for the personal benefit of the Governor, Deputy Governor and State Commissioners, being monetary compensation for the declaration of a state of emergency in Plateau State by the Federal Government. The Supreme Court held that, it had no original jurisdiction in respect of claims and reliefs for individual persons.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court is the Apex Court of the land, established to

only entertain critical issues that deal with the major government arms in the country. The reason for this, is not far-fetched. The Apex Court is one of law, equity and public policy. It oxygenates the life of a nation, using the law, and ensuring that the law is not static and the Nation evolves. This is to avoid the kind of situation envisioned by Lord Denning in Parker v Parker (1953), where he stated famously: “What is the argument on the other side? Only this, that no case has been found in which it has been done before. That argument does not appeal to me in the least. If we never do anything which has not been done before, we shall never get anywhere. The law will stand still while the rest of the world goes on, and will be bad for both”.

Recommendations

The following humble recommendations are made, to signpost the way forward.

1. Locus Standi

The National Assembly, States Houses of Assembly and the President, have direct access to the Supreme Court at first instance. However, in line with the liberalism displayed by the court in Attorney-General of Rivers State v AttorneyGeneral Akwa Ibom State (Supra), the Apex Court is encouraged to continue to avail individuals of access, where they are suing through the AttorneyGeneral. This would open the way for the Apex Court of the land to weigh into some very sensitive matters, that had in times past been struck out for want of jurisdiction. It is by no means a tacit expansion of the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court, but a leeway to cure some emerging problems in an ever dynamic world.

2. Are Acts of Government Agencies Covered by States for the Purpose of Invoking the Supreme Court’s Original Jurisdiction?

The law is settled that a suit against an agency of the government, does not qualify

to ground the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court. This is plausible, in light of some confusion that trails this principle in the jurisdiction of the Court. Recently, the case of Attorney-General of Kaduna State v Attorney-General of the Federation & Ors (2023) LPELR-59936(SC), raised this poser amongst legal practitioners and even laymen. The contention was whether the States could approach the Supreme Court, over an issue emanating from the administrative flaws of the Central Bank of Nigeria - an Agency of the Federal Government of Nigeria - not the Federation, by any dint of appreciation. The Supreme Court held that it was purely a matter between States and the Federation, in that the States in their Originating Summons, were praying the Supreme Court to undo what the Federation had done which affects the rights of citizens in their States. While it is laudable that the Supreme Court took on this progressive path on such a very sensitive issue at the time of a possible uprising in Nigeria engendered by the Naira swap policy, the Supreme Court is humbly urged to go further, and make the Position of the Law clearer and more explicit in subsequent decisions as regards this thorny issue.

3. Finally, the Supreme Court is a court of law and also of public policy. It is constitutionally bound to do justice, according to law. The nature of cases that come before the Apex Court at first instance, obviously shows the sensitivity and public nature of such suits, and the task thus, brought to bear on the Apex Court to deal with such matters in the overall interest of the existence and continuation of our statehood. While our courts must continue to be the last resort and hope of the common man and woman, the issue of jurisdiction should always be approached most liberally in the spirit of nationhood, so as to allow wholesome ventilation of grievances. Stifling of grievances without allowing room for ventilation under restrictive locus standi rules, may have the unsalutary effect of driving people underground to take the laws into their hands. God forbid. (The End)

THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK

“Presidents come and go, but the Supreme Court goes on forever”. (William Howard Taft)

“The Supreme Court is the last line of defence for the separation of powers, and for the rights and liberties guaranteed by the Constitution”. (Brett Kavanaugh)

“While our courts must continue to be the last resort and hope of the common man and woman, the issue of jurisdiction should always be approached most liberally in the spirit of nationhood, so as to allow wholesome ventilation of grievances”

Introduction

The Land Use Act (LUA) Cap. 202 (Laws of the Federation of Nigeria) 1990, governs all land in Nigeria, including the FCT Abuja. The law vests the entire land comprised in the territory of every State (except land vested in the Federal Government or its agencies) solely in the Governor of the State, who holds the land in trust for the use and common benefit of all Nigerians. An individual is granted a certificate of occupancy upon successfully applying and fulfilling all requirement, a grant of such a certificate is for a period of 99 (ninety-nine) years. However, for the FCT, the lands are vested in the Minister; Section 55 of the LUA empowers the Minister in matters of administration of land in the FCT. The FCT Act vests all the 8000 sq. km. of the FCT landmass in the Federal Government, invariably, the powers to administer land in the FCT are powers of the President, which are delegated to the FCT minister.

The Minister is acting on delegated powers of the President by virtue of Section 18 of the FCT Act. Consequently, under the delegated powers of the President, the Minister can allocate and administer land within the FCT in line with the provisions of the law. Apart from the Minister, no one has the authority to allocate land in the FCT. A Certificate of Occupancy is an instrument prepared at the Land Registry, signed by the Minister (the Governor, in the case of any State of the Federation), registered in the Land Registry, and given to the holder of a Right of Occupancy as evidence of a grant. The Land Use Act made provision, for the issuance of a C of O over every grant.

FCT Minister’s Address: Concerns

To the crux of the matter, the address by the new FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, CON, has raised a lot of concerns, as well as concerns from residents in the nation’s capital. The Minister in his appointment day address, had amongst other things stated he will revoke titles to lands which are yet to be developed by the holders; this particular statement has caused fears, and many wonder the legality or otherwise of such revocation.

The question arises: Can the FCT Minister revoke a title to land, legally granted by a valid certificate of occupancy? The answer is Yes. However, can such a valid certificate of occupancy legally obtained, be revoked by virtue of non-development of the land?

The answer is in the negative. The FCT Minister has no such power, where he does, he will be acting ultra vires.

Reasons

for Revocation of Certificate of Occupancy

The Land Use Act states expressly, the conditions for the revocation of a certificate of occupancy. The revocation of a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) in Nigeria can occur under certain circumstances, as specified by the Land Use Act of 1978. Section 28 of the Land Use Act empowers the Governor to revoke a right of occupancy earlier granted for the following reasons:

Public Interest

Section 28(1) of the Land Use Act 1978 states that a C of O can be revoked if the land is required for public purposes or for public use. The provisions of Section 51 of the LUA outline what constitutes public purpose,

The New FCT Minister: Legality or Otherwise of Title Revocation

This article by Ochima George which is a response to the statement of the newly appointed Minister of FCT, Abuja, in his inaugural press conference, about the revocation of title to land which has not been developed by allotees, attempts to set the record straight, by telling us that though indeed, State Governors and the FCT Minister are empowered to revoke certificates of occupancies, such revocation can only be done subject to certain conditions set out in the Land Use Act

which includes construction of public buildings, roads, or other infrastructure. Therefore, where a land falls under this, it can be revoked.

Breach of the Conditions of the C of O

By virtue of Section 28(5) of the Land Use Act 1978, where the holder of a C of O breaches the condition/function stipulated for the grant, it can be revoked if the holder of the C of O fails to comply with any of the conditions attached to the C of O. Sections 8, 9(3) & 10 LUA expressly states these terms. This includes where, if the land is to be used for agricultural purposes, but the holder of the C of O converts it to a residential or commercial property, the C of O can be revoked. Therefore, where the purpose for which the C of O is granted is violated, and it can be revoked.

Misrepresentation:The C of O can be revoked if it was obtained by fraud, misrepresentation, or other unlawful means

Now, where the FCT Minister is satisfied that the holder of the grant of C of O has violated the above, he does not just go ahead to demolish or revoke the title, as they are steps to be fulfilled before it can be revoked. The procedure for the revocation of a Certificate of Occupancy in Nigeria, are governed by the Land Use Act of 1978. Unless land is revoked in accordance with the provisions of the Land Use Act, such revocation is invalid. The Procedure that must be followed for Revocation

1.Notice of Revocation: Section 28(6) of the Land Use Act 1978: This provides that the holder of C of O is given a notice prior to revocation, the Government must give notice to the landowner before revoking the C of O. While Section 44 of the LUA outlines how the notice should be effectively served on the holder of the C of O.

2. Payment of Compensation: Section 29 of the LUA requires the Government to pay compensation to the landowner, for the land

“The question arises: Can the FCT Minister revoke a title to land, legally granted by a valid certificate of occupancy? The answer is Yes. However, can such a valid certificate of occupancy legally obtained, be revoked by virtue of non-development of the land? The answer is in the negative”

and any improvements made on the land. The amount of compensation, is usually determined by an independent assessor appointed by the Government. The land owner also has an option to accept resettlement to another location.

Appeal

If the landowner is not satisfied with the revocation or the compensation offered, they can challenge the decision in court. The Land Use Act provides for a legal challenge, to the revocation of a C of O.

Conclusion

It is agreed that the law vests power of all lands in

the Federal Capital Territory on the President, which is delegated to the FCT, Minister; it is equally pertinent to note that the Minister has the power to revoke any grant of certificate of occupancy, however the Minister will be acting ultra vires where he revokes the title as against the stipulated conditions or reasons provided in Section 28 of thr Land Use Act 1978. Therefore, aside from the conditions for revocation in the Land Use Act, no Governing or FCT Minister can revoke a certificate of occupancy for any other reasons.

Ochima George Esq, Senior Associate, Marble Partners LP

NYSC Members Aren’t Competent to be Ministers in Nigeria

cont'd from page V provisions of the National Youth Service Act and Bye-Laws, Augie JSC said:

"With a prison sentence hanging over his head, if he refuses to make himself available for his NYSC, the Appellant cannot be a member of the House of Representatives and Youth Corper at the same time."

In justifying the annulment of the election of the Appellant, Abba-Aji JSC asseverated thus:

"It is without dispute, that the Appellant has been a beneficiary of the Federal Government NYSC Allowance or salary as at the time he contested. Partisan political involvement and participation even - to the level of occupying a political seat is forbidden and prohibited by the law, because every political position is a position of utmost trust and confidence and the sole business and allegiance of a politician is to the people who voted him into power and whom he represents, and that does not admit of jack of all trades but master of none.

The politician is expected to concentrate fully in his political activities and functions, and in this case, a very crucial function of law making. It is in this contemplation that many other services to the Federal Government do not admit or allow participation into politics or other engagements, during the pendency of that service. To be a Corps member

and a law maker at the same time, cannot be allowed. Thus, the Constitution came to give a guideline as follows in Section 66 (1)(f) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended):

'No person shall be qualified for election to the Senate or the House of Representatives if ... he is a person employed in the public service of the Federation or of any State and has not resigned, withdrawn, or retired from such employment thirty days before the date of election.'

It is the unchallenged and undisputed fact that the Appellant’s political position or office was the House of Representatives for Yola South/Yola North/Girei Federal Constituency of Adamawa State. This office was contested by him when he was in active NYSC service, and has not passed out or resigned or withdrawn from it. Being paid by the public fund, he therefore, qualified to be a public office holder if he discharges any duty in the discharge of which the public are interested, more clearly if he is paid out of a fund provided by the public."

It is crystal clear from the authoritative pronouncements of the Supreme Court in the case of Modibbo v Usman (Supra), that a youth corps member is not competent to contest any election in Nigeria. In the same vein, a person who has not completed the compulsory one year youth service is not competent to be appointed a Minister in Nigeria, since the Constitution has prescribed the same qualifications and disqualifications for election into the House of Representatives and appointment into the post of a Minister.

FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, CON

Financial Issues in the Nigerian Judiciary: Funding and Remuneration

This article by Onikepo Braithwaite, is a monograph which was written in 2021 about the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) Strike that year, and its main demand for the financial autonomy of the Nigerian Judiciary, in order to achieve the independence of the Judiciary. The inconsistencies in the Constitutional Provisions with regard to the funding of the Judiciary are highlighted in this work, as well as the poor remuneration of judicial officers. As the Breakout Session on the Presentation of the Nigerian Bar Association’s Memo to the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) on Judicial Remuneration and Allowances at the NBA 2023 Annual General Conference holds today, it is apposite that some of these relevant issues are taken into consideration presently

On April 6, 2021, the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) embarked on a nationwide strike which lasted until June 9. The main demand of the Union was financial autonomy – that the Judiciary could only achieve real/full independence if it is financially independent, as opposed to being dependent on the Executive. It took the intervention of the National

Judicial Council (NJC), for the strike to be suspended. Were their demands legitimate? Was the strike successful? What are the constitutional provisions as far as the funding of the Judiciary is concerned? What about the remuneration, allowances of judicial officers and their conditions of service – though the strike assisted in bringing the issue to the fore yet again, so far, it did not cause

“The call to the Nigerian Judiciary, unlike that of the Legislature and Executive and a lot of its Judiciary contemporaries around the globe, is a call to poverty. Even the Catholic Priests who take a vow of poverty, live more comfortably than our judicial officers, and are taken care of in their retirement until death!”

Government to take action and review the remuneration of judicial officers. This paper seeks to look into some of these issues. However, consequent upon the strike, a Memorandum of Action (MOA) (‘Implementation of Financial Autonomy for the State Legislature and the Judiciary’ with effect from March 24, 2021) was signed by the Union and State Governors in May 2021, providing inter alia, that the account of the State Judiciaries would be credited with the pro rated amount standing to their credit under the 2021 Appropriation Laws of each State, straight from the Federation Account, paid to the heads of courts through the National Judicial Council (NJC).

Introduction

A situation in which Chief Judges of States or Heads of Courts have to go cap in hand to Governors or the Presidency to solicit for funds to run their courts or to carry out capital expenditure, is unacceptable. But, this has mostly been

the case, as stories abound of Chief Judges being seen in the various Governors’ offices, soliciting for funds. This paper which comes on the heels of the JUSUN strike, not only examines the issue of the funding of the Judiciary, but also discusses the concept of the independence of the Judiciary, the third arm of Government, vis-à-vis its under-funding, particularly with regard to the inadequate salaries and allowances paid to our judicial officers, whom despite the fact that they have one of the busiest dockets in the world, are so poorly paid. Worse still, our judicial officers have not had an upward review of their remuneration packages in at least 13 years (Part II A & B, Certain Political, Public and Judicial Office Holders (Salaries and Allowances, Etc)(Amendment) Act 2008) in spite of the inflation and devaluation in currency that Nigeria has experienced, especially over the last six years. Truth be told, the inconsistencies in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended in 2018) (the Constitution) as regards the funding of the Judiciary, does

CJN, Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON

Financial Issues in the Nigerian Judiciary: Funding and Remuneration

Funding JUSUN Strike

The JUSUN Strike of 2021, is said to have been one of the longest in the history of Nigeria’s Judiciary. It is therefore, apposite to look more deeply into the provisions of the Constitution to understand the dispute better.

Section 6 of the Constitution provides for the Judiciary; Section 6(5)(a-i) of the Constitution lists the Superior Courts of Record, while Section 6(5)(j-k) of the Constitution mentions the other courts authorised by law to exercise jurisdiction on matters which the National Assembly (NASS) and State Houses of Assembly respectively, can make laws. My humble submission is that, though not expressly listed, courts like the Magistrate Court, District Court, Area Customary Court, and the Sharia Court, are the other courts authorised by law to exercise jurisdiction on which the various State Houses of Assembly can make laws, and therefore, fall within the purview of Section 6(5)(j-k) of the Constitution, Section 6(5)(j) because of the Magistrate Court in the Federal Capital Territory. Section 6(5) (a-k) of the Constitution can therefore, be translated to mean that the superior and lower courts constitute the Judiciary, and a community reading of Sections 6(5)(a-k) and 81(3)(c) of the Constitution, means that any amount standing to the credit of the Judiciary in the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Federation, shall be paid to the National Judicial Council (NJC) to be disbursed to the heads of the courts. Section 162(9) of the Constitution also provides for the payment of any amount standing to the credit of the Judiciary in the Federation Account to the NJC, for disbursement to the heads of the courts. The implementation of Section 162(9), constitutes part of what the aforementioned Memorandum of Action seeks to achieve. See the case of Mudiaga-Odje v Younes Power System Nig. Ltd (2013) LPELR-20306 (CA). The aforementioned provisions seem to mean that the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Federation and Federation Account, are responsible for the funding of all the courts (Judiciary), though the type of funding is not stated therein. Section 318 of the Constitution however, excludes Magistrate Courts from the definition of judicial office.

What is the Meaning of ‘Standing to the Credit of’?

At this juncture, it is only proper to interrogate the phrase ‘standing to the credit of’. We must not forget that, a budget is an estimate of income and expenditure for a particular period of time; it is not money already sitting in the bank waiting to be disbursed. According to the online MerriamWebster dictionary, an estimate is defined as “A rough or approximate calculation”. The uncertainty of an estimate is accentuated in another definition of the term which states thus: “A guess of what the size, value, amount, cost etc of something might be”(see the online Cambridge dictionary). It follows therefore, that a budget is nothing more than a plan for income and expenditure over a given period, based on at best, a calculated guess obviously informed by certain indices. Ergo, for example, a State may estimate that in 12 months, it will have an income of N120 million, that is, N10 million monthly. The budget of the Judiciary which is passed in the Appropriation Bill of the State may be N12 million for the year (N1 million monthly), which works out at 10% of this imaginary budget. Some people are under the impression that at the beginning of the year, the sum of N12 million should be released to the Judiciary ab initio. But, the States believe that this is not tenable, because the State does not have the N120 million in its account, nor does it even have the monthly N12 million yet. If at the end of the month, the State realises N6 million, instead of N12 million, this means that the budget is in deficit that month, and

the Judiciary cannot get its N1 million which would have been what was due to it based on the N12 million out of the N120 million annual budget. At best, what would come to the Judiciary based on what was actually realised, would be N500,000, since the State only realised half of its expectation. This may be what one may say stands to the credit of the Judiciary in real terms or rather, a pro-rated amount, based on the actual income. Some have even argued that it is only after the State has met some of its obligations like debt servicing, that the amount that the Judiciary will receive can be pro-rated based on what remains after these deductions. However, another point of view is that the funds going to the Judiciary should be a first line charge, and should either come straight from the Federation Account to the heads of courts via the NJC, or if it is coming through the State Government, be deducted immediately before any debt servicing, obligations etc.

The Confusion

Then, the confusion set in. Somewhat contrary to or a further qualification of Sections 81(3)(c), 84(2), (4) & (7) of the Constitution lists those entitled to remuneration, salaries, and allowances in the Judiciary charged upon the Consolidated Fund of the Federation, thereby excluding judicial officers of the lower courts, and limiting those entitled inter alia, to judicial officers of the superior courts of record and the recurrent expenditure of their courts, that is, the cost of running the courts - including but not limited to buying diesel, stationery, maintenance of air conditioners and generators, salaries and allowances of the staff of these superior courts too (I would imagine), since these support staff are part of the operational cost of the courts.This arrangement brings the question of Federalism to the fore. If true Federalism is at play, the question as to why the Federal Government should be

directly responsible for the funding of State courts, and particularly the salaries of State Superior Court Judicial Officers and the recurrent expenditure of their courts, arises.

Nevertheless, does this mean that the State Governments are the ones responsible for the capital expenditure of their State superior courts and all the expenditure of the lower courts, whether salaries, remuneration and allowances, capital or recurrent as per the provisions of Section 121(3)(b) of the Constitution, to be funded from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the various States, and paid directly to the heads of those courts? The foregoing constitutional provisions, are not clear on this; Section 121(3)(b) of the Constitution, as if to create more confusion, only provides that any amount standing to the credit of the Judiciary in the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the State should be paid directly to the heads of the courts, with no mention of the NJC or the type of expenditure.

The Constitution however, again, shows itself to be an imperfect document riddled with inconsistencies, when in Part I Paragraph I National Judicial Council Section 21(e) Third Schedule to the Constitution, it also provides that the NJC should collect, control and disburse all moneys, capital and recurrent, for the Judiciary, neglecting to mention where the funds should emanate from, whether Federal or State. Does this mean that by virtue of this provision, all Judiciary expenditure, whether capital or recurrent of the superior courts, should be disbursed to the all heads of the courts by the NJC. This may be a tidier way of funding the Judiciary, as a whole, especially if the lower courts are also included.

Nevertheless, this writer believes that there should be an urgent review of the provisions regarding Judiciary funding, to clear up these controversies and make for the more seamless operation of the Judiciary. The famous Agbakoba case decision, JUSUN v NJC, AGF & 70 Ors Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/667/13 Judgement delivered on 13/1/2014 per A.F.A. Ademola J, simply regurgitates the unclear constitutional provisions, just like Executive Order No. 10 of 2020 seeking to grant the States’ Legislatures and Judiciaries financial autonomy, in accordance with the said Section 121(3) (b) of the Constitution.

Remuneration

The Judge and his N10 million Loan

A Judge narrated that he had applied to the Bank where his salary is domiciled for a N10 million loan a few years ago, to complete the construction of a house on a piece of land which his father

bequeathed to him, so that he could earn some extra income to augment his salary and give his children a decent education, and also not end up being homeless on his retirement. The Bank flatly turned him down and refused to grant the loan, because they said his salary was too paltry to support a N10 million loan. The Judge went on to inform me that, if not that the Lagos State Government augments their salaries monthly to increase it to about N500,000, they would go home with something in the region of a little more than N200,000. For goodness sake, are our judicial officers clerks? Yet, Lagos State High Courts for example, have one of the busiest dockets in the world. When the Judge went on to say how he and his colleagues jostle to be included on official trips, in order to be able to receive ‘esta code’ to boost their meagre incomes, it just sounded so tragicomic.

When I then read the illuminating article authored by Ahuraka Yusuf Isah, Special Assistant to the Chief Justice of Nigeria on Media, titled ‘The Sorry State of Judiciary Budgets and Judges' Salaries’, I realised why the Bank refused to lend the Judge the money. The call to the Nigerian Judiciary, unlike that of the Legislature and Executive and a lot of its Judiciary contemporaries around the globe, is a call to poverty. Even the Catholic Priests who take a vow of poverty, live more comfortably than our judicial officers, and are taken care of in their retirement until death! The vow of poverty does not permit the Priests to own property, but even at that, it is unlikely that they can be rendered homeless in their retirement (like many of Judges are), since they can possibly reside in an accommodation in a Parish, or even be provided with a comfortable home, courtesy of their Parishioners.

Mr Isah’s article revealed that the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) earns less than N300,000 per month as his basic salary, and the other Justices of the Supreme Court (JSC), about N206,000. With other allowances, the CJN's monthly take home pay amounts to N480,000, while that of his brother JSCs, N751,000. If the CJN and JSCs can be paid such peanuts, the High Court Judges would be getting less. As for the Magistrates, I believe they earn less than N200,000 per month as their basic salary. Worse still, Judicial officers have not had a salary increase since 2007! God knows how many years it would have taken the Bank to recover their N10 million plus interest from the Judge, if they had granted him the loan. According to Mr Isah, while our CJN does not go home with up to N10 million per annum in salary and allowances, a High Court Judge in South Africa earns about N47 million per annum.

I watched a news clip of the President of

“I saw a headline of a report that BudgIT released, claiming that there are 316 duplicated capital projects in the 2021 budget to the tune of N39.5 billion. All this wastage can be put to better use, like funding the Judiciary and increasing the salaries and allowances of Judicial Officers”

not help matters.

Financial Issues in the Nigerian Judiciary: Funding and Remuneration

Cont'd from page IX

the Court of Appeal, Hon Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem (PCA) delivering her address at the beginning of the 2021-2022 Legal Year, and frankly, the figures she reeled off as the basic salaries of judicial officers were shameful - their remuneration is definitely poor - just a few notches above that of clerical officers! From the figures Her Lordship mentioned, it seems that the monthly ‘newspaper allowance’ of Senators (just over N300,000) and possibly that of the Members of the House of Representatives (about N280,000), is higher than the monthly basic salary of the CJN and all the Appellate Court Justices!

Her Lordship quoted former President of the Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Mustapha Akanbi CFR (of blessed memory) in a publication titled “The Main Obstacles of Justice According to Law”: “That a good judgement flows from a mind that is not bogged by the thought of - where do I get my next meal? Or where do I get the money to pay my son’s school fees? Poor conditions of service, disturb the mind. It is an obstacle to clear and positive thinking”. The PCA therefore, made a passionate appeal, saying: "We therefore, call upon the Federal and State Government to live up to their obligations under the law. I also implore the Government of the Federation and the States, to urgently review the salaries and allowances of judicial officers and staff. The salaries of Justices are static, with no graduation as in the Civil and Public Service. We have been on one salary scale, for over 10 years now". Let me make use of a practical example here. A judicial officer of the appellate courts who earned a monthly basic salary of approximately N250,000 10 years ago, earned about £1,000 (with an exchange rate of roughly N250 to £1). Today, still earning N250,000, works out at about £445 (at the CBN exchange rate of roughly N561 to £1, about N200 better parallel market), over 200% less in real terms! Meanwhile, the cost of living - school fees, the price of food stuff, petrol and diesel - basic essential commodities, have obviously risen astronomically. And, while I’m not saying all Judges are corrupt, I can say without equivocation that our judicial officers are grossly underpaid, and by virtue of this fact, the Government is creating an enabling environment for judicial corruption. See Section 17 of the Constitution, particularly 17(2)(c), (e) and (3)(b).

Review of Judiciary Funding and Salary Structure

This is as good a time as any to review the issue of the funding of the Judiciary, and the salary structure of judicial officers holistically. Some have also advocated that the salaries of High court Judges should be categorised in accordance to their years of service; that a Judge of 10 years standing should not be earning the same salary as a newly appointed Judge, that is, the salaries should be staggered into maybe 1-5, 6-10, 11-15 and 16 years and above. In the Civil Service, a person on Grade Level 8 does not earn the same as a Grade Level 14 worker. Likewise, in the Nigeria Police Force and practically every other institution, seniority is not only reflected by rank, but also in salary and allowances. For the Judges, why should it be different? Proponents of this arrangement believe that, it is bizarre that seniority in the Judiciary is only reflected by court numbers and not in terms of salary, as I believe it is done in England on which we base our legal system on. It is time to increase the remuneration of all judicial officers. Where will the money come from? For starters, a part of the allowances and running costs paid to NASS members can be reduced and diverted to the Judiciary. I saw a headline of a report that BudgIT

released, claiming that there are 316 duplicated capital projects in the 2021 budget to the tune of N39.5 billion. All this wastage can be put to better use, like funding the Judiciary and increasing the salaries and allowances of Judicial Officers.

Temptation and LKY

With all due respect to Judicial Officers, especially those who have remained faithful to their Oath of Office, some home truths must be told about the Nigerian Judiciary, no matter how embarrassing; with the hope that Government will immediately address some of the issues, which are the root causes of what many now have come to refer to as the rot in the Nigerian judicial system. Recently, when the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad CFR (CJN) was swearing in the new Court of Appeal Justices, he advised them not to succumb to temptation. Some people complained that, the CJN should not have made such a statement; but the fact is, he was only speaking the truth, because those who lack financially, are the softest targets for falling prey to temptation. And, even though we certainly expect a high level of morals and integrity from judicial officers, at the end of the day, they are human beings like anybody else (not super humans or saints), who have responsibilities for the upkeep of their families (especially the men who may be the sole breadwinners of their families). I am not in any way trying to justify corruption or bad behaviour in the Judiciary, but, rather, I am trying to draw our attention to the plight of judicial officers, who by virtue of their remit, are unable to voice their complaints since their demeanour is expected to quiet, guarded and of the highest etiquette.

We like to use Lee Kwan Yew (LKY), Lawyer and former Prime Minister of Singapore, and how he turned his country around as an example, but we

fail to follow his example - he tried to create a more equitable society in which Civil Servants, the Judiciary etc, were not just paid living wages, but were well paid, so that there would be no reason to envy those in the private sector or who were well-to-do, and no need for corruption. As the economy became more buoyant, even pensions were increased, to reflect the prosperity. Can we say that the same obtains in present-day Nigeria?

No. My point? In trying to stamp out corruption, LKY’s Government played it’s own part, and ensured that all workers were adequately remunerated, unlike Nigeria where just a minute fraction, like the National Assembly, are overpaid. On the contrary, the Nigerian middle class which judicial officers formerly belonged to, has been eroded in great part by negative and inequitable Government policies, leaving only the top class, which includes Politicians, a few businessmen and the corrupt, and the bottom class, which the judicial officers and other workers now find themselves belonging to, along with the impecunious.

Retirement

Apart from Lagos and Rivers State who provide accommodation for Judges even after retirement, the same cannot be said to obtain in other States or Federal Courts. What about the Magistrates? Their fate is obviously worse, in all ramifications.

I was shocked when I heard the amount that Supreme Court Justices were given upon retirement, to secure accommodation. Again, let me give a practical example. When the Supreme Court was still situated in Lagos, Justices were given accommodation in Ikoyi, the best residential area in Lagos at the time - detached houses with three or four bedrooms. Then upon retirement, they are given an amount of money which will not buy them a house even in VGC, GRA Ikeja or the Opebi/Allen part of Ikeja, or even a two bedroom flat in Lekki Phase 1 or a house in the better part of Surulere! With their package, they would be aiming for outlandish areas like Ilasamaja, Ipaja and the like. For other Judges, it is ‘to your tent, O Israel’. They are left to look for alternative accommodation to rent in cheap neighbourhoods, due to lack of funds and low pensions. Yet, a Governor who serves for a maximum of eight years, has a fabulous pension including a house in a high brow residential area of his State or maybe even another place of his choice within the country.

While Federal Legislators, at least, are given brand new state of the art cars when a new administration cycle commences every four years, Judges are not necessarily provided with same. Some

Supreme Court Justices use their vehicles, for six years or more. In the past, it was not unheard of, for the vehicles to be taken back from the Supreme Court Justices upon retirement. I know of a case in which, upon retirement, the vehicle was repossessed from his Lordship.

Conclusion

In JUSUN v NJC, AGF & 70 Ors (Supra), the judgement was simply a regurgitation of Sections 81(3)(c) and 121(3)(b) of the Constitution, and does not address or resolve the controversy and inconsistencies created by the foregoing constitutional provisions which I have highlighted above. It is obvious that the provisions of the Constitution leave us with several inconsistent scenarios on the funding of the Judiciary, and it would be unfair to lay all the blame for the lack of judicial autonomy because of the lack of financial independence, solely on the Governors; the inconsistent provisions of the Constitution, are also culpable.

From a community reading of all the above-mentioned provisions, it may be safe to conclude for now, that it is clear that the salaries, remuneration, and allowances of the judicial officers of the superior courts and the JUSUN Staff manning these courts, and all their other recurrent expenditure, should be paid from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Federation through the NJC to the heads of the courts. For the lower courts, it is implied that they are the ones who fit into Section 121(3)(b), since they are excluded from Sections 84(4) & 318 of the Constitution, and the State Governments should fund them completely - pay the judicial officers, their JUSUN Staff, all their capital and other recurrent expenditure.

The bottom line is that, it is a foregone conclusion that the Constitution must be amended to achieve clarity and uniformity, as far as including the Magistracy in the constitutional definition of judicial office and officers and the funding of the Judiciary is concerned. In the case of Danstarcher Turnkey Contractors Ltd v UBN Plc (2015) LPELR-24631(CA), the Court of Appeal held that the rule of interpretation of statutory provisions should always be construed as a whole, and should be given an interpretation consistent with the object of the entire statute. Sadly, the object of the provisions of the Constitution with regard to the Judiciary and its funding, are somewhat hazy. It goes without saying, that there should be an immediate upward review of judicial salaries and allowances today. However, the matter of the centralisation of payments even to Superior State Courts on one hand, and the clamour for restructuring and devolution of powers on the other hand, are at variance - however, this is a story for another day!

Onikepo Braithwaite

“We like to use Lee KwanYew (LKY), Lawyer and former Prime Minister of Singapore, and how he turned his country around as an example, but we fail to follow his example - he tried to create a more equitable society in which Civil Servants, the Judiciary etc, were not just paid living wages, but were well paid, so that there would be no reason to envy those in the private sector or who were well-to-do, and no need for corruption”

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Clane, Oladipo Alabede; Chief Executive Officer, aYo Nigeria, Kayode Odetola; and Head of Growth and Marketing Anchor, Esther Ahaiwe, during the session of ‘Assessing Trends, Opportunities and Obstacles in the Fintech Ecosystem’, at the just-concluded Nigeria Fintech Forum held in Lagos...recently

L-R: First Naija Highlandah winner, Akinwale Awatt; Head, Commercial Planning, Activation and OffTrade of Bacardi-Martini Nigeria, Thomas Olumagin; Commercial Director, Bacardi-Martini Nigeria, Adrian Watermeyer; and Customer Brand Manager, Bacardi-Martini Nigeria, Anie Ekwere, at the William Lawson’s Naija Highlandah Inflatable Billboard Activation in Maryland...recently

Back row middle: United States-based ranked Saber Fencer and Founder of Fencing Diaspora Foundation (FDF), Inkosi Brou, with his mentor, a one-time Olympic silver medalist, Daryl Homer, with young aspiring fencers (front row) shortly after a workshop held by the duo to train the youngsters at the Lagos Fencing Club during a four-day visit to Nigeria in support and promotion of fencing sport through Inkosi’s FDF launch in Lagos...recently

L-R: Husband of the deceased, Prince Ajibade Olasunkanmi Adewoyin; children of the deceased, Adetola O. Adewoyin, Tiwalola A. Adewuyi, Olayinka Adewoyin, Olatide Adewoyin, and Owolabi Adewoyin, and grandchildren during the Outing and Thanksgiving Church Service for the late former Sub-editor of THISDAY Newspapers, Mrs. Lola Adewoyin, at Abule Egba, Lagos State...recently

L-R: Don, Preventive Dentistry Department, College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL), Prof P. O. Ayanbadejo; Director of Finance, Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc (FMN), Dr. S. A. Akinade; Company Secretary/Group Director, Legal Services, FMN, Mr. Joseph Umolu; Provost, CMUL, Prof. D. A. Oke; Head of Department, Child Dental Health, CMUL, Prof. I. L. Utomi; and College Secretary/Director of Administration, Dr. Olayinka Obafemi-Moses, during the official launch of the third batch of dental chairs installation and ward refurbishing by FMN at the College of Medicine (LUTH), Lagos…recently

PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT

PHOTO: KOLAWOLE ALLI

Rwanda President, Paul Kegame (left), welcoming Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke (right), during a courtesy visit to the president by the governor in Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda…recently

Recognising Excellence: Dr Ismaila Ibrahim Reflects on His Recent Awards

Dr

These accolades have not only recognised his exceptional work but have also served as a tremendous source of motivation for him and others. While speaking with Rebecca Ejifoma in Lagos on his quest to continue pushing the boundaries and make significant contributions to his industry, Ibrahim talks about his mentorship programmes to give other young people a leg up and aspire for more greatness."

Young professionals in Nigeria and beyond are creating new records and achieving success in various fields. Whether through scientific breakthroughs, artistic expression, or personal growth, these individuals make a difference and inspire others to do the same.

One such professional is Nigeria's Dr Ismaila Ibrahim. He is a petroleum engineer, food enthusiast and mentor for young people to attain sterling feats in their spaces. Ibrahim is an energy influencer and change-maker. His experience spans the energy value chain from Project Management, Contracts, Procurement and Supply with a successful record of developing and maintaining high-performing client networks across the Oil & Gas, Marine Sector, designing, vast in Project Management, Cost Engineering, Performance Evaluation, Vessels Management, Subsea Installation/Maintenance, ROV Inspection.

What stirred his interest in the energy field

In his narration, he walked THISDAY through what stirred his interest in the energy field.

"From the training I got from the Petroleum Training Institute in Africa, through exposure and the realisation that I can apply my knowledge and impact real-life situations, my first love was processing and controlling the interactions between the parameters and how they can alter the final products at different stages. I was also motivated by stories of older folks who started in the same field and are now successfully impacting lives."

Thanks to those positive tales, Ibrahim became further exposed to the various skills required in the industry — from the technical to the non-technical and, recently, energy transition — as he grew older. "Despite the hazards and risks associated with the industry, it comes with great rewards and satisfaction," he expressed.

Awards

Little wonder his skills have earned him multiple awards. He won the Africa Regional Award for Projects, Facilities and Construction of the Society of Petroleum Engineers, The Energy Influencer Award, and The Way Ahead (TWA) Energy Influencers Class of 2021, which comprises 17 exceptional young professionals under the age of 36 who excel in their fields at a level superior to that of their peers, yielding second-to-none achievements. He also has the Honorary Doctorate of Public Administration Award to his credit. On how the awards and recognition have influenced his career and, in turn, influenced others, the engineer noted, "With the help of God, these awards have further motivated me to do more

Mentorship

While he reckons with the significance of gaining ground in his space, Ibrahim is passionate about greasing the wheels of other young people for a better future and healthy society. "I volunteer from time to time; I speak and mentor young people because there are too many of them who need some direction and counselling. I enjoy mentoring people because I have benefitted from mentorships," Ibrahim acknowledged.

The certified management consultant admitted how timid and reserved he was growing up as a young boy. "I avoided everything that would put me in the spotlight or generate attention. Even though I feel that way sometimes to date, I have realised that I cannot help it." He is confident that one of his life mantras is giving back to society. "As a beneficiary of mentorship, there is the natural urge to distribute and impact. I want to be amongst those who will lead this change."

From being a mentor himself to having mentees, Ibrahim enjoys investing in tech startups. Still, he has learnt to prioritise his workload and manage multiple energy projects simultaneously. "I keep a note manually, which I carry anywhere I am going. I give attention to each according to their respective timelines/milestones. I am flexible and adaptable when priorities change, and sometimes I delegate as much as possible."

Strategies

His strategies to meet these aims are to connect, understand goals and objectives, support and share experiences — continuous engagement through various methods. "Currently, I use small groups and generally through the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) and other professional associations."

Although he is determined to make a lasting change across sectors, he understood the instruction, "Let the poor breathe". "I have managed to create an itinerary that I stick to," he chipped in. "During these sessions, we discuss real issues and how they affect our lives, lessons, and strategies to overcome and tackle some of them. Most of my mentees are from the SPE".

Interestingly, Ibrahim has often counted his blessings. One of those blessings is the Energy Influencer Award he clinched in 2021. "It was indeed humbling and motivating at the same time," he expressed gleefully. "It was a highly competitive award with over 100 nominations from high-profile energy professionals globally. It was thankfully dignifying when I was nominated for the Emerging Leaders Alliance (USA) in 2018."

Arguably, it is uncommon to see a multiple award-winning engineer who enjoys travelling dabbling in fast food as a side hustle. He has established a restaurant in Port-Harcourt, the Rivers state capital, to express his undying love for whipping up good food. "I understand that one of the ways to build wealth is to leverage; hence, I decided to venture into other areas harnessing my vast network, thereby diversifying my income and reach whilst touching lives."

Taking a page from Martin Luther King, the petroleum engineer says he has a dream that one day he will lead change and contribute to the policies that drive the energy industry even as he explores other fields.

Despite having his fingers in many pies, Ibrahim, a proud MBA holder from Cardiff Metropolitan University, stays current with field developments. He attends conferences, exhibitions, technical meetings, and other industry-specific networking events to keep abreast of recent findings and results in the industry. This is his passion, determination and disposition playing out for the good of his career, mentees, and society.

Multi Million Naira Cocoware House Inaugurated in Cross River

Precious Ugwuzor

An indigenous company, the Starlink Global and Ideal Limited has inaugurated a multi million naira Starlink ware house complex in Cross River State.

The complex which is a 2,000 metric tonnes project is expected to house agro products from the central part of the state and prepare them for export.

Speaking during the commissioning on Saturday in Ikom, Dr. Adeyemi Adeniji, MD/ CEO, Starlink Global and Ideal Limited said agriculture opportunities abound in the country.

He decried the arbitrary taxes imposed on exporters from the country and called for greater involvement of youths in the Agriculture sector.

"You know we have our problem now with differences in economic policies, JAPA syndrome, and with Renewed Hope according to what the president said that if we explore and exploit all the opportunities around us then we can become a very great nation.

"We have the potentials, we are tired of being told we have the potentials to become a great nation, we need to change that to become a very great nation.

"You can see today we are looking at the farmers, what are the problems of the farmers are the richest people in other countries like the United States, we need to create private companies to be intentional of developing this particular space.

"Today, if you want to export from here, you have a problem especially when you are talking about FX scarcity.

"Nigeria companies when we ship to China, and you say the country of origin is Nigeria

they will charge you ten per cent but if you get a country of origin to be Niger, a French speaking country, they will waive it.

"They made it uncompetitive, so what do you need to do, we need to internalise our thinking.

"What do we need to do, we have the population, and just need to boost the economy of this country and develop the taste of what we produce.

"That is why we acquired the largest cocoa producing factory in Lagos we

have started partnering with Ogun state and AfriExIm bank to establish the largest cashew processing factory.

"You cannot export stones, when you are looking at industrial revolution you need raw materials and where will the raw materials come from, is it when you have the average age of farmers now 40 and above, you need to start giving the younger ones the hope that they can do it and get there.

"As of today, I have 82 hectares of cocoa plantation, I am planting another 10 hectares in Osun State, 82 in Edo State, we want to

encourage young people to come in.

"We have about 62 per cent of arable land that has not been touched in Nigeria, the farmers herders crisis can be solved if government can be intentional about it.

"We are tired of potentials and just need to harness our God given talents and resources. "Enough of the stories that Calabar port cannot be dredged, that is why we demonstrated by bringing a smaller vessel.

"We are also going to bring a smaller vessel that will be loading between Calabar and Duala or Yaounde and those places, the rest of Cross Riverians should remain here and develop it.

"That is our objective, we cannot be waiting for government all the time.

"From the Ikom axis people who are indigenous we have 57 of them on our employment roll and we intend to bring in more", he said.

On her part, the state government representative, Director of Administration, Ministry of Commerce, Glory Odu-oji said the government is happy that Starkink deemed it fit to make its presence felt in Ikom.

"You are not only going to be carrying cocoa, but we look forward to a time you will be carrying cocoa beans out of Ikom.

"We are also happy that you want to give back to the community you are benefiting from and your action today shows that you are not just paying lip service but you mean business.

"The state governor is not relenting in his efforts to ensure the state hits the ground running particularly in the area of exports", she said.

Ismaila Ibrahim, a petroleum engineer, is reflecting on his recent achievements with three prestigious awards under his belt.

Dr Ismaila Ibrahim

R-L: Representative of Cross River government and Director of Admin, Ministry of Commerce, Glory Odu-oji; CEO Starlink Global and Ideal Limited, Dr Adeyemi Adeniji; representative of the chiefs, Chief Ogar Ojang and representative of Area Comptroller, Cross River and Akwa Ibom, Bosun Akande

FOREIGN DESK

French Ambassador Stays in Niger, Defies Junta Eviction Order

French President Emmanuel Macron says France’s ambassador to Niger is staying at his post despite being ordered to leave the country by Niger’s new military leaders.

Macron told a gathering of French ambassadors in Paris Monday that Ambassador Sylvain Itte “is remaining despite pressure.”

He also rejected concerns that standing up to the junta in Niger could be dangerous, insisting, “Our policy is the right one.”

Itte was asked to leave Niger within 48 hours in a letter Friday from the Nigerian Foreign Ministry. The ultimatum was given after Itte refused to meet with the military leaders who ousted President Mohamed Bazoum in a coup in July.

Bazoum and his family have been detained by the military in the presidential palace.

Niger is a former French colony, and France still has 1,500 soldiers in the African country. They have helped Niger to fight jihadi forces.

Thousands of Nigeriens took to the streets of Niamey, the capital, Sunday to show their support for the military officers who deposed Bazoum.

France has not recognised Niger’s new leaders, saying that Bazoum’s government remains the only legitimate authority in Niger.

France has also agreed with the West African bloc ECOWAS and its calls for Bazoum’s reinstatement.

Taiwan Shouldn’t Be Next Ukraine, Says Foxconn’s Terry

Gou

Seeking Presidency

Terry Gou, who founded Apple supplier Foxconn, said Monday he will run as an independent candidate in Taiwan’s presidential election, ending months of speculation.

At a news conference, Gou criticized the governing Democratic Progressive Party, saying its policies have “brought Taiwan into the risk of war” with China, which claims the self-ruled island democracy as part of its territory.

“I will definitely not allow Taiwan to become the next Ukraine,” he added.

He said Taiwan also needs new approaches on the economy and other matters at home. “Domestically, the national policy direction is filled with all sorts of mistakes. There’s no way to solve the difficulties of Taiwanese industry and people’s livelihoods,” he said.

Gou’s Foxconn, formally known as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., is a major supplier to Apple and has many factories in China that manufacture iPhones.

Gou said he felt he has something to contribute on the issues that matter to Taiwan’s people.

“I have not seen substantive discussions of policy recently, especially on the topics of cross straits relations (with China), economic development or international relations,” he said.

Gou said he would work for Taiwanese society’s unity because unity was critical to Taiwan’s future.

Judge Sets March 4 Trial Date in Trump Election Interference Case

The trial of former US President Donald Trump on charges of plotting to overturn the 2020 presidential election will be held next March, a fede ral judge ruled Monday.

US District Judge Tanya Chutkan set the highprofile trial for March 4, rejecting dates proposed by prosecutors and defense lawyers.

The prosecution wanted the proceeding to start January 2, with jury selection in December, while the Trump defence team sought to put it off until April 2026.

The ruling by Chutkan, delivered during a hearing Monday, puts the trial right in the middle of the 2024 US presidential campaign in which Trump is the leading Republican candidate. It will commence on the eve of Super Tuesday, when voters in more than a dozen states go to the polls to choose their parties’ presidential nominees.

Trump is charged with four felony counts in the case including conspiracy to defraud the United States and conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding.

He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Trump’s lawyers sought to delay the trial citing the millions of pages of documents they must review and a conflict with other pending criminal cases.

Japan Furious with China, Summons Chinese Ambassador over Fukushima Crank Calls

Japan summoned China’s ambassador

on Monday to protest against a flood of nuisance calls from China to local businesses following the release of water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant.

Deputy Foreign Minister Masataka Okano told ambassador Wu Jianghao that China should properly inform the public “rather than unnecessarily raising people’s concerns by providing information that is not based on scientific evidence,” the foreign ministry said in a statement.

Last week, China banned all seafood imports from its neighbour after Japan began releasing cooling water from the stricken Fukushima plant in an operation that Tokyo and the UN’s nuclear watchdog have said is safe.

Since then, apparently randomly chosen Japanese businesses ranging from bakeries to aquariums have received reportedly thousands of sometimes abusive crank calls from Chinese numbers.

Japan’s embassy over the weekend urged the tens of thousands of Japanese living in China to keep a low profile and not talk loudly in public.

On Monday, it said it had increased security measures outside Japanese schools and diplomatic missions in China.

Russia Charges Ex-US Consulate Employee Charged with Spying

Russia’s FSB security agency said Monday a former employee of the US consulate in Vladivostok was charged in connection with allegations he collected information about the war in Ukraine and protests in Russia on behalf of the United States.

An FSB statement said Robert Shonov collected information going back to September 2022, including on Russia’s military conscription campaign.

In May, the US State Department condemned Shonov’s reported arrest, saying the allegations against him are “wholly without merit.”

State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement that Shonov worked at the consulate for more than 25 years before being employed by an outside agency that provided services to the US Embassy in Moscow.

“Mr. Shonov’s only role at the time of his arrest was to compile media summaries of press items from publicly available Russian media sources,” Miller said. “His being targeted under the ‘confidential cooperation’ statute

because it is replacing its aging fleet of F/A-18 combat jets with F-35 fighter jets.

Finland is also spending on military aid to Ukraine, with the total value of its military equipment donations reaching 1.3 billion euros last week.

Iran Summons Swiss Diplomat After US Seized Iranian Oil in Houston

Iran has summoned a Swiss diplomat over the apparent U.S. seizure of Iranian crude oil from a ship that sat for months off Texas, an official said Monday, as the oil now appeared to be moored in Houston.

The remarks by Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani mark the latest twist in the saga of the oil once aboard the tanker Suez Rajan, which had become mired in the wider tensions between the US and the Islamic Republic. That’s even as Tehran and Washington work toward a trade of billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets in South Korea for the release of five Iranian Americans held in Tehran. Iran has been trying to evade sanctions and continue selling its oil abroad, while the U.S. and its allies have been seizing cargoes since 2019 after the country’s nuclear deal allowing the trade collapsed.

Speaking to journalists Monday, Kanaani said Tehran had summoned the chargé d’affaires of the Swiss Embassy in Iran to express a “strong objection” over the US seizing the oil. Switzerland has looked out for America’s interests in Iran since the 1979 US Embassy hostage crisis.

Kanaani’s comments also acknowledged the oil was Iranian.

highlights the Russian Federation’s blatant use of increasingly repressive laws against its own citizens.”

Sweden Charges Man with Spying for Russia on Sweden, US

Sweden charged a man on Monday with spying on it and the United States on behalf of Russia and unlawfully transferring advanced technology to Russia’s armed forces over a nine-year period.

Prosecutors indicted Sergej Skvortsov, a citizen of both Sweden and Russia, on charges of gross unlawful intelligence activity against the two countries between 2013 and 2022, according to the indictment.

The 60-year-old’s lawyer said he denied any wrongdoing.

“He reiterates that he denies all charges,” lawyer Ulrika Borg told Reuters.

Prosecutors said the suspect gathered information on behalf of Russia that could be detrimental to US and Swedish security and provided Russia with technology it could not procure on the open market due to trade regulations and sanctions.

The security service said in a statement the alleged crimes could pose serious security threats to Sweden and other states.

Police arrested Skvortsov in November last year on the outskirts of Stockholm, together with a second individual who was released shortly after.

Newest NATO Member Finland to Spend 2.3% of GDP on Defence

NATO’s newest member Finland plans to spend 2.3% of its gross domestic product (GDP) on defense next year, its defense ministry said on Monday.

In July, NATO’s 31 member-nations agreed to spend a minimum of 2% of their GDP on defense. Previously the 2% target had been a goal to aim for over time and only seven allies met the target in 2022, according to NATO.

Finland joined the alliance in April, in a historic security policy U-turn in response to neighbouring Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

It said it planned to spend 6 billion euros ($6.48 billion), or 2.3% of its GDP, on defense in 2024, which is some 116 million euros less than the estimate for 2023.

Finland’s defense spending has increased significantly in recent years, even before it became a NATO member,

Libya Suspends Foreign Minister after Meeting with Israeli Counterpart

Libya’s prime minister suspended Foreign Minister Najla Mangoush on Sunday and referred her for investigation after Israel said its Foreign Minister Eli Cohen had met her last week despite the countries not having formal relations.

Israel’s statement on the meeting, in which it said the ministers had discussed possible cooperation, prompted small protests in Libya, which does not recognize Israel.

Libya’s Foreign Ministry said Mangoush had rejected a meeting with representatives of Israel and that what had occurred was “an unprepared, casual encounter during a meeting at Italy’s Foreign Affairs Ministry.”

The Libyan ministry’s statement said the interaction did not include “any discussions, agreements or consultations” and added the ministry “renews its complete and absolute rejection of normalization” with Israel.

Since 2020 Israel has moved to normalize ties with the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco and Sudan through the so-called “Abraham accords” brokered by the United States.

Video of Teacher Asking Students to Slap Muslim Classmate Sparks Outrage in India

A video clip posted on social media showing a private elementary school teacher asking pupils to take turns slapping a seven-year-old Muslim boy has triggered outrage in India.

The clip, recorded Thursday in a classroom of Neha Public School in Uttar Pradesh state, shows the teacher, identified as Tripta Tyagi, instructing students to hit the second grader, ostensibly because he failed to memorize a multiplication table. The child is seen crying, as the other children take turns slapping him.

The 60-year-old Hindu teacher’s action received widespread condemnation largely because, her words as heard in the video, many said, were targeted at Muslims, sounding Islamophobic.

Tyagi appears to be saying in the video that she has “declared that all Mohammedan (Muslim) students should be beaten up and sent back home...”

The teacher, who is the head of the school, is also heard asking one of the students in the video, “Why are you slapping him so gently? Can you not hit him harder?” At one point she says, “His face has turned red. Now, hit him around his waist.”

RATES AS AT AUGUST 28,2023

Petrol Prices Surge 216%, Diesel Rates Ease Marginally as Inflation Bites Harder

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

There appears to be no immediate respite for Nigerians on the current soaring inflation induced partly by energy and transportation costs, as prices of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) also called petrol, rose to a high of 216 per cent Year-on-Year (YoY) in July.

According to the latest data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the average retail price paid by consumers for petrol for the month under consideration was N600.35, indicating an actual 215.95 per cent increase when compared to the value recorded in July 2022, which was N190.01.

The continuing rise in the cost of petrol and diesel has led to Nigeria’s transport fares doubling in across the country, thereby putting upward pressure on inflation, which is currently at a multi-decade high.

Likewise, the NBS data showed that in comparing the average price value with the previous month of June 2023, the retail price increased by 9.99 per cent from N545.83.

Last week, the federal government announced that inflation rate in Nigeria had hit 24.08 per cent in July 2023, showing a 129 basis-point increase when compared to 22.79 percent recorded in the previous month.

The rise in inflation rate for July represented the sixth consecutive increase in the headline index this year and is mostly attributable to the wholesale withdrawal of petrol subsidy and the unification of the official exchange rate.

Nigeria’s case is further worsened because the country does not refine its fuels locally, leaving the rates to the vagaries of the international market for the product.

A former President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and Director, Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), Dr Muda Yusuf, recently called for urgent government

intervention to curb surging inflation by partly ensuring domestic refining of petroleum products. Yusuf listed some of the factors pushing up inflation to include: depreciating exchange rate, spike in energy prices, rising transportation costs, logistics challenges, forex market illiquidity, hike in diesel cost, insecurity in many farming communities and structural bottlenecks impeding productivity.

However, he added that: “The petrol price increase following the fuel subsidy removal and the sharp depreciation in the exchange rate were dominant factors.”

Salary earners have also been

badly hit as real wages, which reflect the power of employees’ pay after accounting for inflation, have fallen in Nigeria by over 150 per cent.

Partner and Chief Economist at KPMG Nigeria, Dr Yemi Kale, also recently said the net benefits of the subsidy removal were positive, but noted that there would be disruptions arising from a direct increase in energy prices, inflation rate, and transportation fares.

“This disruption has an indirect impact on the increase in food prices and consumer demand. This is so because their purchasing power is weakened; consumer demand also shrinks unless the government

provides some kind of relief to cushion the effect,” he said.

The NBS in its state profile analysis stated that Borno State had the highest average retail price for PMS during the period under consideration, at N657.27.

In addition, Abia and Gombe States were next, with N643.13 and N642.22, respectively.

On the other hand, Edo, Kwara and Benue states had the lowest average retail prices for petrol, at N530.00, N535.44 and N537.00, respectively.

NOTE: The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Fossil Fuel Subsidies Hit $1.3tn Despite Government Pledges to Halt Payments

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Despite repeated government pledges to cut back on fossil fuel subsidies, a new report has found that such subsidies surged to a record $1.3 trillion last year. The report by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) looked at both explicit and implicit subsidies for fossil fuels across 170 countries, Bloomberg reported.

It found explicit subsidies alone

had more than doubled since the previous IMF assessment, rising from $500 billion in 2020 to $1.3 trillion in 2022 as governments rushed to mitigate the inflationary impact of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the spike in demand caused by the economic recovery from Covid-19.

The subsidies were direct monetary support for fossil fuels through activities like regulated prices set below international levels

and energy bill rebates.

IMF also calculated implicit fossil fuel subsidies, which include the cost of things such as undercharging for environmental costs and failing to levy taxes on consumption.

Adding those in and the total subsidies ballooned to $7 trillion in 2022. That’s an increase of $2 trillion compared to 2020, it said.

The findings dovetailed with a report that came out earlier by the International Institute for

Sustainable Development (IISD), a Canada-based think tank, which found that public monies in G-20 countries alone going to explicit fossil fuel subsidies more than quadrupled to $1 trillion in 2022 compared to a year ago.

The two reports put into stark relief the chasm between nations’ stated goals on the urgency of cutting back on fossil fuels and their actions.

In 2015, the world’s nations signed onto 17 United Nations’ Sustainable

Development Goals (SDGs), which included a commitment to phase out fossil fuel subsidies.

That commitment was made more explicit at COP26 in 2021, when 197 countries agreed to accelerate the phase-out of what the pact dubbed “inefficient subsidies.”

The then Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari, pledged that by 2060 the country aspired to have hit the much-talked-about net zero status.

FOOD COMMODITIES PRICE TODAY

“We are overflowing with government commitments to phase out support for fossil fuels, but there is a serious drought in implementation,” said Christopher Beaton, who researches sustainable energy consumption for IISD. “During the last two years, at the international level, we have gone backwards,” he added.

NOTE: The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Adelabu: Nigerians Will Experience Improved Power Supply in

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Minister of Power, Mr Bayo Adelabu, has assured that under his watch, Nigerians will experience marked improvement in power supply in the next six months.

Specifically, Adelabu who made the disclosure on his X/Twitter handle, tied his optimism to the expected commencement of the 700MW Zungeru power plant, which he noted is

Six Months

about to be completed.

However, the erstwhile Minister of Power, Abubakar Aliyu, had earlier in the year revealed that the Hydroelectric power project had been completed and was only awaiting inauguration.

THISDAY learnt that the project worth over $1.3 billion, is being constructed by CNEEC and SINOHYDRO in Niger state, Nigeria. It is said to be the second-largest

Kyari Commits to Agricultural Devt, Targets Food Exports

hydroelectric power project in the country behind the 760 megawatts (1,020,000 hp) Kainji hydroelectric power project. Indeed, Aliyu pointed out at the time that all the turbines had been tested and plans were being concluded for the official launch of the project. But Adelabu’s post raised questions on the microblogging site as to who was telling the truth between him and his predecessor.

“I want to say that between six months and one year, we will start seeing improvement in the power sector. Within the next six months, there would be major addition to the national grid, in terms of hydro power plant. That is the Zugeru 700MW in Niger state, which is about to be completed. This will be the biggest one in Sub-sahara Africa when completed,” he stated.

NCDMB, FI Unveil 17 Portfolio Firms, Pledge Promotion of R&D

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) on has unveiled 17 portfolio companies that have successfully concluded research- and innovation-based training at its Technology Incubation and Innovation Centre (TIIC).

The board, in a statement, said that this signalled the intensification of its capacity-building initiatives that birthed its Project 100 companies a few years ago.

The 17 companies which had enrolled at the centre as energy industry start-ups

were among 54 incubates that underwent the sevenmonth programme initiated by NCDMB in partnership with the Nigerian chapter of Founder Institute (FI), based in Silicon Valley, California, United States.

The process yielded products in fields such as pipeline protection technology, embedded systems, drilling fluid additives, gas penetration technology, tele-medicine, electric-powered engines for inland water transportation/charging solutions, among others.

In a keynote, the Executive Secretary of the Board, Simbi Wabote, said the programme was

established with the strategic intent to serve as a resource centre for obtaining data on priority research areas in the oil and gas industry.

The NCDMB boss who was represented by the Director, Corporate Services, Mr. Patrick Daziba Obah, said that beyond preliminary concerns, how to get investors, potential sponsors, seed funding to enhance business capacities of the portfolio companies posed another subset of challenges.

“We had to do something new in R&D - not just what others were doing,” he emphasised.

In an overview, the

board’s Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, Abdulmalik Halilu, emphasised the importance of R&D as a major enabler for local capacity development.

He lamented that over 70 per cent of the software requirements were met through importation. According to him, “under a do-nothing scenario,” Nigeria was losing some $2 billion annually.

Earlier in an opening address, the Managing Director, Founder Institute, Abuja, Mrs. Ajuma Ataguba, commended the NCDMB for its initiatives in capacity building, particularly the establishment of the TIIC.

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS), has reaffirmed its commitment in driving the development of Nigeria’s agricultural sector as one the surest ways to diversify the nation’s economy away from oil.

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, expressed this view on his assumption of duty at the FMAFS’s Headquters inAbuja.

Kyari said that his objectives are to ensure domestic food security and food export by surmounting challenges like flooding and insecurity that have kept Nigeria to be struggling with hunger.

He said: “We know the challenge that we face now, hunger is one of the biggest problems that we have in this country. When we say hunger, it also means food and there are challenges to food security, insecurity is one of them, flooding is another, and there are other issues.”

Also speaking, the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Zulum, emphasised the importance of developing a comprehensive and enduring strategy to tackle food insecurity in Nigeria. Zulum highlighted that the viable option for the country is to allocate resources towards commercial agriculture and embrace innovative agricultural practices like irrigation, green technology, and more.

NEITI, Regional Group Partner Against Money Laundry

ownership information and data.

Eromosele Abiodun

Deputy Business Editor

Chinedu Eze

Comms/e-Business Editor

Emma Okonji

Asst. Editor, Money Market

Nume Ekeghe

Senior Correspondent

Raheem Akingbolu (Advertising)

Correspondents

Emmanuel Addeh (Energy)

KayodeTokede(CapitalMarkets)

James Emejo (Finance)

Ebere Nwoji (Insurance)

Reporters

Nosa Alekhuogie (ICT)

Peter Uzoho (Energy)

Ugo Aliogo (Development)

FG

Reaffirms Commitment to Completing Abuja-Kaduna Road by 2024

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has reassured Nigerians of the commitment of the federal government to complete the Abuja–Kaduna dual carriageway by 2024.

Umahi, who disclosed this while speaking during the inspection of the highway, said the inspection as directed was to get first-hand information and examine the challenges involved in the construction of the road and other roads to be visited soon.

The section 1 of the highway which is 165.5km is part of the 375.4 kilometre Abuja-Kaduna –Zaria-Kano project awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria in 2018 by the previous administration, but is yet to be completed like

other sections of the road due to insecurity and criminal activities.

“I have observed that there is an issue with the design. I’m directing the Director of Geo-Technics Material and Quality Control of the ministry of works. He must come and run figures with me with the project consultant,” he said.

Umahi emphasised the need to quicken the approval process of payments for contractors and not make them go to site when payments have not been made to them.

“Again I have asked the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, (NSIA), to run me figures. Let me know how much money they want to give in every month for this project because there is a limit you can push the contractor if you

don’t have funding for him,” he further said.

Responding, the Project Manager, Julius Berger Nigeria Ltd, represented by Dwsdowki Finn, pledged to do their best to maintain the standard and deliver the project on schedule.

Meanwhile, Umahi CON has assured contractors working with the ministry that there is no cause for worry as long as they deliver on their projects. He gave the assurance during at the headquarters of the ministry with contractors handling projects in the North-west zone.

He reiterated the need to embrace concrete roads and wondered why some contractors were not in support of it, despite its great advantage over asphalt, in terms of cost and durability.

The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) has welcomed the growing interest of the organised private sector, banks and financial institutions in the implementation of beneficial ownership disclosures.

the Executive Secretary of NEITI, Dr Ogbonnaya Orji, made the disclosure while addressing a regional Conference of Member States of the Inter-Governmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA) in Accra, Ghana.

He identified the involvement of the private sector, especially banks and other financial institutions as critical success factors to check illicit financial flows, money laundering and terrorism financing in the West African sub-region.

“The private sector, especially banks and other financial institutions that provide safe havens for illicit financial transactions across national and international boundaries have strategic responsibilities to deploy use and share beneficial

“This includes adoption and aligning with transparency reform institutions like NEITI in risk assessment and adoption of progressive best practices in beneficial ownership transparency.

“NEITI is therefore delighted to be part of the regional forum of GIABA, convened here in Accra, Ghana to discuss deeper engagements with the private sector, anti-corruption institutions, relevant security agencies and other EITI member countries to broaden the scope of beneficial ownership implementation,” Orji said.

The meeting resolved to deploy adequate information and accurate data to assist relevant competent authorities and the private sector in their efforts to combat money laundering and associated offences.

The regional meeting also resolved to take steps to ensure a balance between Beneficial Ownership (BO) transparency objectives and protection of citizens’ and individuals’ right to privacy and data protection.

Gilbert Ekugbe

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Group Business Editor

Nigeria’s Macroeconomic Environment and Its Negative Impacts on Manufacturers

The macroeconomic environment in Nigeria had significant negative impact on the manufacturing sector in the first quarter of 2023. This was revealed by a report on the survey of 400 chief executive officers in the manufacturing sector that was published in the “MAN CEO’s Confidence Index (MCCI) Q1 23.”

During the period under review, the Aggregate Index Score (AIS) of MCCI declined to 54.1 points in the first quarter of 2023 from 55.0 points recorded in the fourth quarter of 2022. This followed the decline in all the standard diffusion factors that were studied in the survey. For instance, the current business condition declined to 50.4 points in Q1’23 from 52.7 points in Q4’22. Similarly, the business condition for the next three months also declined to 59.6 points from 60.1 points. In addition, current employment condition, which is the rate of employment in the manufacturing sector, also dropped to 50.7 points from 51.3 points. Furthermore, the employment condition for the next three months also lowered to 47.8 points from 48.8 points while production level for the next three months also dropped to 61.8points from 62.2 points.

The MCCI stated that, “employment decision by manufacturers has been so difficult due to the unpredictability and difficulty in macroeconomic environment.”

These difficulties, according to the MCCI, included “acute shortage of foreign exchange (FX) and depreciation in the Naira’s value, cost of energy and limited supply of electricity, speculation about the effect of redesigning of the Naira, the national elections and the lingering adverse effect of Russian-Ukrainian war were major concerns of manufacturers in the quarter.”

The figures, as revealed in the MCCI’s report, showed that production and distribution costs escalated by 24 per cent in the quarter under review, which was much higher than the 19 per cent increase that was witnessed in the preceding Q4’22. In the manner, capacity utilisation nosedived further by 5.0 per cent in the quarter under review

similar to the contraction witnessed in the preceding quarter.

The MCCI also reported that the volume of production contracted by 13 per cent in the quarter under review against the 1.0 per cent growth that was recorded in the previous quarter (Q4’22).

Similarly, manufacturing investment dropped by 3.0 per cent in the first quarter of 2023 from 2.0 per cent increase recorded in preceding quarter.

Moreover, manufacturing employment reduced further by 3.0 per cent in the first quarter of 2023 from 2.0 per cent contraction recorded in preceding quarter.

In addition, sales volume plummeted by 13 per cent in the first quarter of 2023 against

the stable record witnessed in the preceding quarter.

The MCCI said: “A critical evaluation of the analysis above provides an inference that the manufacturing sector’s performance in the first quarter of 2023 was much lower than what was obtained in the last quarter of 2022.

The report stated clearly that all the “major performance indicators of the manufacturing sector recorded unfavorable changes.” No thanks to “the harsh business-operating environment evidenced by poor macroeconomic indices, the underperformance was largely driven by the nationwide cash crunch in the first quarter of the year. The economic turmoil significantly crushed consumer patronage and costly disrupted the manufacturing value chain in

most periods of the quarter.”

MACROECONOMIC PERFORMANCE

This section of the report portrayed the effect of macroeconomic trend of FX, lending rate, commercial bank loans and federal government’s capital expenditure on the perceptions of CEOs of manufacturing companies within the first quarter of 2023. It highlighted that manufacturing activities continued to suffer due to persisting scarcity of FX and unfavorable Naira exchange rate parity.

The MCCI said that only 28.3 per cent of manufacturers enumerated claimed that the rate at which FX was sourced improved in the first quarter of 2023; 53.9 per cent disagreed while 17.8 per cent were not sure if FX sourcing had improved in the quarter under review.

“The lingering FX scarcity and continuous depreciation of the Naira have left manufacturers bleeding and limited their capacity utilisation since the importation of non-locally produced critical input has become a nightmare,” the report said. Furthermore, the MCCI’s report stated that interest rate charged to manufacturers by the commercial banks appeared to have deteriorated the productivity of the manufacturing sector in the quarter under review.

It said that only 20.3 per cent of manufacturers interviewed agreed that bank lending rate has improved in the first quarter of 2023 as against 30.4 per cent that agreed in the fourth quarter of 2022.

According to the report, “About 65 per cent disagreed that the rate at whi h banks lend to manufacturers encouraged productivity in the first quarter of 2023, which is greater than the percentage recorded in the previous quarter.”

NOTE: The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria’s MCCI showed worrisome downward indicators and call for urgent and constructive interventions that will alleviate the groaning of the sector’s operators, writes Dike Onwuamaeze

NBCC, Experts Advocate Fiscal Incentives to Drive Investment in Renewables

Peter Uzoho

Energy experts have stressed the need for the federal government to introduce some fiscal incentives and enabling policies to attract the needed investments in the renewable energy sector in Nigeria and to make the products more affordable to homes and businesses.

The experts specifically called for the introduction of single digits interest facilities, reduction of levies, introduction of tax-wavers, creation of renewable energy institutes in the country, as well as championing broad stakeholder collaboration to drive the sector in Nigeria.

They spoke in Lagos at the Renewable Energy Roundtable organised by the Nigeria-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), with the themed: “Renewable

Energies: Innovation, Transition, Opportunities and Challenges”.

The President and Chairman of Council, NBCC, Mr. Ray Atelly, who stated that Nigeria’s transition to renewable energy was no longer a choice but a must, added that the emerging renewable energy had taken shape more than ever before in the global space.

Atelly stated that Nigeria must unite with the rest of the world to ensure a seamless transition through the use of new technologies, policies’ enactment and implementation of those policies.

In his contribution, Group Chief Operating Officer, Cabota Energy Services Limited, Mr. Wale Elegbede, opined that the government needed to up the ante to boost investment in renewable energy, through providing

some facilities to individuals and corporate organisations that have the technological know-how and interest in playing in the sector.

In his intervention, the Hub Manager, AllOn, a Shell-funded investment firm, Mr. Sele Inegbedion, urged the government to incentivise the renewable energy business in Nigeria through introduction of some enabling policies.

Chief Executive Officer, Ikeja Electricity, Mrs Folake Soetan, said Nigeria needs to have the right types of policies and regulations that can attract necessary investment required in the sector.

Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Gas, Mr. Ralph Gbobo, said fostering new technologies’ business models and ideas were ideal steps towards achieving the country’s renewable energy plan.

Reforms: CPPE Tasks FG on Striking a Balancing Act, Strategic Sequencing to Engender Inclusive Economic Transition

Dike Onwuamaeze

The Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprises (CPPE) has advised the federal government to strike a delicate balancing act and strategic sequencing in the implementation of its economic reform programmes in order to engender inclusive economic transition.

This advice was given by an Economist and Founder of CPPE, Dr. Muda Yusuf, in a press statement titled, “Comments on the Second Quarter 2023 GDP,” in which he remarked that the adverse impacts of the reforms are disproportionately higher

than expected.

Yusuf said: “The Nigerian economy is still going through corrective reforms to remove some fundamental distortions and restore the economy back to the path of recovery and growth. But implementing the reforms is an arduous task as the tradeoffs are profound and the social impact has been devastating. Given the inevitability of the reforms, their implementations call for a delicate balancing act and strategic sequencing to ensure an inclusive economic transition.”

He added that, “dealing with the issues of insecurity, spending priorities, corruption,

productivity and competitiveness, regulatory environment and macroeconomic stability are paramount to rebuilding the momentum of economic growth and development.”

Commenting on the recently released Q2’23 GDP report by National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Yusuf, who was the immediate past director general of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce, said that “the Q2 GDP growth fell short of the sub-Sahara projected average of 3.1 per cent for 2023 but is better than projections for the Euro Zone of 1.0 per cent and the United States of 1.8 per cent.

MoMo

to Enable Inbound, Outbound Transfer Capabilities across Africa

Emma Okonji

MoMo Payment Service Bank (MoMo PSB) and Saana Capital LLC (“Brij”), a Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) licensed International Money Transfer Operator (IMTO), have partnered to facilitate seamless inbound and outbound transfers across Africa, as well as convenient bill payment services.

The collaboration between MoMo PSB and Saana Capital LLC (“Brij”), marks a significant milestone in cross-border financial transactions within the African continent.

The partnership will enable

MoMo PSB customers to send and receive money from various African countries directly using their MoMo accounts, thus eliminating the need for foreign currency or domiciliary accounts.

Speaking about the partnership, the CEO of MoMo PSB, Eli Hini, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Saana Capital LLC (“Brij”), to introduce groundbreaking service to our valued customers.

The collaboration aligns with our commitment to providing innovative financial solutions that cater to the evolving needs of our customers. With this service, we are making cross-border transfers and bill payments across Africa

more accessible, efficient, and cost-effective than ever before.”

CEO of Saana Capital LLC (“Brij”), Nicholas Koros, said, “We are delighted to join forces with MoMo PSB in this strategic partnership. By combining our expertise in cross-border payment services with MoMo’s customer base and strong reputation, we can collectively revolutionise the way individuals and businesses manage their financial transactions across African borders. This collaboration underscores our shared vision of fostering financial inclusion and driving economic empowerment in Africa.”

MDBM Seeks Reduced Bank Charges, Higher RoI

The Money Deserves Better (MDBM) movement has called on Nigerian banks to reduce transaction charges and raise the Return on Investment (RoI) value they provide to customers.

The MDBM team kicked off the campaign following reports that banks’ fees and commissions income surged by 17.5 per cent to N365 billion in the first quarter of 2023.

Despite the significant increase in banks’ revenue, the interest earned on highinterest savings accounts averages 4 to 5 per cent per annum.

The MDBM said such returns on investment are

meagre compared to the current inflation rate in Nigeria is (22.79 per cent), thereby providing negative returns between what the banks pay as interest and the inflation rate.

“It is about time we speak up for our money. Our money deserves more. When we save, we want to know that we will get a higher interest rate, for choosing to save rather than spend. We want easy access to better investment opportunities. Therefore, we have taken to the streets to campaign for our money,” the group said.

One of the members of the MDBM, Bamise Lucas, said, “We advocate for improved rates and reduced charges on our transactions. Our

ultimate goal is to encourage more individuals to join this financial revolution meant to improve the offerings and benefits of financial services to customers,” he continued.

“As part of our objectives, there is a call on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to consider reducing the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR). Such move would have a positive impact on the interest rates offered by banks, making savings more attractive to account holders.”

Public Relations Officer, MDBM, Sarah Ola, said, “This step would incentivize more people to save their money in banks and see better returns on their investments.”

The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $85.71 a barrel on Thursday, compared with $85.84 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT 25 AUGUST, 2023

From left: Chief Operations Officer, GCX, Robert Dowuona Owoo; Head, Technology & Information Systems, Dr.Harold Okai-Tettey; Chief Executive Officer, Tucci Ivowi and President/CEO AFEX Nigeria, Akinyinka Akintunde, during the Signing of an MoU between AFEX and GCX in Abuja…recently

Investors’ Bargain-hunting Lift NGX Market Cap by N324bn

Kayode Tokede

Investors renewed interest in BUA Foods Plc, Dangote Sugar Refinery, among other stocks lifted the overall market capitalisation by N324billion as the market opened the week on a positive note.

As BUA Foods gained 9.1 per cent, Dangote Sugar added 10 per cent, the Nigerian Exchange Limited All Share

Index (ASI) rose by 592.47 basis points or 0.90 per cent to close at 66,151.38 basis points.

Consequently, the stock market Month-till-Date (MtD) and Year-till-Date (YtD) increased to 2.8per cent and 29.1per cent, respectively.

Also, market capitalisation appreciated by N324 billion to close at N36.205 trillion. Market breadth closed positive as 34 stocks gained

relative to 24 decliners. Dangote Sugar Refinery, Omatek Ventures, Thomas Wyatt Nigeria and Transnational Corporation (Transcorp) recorded the highest price gain of 10 per cent each to close at N52.25, 33 kobo, N1.87 and N7.38 respectively, per share.

SFS Real Estate Investment Trust Fund followed with a gain of 9.96 per cent to close

at N92.15, while NASCON appreciated by 9.94 per cent to close at N49.20, per share.

On the other hand, Computer Warehouse Group led the losers’ chart by 10 per cent to close at N4.50, per share.

John Holt followed with a decline of 9.80 per cent to close at N1.38, while NEM Insurance lost 9.54 per cent to close at N5.12, per share. Secure Electronic Technology

depreciated by 9.09 per cent to close at 30 kobo, while Cutix declined by 8.33 per cent to close at N2.20, per share.

The total volume traded declined by 12.61 per cent to 311.117 million units, valued at N3.915 billion, and exchanged in 7,193 deals. Transactions in the shares of Access Holdings topped the activity chart with 43.702 million shares valued at N703.328 million. Transcorp

followed with 28.498 million shares worth N181.731 million, while Dangote Sugar Refinery traded 16.03 million shares valued at N820.840 million.

Consolidated Hallmark Insurance traded 15.565 million shares valued at N13.471 million, while Omatek Ventures sold 15.514 million shares worth N4.659 million.

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF AUGUST/28/23

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

GUIDE TO DATA:

Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 25Aug-2023, unless otherwise stated.

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors.

Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF.

Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return.

NAV: Is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS

TRADED

Tinubu and the Balablu of Errors

Phrank Shaibu

English humorist, satirist, and author Terry Pratchett, once said “If you do not know where you come from, then you don’t know where you are, and if you don’t know where you are, then you don’t know where you’re going. And if you don’t know where you’re going, you’re probably going wrong.”

Origins are important because they give a sense as to where you may end up. But it is quite surprising that a nation of over 200 million people which prides itself as the Giant of Africa is being piloted by a man who has no known origin and continues to fight to ensure that it remains hidden.

Nigeria’s first leader was the late Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, who was born in December 1912 in modern-day Bauchi State at a time when data storage was rare. Despite the shortcomings of the time, Tafawa Balewa has a traceable history.

Balewa’s father was Yakubu Dan Zala and was of the Gere ethnicity. Balewa’s mother was Fatima Inna, who was of Gere and Fulani descent. His father worked in the house of the District Head of Lere, a district within the Bauchi Emirate.

Young Balewa was among the children sent to Tafawa Balewa Elementary School, after the Qur’anic school. Thereafter, he proceeded to Bauchi Provincial School. Like many of his contemporaries of that era, he studied at Katsina College, where he was student number 145. Ahmadu Rabah, later known as Ahmadu Bello, was student number 87 and was two years his senior.

President Shehu Shagari was born on

25 February 1925 to the family of Aliyu and Mairamu Shagari. He attended Yabo Elementary School and then Sokoto Middle School and Kaduna College before graduating from Teachers’ Training College, Zaria. In his book, ‘Beckoned to Serve’, Shagari lists the names of his classmates, teachers, and even the palace servant who took him to school.

However, Bola Tinubu, a man who claims to have been born in 1952, cannot satisfactorily prove his ancestry. Not only is the identity of Tinubu’s father and mother unknown, but he neither has classmates nor siblings. Ahead of the presidential election, he passed off a photo of former Governor Donald Duke as his own. Clearly, there ought to be limits to fraud.

In his form CF001, which was submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), he skipped details about his primary and secondary school and only stated that he attended Chicago State University in America. Curiously, this contradicts the same form he had filed in 1999 when he ran as governor of Lagos State. In that form, which the late human rights activist Gani Fawehinmi had dragged him to court, Tinubu claimed to have attended Government College Ibadan and a non-existent primary school in Lagos. It has since been discovered that he was never sighted within the precincts of GCI.

In order to expose the truth, former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, the Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), instituted a suit before a court in the United States seeking to obtain Tinubu’s school records which would validate his claim before the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal

in Nigeria that Tinubu is a fraud.

Ideally, one would think that a man who is leading the greatest Black nation in the world would embrace transparency like others who have sat on the seat of power in Aso Rock. However, he hired a team of five lawyers with the sole task of making sure that his school records were not made available. Such disgraceful behaviour is unparalleled in Nigeria’s political history.

But this is not surprising since it is stated that the student named Bola Tinubu, who attended that school in the 1970s, was registered as a female at a time long before gender change surgeries were even contemplated.

Tinubu had through his lawyers dared Atiku at the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal to prove one of their grounds of petition that Tinubu’s Chicago State University certificate was forged. As Atiku set out to prove his claim, Tinubu’s lawyers quickly placed a stumbling block before him by asking the US court not to make his records available.

They claim that it is no longer necessary for Atiku to have such information since the election tribunal in Nigeria has finished hearing any more evidence and had adjourned for judgment. It is obvious that Tinubu is seeking a dubious victory based on technicalities and not on the principle of law. No wonder they don’t want #AllEyesOnTheJudiciary.

Next, they said the mistakes on the certificate they submitted in court to prove Tinubu’s innocence regarding the certificate forgeries were caused by an unnamed clerk of CSU. If Tinubu was certain the clerk made mistakes, why did he send as many as five lawyers to the Illinois Court to stop Atiku from

getting access to his academic records? He should have just allowed the university to explain their mistakes. Without knowing, he was inadvertently validating Atiku’s and others’ allegation that he had been trotting around with a fake certificate. The Chicago State University (CSU) has also not acted professionally. What was so special about Tinubu’s academic records that all the unpardonable mistakes from a university as reputed as CSU would lose sleep over just one former student who American authorities established had ties to heroin trafficking and money laundering and was forced to forfeit $460,000?

How does a reputable higher institution explain Tinubu’s gender is female, his age was altered by two years, and his middle name changed from Ahmed to Adekunle while signatories were clearly different on the certificate? This is certainly more than a clerical error. How is it that only Tinubu’s certificate had grammatical errors, signature errors, and wrong fonts?

Tinubu recently sent a list of 48 ministerial nominees to the Senate for confirmation. Their credentials were scrutinized, and they were asked to defend their certificates. Would the Senate have confirmed Tinubu as a minister if he were on that list? Wouldn’t he have been chased out of the hallowed chambers of the Senate if he had come with questionable credentials?

Isn’t it tragic that a man who cannot scale a mere ministerial screening is now serving as President of Nigeria? A Nigerian tragedy indeed!

Tinubu

100 Days in Office: Uba Sani Seeks to Leave No One Behind in Kaduna

Jubril Abdulaziz

Of the 16 newly elected Governors in the country, Senator Uba Sani, the young and ebullient Governor of Kaduna State seems the most prepared for the top job. For one, Senator Sani is thoroughly rounded in administration and governance. Better still, the Kaduna State Governor has a firm understanding of the workings of all arms and tiers of Government at both the Federal and State levels.

Though Governor Uba Sani started out as a fiery pro-democracy and human rights activist in the heady days of military rule in Nigeria – working closely with pro-democracy icons of that era like the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Beko Ransome-Kuti, Chima Ubani, Yinka and (his wife) Joe Okei-Odumakin, among others; with the nation’s eventual attainment of democratic rule in 1999, Uba Sani retreated to his professional training as an Engineer and calling as a businessman. Today, however, Governor Uba Sani has become a shining symbol of careful grooming in politics and governance.

The rather down-to-earth Governor of Kaduna State is deploying inclusive governance as a very potent weapon to curb acute poverty, banditry and general insecurity in the State. The Governor makes no pretenses about his administration’s resolve to make overwhelming majority of the citizens and residents of Kaduna State, directly feel the impact of government. Uba Sani intentionally treats all the local government areas in Kaduna State as equals and spreads both infrastructural development and political patronage equally.

Even more important, Governor Uba Sani is a believer in identifying and harvesting the good in people and he readily avers that underdevelopment, poverty and lack of inclusion are at the root of the seemingly intractable security challenges that Kaduna has been battling with over the years. He seeks to change the poor narrative and status quo. Governor Uba Sani is totally committed to opening up and bringing to the mainstream all the geo-political zones in Kaduna State but specially targeting the poor, vulnerable, underserviced, youth and women population in the State.

Governor Uba Sani is building on the giant strides of his immediate predecessor, Mallam Nasir El Rufa’i without seeming to be duplicating efforts already accomplished or achieved by the phenomenal El Rufa’i. Governor Uba Sani is at home with the fact that government is a continuum. “Our vision is to make Kaduna the Leading Economic Hub in the North. We want to create a business cluster that will drive competition in the Northern Region. Kaduna State is rich in natural and human resources. It is the gateway to many parts of Nigeria. It is a transportation hub. The immediate past government worked assiduously to upgrade the infrastructure in the state. We are determined to build on that legacy to fasttrack the economic development of the state,” the Governor says.

Governor Uba Sani who proved himself as a champion of financial inclusion while he served as the Chairman of Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Matters between 2019 and May 29, 2023, when he was sworn-in as Governor, is leading a revolution of sorts in Kaduna State by bringing millions of underserviced persons under one form of financial service or the other.

Indeed, long before the Federal Government announced series of palliative measures aimed at cushioning the effect of the withdrawal of subsidy on petroleum products, notably PMS (petrol), Governor Uba Sani made history on Tuesday, 25 July 2023 when he signed his first Executive Order as Governor on “Financial Inclusion in Kaduna State.” The Order is pursuant to his administration’s efforts to address the exclusion of about 2.1 million poor, underserved and vulnerable citizens in the rural areas from financial services in Kaduna State and to ensure they benefit from the State’s and Federal Government’s Social Intervention Programmes.

“In exercise of the powers conferred on me by Section 5 (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and all other powers enabling me in that behalf, I make the following orders: A Financial Inclusion and Literacy Committee is hereby constituted to fashion strategies and modalities to ensure the inclusion of the poor, underserved and vulnerable in Kaduna State, as well as equip them with financial skills to enable them make sound financial and investment decisions,” the Governor asserts in the Executive Order.

The target of the State Government is to include about 1.2 million poor, underserved, unbanked and vulnerable citizens in the financial services sector in the next one year; The State Government, in collaboration with key stakeholders, including CSOs, NGOs and Financial Technology Companies (FINTECHS) is poised to develop a State Financial Inclusion Strategy. In this regard, the Executive Order stipulates as follows: The State Government shall develop a State Register of the Poor, Under-Served and Vulnerable. The Register will be subjected to various stages of integrity tests; The State Government shall work with banks and other financial service providers to open bank accounts for un-banked citizens, and embark on aggressive

sensitisation programme to ensure the mass participation of the State’s citizens in this exercise; The State Government, in collaboration with regulatory agencies in the financial sector will organize Financial Literacy Workshops to equip citizens with financial skills that will enable them make sound financial and investment decisions.

The Executive Order further compels the Kaduna State Government to consult with key stakeholders like Traditional Rulers, Religious Leaders, Local Government Chairmen, Youth, Women and Community Development Associations to ensure the mass sensitisation and involvement of the citizens in this financial inclusion drive.

Governor Uba Sani is a strong proponent and believer in both the kinetic and non-kinetic option in battling banditry and general insecurity in Kaduna State. On the kinetic option, he has since assuming office, visited the service chiefs of the nation’s armed forces to pledge the full cooperation of Kaduna State in the fight against bandits and criminals in the State. “My administration shall work very closely with the nation’s military and other security agencies in our collective efforts to rid the State of bandits and criminals. We are even prepared to fund some of their operations in our state within the little resources available to us” he said in a recent media chat.

Similarly, Governor Uba Sani has rebooted the Kaduna State Vigilante Service. Other than procuring needed vehicles and other equipment for the Vigilante Service, his administration is currently recruiting able young men and women into the re-energised Kaduna State Vigilante Service. The Governor says the State will recruit 7,000 persons to nudge up the current size of the Service’s personnel from 2,000 to 9,000.

“Throughout my stay in the Senate, I was a strong advocate of State Police; but unfortunately, the 10th National Assembly, despite our best efforts was unable to achieve this. But the law permits States to set up Vigilante Services. Ours in Kaduna State will abide by all extant laws; In fact, they will be trained at the Police College and shall work very closely with the Police. We are projecting that in a matter of days, Kaduna State will rank among the safest States in Nigeria,” Governor Uba Sani enthused.

On the other hand, Governor Uba Sani’s nonkinetic approach centres on taking development to the remotest parts of the State. Governor Sani, who has since taken a 50 per cent salary cut himself, wants to conquer poverty and crass deprivation in rural areas of Kaduna State, provide basic necessities and empowerment for persons leaving in rural communities, especially the youth population and women.

“We may not eradicate entrenched institutional causes of insecurity in Kaduna State immediately but we are on a daily basis reducing incidences of banditry, organized crimes and general insecurity in the State by deliberately targeting and meeting the needs of the poor, vulnerable and underserviced persons in our vast rural communities. Curbing insecurity is not a 100-metre dash, that is achievable in seconds like Usain Bolt; it is a marathon; I can attest to the fact that in this big race, we are taking giant strides

and our efforts are yielding huge positive results, by the grace of God,” Gov. Uba Sani opined.

Pursuant to this goal of opening up and bringing development to all the local government areas of Kaduna State, earlier this month (August), Governor Uba Sani performed the groundbreaking of the Qatar Sanabil Project, initiated by Qatar Charity for the construction of the Kaduna Economic City and provision of Mass Housing for the Less Privileged persons in Kaduna State. He was joined at the ceremony by top officials of the Kaduna State Government, Embassy of the State of Qatar, Qatar Charity and enthusiastic citizens of our dear state.

Located at Millennium City, Kaduna, the Economic City, when completed, will provide world class infrastructure and make Kaduna a reference point in modern and affordable accommodation, adequate security and conducive atmosphere for business activities. The Economic City will facilitate international trade. It will serve as a platform for entrepreneurs and traders. It will help harness product value chain opportunities and improve economic growth. In the Economic City, there will be Houses for the Poor, Clinics, Shops, Poultry Farms, Farmlands for Rainy Season and Irrigation Farming.

“The Mass Housing Project for the Less Privileged is a major contribution towards putting roofs over the heads of the poor, underserved and vulnerable in our state. This will go a long way in addressing a major gap in our Interventions in the Housing Sector over the years,” the Kaduna State Governor said.

Other empowerment programmes that the poor, underserved and vulnerable in Kaduna State will benefit from the Qatar Charity include: scholarships for orphans and children of the poor, distribution of sewing machines, welding machines, irrigation pumping machines, salon kits, and drilling of hundreds of boreholes across the 23 local governments of Kaduna State.

“On behalf of the good people of Kaduna State, I want to specially thank Qatar Charity, as well as the Qatar Government and the Qatar Embassy in Nigeria for choosing to support the Kaduna State people with a multimillion dollars charity project, the ‘Kaduna Economic City’ that will include building of houses for the less privileged, underserved and vulnerable people, special homes for orphans, hospitals, markets, schools etc,” Governor Uba Sani asserted at the event.

In addition to this charitable work, the Qatar Charity will also provide startup support for small scale businesses, poultry farms and irrigation farmlands for the poor, full scholarships for thousands of orphans and poor children, provision of hundreds of boreholes across the 23 local governments amongst others.

Relatedly, pursuant to his efforts to promote digital inclusion and leverage technology to drive economic growth in Kaduna State, Governor Uba Sani has attracted digital technology giant, google, to Kaduna State. The Governor recently received a high-powered delegation from Google Africa led by its Director for West Africa, Mr. Olumide Balogun to Kaduna recently.

“I am glad that Google Africa has answered our

call to promote digital innovation and inclusion.

Kaduna State has a high digital maturity index. We have creative and talented young people who are ready and motivated to learn, especially in this age of Artificial Intelligence,” an elated Governor Uba Sani said at the meeting.

The Kaduna State Government in collaboration with Google, will train 5,000 women and girls in data science, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurial application of digital technologies. The programme will be executed by Data Science Nigeria, which will set up Arewa Tech4Ladies. This initiative is crafted to serve four key semi-urban and rural communities in Kaduna State, offering specialised women-focused learning, mentoring, and job placement support facilities.

Governor Uba Sani said that the Kaduna State Government will give Google and its partners the necessary support to effectively implement this laudable initiative.

Following a recent outbreak of diphtheria along the Kaduna medical corridors, Governor Uba Sani left nothing to chance as he mobilized his team and collaborated effectively with agencies of the Federal Government to battle the scourge. With the scare of diphtheria fully surmounted, the Governor proceeded to proactively launch a Statewide Immunization Campaign for the Prevention of the Integrated Fractional Inactivated PolioVirus Vaccine (FIPV).

Governor Sani is prioritising Human Capital Development as a key pillar of his administration’s developmental agenda. On this score, the Governor is determined to return as many indigenes of Kaduna State back to both formal and vocational education. The Governor is keen on removing all barriers to access to education for children and youths of the State.

For starters, in response to the public outcry over the seemingly prohibitive fees being charged by tertiary institutions in Kaduna State and its effect on school enrolment and retention, Governor Uba Sani directed heads of tertiary institutions in conjunction with the State’s Ministry of Education to obtain relevant information on the extant fees regime in state owned tertiary institutions. At the end of their assignment, far-reaching observations and recommendations were made for the Governor’s consideration and approval.

These include: That the extant fees regime in the state-owned tertiary institutions is burdensome and has led to a significant decline in student enrolments; That the extant fees have made many students to either abandon the pursuit of tertiary education or moved to alternative institutions; That to reverse the trend mentioned, it is imperative that a competitive fees model should be adopted in the State’s tertiary institutions and that the competitive fees model responds to current realities and promotes access to quality education.

Following these recommendations, Governor Uba Sani on Monday, August 21, announced that “as a caring, responsive and responsible government, his administration has accepted the recommendations and accordingly reviewed downwards the fees paid in all tertiary institutions owned by Kaduna Sate by between 30 per cent and 50 per cent”. Under the new dispensation, the Governor moved the extant fee of N150,000 at the Kaduna State University to N106,000; Fees for the State-Owned Polytechnic (Nuhu Bamali Polytechnic) was reduced by 50 per cent from the extant rate of N100,000 to N50,000. In the same regard, fees paid at the State’s College of Education, Gidan Waya was reduced by 50 per cent from N75,000 to N37,000. Fees paid at the Kaduna State College of Nursing was reduced from N100,000 to N70,000, a 30 per cent reduction.

Governor Uba Sani said that the downward review of the extant fees regime in schools owned by the State aligns with his administration’s commitment to offering palliatives to cushion the effect of the rising cost of living in the polity, especially in the wake of recent petroleum subsidy removal in Nigeria.

“The welfare of the people is our topmost priority. Our administration shall continue to take all measures necessary to ensure access to free and qualitative education for every child in Kaduna State from primary to secondary school; expand access to higher education; enhance Teachers’ Welfare & Teaching Standards; improve School Infrastructure; build ICT competence in our students from basic education level; and intensify investments in Technical & Vocational Education,” the Governor announced.

Governor Uba Sani summed up the immediate direction of his administration during the swearing-in event of the newly appointed commissioners in the State:

“I charge you all (Commissioners) to adopt the inclusive approach to leadership. You must build a team and see everybody as important. You must get down to work immediately and deliver on the 7-Point Agenda of our administration, namely: Safety and Security, Upgrade of Infrastructure, Strengthening Institutions, Trade and Investment, Agriculture, Investing in Human Capital, and Nurturing Citizens’ Engagement. The central focus of our administration is however the Transformation of the Rural Areas. We want to revitalize the economies of the rural areas through massive infrastructural development.”

Uba Sani

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Pipeline Surveillance: Arewa Group Wants Tantita Security Services’ Contract Terminated

Gives Tinubu three reasons why deal should be cancelled Kachikwu, Niger Delta Group berate Fubara for condemning

Sylvester Idowu in Warri, Sunday Aborisade and Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

A group, the Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), has stated three reasons why the federal government should be wary of renewing the pipeline surveillance contract awarded to Tantita Security Services’ Contract owned by ex-militant leader, Chief Ekpemupolo Government, alias Tompolo.

This was just as the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the 2023 election, Mr. Dumebi Kachikwu and an oil and gas monitoring group, the Niger Delta Indigenous Movement for Radical Change (NDIMRC), have berated Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara's alleged comment that it was wrong to award such pipelines surveillance contract to “one man.”

In a statement issued in Kaduna, signed by the NYCN Secretary General, Mustapha Hassan, the group stated that the country was too tense to allow for any action that may breed internal turmoil within the ranks of its citizenry.

The group stressed that the contract awarded to Tompolo’s company had resulted in more controversy in the Niger Delta and amongst elites in the country.

“Top military brasses have

frowned at how the government of Nigeria resorted to awarding contracts to someone who should ordinarily be behind bars for the economic mayhem caused in the Niger Delta region between 2016 and 2018,” they alleged.

According to them, “Beyond the economic sabotage, the federal government recorded loss of military personnel as well as equipment. The award of the surveillance contract to Tompolo became a mockery for the valour of the fallen soldiers and reward of their families’ pains.

“Secondly, the recent scramble for the contract by the ex- militant leaders in the Niger Delta region is mainly because of the notion that if Tompolo’s rascality can be rewarded by the Federal Government, they should all be carried along.

“We recall that when the pipelines surveillance contract was handled by Ocean Marine of Late Capt Hosa Okubor, these myriad issues were non-existent chiefly because they were seen as competent hands without blemish.

“In the same vein, it is obvious to Nigerians that there is no significant rise in the oil production quantum since this contract was awarded to Tompolo. The successes being celebrated were the normal production rates of the country before the mayhem of the Niger Delta Avengers,” they added.

The group urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to perish reconsideration of Tompolo for the pipeline surveillance so as to avert incessant agitations that may lead to breakdown of law and order across the country.

“As a group, we urge Mr. President to desist from granting contracts that may seem to encourage restiveness and criminality.” The group stressed. Meanwhile, Kachikwu, has condemned Fubara, for faulting the pipeline security contract awarded to the Tantita Security Services.

Fubara had reportedly told a high powered Federal Government

Tantita's security contract

delegation led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, that “Security of pipeline should not be given to one man or one person."

He had queried how someone from Kalabari was controlling the pipeline in Ogoni.

However, Kachikwu in a reaction to the comments of the Governor in Abuja, yesterday, wondered how a governor of Fubara’s calibre could descend low as to mistake a company for “one man.”

He urged Fubara to create and award contracts to ex-militants in his domain if he was not comfortable with what the federal government had done.

He said the federal government had identified a competent and trusted security firm like Tantita to provide additional layer of security for the nation’s oil assets.

Kachikwu said, “Frankly, I am astonished that Governor Fubara made such an ignorant statement.

“He is the Governor of a state that is one of the leading states in crude oil theft and illegal refining activities.

“One would have expected that the gains the Federal Government and Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) are making through the partnership with Tantita and other security agencies

would be applauded by Fubara. "All well-meaning Nigerians are commending the security outfit but there he was talking about contract being awarded to one man.

“Did the federal government award the pipeline contract to a man or a company? This approach of let us share contracts for the boys must stop.

“If the governor is so interested in contracts being awarded to former militants he can create and award contracts to those of them in his domain. After all, he is the governor. He can do what he likes.

100 Days in Office: Fubara Promise More Projects in Rivers

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Ahead of the celebration of his 100 days in office, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara has promised the people of the state harvest of quality projects.

Fubara, said his government would ensure the delivery of more

projects that would serve the benefit of Rivers people.

Speaking during inspection of projects across the state, Fubara said in the past 100 days, he has sustained inspection of ongoing projects in the state.

He said the education projects would improve the educational

fortune and open up rural communities for enhanced socio-economic activities in the state.

Fubara, explained that it was imperative for him to personally see the state of completion of the projects before they would be listed for inauguration.

While some of the projects

Gambia Begs Nigeria for More Postgraduate Scholarships, Seeks NUC Support

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

Gambia, one of Africa's English speaking countries has solicited for postgraduate scholarships in Nigerian universities for its students.

The Gambian Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Prof. Pierre Gomez, made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the acting Executive Secretary of National Universities Commission (NUC), Chris Maiyaki, in Abuja, yesterday.

Gomez, who commended Nigeria for laying the foundation of university education in Gambia, said most of the principal officers, including the Vice Chancellor in the first university in the country were Nigerians.

While commending the quality of Nigerian universities, the minister

said Gambians who had earlier undergone postgraduate programmes in Nigerian universities under the World Bank-sponsored African Centre of Excellence (ACE) now play strategic roles in the country.

He said Gambia was particularly interested in postgraduate scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programmes.

"Because of the relationship we have between Banjul and Abuja, we are here to seek support for scholarships at postgraduate level in different areas, especially in STEM, and to know whether the TVET are under your purview, because this is something we want to see in getting support in that area, and also in capacity building.

"As you know education liberates the individual. We want to have functional education, one

thing is to have your Masters and PhDs, but then the other thing is for you to be able to solve societal problems," Gomez posited.

The minister, who also called for support in the area of capacity building, said, "we still have developmental issues and we strongly believe higher education can change the situation."

Responding, Maiyaki, who was joined by other directors in the Commission, assured the minister of support, saying Nigeria would not relent in playing a big brother's role despite having its own challenges.

"Even though we don't have enough access; every year we have about two million Nigerian kids (students) applying to universities and we barely meet up to 50 per cent.

"If you take electricity supply,

Nigeria is not self-sufficient but we provide electricity to Niger Republic, that is our deliberate friendly stance from Independence," the NUC boss said.

Maiyaki, expressed delight that the visit came on the heels of the recent launch of Core Curriculum Minimum Academic Standards (CCMAS) in the Nigerian University System.

"Our new curriculum has just been launched and the visit is taking place at a time Nigeria re-engineered its curriculum. CCMAS is revolutionary and dynamic," he said.

Speaking further, Maiyaki said Nigeria has also opened up its higher education space to attract major players across the globe through the transactional education guidelines put in place by NUC.

"We have decided to open up

Nigerian higher education space so that we can invite players, genuine players. We are open to very well meaning interventions, foreign universities are at liberty to come," Maiyaki said.

On the request for postgraduate scholarships, Maiyaki urged the Gambian minister to send a formal proposal on the specific programmes and universities of choice in order for NUC to process the request.

While saying NUC was also ready to encourage joint research between scholars in Nigeria and those in Gambia to address shared problems, Maiyaki revealed that the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) had come up with a plan that would attract about 500 students from Gambia to Nigerian universities and called for exploration of the opportunity.

inspected were at various stages of completion, with some school facilities ready for furnishing, Fubara said he was also determined to flagoff some fresh projects during the 100 days’ celebration.

The projects inspected and earmarked for inauguration included Eneka internal road, Obio-Akpor; Government Secondary School, Okehi, in Etche; Omagwa internal road, Ikwerre; Government Secondary School, Emohua and Ogbakiri internal road both in Emohua LGA.

Other road projects inspected by the governor included the 10.3 kilometre long Indorama-AgbonchiaOgale-Ebubu-East West Link Road, the 19.1KM long Oyigbo-Okoloma (Afam) Road, the Botem- Gbene-nu Horo Road, and internal roads in Omagwa Town.

Also among road projects inspected were the Omoku -Egbema road dualisation project, the OgboIhugbogo Road, the Odiemudie Road all in Ahoada East Local Government Area, the 5.1KM long Mgbuodohia Road in Obio Akpor LGA as well as Comprehensive Secondary School, Borikiri, Port Harcourt Local government area.

The governor was joined on the 3-day inspection by the Commissioner for Works, Dr. George-Kelly Alabo; his Education counterpart, Prof. Chinedu Mmom and Desmond Akawor, Chairman, Rivers PDP.

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Relax, Obi Will Be President, Abure Assures Nigerians in US

Ex-Anambra Gov: I won't be distracted from rebuilding Nigeria

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

As the September 16 date for the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal to deliver its judgement draws nearer, the National Chairman of the Labour Party, Barrister Julius Abure, has assured Nigerians in the United States that Peter Obi, the party's candidate in the February 25

presidential election would soon be declared president of the country.

Also, yesterday, Obi censured those bent on linking him with negative things, urging them to redirect their energy in raising a better Nigeria, because he would not be distracted from doing so.

However, Abure, who has been on a tour of the United Kingdom

and the United States to encourage members of the party and the Obidient Family, said, the judgment by the tribunal was expected to come on or before 16th of September, 2023.

In a statement by the National Publicity Secretary of the Labour Parry, Obiora Ifo, Abure assured Nigerians in the US, while addressing the Obidient Nigerian

community in Washington DC, that their candidate would eventually emerge winner of the election.

“Following Peter Obi's participation in the 2023 general election, we changed the political narratives in Nigeria. We gave them a run for their money. They have murdered sleep and they will sleep no more. They have stolen what is not for

Defence Minister Meets Abubakar, Agwai over Insecurity

Troops rescue 25 hostages from Boko Haram

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, yesterday, visited former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar and former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Martin Luther Agwai (rtd) in Abuja.

This came as the Nigerian Army Headquarters said troops of 144 Battalion, in an effort to clear remnants of Boko Haram enclaves in Borno and contiguous states, rescued 25 hostages held captive by the terror group.

A statement by the Ministry of Defence said the visit was part of his wide consultations with past leaders and elder statesmen in the search of a panacea to the nation's security challenges.

It said the minister's visit was to seek professional advice from both of them on how to tackle and accomplish the task ahead of him.

Briefing the former leaders, he affirmed that in view of the task and responsibilities ahead of him, it was necessary for him and his minister of state to consult and tap

NSCDC: Schools Would Be Safe When Security Agencies Work in Synergy

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The need for synergy and collaboration of all security agencies towards safety of schools across the country, is not negotiable, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has said.

Speaking at the training of 91 officers of the NSCDC on viable strategies to keep schools secure in the country, NSCDC’s Commander of the National School Security and Emergency Response Centre, Dr Tersoo Shaapera, said the creation of a team to respond to distress call from schools by all the security agencies was important as security of the schools was uppermost.

He said the various teams across security agencies should be able to work together during emergency to prevent attacks on schools or confront threats on schools.

The NSSRCC Commander said participants would be taught the basics of safe schooling, with

communities and schools taught strategies to keep school safe.

He disclosed that instructors would be trained on how to educate schools to get registered with the corps to promote visibility, adding that the School Protection Response Squad that had been launched by security agencies would help in tackling reports of insecurity in schools.

“The responsibility of the centre is to alert the squad, when the need be to either tackle kinetic or non-kinetic crisis,” he said.

Disclosing that the experts saddled with the responsibility of the training the participants were drawn from the Armed forces, Department of State Services (DSS), NSCDC amongst others, the NSCDC Commandant-General (CG) Dr. Ahmed Audi, said the National Safe Schools Response Coordination Centre (NSSRCC) was determined to develop capacities of instructors for the safe school training programmes.

from their wisdom and wealth of experience.

Badaru said he would “not relent in his drive for wider consultations with elders and former Nigerian leaders on how to tackle the current security challenges facing the nation."

The defence minister commended the former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, who was also the head of ECOWAS special envoy to Niger Republic for his efforts to restore peace and overcome the current political impasse in that country.

Both leaders commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing Badaru minister of defence, describing him as a great achiever, and wished him a successful tenure.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army, in a statement by its spokesman, Brig-Gen Onyema Nwachukwu, said the gallant troops in conjunction with Hybrid Force, extricated 14 hostages in a clearance operation at Gobara village in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State

on Saturday, August 26, 2023. The rescued persons include six women and eight children.

In a similar operation on Sunday, August 27, 2023, troops of 82 Task Force Battalion in conjunction with Hybrid Force, raided BHT enclave in Gava Village in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State and rescued 11 civilians.

It said all rescued victims were presently in troops' custody undergoing profiling.

In a separate operation also on 27 August 2023, seven members of a BHT family surrendered to troops of 81 Division Task Force Battalion in Dikwa Local Government Area of Borno State. The family comprised three adults and four children.

In an anti-banditry operation on August 27, 2023 in Kaduna State, troops of 2 Battalion, Nigerian Army, acting on actionable information neutralised one criminal and freed four kidnap victims in Kwana Shehu Village in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

them and they will not sleep until we recover it all.

"We are expecting judgment between now and 16th of September. And I am very sure Peter Obi will become President. Without sounding immodest, since they took over, things are now worse.

“The only party and the only candidate that has solutions to the challenges of the country is Labour Party and Peter Obi. And so we still believe that things will change in Nigeria. I want to say that we should not lose hope, we should not be discouraged. The hope is still alive and I am confident that Peter Obi will be president," he said.

Obi, while reacting to a statement saying that he had bribed Arise Television Journalist, Mr. Rufai Oseni by financially sponsoring the burial of his father, an allegation insinuated by Mr. Reno Omokri, Obi described it as wicked blackmail against the courageous journalist who has been doing his job Professionally.

His words: “Ordinarily, I do not get involved in name-calling and mud-slinging, neither do I attack people nor try to defame their personalities, in the course of my political journey.

“I have also avoided replying to cheap, wicked, or malicious blackmails publicly or openly in the same irresponsible manner they are thrown at me. Anyone who has followed my corporate and political life knows that I always stay on issues, with my focus on finding solutions to societal challenges and ameliorating people’s suffering.”

The former Anambra State governor said he needed to clarify issues especially when a third party is involved and “where my name was mentioned in malicious and cheap blackmail against one of Nigeria’s best Television presenters,

Mr. Rufai Oseni, who has stood sternly for what is right and has challenged me fearlessly on some occasions while speaking truth to power.

“Let me state clearly that this is a categorical lie from the pit of hell. Everyone who understands my life will attest to the fact that I do not give anyone money to promote my name. I have never monetarily induced any journalist to speak or write in my favour.”

Obi said that he “always honours Invitations to social events like birthday celebrations or funerals, and this is something people have come to know that I do regularly.

“Countless journalists, media personnel, the less privileged, the wealthy, etc., have all invited me to their occasions, and they will attest to the fact that I honour such invitations, especially when people are grieving. As it is obtainable in Igbo tradition, I always attend such events with some gifts, to support the celebrant.

“I have never been to Rufai’s village. Even at the point of writing this, I do not know where he is from. One then wonders why people could decide to tarnish other people’s image for no justifiable reason. To those involved in such evil endeavours, I wish them well and pray to God to have mercy on them.

“Finally, our focus in Nigeria should be about rescuing the nation from the many challenges plaguing it. We should focus more on lifting people out of poverty.

“Millions of Nigerians do not know where their next meal will come from. We have millions of unemployed youths in their productive age. Finding solutions to these challenges should command our attention, for the progress of our nation – and that is what I remain committed to. PO”

EFCC Arrests Five over Forgery of NSA, AGF’s Letterhead

Arrests six suspected internet fraudsters in FCT

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), yesterday, arrested five people for allegedly using forged letterheads of the Offices of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice to fraudulently obtain money from unsuspecting members of the public.

The commission also arrested six suspected internet fraudsters

in Bwari and Dutse axis of Abuja.

The suspects were arrested yesterday following an intelligence report on their alleged cybercrimerelated activities.

The suspects, who forged the letters were Mr. Yakubu Hamza Mohammed, Mr. Bashir Ladan, Mr. Adamu Ibrahim, Mr. Steven Anom and Mr. Mohammed Bello. A statement by EFCC’s spokesman, Wilson Uwujaren, said the suspects allegedly conspired and used the letterheads to produce fake

employment and recommendation letters for a fee to unsuspecting members of the public.

It said the suspects would be charged to court as soon as the investigation was concluded.

Meanwhile, the anti-graft agency arrested six suspected internet fraudsters in Bwari and Dutse axis of Abuja.

The suspects were arrested yesterday following an intelligence report on their alleged cybercrimerelated activities.

They are Odey John Paul, 25, Greg Ajima Odey, 23, Julius Okpanachi, 21, Ugbede Opaluwa, 25, Okpanachi Emmanuel, 25, and Mohammed Abba, 26. Items recovered from the suspects include two Toyota Camry and one Mercedes Benz C300 cars, twelve mobile phones and three laptops. The statement stated that the suspects would be charged to court as soon as the investigation was concluded.

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PSC Compulsorily Retires Four DIGs, Names Successors

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The Police Service Commission (PSC), yesterday, directed four Deputy-Inspectors-General of Police (DIGs) to proceed on compulsory retirement.

The affected DIGs were DanMallam Mohammed, Moses Jitiboh, Hafiz Inuwa and Adeleke Bode.

The commission also approved the appointment of new DIGs, Sani Kaoje, Sokari-Pedro, Ayuba Ekpeji and Usman Nagogo to replace the exiting senior police officers.

A statement by the spokesman of the commission, Ikechukwu Ani, said the directive followed the refusal of the senior officers to voluntarily retire following the appointment of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, who was until his appointment junior in rank to the DIGs.

With the IG's appointment, the affected officers were expected to apply for retirement in line with tradition but they refused to do so.

The statement said the directive was "in exercise of its statutory powers, pursuant to the Third Schedule, Part 1 M, para A&B of the 1999 Constitution, reinforced with Section 6 of the Commissions (Establisment) Act 2001, para a, c, d, e, &f, has compulsorily retired four Deputy Inspectors General of Police.

"In the wake of the appointment of the acting Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun on June 19, 2023 by Mr. President, the commission had expected in consonance with the revered tradition of discipline and regimented culture of the Nigeria Police Force that those DIGS who were seniors in rank prior to his elevation will voluntarily apply for retirement or elect to leave the force.

"The commission, having waited for ample time with no such application from any of them, took the decision to compulsorily retire them in order to uphold discipline which is the bedrock of the force and to discourage status reversal which is inherently inimical to

AT MAIDEN FEC MEETING, TINUBU CHARGES MINISTERS TO REVIVE NATION'S AILING ECONOMY

of visas for all government officials seeking to travel to New York for the UNGA without proof of direct participation in the official schedule of activities of the global event.

The move, according to a statement issued yesterday, by presidential spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, formed part of a broader effort to reduce the cost of governance in Nigeria,

To prevent any sharp practice in this regard, the United States Mission in Nigeria was accordingly guided on official visa processing while Nigeria's Permanent Mission in New York had been directed to prevent and stop the accreditation of any government official not placed on the protocol lists forwarded by the approving authority.

By this directive of the President, all Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies are mandated to ensure that all officials, who were approved for inclusion in the UNGA delegation, strictly limit the number of aides and associated staff partaking in the event, it added.

“Where excesses or anomalies in this regard are identified, they will be removed during the final verification process,” the president warned.

The president also affirmed that, henceforth, government officials and government expenditure must reflect the prudence and sacrifice being made by well-meaning Nigerians across the nation.

Tinubu had on Sunday, declared that the nation would no longer sustain failed economic theory that sees to the wastage of 90 per cent of its scarce revenue in external debts service amid many development challenges facing the country.

He had said: "We cannot have the country we desire without the reforms we have initiated. It is painful at the beginning, in the short and medium term, but we must do what we have to do to take this nation to its great destiny.

“It is not about you and it is not about me. It is about our generations yet unborn, for whom we must bequeath a great and prosperous country."

the exercise of authority by the Inspector-General," he said. The commission maintained that following their refusals to leave, "the former DIGs have been mandated to immediately proceed on compulsory retirement with effect from Friday, 25th August, 2023.

"The commission appreciates their immense contributions and efforts towards peace and security of our country and also wishes them well in their future endeavours in retirement".

The statement further disclosed that the commission had approved the appointment of four Assistant

Inspectors-General of Police to the rank of Deputy Inspectors-General of Police, which would be subject to ratification by the board of the commission to replace the retired DIGs.

The newly appointed DIGs, who were without pending disciplinary matters and/or

without any serious medical conditions and health impairments were drawn from the same respective geo-political regions of the retired ones.

They were DIGs Ibrahim Sani Ka'oje, Daniel Sokari-Pedro, Ayuba Ekpeji, and Usman Nagogo.

Govt Denies Alleged Plan to Displace

Fidelis David in Akure

The Ondo State Government has denied allegation that it was planning to sell cocoa plantations and other farmlands belonging to 50,000 farmers in 20 villages in Ondo West Local Government Area of the State to foreign companies.

The denial came after the traditional ruler of Ilua, Oba Olalani Ibidapo led protesters from Ilua, Laoso, Adejori, Logunofe, Keseomi, Obadore, Obakele, Ilua 2, Kangidi, Oloruntedo, Abayemisi, Magbaralewon and

50,000

Farmers in Ondo

other communities to register their displeasure over the alleged plan.

However, in a statement made available to journalists, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Agric and Agric Business, Akin Olotu said the Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu led-administration was not out to punish anybody, but to make things better, stressing that it was not displacing villagers particularly those occupying free areas in the state.

“So we want to look at that place, I will invite their representa-

tives, we will sit down together and look at a win-win situation and see how we can accommodate their interests in what we are doing. Governance is about the people.

“So when we see what is on ground, we will know what to do. Our little investigation shows that where they are is even out of where those people are coming to work.

“So maybe it's anticipatory action, that may be. We will send government surveyors there to confirm the precise location,

Alia:There’ll Be Consequences

George Okoh in Makurdi

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has stated that constructive criticism would be welcomed by his government but mischievous fabrication of lies and blackmail would not be tolerated.

In a press statement by his Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, the governor, yesterday, said he was not in any way averse to constructive criticism and scrutiny, and that as a matter of fact, he cherished feedback in all he does with and for the public. He said it was an established standard in legal parlance that, ‘he who asserts must prove’ and therefore, warned that people should not use cyberspace for negativity and mischief.

"When you assert unsubstantiated and baseless allegations against Alia and his government, just get

ready to substantiate. This is not a threat. But we must be accountable, and we have accepted the challenge.

“Alia has made it abundantly clear that the use of thugs and hooligans to intimidate and coerce opposition into submission as was a norm in the past couldnever be endorsed and tolerated in his government. In Alia's government, be assured that you will be provided an opportunity to substantiate whatever you assert," he said.

Reacting to recent criticism bordering on performance by the main opposition party in the state, Alia said as a very responsible leader, he was a firm believer in the constitutional rights of citizens, including, the right to freedom of expression.

He, however, added that, “There is an apparent distinction between

if anybody is affected, we will look at it whether it's government reserve because nobody came to us in the office and I think that should be the first thing to do.

“So we will find out, we will look at how we will resolve the whole thing amicably. So if they are in government reserve, we will know what to do. If they are in free area, we already know what to do. Nobody's interest will be jeopardised, that's what I will say. The Governor is not out to punish anybody but to make things better. So we will look at it", Olotu said.

for Lying,Blackmail

freedom of speech and mischievous fabrication, which Nigeria's laws permit the former but frowns at the latter.

"Therefore, the Governor is not oblivious of the main role of opposition in a democracy, which is to scrutinize government’s decisions, policies, and actions, and play oversight over the Executive and its public policies. He truly is very well at home with this.

"However, the opposition must argue responsibly. There must be decorum in all engagements, and this should be devoid of lies, fabrications and all shades of blackmail. We should be patriotic. If we all agreed that Benue is ours, then, we need to put our state first in all our considerations and undertakings."

The statement noted that Alia embodied the state, and that any negativity that affected his person, could have an adverse impact on

the state.

"Perpetual villainous falsity against him will certainly affect the state and its machinery. In a desperate bid to caustically paint him black by libeling his hardearned cheerful reputation, one may be scaring investors, development partners, donor agencies and even the federal government from sending interventions to the state believing, though wrongly, that the man in charge of the state cannot be trusted with such interventions. Then, who loses.

“Furthermore, spiteful concoctions ferociously spread on cyberspace under the pretext of political ‘activism’, no doubt have the tendencies to impugn the reforms brought in by the reverend gentleman. In a democracy, reforms sail through when the led believe them, and have confidence in the leader,” he said.

L-R: Emmanuel Ujah, a Community Designer, Jolaoluwa Olatunji, a community manager, Eniola Osabiya, Founder GenZtechies, Senator Tokunbo Abiru, Mr Deji Abisola, Consultant to Senator Abiru on SAIL Innovation Lab at the GenZTechies Hackfest 2023 held at University of Lagos Multipurpose Hall on Saturday.

PRAYING FOR SUCCESSFUL MARRIAGE…

PDP Rejects Yahaya Bello’s Ban on Campaign, Signages

Chuks Okocha inAbuja

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Campaign council in Kogi state has decried the campaign guidelines for the use of campaign materials by the administration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Governor Yahaya Bello in Kogi State.

The PDP described the

campaign directives as vexatious, undemocratic and unrealistic attempt to evade contest, constrain the democratic field and stir-fry other political parties out of visibility before the November 11, 2023 gubernatorial election in Kogi State.

The PDP in a statement by Senator Dino Melaye said: “ It summarily rejected the repugnant,

NDDC Not a Failed Agency, Says Ogbuku

The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has explained that the commission is not completely a failure.

Ogbuku, who noted that funding had been a challenge for the commission, and this has made it imperative to think out of the box to provide solutions, said the agency would achieve its mandate despite the challenges.

Speaking during an interactive meeting with Women Leaders of Ethnic Nationalities and key

pugnacious, and unlawful guidelines of Bello and urges other parties as well as democratic lovers and institutions to reject these wicked rules.”

According to the PDP Kogi state Campaign Council, “The illegal, unacceptable and impractical exclusion of certain Local Government Areas and towns,

known to be the strongholds of the PDP, including, Ijumu and Ankpa Local Government Areas where the PDP candidate, Senator Dino Melaye, and his running mate, Hon

Habibat Mohammed Deen, hail from respectively further exposes Yahaya Bello’s desperation in the face of soaring popularity of our candidates.

Invasion of Opu-Nembe Community by Police Politically Motivated, Bayelsa Lawmakers Allege

stakeholders in the Niger Delta region at the NDDC headquarters in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, yesterday, Ogbuku said mistakes may have been made in the past years, but there is a need for collaboration to move the region forward.

He, however, urged Niger Deltans to desist from casting aspersions on NDDC, as such action belittles the commission and the Niger Delta region in the eyes of the international community, thus reducing the chances of building fruitful collaborations with them.

Aye Day: Ogun Police Arrest 116 Suspected Cultists

James Sowole inAbeokuta

Men of the Ogun State Police Command, at the weekend, arrested 116 suspected cult members in the Ifo area of the state.

The cultists, 70 males and 46 females, who were suspected members of the Aye Confraternity, were arrested by the command’s Anti-cultism Squad at Galaxy Hotel, Ibogun Road. They were picked up at about 0142hrs.

According to a statement, the police had a security report on the activities of the cultists in the area, and that they would be having their initiation and anniversary

ceremonies.

Following the report, the AntiCultism Squad was drafted to the scene, leading to the arrest of the suspects.

Items recovered from them include four axes, seven cutlasses, anniversary invitation cards, banners, axes, illicit drugs, and cannabis.

The statement said: “Today 26/08/23 at about 0105hrs, based on intelligence received on the celebration of the 20th anniversary of Neo Black Movement, a.k.a Aye Confraternity, Ifo Forum, the Commissioner of Police directed the Tactical Unit and men from Ota Area Command to the scene.

Councilors’ Forum Wants Member as Youth Minister

The National Progressive Councilors’ Forum (NPCF) has called on President Bola Tinubu to appoint Hon. Muslihu Yusuf Ali as minister in charge of the Federal Ministry of Youths.

In a statement in Abuja the forum said since a new minister is yet to be designated for the ministry, it had become pertinent to appoint Ali, a youth who has leadership qualities to man the ministry.

The statement was signed by the National Secretary of NPCF, Hon. Abayomi Kazeem, who is also a councilor for Mafoluku Ward, Oshodi, Lagos, saying they are making the call on

behalf of APC serving councilors across the progressives’ states.

The councilors said they are endorsing Hon. Ali because he is “sound in leadership and knowledge, a vast experience of governance and politics, a typical grassroots politician who held different positions at local government, state and national levels.”

“Moreover, the patriotic young man of 36 who is currently a chief whip at Kumbotso LG Council, Kano State, and serving the good people of Guringawa Ward, is a party loyalist and Tinubu’s die-hard supporter.

The Bayelsa State caucus of the House of Representatives yesterday has alleged that the invasion of the Opu-Nembe Community by policemen, leading to the death and the arrest of several youths was politically motivated.

The lawmakers said that the incident was targeted at destroying the peace of the administration which Governor Douye Diri has brought to Bayelsa State that is being enjoyed by all.

The lawmakers, during a press briefing at the national assembly yesterday, also called for a thorough

investigation of the incident.

The lawmakers include: Hon Agbedi Frederick (Chairman), Hon Mitama Obordor (Secretary), Hon Marie Ebikake and Hon Rodney Ambaiowei.

Ebikake, while speaking on behalf of the group said: “We want to, in the strongest terms,

condemn the killing and maiming of innocent citizens in Opu-Nembe in Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State acting on the behest of individuals bent on destroying the existing peace with the invasion of Opu-Nembe (Bassambiri) by men of the Nigerian Police Force (SWAT) in a Gestapo fashion.

Isese Festival: Court Summons IGP, Kwara Govt, Others over Detained Traditionalists

Wale Igbintade

A Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the Inspector General(IG) of Police, Kwara State Government, and the Kwara State Police Command to appear before it and show cause, why the detained Mr.

Adegbola Abdulazeez. a.K.a Tani Olorun; Madam Efunsetan Abebi Aniwura Olorisha. a.k.a lya Osun and other traditional worshippers should not be unconditionally released.

Justice Akintayo Aluko, made the order yesterday while granting parts of the request

in a motion ex-parte filed by a Lagos-based lawyer, Olukoya Ogungbeje.

Others affected by the order are: Registered Trustees of Council of Ulama (Islamic Clerics); Justice Salihu Mohammed (Executive Secretary of Council of Ulama); Sheikh

(Dr) Mohammad Bashir Saliu (Chief Imam of Ilorin and Chairman of Council of Ulama); Alfa Abdulsalam Baba Tonile Okuta-Agidi; Kwara State Magistrates Court, Ilorin, and Nigerian Correctional Service, Ilorin, Kwara State, listed as third to nine respondents.

Ex-agitators Threaten Protest over Governors’ Inaction on N5bn Palliatives

BlessingIbungeinPortHarcourt

The coalition of ex-agitators in the Niger Delta region has threatened to disrupt the peace in the region over the inability of the governors to provide palliatives to poor communities despite receiving N5 billion from the federal government.

The ex-agitators under the aegis

of the Coalition of Ex-agitators of Niger Delta (CEND) said their governors seemed to have diverted the money released by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to alleviate the suffering caused by the removal of fuel subsidy.

The Chairman of the group, Gershom Gbobo, in a press briefing alongside other members

of the coalition in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, said whereas Tinubu was sensitive enough to make provisions for palliatives, their governors appeared unconcerned with the level of hardship in their various states, especially Bayalsa and Rivers States.

“Where is our palliative?”

Gershom queried, insisting that

there were no deliberate activities and programmes by the governors targeted at providing reliefs to the people.

He said: “Does it mean that as usual, these governors have pocketed the money? We will never allow it to happen. We will compel them to bring out the money in a mother of all protests across the states.”

Anyaso Felicitates Abia People, Calls for Concerted Efforts to Develop State

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

As Abia State celebrates its 32nd anniversary, the state deputy governorship candidate of the Young Progressive Party (YPP) in the 2023 elections, Chief Chima Anyaso, has felicitated his fellow Abia people, urging them to join hands to develop the state.

In a goodwill message made available to journalists in Umuahia, Anyaso, who is also a businessman,

expressed delight that after many years of wobbling and fumbling, the Abia people have finally chosen the path of growth.

According to him, “Over the years, the individual exploits and success of Abia indigenes around the world have proven that the talent, skills, and courage to build a prosperous Abia State abound in our people.

“As we celebrate this milestone32nd anniversary, must take stock of our achievements as a state and

identify areas where we need to improve.”

The YPP chieftain noted that “Abia State has come a long way; forging its own destiny, rising from the ashes to a dawn of a new hope, and retaining its pride of place in the comity of states.”

He stated that it was not just enough to celebrate the milestones attained by the state, saying deliberate efforts should be made by the Abia people to make their state great.

Anyaso insisted that it is only the efforts of the Abia people that could lead to the development of the state, adding that just as prayers cannot replace hard work, celebrating the state would make no sense “without first fulfilling our responsibilities. “Let us strive to be more deliberate with our demands from political leadership; let us be more deliberate with our contributions toward the development of our dear state, and let us be our brother’s keeper.”

Mbah to Unveil $2.1bn Project Pipeline as Enugu Holds Inaugural Investment Roundtable

Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, will on Friday, September 1, unveil a N1.6 trillion ($2.1 billion) pipeline of 30 projects at the first Enugu State Investment and Economic Growth Stakeholder Roundtable.

The governor is also scheduled to launch the Enugu State Integrated Sector-Based Productivity Growth Strategy.This was made known in a statement released by the Secretary of the State Government (SSG), Prof.

Chidiebere Onyia, in Enugu yesterday.

He said the Investment and Economic Growth Roundtable, which is a precursor to the launch of the maiden multi-stakeholder and fully transactional Diaspora and Investment Forum scheduled for the second quarter of 2024, would hold in Enugu and also draw investors from across various industries locally and internationally.

“The N1.6 trillion($2.1 billion) project

pipeline spans several industries, including transportation and healthcare infrastructure, as well as energy, power, and agro-allied industrialization.

“Senior executives from the World Bank Group, the African Development Bank Group, the International Finance Corporation, the African Export-Import Bank, the United Kingdom Department for Trade and Business, the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), as well

as the Nigerian Sovereign Wealth Fund, commercial banks, corporate pension funds, private equity funds, infrastructure funds, and other domestic financial institutions will convene in Enugu to chart a course for effectively mobilising private capital for large-scale infrastructure projects, including net-zero aligned projects that can unlock Enugu State’s and South-Eastern Nigeria’s economic potential.

Juliet AkojeinAbuja

L-R: Senators Aliyu Wammako; Kabiru Gaya; Senator Aminu Tambuwal; Vice President Kassim Shettima, and President, Association for the Advancement of the Rights of Nigerian Shareholders, Dr. Faruk Umar, at the wedding prayer of the son of the Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin in Kano…recently

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Serve the People, Not Yourselves, Lawmaker Tells Office Holders

Bassey Inyang inCalabar

The member representing Obudu/ Obanliku/Bekwarra federal constituency in the National Assembly, Hon Peter Akpanke, has stated that elected and appointed political office holders should make the people the centre of their services instead of themselves.

Akpanke, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who stated this yesterday, said at all times, even before elections, the people must of necessity remain the fulcrum of political office seekers and holders.

Speaking at a special thanksgiving on his electoral victory at St. John’s Catholic Church in Obanliku, Cross River State, Akpanke, who is the deputy

chairman of the House Committee on FCT Area Council and Ancillary Matters, said his election to the National Assembly derived from his desire to improve the living standard of his constituents and Cross River State.

Akpanke, who commented on the state of socio-economic infrastructure in his constituency, said it is mandatory for the government to work for the benefit of the people whose mandate they enjoy.

“It’s a terrible thing what our people are made to suffer from the people whom they voted into office to represent their interest and to better their lives.

“You all can see the situation of our roads, especially that of Obanliku roads. It is as if we

don’t even have a governor, especially the immediate-past one, who incidentally hails from this senatorial district.

“While I will continue to draw the government’s attention to the needs of my people, I will however not relent to carry out necessary action that will lead to the improvement in the livelihood of my people,” Akpanke said.

Appealing to the political class to always consider the interest of the people they are mandated to serve, the lawmaker said: “It is in this regard that I appeal to political actors to always seek and put forward, the interests of the generality of Nigerians, and jettison personal interest as reason for seeking political offices.

Subsidy: Adamawa Begins Distribution of Palliatives, Procures N1bn Buses

Daji Sani inYola

TheAdamawa State government has followed the federal government’s efforts to bring succour to residents of the state sequel to the subsidy removal on petrol, by unveiling a comprehensive distribution of palliatives across the 21Local Government Areas yesterday.

The Secretary to State Government (SSG), who doubles as the chairman of the committee, Awwal D. Tukur, said the multiprong approach would provide succour in multi dimensional areas including transport and subsidised food and non food items to all the 266 wards across the 21 LGAs of the state

He noted that so far the federal

government has made available the sum of N2 billion palliatives in addition to five trucks of rice, noting that the state government has procured 50 trucks to complement the federal government’s gesture.

He added that in order to ensure the sustainability of the programme, the state government will crash the cost of the items by 50 per cent, adding that a 25kg rice with market value of N20,000 will sell at N10,000 only.

Tukur said the under privilege and vulnerable and low income earners would be considered first before anybody.

The SSG also said that to subsidise the cost of transportation which has spiraled in the aftermath of the subsidy removal, the state

government has procured 10 long buses at the cost of N1.06 billion, which will ease the suffering of civil servants, students and other low income earners in the state capital.

He noted that the core goal of the exercise is to bring relief to the most vulnerable members of the society including orphans, widows, people living with disability, boarding schools, women and youth groups adding that eight groups will benefit from the program.

The SSG said in order to ensure an all encompassing program which carries everyone along, the distribution of the palliatives will be done in wards adding that local governments with high number of wards will receive higher packages.

Osun Climate Agenda Targets Best Practices, Says Adeleke’s Aide

Yinka KolawoleinOsogbo

The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Ademola Adeleke on Climate Change, Mr. Moruf Adedapo, has described the state’s climate change agenda as compatible with national and international best practices to mitigate the ravaging impact of climate change in the state.

Speaking after visiting the headquarters of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) in Abuja, Adedapo praised Governor Adeleke’s foresight and advanced understanding of the

climate crisis even before he took over the leadership of the state.

“During the transition committee meetings, the governor mandated his spokesperson to make several presentations on climate change. This created the climate change agenda for the incoming administration.

“After inauguration, the governor again okayed the making of the Osun climate change agenda with deep technical contribution from the lead consultant, an international expert, Prof Chinwe Obuaku-Igwe.

“This led to the governor’s approval of the state climate change agenda. A major part of the agenda

is the creation of the governor’s Climate Change Advisory Council (CCAC) for which His Excellency approved and appointed Mr. Olawale Rasheed as chairman.

“The state’s climate change agenda includes the making of a state climate action policy, the creation of a Climate Change Department at the Ministry of Environment, the development of a Carbon Data center at the Osun State University, the introduction of a state Climate Change Adaptation Fund (CCAF) and the implementation of several climate change adaptation projects.

Bayelsa Guber: LP Candidate Accuses Oppositions of Attempts to Incite Violence, Vote Buying

Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

The Candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in November 11

Gubernatorial Election in Bayelsa State, Mr. Udengs Eradiri, has accused the opposing candidates in the election of attempts to buy votes and use violence means to win votes.

Eradiri said one of the opposition is planning to use staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to undermine the poll.

Eradiri, a former president of the Ijaw Youth Congress (IYC) and Commissioner for Youth in the state, alleged that while one

of the opposition is boasting of saving over N30 billion state money to bribe INEC’s officials and buy votes, the other is trying to use violence at all means to win the poll.

The former IYC’s president, who spoke with journalists in Yenagoa, after meeting with traditional rulers, called on the electoral body not to allow themselves to be used and equally called on the voters to resist any attempts to buy them over or allowed to be intimidated.

He said: “I have expressed myself to them, introduced what we intend to do, presented to them our agenda and explained

the agenda to the traditional leaders; they asked questions, we responded and so far so good, we have asked for a level field playing ground.

“Just as we use this opportunity to call on INEC because if a particular candidate in this election is boosting that he has bought over INEC. They have changed all the INEC’s officials, they are going to write results no matter what happens. They will not write this result!

“They cannot! And it is a call to INEC. Why should INEC allow itself to be reduced to the table of buying and selling? They are boosting on the road.

Oyebanji Recalls Suspended Commissioner

Gbenga Sodeinde inAdoEkiti

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has recalled the Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Home Affairs, Mr. Olaiya Atibioke, from suspension.

The recall is sequel to the

expiration of the two weeks suspension slammed on the commissioner on August 12, 2023.

Atibioke, according to a statement that issued by the Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Mr. Yinka Oyebode, is expected to resume work at his office from yesterday,

being Monday, August 28, 2023.

The governor urged top government functionaries in the state to take a cue from the suspension, while restating his administration’s zero tolerance for indiscipline and actions that are inimical to the progress of the state.

Ndidi to Join Awoniyi at Forest, Iheanacho on Wolves Radar

Duro Ikhazuagbe

With former champions now experiencing life in the secondtier English league, the duo of Wilfred Ndidi and Kelechi Iheanacho are set to jump ship to retain their English Premier League status.

According to famed expert on transfer matters, Fabrizio Romano, Ndidi is set to become the fourth Nigerian international star at Nottingham Forest along with Taiwo Awoniyi, Ola Aina and Emmanuel Dennis after he agreed personal terms with the Premier League club.

The defensive midfielder who experienced a torrid time out at the King’s Power Stadium last season is determined to pick the bits and pieces of his career at Forest. Leicester City were relegated this past season. Forest are expected to table a formal bid for Ndidi, 26, and

Sports Minister, Enoh, to Receive Cricket World Cup Trophy in Abuja

President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF, Uyi Akpata, has confirmed that Nigeria’s new Minister of Sports Development, John Enoh, has pledged his full support to the Federation on their two-day hosting of the Cricket World Cup trophy in the country. According to Akpata; “ the Minister has in his short stay

in office accepted NCF’s desire to play host to the World Cup. He has embraced it, and also pledged magnanimous support for the event."

The Cricket World Cup is on a tour of three African countries namely, Uganda, Nigeria, and South Africa, ahead of the ODI World Cup scheduled to kick off

in India later in October.

The World Cup trophy is due to arrive Abuja, Nigeria on Tuesday (today), August 29th, 2023.

“There are expectations from the International Cricket Community on the growing influence of the game in the country, and that puts Nigeria squarely as a major cricket developing nation today.”

US Open: Swiatek Cruises Through, Sakkari Out

Iga Swiatek began her US Open title defence on Monday with an emphatic first-round victory as eighth seed Maria Sakkari fell to a surprising loss. World number one Swiatek breezed to a 6-0 6-1 win over Sweden's Rebecca Peterson in 58 minutes.

Sakkari had a day to forget on Court 17 as she was knocked out by world number 71 Rebeka Masarova of Spain.

The Greek had been 4-1 up in the first set but Masarova responded in thrilling fashion to claim a 6-4 6-4 win.

Swiatek has won both previous meetings with world number 86 Peterson and came through this encounter on Arthur Ashe Stadium in imperious style.

The 22-year-old Pole, who is bidding to win her fifth Grand Slam title, will face Daria Saville of Australia in the second round.

Uyi said that aside from the game, the trophy tour of Nigeria will afford the stakeholders a closer interaction with the top hierarchy of the International Cricket Council who are part of the tour on issues around the game.

The NCF President said it would also be an opportunity to show off the diverse cultural expressions that the country is blessed with.

“Of course, the Minister as the chief host, will receive the World Cup trophy and will also be engaging the ICC officials during the process. We plan to give a unique Nigerian welcome to the trophy and the team of ICC officials that would be coming along.”

The trophy will tour a few landmarks in Abuja before settling for public viewing at the Indoor Sports Hall of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in the Federal capital city.

The trophy will leave for Lagos on Wednesday, August 30th, where a reception has been planned by the Lagos cricket community at the Tafawa Balewa Cricket Oval. The Nigeria Cricket Federation has also been informed that the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu will also receive the Cricket World Cup trophy along with other cricket stakeholders during the period.

120 Retired, Serving Military Generals to Converge on Ilorin for 3rd Golf

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

No fewer than 120 retired and serving military generals will on Thursday converged on the ancient town of Ilorin, Kwara State for the 3rd Golf & Tour Kitty Group tournament. The event will hold from 31

Tour/Kitty Tourney

August to September 2, 2023at the Ilorin Golf Club.

A statement issued in Ilorin on Monday by the organisers of the event stated that, the former Corps Marshall of the Federal Roads Safety Corps (FRSC), Dr. Boboye Oyeyemi and Chairman

of Noktel Hotels, Ilorin, Dr. Edward Adewale Akingbade are the co-host of the event.

The statement said that, the event is scheduled to mark the 3rd quarter tour of the illustrious Golf Kitty Group.

Though a self-sustaining Group,

the statement added that, "Dr Akingbade intends to use the opportunity to showcase the recreational potentials of the ancient city of Ilorin".

The statement urged members of the club to be fully prepared and be supportive in order to make the event a memorable outing.

push to get the move over the line before the transfer window closes Friday Transfermarktnight.values Ndidi at 25 Million Euros. His contract with ‘The Foxes’ is up next June and should he not sign a new contract with Leicester City, he could walk away a free agent next year

Meanwhile, Wolverhampton Wanderers are also believed to be weighing up a move for Ndidi’s Nigeria and Leicester City teammate, Kelechi Iheanacho. According to Football Insider, Wolves have identified Iheanacho, as well as three other potential striker signings, as a realistic late-window target.

The Nigeria international has also been linked with a move to Crystal Palace. Iheanacho was a key performer for Leicester City last season despite the club’s relegation from the Premier League.

Great Expectations as 2023/24 NPFL Draw Holds in Abuja

The Draw Ceremony for the 2023/24 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season is scheduled to hold today on the heels of the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Board and the 20 Clubs in Abuja.

It will be the very first AGM under the newly inaugurated leadership of Hon Gbenga Elegbeleye, who was made substantive Chairman of the NPL Board after successfully steering the Interim Management Committee (IMC) that implemented far-reaching reforms in the domestic topflight league.

"We are looking forward to a cordial but productive AGM where we will share our vision to make the league commercially attractive and increase revenue for our clubs to build competitive squads and improve infrastructure", Elegbeleye told NPFL Media.

He said that the League has set off on good footing with the planned live broadcast streaming of matches, adding, "in the coming days, we will share the good news coming from this commercial initiative".

After the AGM, draw for the full fixtures will be conducted at 5pm and Football icons are expected to grace the event at the Hotel Sandralia in Jabi, Abuja.

All the 20 Clubs arrived Abuja on Monday, August 28 and have expressed their preparedness for the new season. "You must have noticed that we have been participating in a number of preseason tournaments and friendly games to prime our squad for the new season", the Club Owners Association Secretary, Godwin Enakhena was quoted to have said last week.

Nigeria Customs, First Bank Shine as Curtain Falls on Phase 1

The Phase 1 of the NBBF/Zenith Bank Women’s Basketball League came to an end with two teams maintaining a winning streak in the two centres.

Nigeria Customs and First Bank of Lagos are the two teams with impressive runs to show their intentions of making it to Lagos for the national finals billed for October.

In Akure, First Bank Basketball team defeated all the other teams in the Atlantic Zone to remain unbeaten after five games.

Only yesterday (Sunday), First Bank defeated home team Sunshine Angels 51-32 to confirm their supremacy in the zone.

On the other hand, IGP Queens and Dolphins were the teams walking tight rope after losing three matches out of five respectively.

Interestingly, the two teams met yesterday with the IGP Queens winning 62-54 to boost their standing on the ladder.

MFM and Bayelsa Whales are other teams with impressive runs and also on the cards to fight

for the two tickets at stake after Phase 2.

In Jos, the Nigeria Customs have been in devastating form, beating all other teams in the Savannah Conference.

Customs in a crucial Match Day 2, Customs defeated defending Champions Air Warriors 64-48 to remain unbeaten and went ahead to ruthlessly beat Nigeria Army 78-32. They also defeated Nasarawa Amazons 60-41 on Match Day four. In the opening Match Day, Customs won 73-32 against Kada Angels.

The President of the NBBF, Musa Kida, has assured stakeholders that the ongoing new style of the national women league is the best for the game.

“The teams are playing in a home and away format and it means that there is a second chance to ensure teams can still battle for the final slot.

Only four teams will be in Lagos and it will be huge fun for all the participants and lovers of the game,” Kida said.

Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi are set to stage their return to the Premier League after few weeks in the lower rung of the English club football

Iga Swiatek...in perfect start to US Open title defence

ZENITH BANK B’BALL LEAGUE

Edo Govt to Federal Govt

“The area where the Minister of Information may be referring to as non-performance should be the condition of the extensive Federal roads running through the state, which the Federal Government has abandoned and even prevented us from intervening to repair, claiming that contracts for their repairs have been awarded. Isn’t it rather unfortunate that the Minister in his first outing has taken this untoward route when he ought to be reconciliatory...” --Edo StateCommissionerforCommunicationand Orientation,ChrisNehikhare,firesbackatthe InformationMinister,MuhammedIdris,overGovernorGodwinObaseki’scomments.

TUESDAY WITH REUBEN ABATI

abati1990@gmail.com

Trip To Kigali, Lagdo Dam and Other Tales

“So now that President Bola Tinubu has held his first Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting with his Ministers, what do you think?”

“When was that? You know, sometimes, I try to select what I pay attention to in this country. This place is so bad enough it can affect your mental health. You have to struggle with your own mental health even when you worry about the complex country called Nigeria.”

“Okay, for you to ask when confirms your point. For your information, President Tinubu’s inaugural FEC meeting was held yesterday at the Presidential Villa.”

“On a Monday? I thought the traditional day for FEC meetings is Wednesday of every week.”

“Traditional yes, but not statutory. There is nowhere in the Nigerian Constitution that it is written that the President must meet with his Cabinet on a Wednesday. Ministers are the President’s advisers and aides, he can meet with them as he deems fit, and because the Federal Cabinet represents voices from across the Federation, it is endowed with the toga of inclusivity and representation.”

“You have started again. You think these Ministers see themselves as representing anybody? You people just like to quote theory and sound bites from persons whose job is simply propaganda, and they are masters at it. When Minister Nyesom Wike declared that he would demolish any structure that could be in violation of the Abuja Master Plan, was he doing that in the people’s interest?”

“Master plans are meant to be respected. He is defending the rule of law. In fact, if you ask me, I would say that of all the Ministers, it is only Wike who has hit the ground running. Apart from his statement about illegal structures, he also inspected the Abuja mass rail transit system and openly declared that it is in a dysfunctional state.”

“What do you expect him to say? Was his arch-enemy Rotimi Amaechi, former Governor, former Minister, former Presidential aspirant not the man in charge of railways matters with the Chinese under the Buhari administration? Wike knows how to play the game of cutting your rival under the belly. I always tell people that he is a deft politician, whatever you may think of his style”

“Maybe you are right. After all, more than any other Minister, particularly any former Governor turned Minister, he has been able to capture the attention of the President. The other day, at the on-going Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual Conference in Abuja, the President publicly told Wike: “If I ask for free land in Abuja, don’t give me”

“Yes. The President said so. That is the Jagaban for you.”

“My friend, stop. Nobody gives anybody land free of charge. I put it to you that Wike will reserve choice plots of land for President Tinubu and his associates, and for anyone that the President approves of. Tinubu was talking about giving out free land, not the individual’s legitimate right to acquire and own land. Always learn to read between the lines before you run with the headlines.”

“What I know is that President Tinubu has fixed performance targets for his Ministers, and he has made it clear that any Minister that is surplus to requirement would be asked to leave.”

“When that happens, we ‘d see, we’d see.”

“You don’t believe him?”

“Of course, I do. But we’d see. After all, the same President has said that his administration will not service debt with 90% of the country’s revenue. We all know that such a revenue to debt ratio is unsustainable. But the question is how?

How? How? The Buhari people may not know enough theory, but these new guys know the theory and they mouth the received wisdoms from IMF and World Bank so well, but the question is: to what effect?”

“What do you mean to what effect? This administration has rolled out robust cost-cutting strategies to reduce the cost of governance. The President has just directed ahead of the United Nations General

Assembly (UNGA) in September that any government official that has no business in New York should not be attended to by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs”.

‘You know what the Presidency has just done with that statement? They have just provided work for Omoyele Sowore and Sahara Reporters.”

“How? The President wants to cut costs”

“Is that how a government cuts costs? Stop supporting our leaders blindly. Try and have a critical mind of your own. You are already jubilating and inventing panegyrics because you don’t know. You should wait till some research journalists publish the list of the President’s entourage to New York in September, and the additional list of accompanying Ministers and their own aides. Don’t forget that at the next UNGA, Tinubu’s first, we have been told that he would be having a meeting with President Joe Biden on the sidelines. And it is not only President Biden that he would meet. He would need many government officials around him from the Nigerian Mission to the US and the UN, and a retinue of officials from home. You don’t think there would be Ministers who are scrambling to accompany the President just to take a photo with President Biden? I have my suspicions, but let’s wait and see, and please stop committing everything government says to heart. Learn to separate the wheat from the chaff.”

“I always do. I do, if you want to be fair to me, and in any case, I don’t have to see things as you see them. The problem with people like you is that you think you know it all.”

“I always tell you the truth”

“You sound like you are the only one with a monopoly of the truth. Truth is relative. If I tell you I stand on Asiwaju’s mandate, then that is where I stand, and that is the truth for me”

“And that is why you were saying the other day that Nigeria reporting a 4.1% unemployment rate in the first quarter of 2023 is a good sign, and I told you that’s nonsense.”

“And how is that the president’s problem? It was the office of the Statistician-General and the National Bureau of Statics that gave that report. They said they have adopted a new methodology in calculating Nigeria’s unemployment figures in line with best international practices. You need accurate data to plan.”

“What new methodology? Lying with data. Do you need to be a statistician to know that things are getting worse in Nigeria? And why would anyone quote Q1 figures in the light of present realities? The National Bureau of Statistics must begin to talk to us in the kind of simple language that we can understand. Now they say new methodology: how do we measure the effect in terms of the quotidian reality of our lives? Are you aware that any parents have slipped into depression because all the children they trained through university are all at home without work? Are you aware also that many of the Nigerians who have abandoned the country in search of greener pastures did so and are doing so because life elsewhere provides them with greater meaning?”

“This is the age of globalization. No government can legitimately stop its citizens from going anywhere. Those who want to live abroad will leave, those of us who are determined to remain here, will remain, life without end. People must learn to make sacrifices for the good of their country. Nigerians are always trying to compete with their leaders. Our Money, Our Money. People should know their place in the ultimate equation of things.”

“Are you alright?”

“Yes, I am”

“People tell you to make sacrifice for Nigeria, the same sacrifice that they are not willing to make. Are you aware…?”

“I am aware of everything. Stop asking me if I am aware. Are we not in this same…?

“Let me finish.”

“Okay finish.

“Are you aware that members of the House of Representatives in the 10th National Assembly have only recently agreed to give themselves N150 million each as constituency allowance, coming up to a total of about N54 billion. House of Reps members in the 9th National Assembly took N100 million each. Nobody ever knows what they do with the money these lawmakers continue to collect as allowances. Most of the time, a lawmaker would dig bore holes. At the height of COVID-19, many of them bought water buckets and called them constituency projects. Besides, investment in infrastructure is the job of the Executive not the Legislature.”

“Rome was not built in a day. Democracy is a learning curve. We will learn”

“After 24 years of return to civilian rule? We are still learning. Perhaps, you could be right you know? The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) has only just taken some Nigerian Governors on a three-day retreat to learn about how to re-imagine leadership in a fast-changing world. But does anyone need to go to Rwanda to learn that leadership is a major challenge in Africa and that there is a trust crisis between the leaders and the people they claim to lead?”

“The programme was in collaboration with the UNDP, and on the personal invitation of President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame. One of the subjects that they deliberated upon was how to promote inclusivity. There can never be any end to learning.”

“Except that Nigerian leaders going to Rwanda to learn about leadership is an indication of how low we have sunk as a country.”

“President Paul Kagame is a fine example of how to be a leader.”

“Give it to him. He is at best a benevolent dictator, and he has been able to re-write his country’s narrative. As for being a fine example, please. And all these your Governors that went for the retreat, the only thing they probably came back home with is a copy of the communique and may be cartons of Akabanga.”

“Akabanga. What is that?”

“Banga. Banga. Go and find out. It is a Rwandan national treasure, the kind of thing that would interest your Nigerian Governors.

“This is my problem with you. We will be discussing serious things your mind will be wandering here and there.”

“What I am saying is that those Governors had

no business going on a retreat in Rwanda and packaging it as a major expedition of discovery. Governor Babajide Sanwoolu of Lagos State that should stay at home making sure his rejected 17 nominees are accepted by the Lagos State House of Assembly goes on a frolic in Rwanda at a critical moment. I don’t get it.”

“You don’t get it because you are not a politician. It is a political game. The Governor must carry people along when he makes his choices. He cannot assume that because Tinubu has made him the leader of the party and the state in Lagos, he can do what he likes and disconnect with other stakeholders. This is the mistake most people make. He must learn to listen to the other side. He is trying to fight people who know his political history. They have just told him that he is not Tinubu, and that there are forces in Lagos that can insist on their own preferences.”

“But what does he want to do with 39 Commissioners and his mentor is talking about cutting the cost of governance? Do these people connect the threads at all?”

“If Sanwoolu gets the politics right, he can have 100 commissioners if he wants and all of them will be approved. But to think he can dictate to the Lagos State House of Assembly, they will show him that there are powers behind the throne occupied by Tinubu in Lagos.”

“But how about technocratic competence? Professor Akin Abayomi did well as Commissioner of Health. Has anyone forgotten how he provided professional leadership during the COVID pandemic in Lagos? Gbenga Omotoso also served diligently as a sound technocrat. At least I know those two.”

“You don’t know politics. When Professor Akin Abayomi was setting up COVID centres and conducting money-guzzling research, how many of the stakeholders did he carry along? Technocrats. Many of you guys hide under that title to project an annoying image of hypocrisy. But technocrats know how to spend money and enjoy. But they don’t know party Chairman, Ward chairman and party members. They don’t even want to collect party membership cards. It is an open cinema. Let us all wait for the end. After all, THE END is what ends a film in the cinema.”

“I sense envy in your voice.”

“You must give me credit that I also know one or two things about politics. It is like Shaibu, the Deputy Governor of Edo State saying he wants to also become Governor of Edo State, and he remains loyal to his boss. Answer me, have they not shown him yesterday what his Governor thinks of his loyalty? His media aides were all blocked from attending a state event. When he expressed his anger, all his media aides were sacked on the authority of the Governor. The game of power can take any dimension. Babajide Sanwoolu no fit”

“What if Tinubu intervenes? This is clearly a case of the cat going on a journey and all kinds of mice and other rodents are flexing muscles in the kingdom. Who would dare carry a lantern to look at the face of the lion?”

“I don’t think Baba is going to get involved in Lagos politics for a while. He has more urgent issues at hand. Nigeria, ECOWAS, and now he is going to the UN in New York. He is where he wants to be, his place of dream. If he gets involved in Lagos matters, it is you people that will still accuse him of greed. People should learn to live without going through life as the parasite in a Godfather’s compound.”

“I just hope that someone will do something about the announcement by the Republic of Cameroon that water will soon be released from the Lagdo Dam which as we know would result in big floods on the Benue plains and 13 other states”

“The Minister of State for Environment, Ishaq Salako has said people have nothing to fear. The Lagos State Government says they have everything covered.”

“Okay. Okay. We’d see. What does the Minister know? The story of Nigeria is this: the more things are, the more they remain the same. Pathetic.”

President Bola Tinubu