TUESDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER 2024

Tinubu, Xi Jinping to Sign Five MoUs Today

President to be honoured with 21-gun salute, inspects guard of honour at Great Hall To also lay wreath in honour of fallen hero

Holds dinner with Chinese CEOs Nigeria, China strengthen ties in rail infrastructure devt, Alkali leads delegation

After taking comprehensive briefings from some of his

and other key government officials, President

Bola Tinubu will today meet with President Xi Jinping of China at occasions, where they are both due

to sign about five Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs). This will mark the formal com-

mencement of Tinubu’s official visit to the People's Republic of China, with a visit to the Great Hall of the

People in Beijing, where he would

Continued on page 12

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PDP Summons Wike over Alleged

Says Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso still in talks Sani, Bauchi speaker condemn FCT minister

For the First Time in 28 Years Nigeria Begins Production of Petrol at Dangote

Facility to begin sale immediately NNPC to emerge sole buyer from new 650,000bpd facility

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

August output falls to lowest since January despite Nigeria’s ‘small’ increase

Nigeria has commenced the production of petrol for the first time in the last 28 years, THISDAY learnt yesterday that the 650,000 barrels per day Dangote refinery located in Lagos has concluded the test production of petroleum and will begin sale immediately.

This will bring much needed relief to Nigerians currently experiencing excruciation petrol scarcity in towns and cities across the country.

It was gathered that all the param eters for certifying the suitability of any refining asset have been satisfactorily ticked by the superstructure owned by Africa’s richest person, Mr Aliko Dangote.

The country despite spending billions of dollars on turnaround maintenance of its four official refineries for over two decades has been unable to get them to work.

Nigeria which consumes about 66 million litres of petrol daily on the average, currently spends a huge chunk of its budget, exceeding $10 billion by some estimates on the importation of the road fuel every year.

The development is expected to

Continued on page 12

Deji Elumoye in Beijing, China and Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

ministers

statesman, Chief Tom Ikimi.

Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi The leadership of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has summoned Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT),

Nyesom Wike, over alleged anti-party activities. Wike was slated to face the disciplin-

committee of the party.

minister, currently on an official visit to China with President

Bola Tinubu, was to appear before the disciplinary panel chaired by former Minister of External Affairs and elder

EXPERT WORKSHOP ON EARLY WARNING FOR ALL, DISASTER RISK REDUCTION STRATEGY...

L-R: Director General, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs Zubaida Umar, Director, Weather Forecasting, Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) Professor Vincent Weli, Director General , Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Agency, Engr Mohammed Abdulrahman and Deputy Corps Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps, Mrs Foluke Oyeyemi Okolie during the Expert Workshop on Early Warning For All, Disaster Risk Reduction Strategy and Action Plan organized by NEMA in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in Abuja .... yesterday

LCCI: Focused Interventions Required to Sustain Growth Momentum in Manufacturing Sector

Tasks government on implementation of PIA

Dike Onwuamaeze

Following the report of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), which showed Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the second quarter of 2024 recorded a 3.19 per cent year-on-year growth in real terms, the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has tasked the federal government to implement focused interventions in the industrial, agricultural and oil and gas sectors in order to sustain the growth momentum. Director General of LCCI, Dr. Chinyere Almona, stated this in a public statement, titled, “LCCI Statement on Nigeria’s 2024 Second Quarter Economic Growth Indicator and on Sustaining Economic Growth,” where the chamber urged the government to implement the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) to the letter.

The 3.19 per cent GDP growth in the second quarter 2024 surpassed both the 2.51 per cent growth in the second quarter of 2023 and the 2.98 per cent recorded in the first quarter of 2024. The breakdown showed that the services sector posted a remarkable 3.79 per cent growth and contributed 58.76 per cent to the aggregate GDP; the industrial sector also showed a significant turnaround with a 3.53 per cent growth, recovering from the negative growth of -1.94 per cent recorded in Q2 2023; the agriculture sector grew by 1.41 per cent, slightly lower than the 1.50 per cent recorded in second quarter 2023; the oil sector recorded

a substantial 10.15 per cent growth in real terms, a stark improvement from the -13.43 per cent contraction seen in second quarter 2023, but its quarter-on-quarter performance dipped by -10.51 per cent.

The chamber said that while the overall GDP growth was commendable, “It is imperative that the government remains proactive in addressing key areas to sustain and enhance economic growth in the remaining months of 2024.”

The LCCI, therefore, recommended improvement in the power sector to sustain the growth momentum in the industrial sector.

Almona stated, “We urge the government to maintain the reforms and initiatives in the power sector to boost the electricity supply.

“It is well noted that the total number of electricity meters provided newly to consumers increased by 3.3 per cent on a month-on-month basis to 6.1 million in July 2024 from 5.9 million recorded in June, but the registered unmetered users of about 13.1 million as of July points to the need for more efforts.”

The chamber also observed that the agriculture sector’s growth remained modest in the quarter under review but stated that harnessing its full potential and driving more agricultural production would require sustaining “interventions introduced in the past months, such as the import waivers to agriculture inputs and improving the security situation around our crop production sites.

“Additionally, improving rural

infrastructure to reduce post-harvest losses and enhance market access is critical.”

Despite the oil sector’s impressive year-on-year growth, LCCI said, “Recent happenings in the sector indicate the need for more regulatory prowess in dealing with issues like divestments, crude supply to local refineries, resurfacing oil theft, and pipeline vandalism.

“The plan to hand over the Kaduna and Warri refineries to private sector operators and the eventual refining

happening in the Port Harcourt Refinery is critical to the performance of this sector.

“To resolve the many regulatory matters, we urge the government to implement the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) letters, which have the legal instruments to regulate the oil and gas sector.”

The chamber also stated that the trade sector had performed very well in the past months and grew by +0.7 per cent year-on-year in Q2 ’24 against the +1.2 per cent it recorded in the

preceding quarter. It called for more investments in port infrastructure to boost international trade by stimulating export trade, which would ensure that the depreciation of the naira against significant currencies positively impacted the country’s balance of trade account.

The LCCI said, “The services sector remains the backbone of Nigeria’s GDP, particularly information and communication and financial services.

“Continued support for digital

transformation, financial inclusion, and fintech innovations will be vital.

“Regulatory frameworks that promote fair competition and consumer protection should be strengthened to sustain the sector’s growth.”

Almona said LCCI acknowledged the government’s efforts to steer the economy towards growth, amid global uncertainties.

“However, a sustained focus on the highlighted areas will be critical to stabilising the economy for growth and development,” she said.

Second Indonesia-Africa Forum: FG Reaffirms Commitment to Partnership with Indonesia

Olawale Ajimotokan

Nigeria has proclaimed its desire to deepen ties with Indonesia by highlighting the untapped economic potential and avenues for collabora- tion. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, affirmed this during the second Indonesia-Africa Forum, held from September 1-3, in Bali, Indonesia.

Idris, who represented President Bola Tinubu, led the Nigerian delegation to the High-Level Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships and the Joint Leaders Session.

He reiterated Nigeria's dedication to fostering a stronger partnership with Indonesia, emphasising

that both regions stand to gain significantly from enhanced cooperation in trade, investment, and the exchange of knowledge and expertise.

Idris stated, "The Indonesia-Africa Forum is a catalyst for a new era of cooperation, aimed at propelling both our countries toward a brighter and more prosperous future.

"Nigeria is committed to leveraging our shared strengths and resources to focus on critical pillars, such as economic transformation, energy and mining, food and health security, and the digital economy.

“These are the foundations upon which our future cooperation will be built, driving inclusive and sustainable economic growth

beneficial to all our nations."

The forum highlighted the significant economic and demographic potential of Africa and Indonesia, which together represent over 1.7 billion people and a combined GDP of $4.4 trillion.

Heads of state, government officials and business leaders were among the critical stakeholders from across the regions at the event, where they discussed economic cooperation and global challenges, and explored avenues for mutual sustainable growth and development.

Nigeria’s leadership in advancing the African Union's Agenda 2063 was also a focal point during the discussions.

Stakeholders Call for Dialogue on Controversial Education Policy Impacting WASSCE Eligibility

Funmi Ogundare

Concerned Parents and Educators (CPE), yesterday, called for consultations with relevant stakeholders and open dialogue on the formulation and implementation of education policies. They made the appeal during a webinar titled, “Above 18/Below 18: The Pros and Cons of the New Directive by the Minister on the Education Landscape”. The group highlighted the urgent need to reassess age restrictions for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), cautioning the federal government about the potential long-term impact on youth and society.

Mrs. Yinka Ogunde, CEO of Edumark Consult and Coordinator of CPE, voiced her concerns over a recent directive from the Minister of Education that bars students under 18 from taking the WASSCE.

She criticized the directive for being hastily implemented and stressed that significant educational decisions should involve thorough planning and consultation with educators.

According to her, “Such directive by the Minister doesn't show good thinking and major decisions that will affect the lives of people especially their education is not what should be taken overnight. "There has to be a period of plan-

ning and government should involve educators before voicing out such a policy. You don't toy with education or play politics with people's lives."

Mrs. Angela Ajala, Executive Director of Ladela Schools, pointed out the lack of coordination between the government and the private sector, emphasizing the need for clear operational guidelines and communication regarding the new policy.

Helen Essien, President of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), lamented the country's struggles with policy implementation and the tendency to replicate foreign systems without proper adaptation.

She warned that such policies could lead to increased numbers of out-of-school children and called for regulatory bodies to perform their duties effectively.

"Nigeria seems to copy what happens in other climes without doing it well. Such policy will further lead to more out-of-school children. The regulatory body should do their work," she stated.

Dr. Bukola Dosumu, an educator and social advocate, urged educators to reconsider their roles and contributions to the country’s development, questioning whether current practices in schools are fostering positive growth.

Johnson Abbaly, CEO of Achievers

Consortium/Multivational Centre, expressed concern over the lack of data to address underlying problems and the potential negative effects of the policy, such as increased internet fraud and mass failure.

He stated that education should prepare students for the workforce and help shape their values.

Graphic Designer, Brian Ebbi criticized the policy's implementation, noting that it leaves parents uncertain about how to manage their children's time during the interim.

He urged the government to allow for mental preparation and suggested that students should focus on developing their skills during this period.

The information minister stressed Tinubu's comprehensive agenda for economic reforms, security, governance, and social development at the national level, as well as his efforts to enhance regional trade, infrastructure, and political stability through his leadership in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Nigeria's active participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) was noted as a key driver for boosting intra-African trade and industrialisation.

The event was attended by delegates from 22 African countries and five non-African countries.

The Indonesia-Africa Forum also paid homage to the 1955 Asia-Africa Forum, known as the Bandung Spirit, which laid the groundwork for Asia-Africa relations.

The meeting called for increased interaction between the continents in terms of trade, investment, and development cooperation and emphasised that Africa should move beyond being a mere exporter of raw materials to becoming a centre of production, with specific recognition given to the trans-Saharan Gas pipeline projects between Nigeria, Algeria, and Morocco.

The Indonesia-Africa Forum serves as a strategic platform to bolster economic ties between Indonesia and African nations and facilitates dialogue, fosters partnerships, and promotes sustainable development through collaboration in key sectors, such as trade, investment, energy, and the digital economy.

NIGERIAN INTERNATIONAL FILM AND TV SUMMIT...

L-R: Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor of Lagos State, Gboyega Akosile; Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian International Film and TV Summit (NIFS), Ijeoma Onah; Chief Executive Officer, National Film Authority of Ghana, Juliet Yaa Asantewa; and Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Ghana, Andrew Egyapa Mercer, during the NIFS held in Lagos at the weekend

US Delists Nigerian Carriers from Flying Directly to Any of Its Destinations

Insists delisting not due to safety concerns Arik Air says its takeover downgraded Nigeria’s aviation industry

Nigeria has been delisted from the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Category One Status (USFAA CAT 1) International Aviation Safety Assessment Programme (IASA). This means that no Nigerian registered carrier can operate to any US destinations until Nigeria returns to the status.

Nigeria was delisted because no Nigerian registered airline had operated to the US for about seven years and according to the new FAA regulation, a Category One status country that failed to operate to US after two years will be delisted from the status.

Category One Safety Status means that the country certified by the status has met US safety standard to operate flights to the US, which includes compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards.

To designate and certify a country worthy of Category 1 Status, FAA

inspectors will assess the country's civil aviation authority and determine its licences and oversees air carriers in accordance with ICAO aviation safetyThestandards. airlines from the assessed state may initiate or continue service to the United States in a normal manner and take part in reciprocal code-share arrangements with US carriers, as long as that country maintains the safety standard that earned it the certification.

Nigeria gained the USFAA CAT 1 Status in August 2010 after a rigorous exercise that spanned about five years, but due to the failure of any Nigerian airline to operate directly to the US for seven years, the country was delisted.

FAA's International Air Safety Assessment (IASA) programme determines whether a country and its airlines will be allowed to fly into the US.

Reacting to the report, Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, in a statement, explained

that the decision taken by USFAA had nothing to do with safety.

Najomo stated, “To operate into the United States of America, Nigeria, like most countries, must satisfactorily pass the IASA Programme and attain Category 1 status. Upon attaining this status, Nigerian airlines would be permitted to operate Nigerian registered aircraft and dry-leased foreign registered aircraft into the United States, in line with the existing Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA).

“The first time Nigeria attained Category One Status was in August 2010. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) conducted another safety assessment on Nigeria in 2014. A further safety assessment was conducted on Nigeria in 2017, after which Nigeria retained her Category One status.

“However, with effect from September, 2022, the US FAA de-listed Category One countries who, after a two-year period, had no indigenous operator provide service to the U.S.

or carrying the airline code of a US operator. Also removed from the Category One list were countries who the FAA was not providing technical assistance to base on identified areas of non-compliance to international standards for safety oversight.”

Najomo stated that no Nigerian operator had provided service into the United States using a Nigerian registered aircraft within the two-year period preceding September 2022. He said it was expected that Nigeria would be de-listed, as were other countries who fell within this category. Nigeria was de-listed since 2022 and was duly informed of this action in 2022.

The NCAA director-general said, “It is important to clarify here that the de-listing of Nigeria has absolutely nothing to do with any safety or security deficiency in our oversight system. Nigeria has undergone comprehensive ICAO Safety and Security Audits and recorded no Significant Safety Concern (SSC) or

Tinubu Ratifies New 13-man Board for BoI

Deji Elumoye in Beijing, China

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of a new 13-member board for the Bank of Industry (BoI) with Dr. Mansur Muhtar and Dr Olasupo Olusi as Chairman and Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer respectively.

In a release yesterday by presidential spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, 11 directors including five executive and six non-executive ones were also appointed for the BoI by the president.

The Executive Directors included Mrs. Ifeoma Uz'Okpala, Large Enter-

prises; Mr. Shekarau Omar, Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises; Mr. Usen Effiong, Corporate Services; Ms. Mabel Ndagi, Public Sector & Intervention Programmes and Mr. Rotimi Akinde, Corporate Finance & Risk Management.

According to the release, the non-executive directors were Mallam Tajudeen Datti Ahmed, representing the Ministry of Finance Incorporated; Mr. Adedamola Olufemi Young, representing Central Bank of Nigeria; Reverend Isaac Adefemi Agoye, representing Manufacturers Association of Nigeria. Mallam Muhammad Bala is

representing Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade & Investment; while Mr. Oreoluwa Adeyemi and Mr. Sulaiman Musa Kadira, would be Independent Non-Executive Directors.

Muhtar, whose career spans decades in finance, international development, public service, and academia had served as Minister of Finance, Budget and Economic Development from 2008 to 2010 and was Vice-President, Operations of the Islamic Development Bank, before his recent appointment.

The president, the release stated, expects the new board to work harmoniously, diligently, and with

President to Shettima at 58: You’re a Quintessential Administrator,

Names ex-finance minister Mukhtar, Olusi chairman, CEO Okays five executive directors, six non-executive directors Lauds him for vigour and affability he brings to governance NCAA: Nigerian airlines can fly to US with leased aircraft

Deji Elumoye in Beijing, China

President Bola Tinubu has extends his warm congratulations to VicePresident Kashim Shettima on his 58th birthday. Shettima is an academic, accomplished banking professional, raconteur, and leader who was

governor of Borno State from 2011 to 2019 and senator representing Borno Central from 2019 to 2023. The President, in a release issued on Monday by his Media Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, joined family, friends, and members of the executive arm of government to celebrate the quintessential administrator, orator, and

bibliophile on this special occasion.

President Tinubu commended Vice-President Shettima for the enthusiasm, vigour, and affability he brings to governance.

He thanked the Vice-President for his support and wishes him robust health and renewed strength in his service to the nation.

utmost fidelity to the nation in driving the mandate of this critical institution as a development vehicle for providing support for projects that enhance job creation, poverty alleviation, and the socio-economic conditions of Nigerian families.

Significant Security Concern (SSeC) respectively.

“It is furthermore necessary to add that a Nigerian operator can still operate into the US using an aircraft wet-leased from a country who has a current Category One status.”

According to Najomo, NCAA continues to adhere strictly to international safety and security standards and respects the sovereignty of states, including the United States of America, as enshrined in Article One of the Convention on International Civil Aviation. This provision gives states complete and exclusive sovereignty over the airspace above their territories.

Najomo said, “Furthermore, it is in full realisation of this situation that has since prompted the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), to embark on an aggressive international campaign to empower our local operators to access the dry-lease market around the world, which culminated in the visit to Airbus in France earlier this year and the MOU signed with Boeing in Seattle, Washington just last week.

“The minister has also done a lot of work to make Nigeria comply fully with the Cape Town Convention, which will bring back the confidence of international lessors in the Nigerian aviation market. We are confident that with these steps of the minister, it is only a matter of time that Nigeria, not only regains, but can sustain its US Category One status.”

Also, reacting to the delisting of Nigeria from by the USFAA Category 1 status, shareholders of Arik Air, in a statement by Lanre Bamgboshe, recalled how FAA inspectors audited

the airline and used it to rate Nigeria. Bamgboshe said the takeover of Arik Air downgraded the industry, hence, the delisting of Nigeria by USFAA. He stated, “It should be noted that Arik Air invested in the rigorous and painstaking audit and certification programmes that resulted in the Cat 1 certification for Nigeria and Nigerian air operators, in collaboration with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and the Ministry of Aviation and Arik Air between 2009 and 2010.

“To achieve this, Arik Air made direct investments of over $12 million in engaging a world class consultant, SH&E from USA, to develop manuals, procedures, supervise and facilitate the implementation of the Cat 1 certification process.

“SH&E USA assisted the Nigerian civil aviation authorities and Arik Air, to train several professionals to achieve the USFAA Cat 1 certification for Nigeria and airline operators in Nigeria between 2009/2010.

“During this process, several flights, safety and operations professionals of Arik Air, NCAA and FAAN were trained and certified by USFAA, this is in addition to their respective NCAA certifications. Also, the entire check-in, boarding, security of Nigerian main airports (Lagos/Kano, Abuja & Port Harcourt) related operation support for airlines were enhanced as recommended by the Consultants and approved by FAA.”

Since Arik Air stopped flights to the US in 2017, no registered Nigerian carrier had started operation to any destination in the US.

FG Begins Prosecution of Illegal Mining Suspects in Kogi, Ondo

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

As part of ongoing efforts to sanitise the mining sector, the federal government has charged to court suspected illegal miners arrested in Kogi and Ondo states during a recent operation led by the Mining Marshals.

The operation, code-named "Operation Hayakin Kogo," took place in the Ikah Community of Ankpa LGA, Kogi State resulting in the arrest of two Chinese nationals and a Nigerian for mining activities in violation of existing mining regulations.

In a related development, the Mining Marshals also raided an illegal gold mining site in the Ogunlepa,

Oluwa Forest Reserve, Odigbo LGA of Ondo State, where four suspects were arrested.

The individuals, caught in the act of illegally mining gold in a Government Reserved Area (GRA) confessed during interrogation that they lacked the necessary licenses or authorisation to carry out their operations.

The suspects from both Kogi and Ondo states have since been charged to the Federal High Court, Abuja.

The 2,570-strong Mining Marshals, specially trained and drawn from the ranks of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), is a brainchild of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele

Alake, as part of his seven-point agenda, hinged on sanitising and reforming the mining sector. The minister reaffirmed the federal government's commitment to eliminating illegal mining in the country by bolstering the operations of the Mining Marshals with the infusion of technology and imminent satellite monitoring of mining sites. He urged those still involved in illegal activities in the mining sector to turn a new leaf and comply with the relevant sections of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act (NNMA) to regularise their operations, stressing that the resolve of the federal government to wielding the big stick was unflinching.

Chinedu Eze

CIBN 2024 STREAM TWO INDUCTION AND AWARD...

Falana: FG Ridiculing Itself by Insinuating It Can’t Stop Smuggling of Petrol Across Borders

Fuel scarcity protest hits FCT

Emmanuel Addeh and Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Human Rights lawyer, Mr Femi Falana (SAN) yesterday argued that the federal government was ridiculing itself by suggesting that it cannot halt the illegal smuggling of petroleum products across the borders.

He was reacting to the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Heineken Lokpobiri, who was alleged to have highlighted this at the 2024 Energy and Labour Summit in Abuja.

He was said to have explained that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) lacks the funds necessary to rebuild the nation’s aging pipelines, which contributes to the problem.

Lokpobiri was further quoted to have pointed out that the old, corroded pipelines, some of which date back to the 1960s and 1970s, are easily vandalised, facilitating the illegal transport of fuel.

The minister, according to Falana also said that if the NNPC imports petrol and sells to marketers at perhaps N600 or below, there’s no way that smuggling can stop and that the situation was exacerbated by security agents at the borders who are complicit in the smuggling activities.

Falana said in a statement:

“Although the minister was honest to indict the federal government in the smuggling of petrol which he blamed on lack of funds necessary to rebuild the nation’s aging pipelines and

security agents at the borders who are complicit in the smuggling activities, the reason adduced for smuggling are totally misleading.

“The minister cannot be unaware of the deliberate encouragement of smuggling of PMS by the federal government and the deliberate sabotage of the national economy by the NNPC,” he said.

In 2010, Falana said the federal government and a private company, TPMS, operated the policy on the basis of a PPP arrangement, noting that even though the system dealt a heavy blow to smuggling of petrol and oil theft, the arrangement was terminated in 2011.

“ Since then, all efforts to restore the Cargo Trafficking Note have been frustrated. However, on August 9, 2018, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved the installation of technology monitoring schemes and structures under the Petroleum Equalisation Fund (PEF) for N17 billion.

“The then Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, disclosed that the deployment of the automated fuel system management and censor network would ensure 100 per cent tracking and monitoring of petroleum products as the system would enable Nigerians to know how much PMS is consumed in Nigeria; volumes of products moved out illegally and the whole impact on Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC).

“But the automated fuel system management was never installed, while the contract sum of N17 billion was stolen,” he added.

On July 13, 2024, Falana said the FEC announced the award of a $21 million contract for the metering of 187 crude oil flow stations in Nigeria, to properly account for the country’s production and exports.

He added that it was also disclosed that the council awarded another contract for the deployment of software that would enable the government to monitor the movement of Nigeria’s crude from the point of loading of every cargo in Nigeria up to the point of the cargo’s destination.

“Having awarded contracts for the metering of 187 crude oil flow stations in Nigeria complemented with advanced cargo tracking technology, a software for tracking and monitoring of petroleum products including PMS, the Federal Government cannot turn round to say that oil

theft and smuggling of petrol out of Nigeria to neighbouring countries will continue unabated to the detriment of the national economy.

“Apart from the acquisition of the software to stop the smuggling of petroleum products from Nigeria, the NNPC had embraced the suggestion to establish mega stations in the neighbouring countries. Both policies were, however, discarded by the NNPC in order to boost the smuggling of PMS from Nigeria,” he stated.

In view of the foregoing, Falana said that Lokpobiri should be advised to stop exposing Nigeria to ridicule by saying that the federal government lacks the capacity to curb the nefarious activities of smugglers.

“ However, the federal government should come out clean if it has added to the monumental suffering of the Nigerian people by increasing the price of PMS. After all, from less than N700 in July, a litre of petrol has since risen

gradually to above N1,000 in most filling stations since the beginning of August. The upward trend of the price of PMS has continued with no successful attempt to stop it as of today,” Falana , who is the Chair, Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond (ASCAB), stated.

Meanwhile, there was a protest yesterday in Abuja over the escalating fuel scarcity across the country.

The demonstration which held at Unity Fountain, Shehu Shagari Way, was convened by the Coalition of Concerned Civil Society Organisations.

The protesters carried different banners condemning the scarcity, which they said was inflicting untold hardship on the citizens.

They also called for the unconditional dismissal of the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPC), Mele Kyari.

The NNPC boss had recently admitted that its substantial indebted-

ness to marketers was responsible for the product to be under supplied in filling stations and leading to its acute shortage.

Some of the banners carried by the protesters read: "We want accountability in the affairs of NNPCL", "We are tired of fuel scarcity and stories on why refineries are not working" and "No direction under Kyari."

The convener, Aminu Abbas, decried the stewardship of the NNPC GMD as dismal and wondered why in spite of abundance of crude oil in the country, Nigerians should continue to suffer acute petrol scarcity.

He described the raging fuel scarcity as not just a mere inconvenience, but a calculated perpetuation of suffering. "Under Mr Kyari’s leadership, the situation has gone from bad to worse, with no end in sight. What has he done to alleviate this crisis? It is clear he seems intent on maintaining a status quo that benefits only a select few while the masses suffer.

NOSDRA Tasks Oil Firms on Compliance to Environmental Regulations

The

Obaseki, Aziegbemi, Others Campaign for Ighodalo in Uhunmwode, Orhionmwon

Governor says PDP candidate will surpass his legacy

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, yesterday led the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the September 21 governorship election, Dr Asue Ighodalo and his running mate, Osarodion Ogie in Uhunmwode and Orhionmwon in Edo South Senatorial District. Also on the entourage were the party Chairman in the state, Dr Tony Aziegbemi; the Director General of the Asue Ogie Campaign Council, Matthew Iduoriyemkewen and a host of other top party loyalists.

At the Ehor open field venue of the campaign rally in Uhunmwode, LGA, Obaseki thanked the people of for their unwavering support and commitment in ensuring that the people enjoy the dividends of

democracy.

The governor who reeled out what he has done in the area, particularly in tackling security challenges around the axis said: "We have tackled insecurity around this road and have done many other things. No one government can do everything, therefore, I have brought Asue and Ogie to continue with the good work we have begun."

“Support the two (Ighodalo and Ogie) massively with your votes as you did for me for the past eight years. You will not regret it. Don't allow those who do not mean well for you to deceive you. They have nothing to offer," he stated.

A chieftain of the PDP and leader, Edo South Senatorial district, Pa Etose Imasogie, thanked the governor for supporting the people of the local government with the dividends of

democracy. He assured him that Uhunmwode remains for PDP and Asue-Ogie and that PDP will win the election come September.

The local government council chairman, Kennedy Adodo, equally assured the PDP candidate and his deputy that Uhunmwode votes are for PDP.

According to him: "We don't know if APC exists in the local government. We are ready for the race ahead. We will definitely deliver here in Uhunmwode."

The governorship candidate, Ighodalo p, appreciated the people for supporting Obaseki and promised that he and his deputy will deliver more dividends of democracy to them and they will not disappoint the people.

He said his administration will

focus on delivering good governance and creating an enabling environment for peace and more investment in Edo State.

He further assured that the team was going to continue with the legacy of Obaseki, affirming that they will do everything possible to make Edo State a great state among the states in Nigeria and Africa . At the Esegie College Open Field in Abudu, Orhionmwon Local Government Area, a similar mammoth crowd welcomed the governor and his entourage, where Obaseki thanked the excited crowd for their unflinching support in the last eight years.

He assured them that Ighodalo and Ogie would do better than himself as they will not disappoint or fail the people.

yesterday, during a familiarisation visit to the Port Harcourt Zonal headquarters in Rivers State.

Reacting to some of the challenges faced by the agency in the zone, he said as an agency established by Act of law, NOSDRA has the mandate to regulate the oil industry's environmental impact and will not tolerate any form of non-compliance or disregard for regulations.

Woke said that no oil company was above the law, saying: "We will hold every operator accountable for their actions, and ensure that they adhere to the strictest standards of environmental responsibility."

He assured that his leadership will not be compromised by vested interests or industry pressure, saying he was committed to upholding the law and ensuring that all oil industry operators, including International Oil Companies (IOCs), comply with NOSDRA's regulations.

"Having said that, let me address the issue raised by the head of the NOSDRA reference laboratory, I want to assure you that I am not the kind of DG that any oil company would take for a ride.

"Oil industry, be it IOCs, or anybody must comply with the regulations of NOSDRA. The agency is not just a private company but an establishment by an Act of law and so we represent the federal government and we are to regulate the operations

of the oil industry as it relates to oil and gas pollution and spillage and so nobody, no oil company is above the law.

"If they want to think they can reach me, I am not the type of DG that they would reach. So let the message go very clearly now, we must do the needful, they must grant you access to take samples and we must get the results. Rest assured that you are protected as long as you are committed to your work," he stated. The DG who also assured the staff of his commitment to upgrade the agency, was conducted around the office by the Zonal Director, Mr Ime Ekanem and the head of the NOSDRA reference laboratory, Dr Kenneth Aroh.

He expressed gratitude to the staff for their dedication to work and promised improvements in equipment and staff welfare. Woke emphasised his role in evaluating staff performance and determining promotions. "I am the one who will decide on your promotions," he stated "Your work will be assessed, and I will say yes or no to your advancement," he added. He reminded the staff that while he leads the agency, the Minister of Environment holds superior authority. "Your productivity will be my report card," he added, stressing the importance of dedication and hard work.

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) has urged oil companies operating in the

country to comply with environmental regulations or face the full force of the law.

Director General of NOSDRA, Chukwuemeka Woke made the call

L-R; National Treasurer, CIBN, Dr. Peter Ashade, FCIB; MD/CEO, ASO Savings and Loans Plc. Haija Risikatu Ahmed FCIB; President/Chairman of Council, CIBN, Prof. Pius Deji Olanrewaju FCIB; MD/CEO of Stanbic IBTC Bank, Mr. Wole Adeniyi FCIB; and Registrar/CEO, CIBN, Mr. Akin Morakinyo HCIB, at the CIBN 2024 Stream Two Induction and Prize Award held in Lagos... on Saturday

Political Parties Push for Single Day General Election, Want INEC to Conduct LG Polls

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Inter Party Advisory Council, an umbrella body of all the political parties in Nigeria, yesterday, suggested holding all elections in one day, in line with global best practices.

The political parties also argued that holding the Presidential, Governorship, National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly elections on a single day, would reduce cost, enhance efficiency and reduce electoral crimes.

The proposal, was part of the presentation of the IPAC Chairman, Yusuf Dantalle, at a three-day retreat on amendments of the Electoral Act 2022, by the Joint National

Committee on Electoral Matters in collaboration with the Policy And Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), in Abuja.

Chairman, Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, Senator Sharafadeen Ali, his counterpart in the House of Representatives, Hon Adebayo Balogun and the Executive Director of PLAC, Clement Nwankwo, however, assured the participants that their proposal would form part of the Electoral Act review currently being worked on by the 10th National Assembly.

A former chairman of INEC, Prof. Attahiru Jega, had shortly before the 2015 general election were held, advocated that elections in the country should be held same day, saying that staggered elections were costly.

The former INEC chairman cited Ghana, Sierra-Leone, the United States and Venezuela as countries that hold their elections in one day.

Presenting the resolution of IPAC on the occasion, Dantalle, said, “This memo therefore, conveys the position of all the Political Parties in Nigeria as the electoral law affects all evenly, without equivocation.

“In consideration of the aforesaid, the Inter-Party Advisory Council do hereby submit this proposal as its input and memorandum on the review and amendment of the Electoral Act 2022 for the benefit of all the citizens of Nigeria. “First, holding of election in one

FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 28 YEARS NIGERIA BEGINS PRODUCTION OF PETROL AT DANGOTE REFINERY

save the country several billions of dollars in foreign exchange as well as enhance the local availability of the critical fuel heavily used by businesses and homes.

In the same vein, Africa’s largest oil refining facility, is on the brink of producing significant volumes of petrol and the fuel could be made available as early as this week, Bloomberg reported yesterday.

Describing it as a landmark moment with the potential to transform the global market for the fuel, the report quoting two sources, stated that that product testing has started in earnest.

The giant new facility near the commercial hub of Lagos is on the verge of producing large amounts of the fuel and will be able to process 650,000 barrels a day of oil when at full capacity, turning more than half of that into petrol.

The ramp up is likely to be welcomed within the country, given that the state oil company — Nigeria’s main importer of fuel — said its ability to supply gasoline is being disrupted by debt and rising prices, Bloomberg stressed.

Dangote’s production is expected to impact billions of dollars of trade in fuel markets regionally and beyond as Nigeria remains a global demand sink for the fuel, receiving almost 250,000 barrels a day in shipments last year, mostly from Europe, according to data from analytics firm Vortexa Ltd.

Key to the plant’s petrol output is a unit called a reformer, which produces blendstock for the road fuel. That has started operating, with petrol production expected to begin by the end of the week, one of the people told the international news agency. Another said petrol would be rolled out this week.

At full rates, the refinery is expected to be able to produce about 330,000 barrels a day of petrol, according to Randy Hurburun, senior refinery analyst at consultancy Energy Aspects Ltd. That’s more than 1 per cent of global demand for the road fuel, which is about 27 million barrels a day.

Still, those volumes are a long way off, with Energy Aspects forecasting about 90,000 barrels a day of production in the fourth quarter, increasing to almost 250,000 in the second half of next year. Key to raising output

TINUBU, XI JINPING TO SIGN FIVE MOUS TODAY

be received by Jinping.

The Nigerian president, who would also inspect a guard of honour on arrival at the Great Hall of the People, would lay a wreath in honour of fallen heroes, and receive a 21-gun salute.

The high-powered bilateral agreements between the two nations are intended to focus on key areas, including green economy, agriculture, satellite technology development, media enterprise development and promotion, blue economic development, and national planning cooperation.

The meeting would also provide a platform for the two heads of state to discuss matters of mutual interest, spanning economic cooperation, national, regional, and international security, and other pressing global issues.

Equally, today, Tinubu is expected to hold a roundtable dinner with selected chief executive officers (CEOs) of Chinese firms at China World Hotel in Beijing.

He had earlier, yesterday, paid site visits to two prominent Chinese corporations – Huawei Technologies and the China Rail and Construction Corporation (CRCC) – to fast-track the completion of the Ibadan to Abuja segment of the Lagos to Kano highspeed rail line.

Tinubu would also engage in strategic meetings with 10 chief executives of major Chinese corporations, boasting assets under management totalling over $3 trillion, across various sectors, including ICT, oil and gas, aluminium production, seaport construction, financial services, and satellite technology development.

The visit is expected to yield immediate and long-term benefits for the Nigerian economy and the people, underscoring the president's commitment to economic growth and development.

The Nigerian president would also feature at the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) holding in Beijing from Wednesday, September 4, to Friday, September 6.

The conference, with the theme, "Joining Hands to Advance Mod-

ernisation and Build a High-Level China-Africa Community with a Shared Future," would be a significant event, with leaders from China and Africa gathering to discuss a shared future.

Tinubu, as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, will join other African leaders at the FOCAC summit and would deliver key remarks on behalf of the region on Thursday, to address matters of mutual interest between China and Africa.

The president would further deliver an eight-minute speech on peace and security, same Thursday, and participate in the high-level peace and security plenary, where he would share Nigeria's perspective on regional and continental security challenges.

The Nigerian government led another delegation to Beijing for a crucial meeting with senior officials of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) on rail infrastructure development.

The delegation from Nigeria's Ministry of Transportation and Nigerian Railway Corporation was led by Minister of Transportation, Senator Sa’idu Alkali.

The gathering aimed to evaluate the progress made in enhancing Nigeria's railway infrastructure through the collaborative efforts of the ministry and CCECC.

The two parties were to reflect on the successful projects completed and those still in progress. The discussions on both sides would be on sharing their experiences, challenges, and strategies for overcoming obstacles.

The exchange would focus on improving efficiency and ensuring the successful implementation of future projects, while taking on added significance with the president’s current visit to China.

The sense of urgency and importance was palpable, as the delegation sought to finalise plans and solidify partnerships before Tinubu's visit.

With a successful outing, the stage would be set for a new era of cooperation between Nigeria and China in the realm of railway infrastructure development.

further is another unit called a residue fluid catalytic cracker.

The refinery has been gradually ramping up after years of delays. The plant’s owner, Aliko Dangote, said in July the plant was aiming to start petrol production from August.

In response to questions about the various steps involved in ramping up gasoline output, a spokesman for Dangote told Bloomberg “we are on track”.

In the same vein, a Reuters report said yesterday that the refinery had begun processing petrol after delays caused by recent crude shortages, quoting an executive of the company.

The $20 billion refinery began operations in January with output of products including naphtha and jet fuel. The refinery promises to ease oil producer Nigeria's costly reliance on imported oil products.

"We are testing the product (petrol) and subsequently it will start flowing into the product tanks," said Devakumar Edwin, a vice president at Dangote Industries Limited. He did not however say exactly when the petrol would hit the local market.

Edwin said state-oil firm, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), Nigeria's sole importer of petrol, would buy the product exclusively.

"If no one is buying it, we will export it as we have been exporting our aviation jet fuel and diesel," Edwin said.

The delivery of petrol into the Nigerian market will ease NNPC's struggle to supply the local market.

The company is reeling with debts of $6 billion to oil traders for supply since January, Reuters reported.

This has affected its ability to supply the local market where fuel queues have persisted since July.

“The news that Dangote is processing gasoline (petrol) couldn’t come at a more crucial time given NNPC’s statement about its difficulties securing imported supply due to financial strain," said Clementine Wallop, Director, Sub-Saharan Africa at political risk consultancy Horizon Engage.

She said this "prompts the question of how NNPC will manage purchasing from Dangote, and impresses the need

for greater transparency in its finances".

Nigeria is Africa's top oil producer yet it imports almost all its fuel due to years of neglect of its national refineries.

Meanwhile, a Reuters survey has indicated that the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) oil output fell in August to its lowest since January, as unrest that disrupted Libyan supply added to the impact of ongoing voluntary supply cuts by other members and the wider OPEC+ alliance.

“Among countries posting higher output, there was a small increase in Nigeria which boosted exports,” the survey found.

OPEC pumped 26.36 million barrels per day last month, down 340,000 bpd from July, the survey found. This was the lowest total since January 2024, according to the survey.

day - Section 28: We propose an amendment to the Electoral Act that would require the conduct of all elections - Presidential, National Assembly, Governorship, and State House of Assembly on a single day.

“The current staggered system of elections is not cost effective, as the nation is almost always shut down for several days whenever elections are held. Furthermore, voter turnout usually declines after the first major poll in a staggered clection cycle. “A single-day election would reduce costs, minimise disruptions to economic and academic activities, maintain voter enthusiasm throughout the process and address logistical challenges.”

A drop in Libyan exports and production amid a standoff between political factions over control of the central bank has helped boost oil prices and, sources say, increased the prospect that OPEC+ will proceed with a planned output hike from October.

Libya provided the largest supply loss last month of 290,000 bpd, the survey found. Output was disrupted at the Sharara field early in the month and at more fields towards the end, trimming output to an average of 900,000 bpd, the survey found. Some flows data, such as that of Kpler, showed little impact on Libyan exports in August, although sources in the survey estimated the production impact to be more significant. Libya is exempt from OPEC+ agreements to limit production. Other declines came from Iraq, which lowered exports in August according to the survey and is seeking to boost compliance with its OPEC target, and from Iran which is also exempt. Iran has been boosting exports in the last few years despite US sanctions remaining in place and is still pumping close to the highest levels since 2018. OPEC pumped about 220,000 bpd more than the implied target for the nine members covered by supply cut agreements, with Iraq still accounting for the bulk of the excess, the survey found.

PDP SUMMONS WIKE OVER ALLEGED ANTI-PARTY ACTIVITIES, TO FACE DISCIPLINARY PANEL

Deputy National Publicity Secretary of PDP, Ibrahim Abdullahi, disclosed the moves while speaking as a guest at Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily programme yesterday.

Abdullahi stated that the FCT minister was summoned via a letter to appear before the disciplinary committee, which was put in place by the party’s National Working Committee (NWC).

He said PDP had been inundated with petitions against Wike and other party members bordering on allegations of anti-party activities and sabotage against the party.

Abdullahi stated, “Three weeks ago, we put up two committees in place. That of reconciliation and disciplinary, and Nyesom Wike is one of the persons to face the disciplinary committee, which is headed by elder statesman, Chief Tom Ikimi.

“The disciplinary committee will look into issues of anti-party activities. We’ve been receiving petitions regarding anti-party activities or sabotaging the party throughout the primary, leading to where we are now.

“These petitions against Wike and other party members have been aggregated and sent to the committee.

“Some party members even felt that Wike shouldn’t have gotten to this level still as a member of the PDP and they have been writing to the leadership.”

Abdullahi also said comments made by the former Rivers State governor threatening “putting fire in their states”, in obvious reference to PDP governors, were wrong and unacceptable.

He said, “Wike should be able to manage his words carefully. That was a very disappointing remark. We weren’t expecting him to say that, and to be honest with you, we are not with him on that.”

Nevertheless, the three leading opposition figures in Nigeria continued to discuss the possibility of a merger to, according to them, save Nigerians from hunger and widespread insecurity ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Abdullahi said the three opposition candidates in the last general election –PDP’s Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and Rabiu Kwankwaso of

New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) – would put personal interests aside and form a formidable alliance to defeat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) come 2027.

The PDP deputy national publicity secretary said had his party’s past leadership managed conflicts well, high-ranking chieftains, like Wike, Kwankwaso and Obi, would still be full-blooded members of PDP and the party would have defeated Tinubu of APC in the last election.

According to Abdullahi, “We’ve lost Kwankwaso, we’ve lost Peter Obi, all of these people, imagine if they were in the party, we would have gone to win the elections.

“This APC said they defeated us with one million plus (votes), just one of these names that I mentioned would have covered that gap for us and we would have been in power today and, certainly, Nigerians would not have been confronted with this despair and despondency in the land.”

Asked if PDP was trying to get Obi, Kwankwaso, Wike and others back into the party, Abdullahi said, “Sure, discussion is ongoing. You will see Peter Obi discussing with Atiku, you will see Peter Obi meeting with (Nasir) El-Rufai.

“Party management is a very difficult thing and we are doing the best in the quagmire that we have found ourselves. Rest assured, there would be light at the end of the tunnel. We have learnt our lessons in a bitter way.”

Asked what would happen if Obi and the others returned to PDP, Abdullahi said, “One of them would concede for the other and then we would have a direction.

“Our concern as a party and to these people that I have mentioned is to ensure that we salvage Nigerians from this despair and despondency between maladies of hunger and frightening insecurity in the land. You could see cluelessness and ineptitude on the part of these people managing this country.”

The PDP chieftain said salvaging Nigerians from the present hardship was more important than the individual ambitions of the trio.

According to him, “Atiku is saying if it is better for him to get Nigeria

out of this hopelessness, he would do so. He (Atiku) must not be in the race. Atiku is saying that it is an entitlement to him as a democrat; the constitution provides for him that he could contest at any time.

“What he is trying to say is that (there) is no ceiling stopping him from contesting. That is his fundamental democratic right, but he is not saying that he will force it on the throat of the party or the country.

“I am telling you clearly, Peter Obi is suitably qualified; he can aspire and we will support him if he gets the ticket. Atiku is suitably qualified and if he gets the ticket, we will rally behind him and give him the desired support to salvage Nigerians out of this situation.”

PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, also said the PDP governors would respond to Wike in due time. Ologunagba disclosed this at a press briefing in Abuja, where he warned that nobody was above the party.

According to him, the PDP Governors Forum (PDP GF) remaind one of the most potent organs of the party and would respond to the minister’s comments.

He stated that PDP had implicit confidence in the ability of the forum to continue to stabilise the party as well as be the reference point of development in the country.

Meanwhile, former senior special adviser on media and publicity to former Vice President Namadi Sambo, Umar Sani, dismissed the claims of alleged political disruption to cause crisis in PDP-controlled states, attributed to Wike.

Sani, in an interview with ARISE NEWS, dismissed the claims as “empty boasts,” asserting that Wike, as a minister, lacks the authority and means to instigate crisis in other states.

He stated that Wike’s assertions of potential disruption were unfounded, highlighting that only the Commanderin-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic, who possessed the requisite instruments of power, could execute such actions.

Sani said, “There is no way for anybody to say he can cause crisis in any state, unless he is saying, I

will use the instrument of the federal government to cause crisis.

“By being merely a minister of the federal capital territory cannot go and cause crisis in other states, because he is not the commander-in-chief, he does not have the instrument of causing crisis and I don’t know what type of crisis he means.

"Whatever crisis he means; I think it’s an empty boast. He cannot do anything and I urge the National Working Committee to toe the path of the governors’ forum to do the right thing in Rivers State because we cannot afford at the time that we are looking for ways and means to clinch the presidency to now be in disarray.”

Similarly, Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Hon. Suleiman Abubakar, expressed concern over Wike’s statement.

Abubakar, who is the immediate past chairman of the Conference of Nigerian Speakers’ Forum, in a statement, described Wike's remarks as “reckless” and “unbecoming” of a leader. He said such rhetoric could endanger not only the unity of PDP but also the stability of the entire nation.

Abubakar called on the PDP leadership and the national security agencies to take immediate action to address “Wike's excesses”.

Abubakar state, "The PDP was founded on the principles of democracy, mutual respect, and the rule of law. It is not the personal fiefdom of any individual, regardless of their past accomplishments or current position.

"Mr. Wike's attempt to use his influence as a tool of intimidation against other states within the federation is a gross misuse of power and a direct violation of the values upon which our party stands.

"As the Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, I cannot remain silent in the face of such threats. Mr. Wike's audacious warning that Bauchi State could face political turmoil simply because we stand for what is right is unacceptable.

"Moreover, Mr Wike's continued public outburst do a disservice to the PDP and betray the trust that the people of Rivers State and the broader Nigerian populace have placed on him.”

Jega also argued that holding elections same day was in line with global practices.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu

DOCTORAL GRADUATES...

L-R: Doctoral graduates- Dr. Gregory Oamen, Dr. Nduka Moseri (THISDAY/ARISE TV internal auditor), Dr. Karekazi Jean Claude, and Dr. Shola Olubodun, during their convocation ceremony at the Babcock University in Ogun State…recently

N-HYPPADEC: Flood Threatens Multi-billion Naira Dadinkowa Dam in Gombe State

Canvasses state of emergency 200 people killed, 208,000 displaced in 28 states

Director of National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC), Alhaji Abubakar Yelwa, has disclosed. Yelwa, who spoke yesterday in

Edo Guber 2024:

Minna, said officials of the Federal Ministry of Environment and Federal Ministry of Water Resources, as well as personnel of the Gombe State government had rushed to the dam

Ighodalo

site to see how it could be saved from collapse.

The managing director addressed the press on the issue and flood situations in the N-HYPPADEC

Only Candidate, Says Oredo Campaign Committee

APC, LP counter PDP, defend own candidates

Ahead of the September 21 governorship election in Edo State, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Oredo Campaign Council on Monday said the only candidate and the political party that have the structure to win the election is Dr. Asue Ighodalo as well as the PDP

Addressing a press conference in Benin City, the chairman, publicity sub-committee of the campaign council, Crusoe Osagie, said the race would be a three-pronged race made up of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Congress (APC), and the Labour Party (LP).

Osagie, flanked by other members of the sub-committee, however, noted the candidates of the APC, Senator Monday Okpebholo; and that of the LP, Olumide Akpata, lacked the needed capacity to lead Edo State.

But both the opposition All Progressives Congress, APC, and Labour Party, LP, have firmly condemned and rejected PDP’s characterization of their governorship candidates as incompetent and provided counter points to disprove PDP’s claims.

According to PDP’s Osagie: “So that leaves us with one person, Dr. Asuelimen Ighodalo, an accomplished lawyer who built one of the biggest law firms in Africa Banwo and Ighodalo, with the largest number of lawyers in the country, and pays perhaps the highest wages to lawyers.

“He has been chairman of many blue-chip companies. He has led peoples destinies aright and established successful businesses. He has contributed to the development of this state pro bono providing advice and guidance to government from the time of Comrade Adams Oshiomhole till today.

"So, we believe that he is the

only candidate that is viable so we are calling on all Edo people to join us in Oredo because we know we are going to give the PDP and Ighodalo a landslide victory in Oredo Local Government; we are certain about this. We are also calling on other local government areas to join us to do the right thing.”

Analysing what he said were the deficiencies of the other candidates, Osagie said Akpata of the LP is an inexperienced private sector practitioner that has never done anything in government before and that his coming from Edo South when the people wanted somebody from Edo Central also showed his political insensitivity.

He said: “Akpata is not very sensitive otherwise he would have put the interest of a whole senatorial district into consideration above his personal interest. He believed that he is accomplished and he must run but I think he should run a sensitive race.

“He should have considered the fact that Edo Central Senatorial District for over twenty years has been excluded from the governorship political calculation and they deserve to be given the opportunity to be on the table otherwise there is not going to be equity, fairness, justice and it won’t work and on the grounds of that Olumide Akpata should have waited and put the interest of a whole senatorial district into consideration.

"Just because you know that I can try it does not mean that you should try it. You must look at the room, you must try to understand the sentiments, what the people are saying right now after all it is the people you are coming to lead.”

On Okpebholo of the APC, Osagie said for a man who cannot differentiate between a zoo and a museum does not have the capacity to govern over four million people of Edo State.

According to Osagie, “Even though he is from the Edo Central, he also does not have the requisite persona, intelligence, brightness, to be a governor. We always hope that our leaders should be more intelligent than us because we are giving our lives to them to lead. So how can we give our lives to someone who doesn't know that animals are supposed to be in the zoo and not the museum? How do you give your life to such a person, I don’t have any business with him as a person, he can be a successful businessman but not to be the governor of our state. He cannot have the collective destiny of over four million people into his custody so to that extent, he is not qualified to be our governor."

APC, LP React, Defend Own Candidates

But rejecting PDP’s claims, the Public Relations Officer of the LP, Sam Uruopa, said the only experience Akpata does not have is in embezzling public funds which PDP and APC are noted for.

He stated that the party could not be talking of zoning when it had never held power in the state, nothing that the party primary election was fair, transparent and credible, with the best candidate emerging despite having seven people from Edo Central contesting.

He noted that Akpata, a successful lawyer who has done well in business, left N1.5 billion in the coffers of the Nigeria Bar Association when he left the office after two year, wondering how many PDP governors leave such in the state coffers when leaving office.

On his part, the Publicity Secretary of the APC, Peter UwadiaeIgbinigie, said that Okpebholo who ran a business from the scratch to become successful, cannot be said to lack capacity or experience.

He noted that Okpebholo has done more than his PDP counterpart for the Esan people, stating that he gave millions of naira in donation and five vehicles when the security outfit was established in Esan to combat the activities of criminals, while Ighodalo gave N100, 000.

According to him, the narrative about Okpebholo lacking the acumen to lead the state by the opposition was spurious as he has told the electorate his programme if elected and that he doesn't need grammar to fix Edo problem.

He also said that Okpebholo had more experience in politics than Ighodalo, considering that he won a Senatorial election under APC in Esanland noted as a PDP strong hold.

states. He said one of the ways to save the dam "is to open the dam’s spillway gates" to throw out some of the impounded water.

But he said, "This, too, is dangerous to the people down side of the dam."

Yelwa stated, "Looking at the devastation this year as it affects critical infrastructure and people’s means of livelihood, coupled with prediction on more flood to come, we call on the federal government to declare a state of emergency on flood, especially in N-HYPPADEC member states

He disclosed that the rainy season flood had killed 200 people and displaced 208,000 others in 28 states of the federation.

Yelwa said 80 per cent of those that lost their lives and those displaced were from the N-HYPPADEC catchment states as a result of their locations and electricity generation activities taking place in these states.

Yelwa stated, "Many homes and farmlands have been washed away."

He attributed the incidences recorded "to poor infrastructure, failure to follow environmental guidelines and ineffective dam management".

He disclosed that the situation could get worse in the coming days, saying that preliminary reports reveal that in Benue State so far, 634 communities have been affected, with nearly 30,000 farmlands washed away.

Yelwa said in Kebbi State, 6,959 households had been affected, with about 10,000 farmlands washed away,

while one life was lost.

He said the situation was similar in Gombe, Taraba, Nasarawa, Kogi and Kaduna states, stressing, "This poses a very serious threat to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s quest for food security and wealth creation in the country."

According to Yelwa, "This will reposition relevant agencies and critical stakeholders to not only take proactive measures in containing the devastating effect of the flood, but also remain on the alert to ensure prompt response to possible occurrence in weeks to come."

Yelwa disclosed that the commission had intervened in the flood affected areas by executing critical flood and erosion control projects, including construction of 625-meter hydraulic drainage system at Koton Karfe, Kogi State, 1.2-kilometre hydraulic drainage system and another 2.5 kilometre de-silting on dyke flood plain in Benue State, flood control dykes and retaining walls in Yauri, Kebbi State, as well as Patigi erosion control project in Kwara State.

He said those were in addition to about 500 flood victims’ resettlement housing schemes under construction in Niger, Kogi, Kwara and Kebbi states.

“We have urged Yelwa people living along the flood plains to be more vigilant and abide by instructions from relevant authorities to avoid further complications,” the N-HYPPADEC managing director said.

Energy Solution in North Brightens, as LNG Arete Unveils Facility in Ajaokuta

Bennett Oghifo

A state-of-the-art mini-Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) facility, developed in Ajaokuta, Kogi State, by LNG Arete Limited, a wholly-owned Nigerian entity, is designed to pave the way for energy solutions in Northern Nigeria.

According to a statement issued yesterday by Project Director, LNG Arete Limited, Hajara Pitan: “This pivotal project aligns with the federal government's strategic vision to optimize Nigeria’s vast gas resources and especially the federal government’s autogas initiative.

“The LNG Arete mini-LNG facility is designed to address the increasing demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG) across Northern Nigeria. Our facility has an initial production capacity of 7 million standard

cubic feet per day (MMSCFD), with

a large percentage of that capacity being dedicated to Autogas.

“Through this project, we aim to contribute to the building of a robust network for widespread CNG distribution which will drive the development of LCNG mother stations and refueling infrastructure across Northern Nigeria.

“This investment highlights LNG Arete’s dedication to offering more affordable and accessible CNG for vehicles and industrial use, presenting a cost-effective alternative to expensive diesel.

“Our efforts are closely aligned with the objectives of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi).

"Our partnership with the P-CNGi marks a significant step forward in our mission to enhance energy

access and sustainability in Nigeria," stated Hajara Pitan.

“By positioning LNG Arete as a key CNG supplier in Northern Nigeria, we are not only investing in local economic development but also contributing to a more secure and affordable energy future for the region.

“We are excited for the positive impact this initiative will have on our communities and the broader energy landscape.

“LNG Arete Limited is a Nigerian company, dedicated to providing innovative solutions across the oil and gas sector.

“Our mission is to drive sustainable energy utilization for the benefit of all stakeholders, contributing to the nation's economic development through responsible energy initiatives.”

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Laleye Dipo in Minna

The multi-billion naira Dadinkowa Dam in Gombe State faces imminent collapse due to flood, Managing

UNIVERSAL ONE KEY HANDOVER...

L-R: Executive Director, Universal Homes FZE, John P. Latham; Director, Alaro City Development FZC, Khadija Belgore Yusuf; Managing Director/Chief Executive Lekki Worldwide Investments Limited, Mr. Adeniyi Akinlusi; Executive Director, Universal Homes FZE; Roberto Artuso; and Senior Real Estate Advisor, Alaro City Development FZC, Funke Beke, at the Universal One key handover ceremony for home owners in Alaro City…recently

Police Arraign 10 #Endbadgovernance Protesters over Alleged Treason, Mutiny

The office of the Inspector General (IG) of Police, on Monday arraigned 10 protesters, who participated in the recent #Endbadgovernance and hunger protest, before a Federal High Court in Abuja.

They were arraigned on a six-count charge bordering on alleged treason, mutiny and inciting Nigerians against the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

The defendants in the suit marked FHC/ ABJ/ CS/454/2024 are; Michael Tobiloba Adaramoye, Adeyemi Abiodun Abayomi, Suleiman Yakubu, Comrade Opaluwa Eleojo Simon, Angel Love Innocent, Buhari Lawal, Mosiu Sadiq, Bashir Bello Nurudeen Khamis and Abduldalam Zubair.

According to the police lawyer, Mr. Simon Lough, SAN, the defendants engaged in the act between July 1 and 4, after they were incited by a 70- year-old Briton, Andrew Wynne, who is said to be at large.

Lough told journalists shortly after the court's proceedings that the police has already commenced move to declare Wynne a wanted person. Meanwhile, all the defendants pleaded not guilty to all the six-count charge and their lawyers which included Abubakar Marshall and Deji Adeyanju, proceeded to urge the court to admit the defendants to bail.

The prosecution however, objected to the oral application, pointing out that the court is a court of record.

Reacting, trial judge, Justice Peter Lifu, adjourned till September 11, for ruling in the bail application.

Lifu also ordered the remand of nine of the defendants who are male at the Kuje Correctional Center, while the only female was sent to the Suleja Correctional Center.

In count one of the charge the defendants were accused of "acting in concert and with intent to destabilize Nigeria, conspired together to commit felony to wit! Treason

and you thereby committed an offence contrary to section 96 and punishable under section 97 of the Penal Code".

In count two, they were said to have between July 1 and July 4, 2024 at Karshi Abuja, FCT, while acting in concert and with intent to destabilize Nigeria conspired together to commit Felony to wit: Inciting to mutiny and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 96 and punishable under section 97 of the

Penal Code.

Count three: “That you (1) Michael Tobiloba Adaramoye (aka Lenin) ‘M’ 28YRS, (2) Adeyemi Abiodun Abayomi (aka Yomi) ‘M’ 34years. (3) Suleiman Yakubu ‘M’ 28 Years, (4) Comrade Opaluwa Eleojo Simeon ‘M’ 50Years, (5) Angel Love Innocent ‘F’ 51 Years, (6) Buhari Lawal ‘M’ 2lyears, (7) Mosiu Sadiq ‘M’ 28years, (8) Bashir Bello (aka Murtala) *‘M’ Slyears, (9) Nuradeen Khamis ‘M’ 47years, (10) Abdulsalam Zubairu

‘M’ 37years. “Others are Andrew Martin Wynne (aka Andrew Povich) *M’ 70years, Lucky Ehis Obiyan ‘M’, Comrade Musa Abdullahi ‘M’ and others now at large between July 1, 2024 to July 10,2024 in Abuja FCT, Kaduna, Kano and Gombe within the jurisdiction of this court while acting in concert with Andrew Martin Wynne (aka Andrew Povich) a British Citizen, with intent to destabilized Nigeria levies war against the state

in order to intimidate or overawe the president by attacking and injuring police officers and burning police stations, High Court Complex, NCC Complex, Kano Printing Press, Government House Kano, Kaduna Investment and promotions Agency office, NURTW office and several other building and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 410 of the Penal Code (Northern States) Federal Provisions Act CAP P3 LFN 204.”

Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has sworn-in 14 members of Judicial commission of inquiry to unravel perpetrators and the sponsors of the violent protests erupted during the supposed peaceful hunger protest in the state.

Inaugurating the Commission on Monday at Government House, Kano, Governor Yusuf recalled inviting the peaceful protesters to present their demands for onward submission to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The governor promised to investigate the matter and deal with anyone involved in perpetrating violence in

the state.

He said the 14-man commission is led by retired Justice Lawal Wada Mahmoud, a former State High Court judge, with members from the religious, Civil Society Organizations, Security agencies and the business community.

He charged the members to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the protests, identifying the causes, perpetrators, and sponsors of the violence.

Governor Yusuf, emphasized the importance of the commission's work, stating that it was crucial to understanding the events that led to the destruction and finding ways to

Wale Igbintade and Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

Amnesty International has condemned the planned mass trial of hundreds of protesters arrested during

the nationwide #EndBadGovernance protests held between August 1 to 10, 2024, demanding that the "blatantly trumped-up charges filed against them must be immediately withdrawn."

In a statement issued Monday, the Country Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, Isa Sanusi, criticised the Nigerian government’s handling of the situation, accusing the government of unrelenting efforts to punish protesters and demonize protests.

prevent future occurrences.

He said the state government will not interfere with its work thereby assuring them of a freehand as they deliver the task.

He called on the commission to also advise the state government on what to do with the destroyed infrastructure, how to profer solution to the problem and forestall future occurrence and also how to resolve the problem of unemployed youth roving about the streets.

Speaking on behalf of the commission, the chairman thanked the governor for seeing them worthy and giving the task, while he promised that they would do their best to deliver.

In a related development, the Coalition for Democratic Accountability and Electoral Reform (CODER), a civil rights groups championing for justice and electoral reforms has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to free all those being detained for peacefully advocating for an end to badCODERgovernance.described the detention of protesters as a blatant violation of their fundamental human rights and a clear attempt to silence dissenting voices.

A statement signed by the national chairman of CODER, Chief Peter Ameh urged the administration to address the systemic issues that led to their protests, including corruption, inequality, and social injustice.

another round of government’s unrelenting efforts to punish protesters and demonize protests.

"Some of the charges to be filed against the protesters, ranging from treason, which carries the death penalty and allegations of 'plan to destabilize Nigeria,' show how far Nigerian authorities can go in misusing the criminal justice system to silence critical voices. These are blatantly trumped-up charges that must be immediately withdrawn.

"We condemn the sham trials even before they began and call for an end to these endless bizarre attempts to deprive people of the right to peaceful protest. What is going to happen to these protesters - who took to the streets last month - seeking good governance is a disguised exercise solely aimed at punishing dissenters.

“The Nigerian authorities must immediately and unconditionally release all those arrested from 1-10 August for exercising their right to peaceful assembly, instead of resorting to putting them through an unfair trial just to unlawfully justify detaining them.

address rampant insecurity, corruption and mismanagement.

“Giving more attention to rescuing millions of Nigerians from the brink of starvation should be the top priority of government, not punishing protesters."

On its part, according to CODER, "We, as concerned citizens of Nigeria, write to express our outrage and deep concern about the unjust detention and the unfair trial of prisoners of conscience, journalists, and protesters who have been peacefully advocating for an end to bad governance and seeking a better Nigeria for all citizens.

"Their detention is a blatant violation of their fundamental human rights and a clear attempt to silence dissenting voices. It is unacceptable that your administration continues to trample on the rights of citizens who are demanding a more just and equitable society.

"We demand that you take immediate action to release these detainees and drop all charges against them. We also call on your administration to address the systemic issues that led to their protests, including corruption, inequality, and social injustice."

About 16,097 candidates seeking admission for the 2024 have participated in the just concluded Post-UTME screening exercise of the University of Ilorin. The screening exercise was held between last Thursday (August 29, 2024) and Saturday (August 31, 2024).

Speaking in Ilorin with journalists on the 2024 screening exercise of the University of Ilorin, the Director of the Computer-Based Centre (CBT) of the University, Prof.

Kamil Rauf, however expressed delight over the seamless conduct of the screening exercise, attributing it to the preparation put in place by the university management.

Prof. Rauf noted that the success recorded in the exercise was as a result of the material and human resources support given to the CBT Centre by the University management under Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN. According to him, "A major highlight of the Post-UTME screening was the promptness with which the results of the screening exercise

were released, a development that excited many of the candidates".

Prof. Raufu attributed this to high level of technological innovation put in place by the University management.

The Director further noted that the quality of the infrastructure at the CBT Centre impacted positively on internal examinations of the University such as departmental examinations, Institute of Education examinations, Centre for Open and Distance Learning Examination (CODL), remedial examinations and Post-UTME UTME screening.

Further according to the Country Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, Isa Sanusi, the Nigerian authorities have an obligation to uphold and protect fundamental human rights, urging the federal government to end what it described as mockery of the rule of law.

He stated that instead of investing in desperate attempts to punish dissent, the government should listen to critics, address rampant insecurity, corruption and mismanagement.

The statement titled "Nigeria: Sham Trial of Protesters Mocks Rule of Law," read: “Amnesty International is deeply concerned that the #EndBadGovernaceInNigeria protesters arraigned nationwide today are only going to be subjected to

“The Nigerian government has been wrongfully placing priority on punishing protesters, without saying even a word on the urgent need to investigate the killing of dozens of protesters across Kano, Katsina, Suleja/Tafa, Jigawa and Maiduguri.

Many protesters were subjected to other horrific violations by security personnel, including excessive use of force and misuse of tear gas.

“Since the arrests of the protesters Amnesty International has been receiving disturbing reports of violation of the rights of those detained through denial of access family, legal assistance and medical care where needed.

"We urge the Nigerian authorities to end this mockery of the rule of law. The authorities have an obligation to uphold and protect fundamental human rights. Instead of investing in desperate attempts to punish dissent, the government should listen to critics,

Ameh said that the continued detention of these individuals is a stain on Nigeria’s democracy and a betrayal of the trust placed in government as source of sincere representation.

He further stated: "We expect a more robust response to these grievances and a commitment to upholding the rights of all citizens.

"The right to protest is a fundamental human right recognized under various international and regional instruments, United Nations Charter (Article 20): recognizes the right to peaceful assembly and association, International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Article 21): protects the right to peaceful assembly.

"African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (Article 11): recognizes the right to freedom of assembly and socialization and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Alex Enumah in Abuja

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

LAWYER

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2024

2024 NBA-AGC: Nigerian Lawyers Set Agenda for Nation’s Rebirth

32ND NBA PRESIDENT, MAZI AFAM OSIGWE, SAN

31ST NBA PRESIDENT, YAKUBU CHONOKO MAIKYAU, SAN

LAWYER

QUOTABLES

‘I want to assure you that this Government will continue to uphold top priority to the welfare of the Judiciary, to ease the avoidable burden on their Lordships, and speed up the adjudicatory process which is sine qua non for social order and economic development.’ - HE Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President, Federal Republic of Nigeria

‘This society is not going to endure, as long as the Judiciary is weak.’ - Donald Duke, Lawyer, Governor of Cross River State 1999-2007

2024 NBA Conference: My Takeaways

And it’s a wrap! The 2024 Nigerian Bar Association Annual General Conference (NBA-AGC) themed “Pressing Forward: A National Posture for Rebuilding Nigeria” ended last Thursday, with the inauguration of Afam Osigwe, SAN as the NBA President 2024-2026. We wish him an innovative and successful tenure.

Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s Keynote Address

The Keynote Address delivered by Dr Ngozi OkonjoIweala at the opening ceremony of the NBA-AGC, gave me renewed confidence that the subject-matter of many of my discourses are on point. The title of her Address was “A New Social Contract for Nigeria’s Future”. On June 13, 2023, I had written my own piece, “Social Contract: The A-Side Vs. The B-Side” and coined my own two-fold Social Contract between the Government and the Governed (the Citizens/ People), and between the Citizens themselves. The first leg of my theory is that the main obligation of the Government to Nigerians is contained in Chapter II of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended in 2023)(the Constitution), that is, the achievement of the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy, while the second leg, is contained in Section 24 of the same Constitution, the duties of the citizen, that is, the responsibility of the people to the Government, and then, to themselves. I concluded that both parties had certainly breached the Social Contract, either by non-performance, or not performing in accordance with the terms of the contract. See the case of Pan Bisbilder (Nig) Ltd v First Bank (Nig) Ltd 2000

1 SC 71 per Emmanuel Olayinka Ayoola, JSC. Dr Okonjo-Iweala however, stated that Nigeria requires a new social contract to put the country on the right path to economic growth.

1) Cross-Party, Cross-Society Agreement and Good Policy Consistency

As Dr Okonjo-Iweala looked at the social contract on the Government’s side, she used Peru as part of her case study (as well as Singapore, South Korea and India). She said that when she visited Peru recently, she expected their economy to be as toxic as their political environment appeared to be, but, surprisingly, there seemed to be a “cross-party, cross-society agreement that certain things in the economy, the country, policy and society are sacrosanct and shall not be touched or changed when administrations change”; therefore, their economy was in decent shape. That is, they have good policy consistency, no-go areas that are perceived to advance the progress of their country, which they do not allow politics to affect - possibly a component of the social contract subscribed to by all Peruvian politicians irrespective of what party they belong to, so as not to disturb the economic development of their country.

Nigeria neither has that cross-party, cross-society agreement, nor good policy consistency. On the contrary, we have bad policy consistency. We have a penchant for keeping bad policies, for example, a needlessly huge government structure complete with duplication and triplication of efforts and its accompanying astronomical cost of operation; extravagant, unnecessary government expenditure, using the excuse that that’s how it has always been done, and so the present Government is simply following laid down policy set by previous governments, instead of discarding such wasteful spending - like renovating government residential buildings for unjustifiable amounts, every four or eight years, depending on when the occupying official changes, and paying Legislators a severance package at the end of every legislative cycle, and then giving Legislators, including those who are returnees, sign-on benefits too, as if they are Freshers! As far as I’m concerned, such expenditure is needless and senseless, particularly in a country that is struggling financially. Dr Okonjo-Iweala stated that it is when economic and social policies are bad, that politics should intervene; but, when they are good, “why fix what is not broken”. Sadly, we mostly seem to do the opposite - we do not fix what is broken! We also have a culture where, even if policies are good, the opposition discredits everything the government in power is doing or seeks to do. When the Jonathan administration sought to remove the fuel subsidy, the policy was opposed by majority of Nigerians, including many who are now part of this government’s administration. So, was it just a matter of opposing the fuel subsidy removal for opposing sake? While majority of Nigerians still oppose the removal of the fuel subsidy because of the hardship it has unleashed on them, why the change of heart for government officials who opposed it before, but, implemented the removal with ‘immediate effect and automatic alacrity’ (as Chief Eleyinmi of Village Headmaster used to say) upon assumption of office, and are now defending the policy?

In fact, the three major 2023 Presidential Candidates had vowed to remove the fuel subsidy, if they won the election. For each of them to intend to remove the fuel subsidy, it means that this policy may not have been wrong; the problem could be the implementation policy. Maybe if the policy had been implemented during the Jonathan administration in 2012, when Nigeria’s economy was more buoyant than it is today and could take more shocks (pre-Covid-19 Pandemic),

ONIKEPO BRAITHWAITE

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

“….Nigerians must agree that in this new social contract, all hands must be on deck to build a better country. But, once Government starts to renege on its part of the social contract, it usually has a catastrophic effect on the people and the country, as we are seeing in Nigeria today; the result of the breach of the social contract by successive governments“

the situation wouldn’t be as dire as it is today. It appears that in a country where politicians put the country and people first, the opposition are more likely to support a good policy that would be beneficial for all. But, when the ethos is to discredit one another’s policies, even the good ones, in order to gain popularity, all that develops is a culture of self-centredness and vindictiveness of the political class, which is antithetical to nation building.

2) A Culture of Corruption and SelfCentredness In Nigeria, Government officials have also been known to enter into contracts that are detrimental to Nigeria, so long as they derive personal benefits from same - another culture of self-centredness/ selfishness and corruption. Aside from the fact that Lawyers who know nothing about international/ commercial agreements are selected to work on contract documentation with foreigners (possibly as a result of corruption, nepotism and the like), Government via its officials, have been accused of entering into fraudulent agreements with foreign parties that Nigeria may not necessarily be able to perform, and then connive with the foreign contracting parties to benefit from penalty clauses arising from breach. During the Breakout Session with the Attorney-General of the Federation, one of the Commentators called upon his office to do a proper review of all foreign contracts.

The recent Ogun State v Zhongshan Ltd, Nigeria v P & ID and Air Nigeria/Ethiopian Airlines, may be examples. The Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, SAN, apparently made a presentation to President Tinubu, stating that the deal he inherited from Hadi Sirika’s tenure regarding Nigeria’s transaction with Ethiopian Airlines, wouldn’t be beneficial to Nigeria!

Again, in P & ID, which gas would Nigeria have supplied to P & ID to fulfil its contractual obligations, when we are still actively involved

in gas flaring instead of harnessing same? From the beginning, the contract didn’t appear to be workable on Nigeria’s part. I don’t know whether the agreement between Governor Daniel’s Ogun State administration and Zhongshan was good or bad, and why the subsequent Amosun administration cancelled it, but surely, even if the agreement was detrimental to Ogun State, there should have been a thorough review of the agreement before terminating it, in order to avoid the ensuing unpleasant consequences that Nigeria is now experiencing. All this is evidence that successive Nigerian governments/sub-nationals appear to be nonchalant about Sections 14(2)(b) & 16 of the Constitution, which are concerned with the welfare of the people and achieving optimum economic objectives for the benefit of Nigerians. What seems more sacrosanct in Nigeria, are economic policies that benefit private pockets, not the country.

Ingredients for Nigeria’s New Social Contract

Dr Okonjo-Iweala admitted that Nigeria isn’t where it should be, “and that’s why we are still discussing nation-building more than 60 years after independence”. 60+ years ago, South Korea was in a worse situation than Nigeria; it’s now a First World country; Nigeria is still under-developed. Before Lee Kuan Yew (LKY), Singapore was a mess. Today, Singapore is prosperous in more ways than one; even its Singapore General Hospital, a Government, Public Hospital, is one of the best in the world.

Dr Okonjo-Iweala believes that Nigeria needs a new social contract, as the basis for “the virtuous circles of reform, growth, peace, security and trust that have too long eluded us”. She is right. She advocated an agreement on policies and parameters which must be institutionalised by enacting them into law or inserting them into the Constitution, only to be changed by means

of National Referendum. But, this cannot be achieved without the buy-in of Government and politicians, as it is mostly their failure in governance that has set Nigeria on a trajectory of failure. Dr Okonjo-Iweala said she wouldn’t play the blame game, but, I must respectfully differ from her position because I believe that some things must be said; if not, Government will continue to take Nigerians for granted.

Dr Okonjo-Iweala’s first ingredient for this new social contract she said, must be a shared understanding that security of life and property is a priority, without which there can be no economic or social development. Take agriculture for example, if the sector could even be half as productive as it was in the days before oil became Nigeria’s main source of revenue, it would not only create employment in the rural areas, there would be vertical integration and export opportunities, which would rake in good income for the country. However, because of insurgency, banditry and herdsmen wahala, people are no longer able to go to their farms, and agricultural output has dropped significantly. Dr Okonjo-Iweala stressed that the weaponisation of security for political purposes must stop - that politicians instigating violence to show that their opponents cannot govern, is unacceptable. She also mentioned that the understanding by all, that the security of our national assets is paramount, is crucial. As for me whether it’s corruption/government officials plundering our common wealth, or Nigerians engaging in crude oil theft, such criminal activities undermine Nigeria’s economic growth and financial well-being.

Just as the administration of justice sector talks about the importance of the independence of the Judiciary for optimal efficiency, Dr Okonjo-Iweala emphasised the importance of the independence of the CBN. See Section 1(3) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act 2007 (CBN Act). She denounced the use of CBN as a “fiscal agent, asking for printing of Naira beyond the agreed Way and Means limits”, and the use of other manipulative tactics through the CBN on the economy (see generally the functions of the CBN in the CBN Act); transparency in FAAC Allocations and full disclosure to citizens about how the funds are being utilised; sensible limits for public debt, and other measures to get Nigeria back on the right track. The right environment for domestic and foreign direct investment, is also needed for economic growth and a healthy balance sheet.

Conclusion

My take away from Dr Okonjo-Iweala’s Address firstly, is that it is still possible to steer Nigeria back on the path of prosperity and progress. If we want to press forward and build a better Nigeria, Section 14(2)(a), (b) & (c) of the Constitution which hitherto appears to be little more than a decoration in the Constitution, must be a very active part of the new social contract between Government and the people. While Government must take security more seriously as it is the bedrock of any progressive society, it must not only acknowledge, but bear in mind that sovereignty belongs to the people and they have a constitutional right to participate in their government, such involvement going beyond simply voting. The people cannot continue to be treated as dormant partners, who are only contacted during election season! Their needs must be prioritised. Government must also learn to be more truthful to the people. How many times has the resumption date of Nigeria’s refineries been shifted?

Secondly, Government and its officials must imbibe the patriotism, integrity, transparency, discipline, focus and determination of LKY - what I can do for my country for it to achieve its potential, not what my country can do for me. Once people are physically secure while going about their daily activities, and they get the feeling that Government is concerned about their welfare, introducing and implementing good policies, as opposed to indulging in lavish expenditure for themselves while the people are subjected to untold hardship, Nigerians will be more inclined to honour their part of the social contract by desisting from evil activities like oil theft, and stripping of infrastructure built for their benefit to sell for personal gain, for example, theft of clips from railway tracks, manhole covers and railings from bridges. It is poverty and unemployment that lead to disillusionment, crime and insecurity. When things are going well, who would want to die, let alone allow themselves to be brainwashed by ignorami to blow up themselves and others, in order to go and enjoy in Paradise?! It is the frustration from how bad things are, that makes people easy prey for such nonsense, believing that they have absolutely nothing to lose. If you look at the happier countries in the world, one may find that their suicide rate is low or zero. Suicide which was once rare in Nigeria, has become a common occurrence.

Thirdly, like the Peruvians, Nigerian politicians, across party lines, must subscribe to good governance; to the continuation of good policies irrespective of which administration introduced them, and the independence of institutions like the Judiciary. In short, Nigerians must agree that in this new social contract, all hands must be on deck to build a better country. But, once Government starts to renege on its part of the social contract, it usually has a catastrophic effect on the people and the country, as we are seeing in Nigeria today; the result of the breach of the social contract by successive governments.

Onikepo Braithwaite (left) and Newly Inaugurated NBA President, Mazi Afam Josiah Osigwe, SAN

When Identification Parade Will be Necessary for Conviction

Facts

In December 2007, the Respondent (as 2nd accused person) and a gang of armed robbers, were alleged to have robbed a commercial bus along Jebba/Bode Sa’adu Road in Kwara State. A certain Bode Samson was robbed, along with other passengers in the bus of his mobile phone. About a month after the incident, a certain Bunu Jaja (1st accused person) took the stolen handset to a certain Oloye Ajayi (PW 5) to assist him with purchase of sim card and recharge the handset. PW 5, upon checking the phone, discovered that there was a sim in it. He removed the sim, and dialled some numbers on it. One of the contacts confirmed that he knows the owner of the sim, and that he was robbed of his phone earlier. Upon hearing this, PW 5 sent someone to inform the Police, who came and arrested the 1st accused person in PW 5’s shop. The 1st accused person informed the Police, that he bought the phone from one Hassan. The Police sent for the owner of the phone (PW 3) and the driver of the bus (PW 4); while they led the 1st accused person to arrest the said Hassan. Immediately Hassan saw the Police, he opened fire and attempted to run away. He was shot together with another accused person, and they both died instantly. The Respondent was arrested and taken to the Police station. Following his arrest, the Respondent denied knowledge of the offence with which he was arrested and pleaded alibi.

The Respondent was charged alongside the 1st accused person before the High Court of Justice, Kwara State, for offences of conspiracy to commit armed robbery and armed robbery contrary to Section 1(2) of the Armed Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, Cap 398, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 1990. Upon arraignment, the Respondent pleaded not guilty to both counts of the charge and trial commenced thereafter. The Appellant called six witnesses and tendered Exhibit A to F, while the Respondent testified on his own behalf and called no other witness. In his statement to the Police and his testimony at the trial, he said he lived in Lagos at a place called Alabarago. He claimed to be a motorcyclist in Lagos, and that he only came to Kosa Village where he was arrested on a visit to his father some five days before his arrest. He claimed that he was not arrested in the company of the other accused, but at a restaurant.

The trial court delivered judgement, and found the Respondent guilty of armed robbery. The Respondent was therefore, convicted and sentenced to death by hanging. Displeased with the decision of the trial court, the Respondent appealed to the Court of Appeal. The lower court, in its judgement, allowed the appeal and set aside the conviction and sentence. The Appellant, miffed by the decision of the Court of Appeal, appealed to the Supreme Court.

Issue for Determination

The Apex Court adopted a sole issue for determination of the appeal:Whether the lower court was wrong in setting aside the conviction and sentence of the Respondent for the offence of conspiracy and armed robbery contrary to Section 97 of the Penal Code and Section 1(2) of the Armed Robbery and Fire Arms (Special Provision) Act Cap 398 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990, for failure of the Prosecution to establish the identity of the Respondent as one of those who participated in the robbery incident in question.

Arguments

Counsel for the Appellant cited the case of IFEDAYO v STATE (2018) 4 SC (PT. VI) 103 at 120 to emphasise that there is need for identification parade, where there is controversy as to the identity of the accused person. Counsel urged the court to examine the evidence of PW3, PW4, PW5 and PW1 which is in relation to the circumstances leading to the arrest of the Respondent. He submitted that

Honourable Tijjani Abubakar, JSC

In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at Abuja

On Friday, the 8th day of March, 2024 Before Their Lordships

Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun Mohammed Lawal Garba Helen Moronkeji Ogunwumiju Adamu Jauro

Tijjani Abubakar Justices, Supreme Court SC./CR/918/2016 Between THE STATE APPELLANT And USMAN SHEHU RESPONDENT

(Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Tijjani Abubakar, JSC)

the testimonies of these witnesses were not controverted, nor were they shaken under cross-examination. He added that PW1, under cross examination, testified that the Respondent was arrested after a gun battle along with one Hassan who was accosted by the Police after the 1st accused person was arrested with a stolen handset. Counsel argued that the circumstances of the arrest of the Respondent and the way his alibi was discredited, show that there is sufficient evidence to sustain the conviction of the Respondent.

Arguing further, Counsel submitted that the kernel of the judgement of the lower court in setting aside the conviction of the Respondent, was the failure of the trial court to conduct an identification parade, and argued that the decision of

“An identification parade is necessary where: (a) The victim did not know the accused previously, and his first acquittance with him was during the commission of the offence; (b) The victim or witness was confronted by the offender for a short time; (c) The victim, due to time and circumstances, might not have had the opportunity of observing the features of the accused”

the scene of crime, but they did not testify that they know the Respondent before the robbery incident. Counsel insisted that none of the witnesses gave evidence of how, or what features of the Respondent they remember or identified. According to Counsel, the only conclusion that can be drawn is that PW3 and PW4 were lying down facing the ground during the duration of the attack, and therefore, they did not have the opportunity to observe the Respondent.

Counsel argued further that the Respondent timeously raised alibi; that he was in Lagos at the material time. He therefore, urged the court to resolve the sole issue in favour of the Respondent and dismiss the appeal.

Court’s Judgement and Rationale Resolving the sole issue, the Supreme Court agreed with the lower court, that from the record of appeal, none of the witnesses had the opportunity to identify the Respondent at the time the incident occurred.

Their Lordships noted that in the instant appeal, there was no certainty as to whether the Respondent was among those who took part in robbing PW3 and PW4 on that day. And, it was not legally safe to say that the prosecution had proved its case against the Respondent beyond reasonable doubt, especially with the Appellant’s doubtful and disjointed evidence dotted with visible and apparent inconsistencies. It is the law that where the court entertains any doubt, it must be resolved in the accused person’s favour – FRN v MOHAMMED ABUBAKAR (2019) LPELR-46533(SC) at 22. The Supreme Court held that while an identification parade is not sine qua non in every case, the facts and circumstances of each case will determine whether it ought to be conducted or not. An identification parade is necessary where: (a) The victim did not know the accused previously, and his first acquittance with him was during the commission of the offence; (b) The victim or witness was confronted by the offender for a short time; (c) The victim, due to time and circumstances, might not have had the opportunity of observing the features of the accused – UDOH v THE STATE (2023) LPELR-59741(SC) at 15-16.

the lower court was in error because, PW3 in his evidence which was corroborated by the evidence of PW4, disclosed that the Respondent was one of the persons who stopped their vehicles on their way to llorin while armed with guns. Counsel argued that there must be doubt as to who was seen in connection with the offence to require an identification parade, and taking into consideration the totality of the circumstances of the case, it was more probable that the witnesses had ample opportunity to see and observe the features of the Respondent sufficiently to be able to identify him.

In response, Counsel for the Respondent argued that there was no serious contention that the robbery took place as shown from the records of appeal; the dispute is whether the Appellant is one of those who robbed or took part in the robbery, since he was not arrested at the venue or scene of the robbery. Counsel submitted that the identity of the Respondent is one of the basic requirements of an offence of armed robbery which the Prosecution is obliged to prove before the conviction of the Respondent can be secured, and the burden can only be discharged if the Prosecution proves beyond reasonable doubt that the Respondent took part in the commission of the alleged offence. He contended that the evidence of PW3 and PW4 were insufficient in law to fix the Respondent as one of those who participated in the robbery, because they claimed to have seen the Respondent at

The Supreme Court held that there are certain features in this case, which made the conduct of an identification parade necessary. The Respondent was not arrested at the scene of the crime; he was arrested more than a month after the commission of the offence. Neither PW 3 nor PW 4 testified that they knew the robbers before that date, nor did they describe any feature which stood out to them at the earliest opportunity. PW 3 and PW 4 were invited to the Police station where the Respondent was arrested and brought along with two dead bodies. They already knew why they were invited to the Police station, and the arrival of the accused person with the dead bodies was suggestive that they were the culprits – ADISA v THE STATE (1991) 1 NWLR (PT. 168) 490 AT 507. Thus, it is unsafe to convict on the evidence of the prosecution without an identification parade.

The court also highlighted that the Respondent raised the defence of alibi, claiming that he was not at the scene of the robbery as at the time the robbery took place. The Supreme Court reiterated its position in the case of STATE v ABDULLAHI ALIYU (2022) LPELR-59477(SC) wherein it held that “The general position of the law is that where an alibi is not investigated, it goes to the root of the case of the prosecution, because doubt is thrown on the identity of the perpetrator of the crime who may not be the Defendant in the dock.” Their Lordships held that failure of the Police to investigate the alibi raised by the Respondent at the earliest opportunity was fatal to their case, as the Respondent could not have participated in the robbery that took place along Jebba Road if he was in Lagos at the material time. Ultimately, the court proceeded to resolve the sole issue for determination in favour of the Respondent and against the Appellant.

Appeal Dismissed.

Femi Atteh, SAN with Mohammed Ahmed for the Appellant.

Mas'ud M. Alabelewe with Dauda Yau Aliyu for the Respondent.

Ilorin NBA Lauds Senator Mustapha Over Support for NBA Conference

Stories by Steve Aya

The Ilorin Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has lauded the Senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Senator Saliu Mustapha, for his generous support towards the attendance of members of the Association during the just concluded NBA-AGC in Lagos.

In a statement issued by the Branch’s Chairman, Sulyman Mohammed

Kosemani in Ilorin over the weekend, the Association acknowledged the pivotal role Senator Mustapha played in ensuring the successful participation of its members.

Kosemani stated that, "Senator Mustapha has consistently shown himself to be a true friend of the Bar", the statement read. "His unwavering support for our members and the Branch as a whole, is deeply appreciated".

The statement further highlighted the Branch’s

anticipation of continuing its positive relationship with the Senator, as they work together to promote democracy, constitutionalism, justice, and the rule of law in Nigeria.

NBA-SBL Announces Historic Leadership Handover at AGC

Following the resounding success of the 2024 Annual Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Business Law (NBA-SBL) held in Abuja in June, the NBA-SBL has officially transitioned its leadership, marking a historic moment in the Section's 20-year history. Dr Adeoye Adefulu who served as the Chairman of the NBA-SBL in the last two years, has officially handed over the mantle of leadership to Mrs Ozofu ‘Latunde Ogiemudia, who served as his Vice-Chair for part

of his tenure; making her the first woman in 13 years and the second woman ever to assume the position of the Chairperson of the NBA-SBL.

The official handover ceremony took place at the Annual General Meeting of the NBA-SBL, at Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos, on the 28th of August, 2024, with members and stakeholders in attendance to witness this historic milestone. Reflecting on the significance of this milestone, Mrs Ogiemudia expressed her deep sense of

PHOTONEWS

honour in assuming the role, acknowledging the pioneering efforts of previous predecessors, saving Mrs Mfon Usoro, the first female Chair of the NBA-SBL for the last. "It is an honour to follow in the footsteps of Mrs Usoro, and to be the second woman to hold this esteemed position. I am committed to building on the strong foundation laid by my predecessors, as we continue to advance the practice of Business Law in Nigeria", Mrs Ogiemudia stated.

Dr Adefulu’s leadership

maintained the high standards set by past Chairs, while also raising the bar for the future. His tenure was marked by significant achievements, including the launch of the popular Business Law Weekly webinar series that provides free knowledge sharing on various topical issues at 2pm on Thursdays, the successful organisation of a Northern Zonal Conference in October 2023 and an Eastern Zonal Conference in March 2024, and two Annual International Business Law Conferences.

Chairman, NBA Ilorin Branch, Sulyman Mohammed Kosemani

L-R: Financial Secretary, NBA,-SBL, Chairperson, Mrs Ozofu ‘Latunde Ogiemudia, Immediate Past Chair, Dr Adeoye Adefulu, Member NBA - SBL, Mrs Christine Sijuwade, Immediate Past SBL West Zonal Rep, Mr Yinka Esan

L-R: Etigwe Uwa, SAN; Mrs Oyinkan Badejo-Okusanya; Chika Okolie (behind); Dr (Mrs) Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, GCON; Michael Aondoakaa, SAN (behind); former President of Ghana, HE, John Mahama and Yakubu Maikyau, SAN

L-R: Mrs Oyinkan Badejo-Okusanya; Yakubu Maikyau, SAN and Babatunde Ogala, SAN

Lagos State AG, Lawal Pedro, SAN (left) and AGF, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN

Chairman, 2024 Annual General Conference Planning Committee, Mrs Oyinkan Badejo-Okusanya (left) and 31st NBA President, Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, SAN

L-R: Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Yakubu Maikyau, SAN and Lagos State SSG, Mrs Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin Commander, Amotekun Corps, Ondo State, Adetunji Adeleye (left) and Prof Oyelowo Oyewo, SAN

2024 NBA ANNUAL GENERAL CONFERENCE

2024 NBA-AGC: Nigerian Lawyers Set Agenda for Nation’s Rebirth

It was a gathering of the who-is-who in the Nigerian legal community last week, when over 13,000 Lawyers converged in Lagos for the Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA-AGC). With the theme “Pressing Forward: A National Posture for Rebuilding Nigeria”, the Conference took off with a Jumat service for its Muslim members on Friday, August 23, 2024, and was followed by a Church service on Sunday morning for Christian Lawyers, and a Football tournament. . The opening ceremony which took place at the Eko Hotel Exhibition Centre, Victoria Island on Sunday evening, marked the official opening of the Conference. The Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, HE Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, the former President of Ghana, HE John Mahama, Hon. Justice Adewale Abiru, JSC representing the Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, were among the dignitaries who graced the occasion. The Director-General of the WTO, Dr (Mrs) Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, GCON, delivered the Keynote Address. Onikepo Braithwaite, Jude Igbanoi and Steve Aya who covered the entire six-day event and report the events which culminated in the inauguration of Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN as the 32nd President of the NBA. Short Takes from Lawyers on their assessment of NBA-AGC which was organised by the 2024 Annual General Conference Planning Committee chaired by Mrs Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, are also included. All-in-All, the reviews were good!

Opening Ceremony

Nigeria Needs a New Social Contract - Okonjo-Iweala

The Director General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), and former coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has stressed the need for Nigeria to have a social contract with the aim of setting the country towards steady economic growth and development, rather than an episodic growth path. Dr Iweala stated this while delivering the Keynote Address titled "A New Social Contract for Nigeria's Future" at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Annual General Conference (AGC) of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).

She described the social contract as a "fundamental cross-party, cross-society agreement that certain things in the economy, the country, policy, and society are sacrosanct and shall not be touched or changed when administrations change." Drawing a parallel contrast with Peru which has something similar, Dr Iweala maintained that such a contract has become necessary to minimise the volatility of economic and social policy.

"My convictions on Nigeria's need for a social contract were reinforced recently when I was in Peru on an official visit.

"Looking at the country as a Nigerian, I was struck by the mismatch between its politics and economic performance. She cited political and economic development in Peru and India to buttress her views.”

With the theme of the conference being “Pressing Forward: A National Posture for Rebuilding Nigeria’’, Dr Okonjo-Iweala said the country has not been able to succeed in its economic policies due to lack of policy consistency.

"Nigeria today is not where it should be, and our country has not progressed as it should have.

"That is why we are still discussing nation-building more than 60 years after independence. But, we must shift our focus from blame games, to concrete actions that tackle present and

emerging challenges.

"I said this not in recrimination or even in futile regret, but rather as part of moving our country and advancing its interests. We are living in very difficult times, locally here in Nigeria, but also globally.

"I'm not here to castigate or blame anyone, I'm here to speak to all governments of my country, all political parties, all Nigerians, about a positive way forward for the country”, she said.

Dr Okonjo-Iweala further noted that successive administrations failed to continue and emphasise good economic and social policies put in place by predecessors, but allowed politics to frame policies.

"We all understand that where policies are bad and not working, of course politics should intervene. But, where things are working to the good, we ask, why fix what is not broken?"

"The social contract is about how we pool our resources to provide the public goods we agree are needed, and how we support those affected by adverse shocks.

"I'm saying that all major actors in the governance of our country should agree on some basic parameters for security, macroeconomic and social stability, and the enabling environment for future dynamism and growth of our country.

"Once agreed, these parameters and policies should be institutionalised or enshrined in law, or even be made part of our Constitution, not to be tampered with, except perhaps, through a national referendum involving the entire country and society”, she further added

"What I'm saying is this. Maintaining good economic and social policies, that is, maintaining policy consistency, and adding more reforms on top of that, will lead us along the path of good progress that we all desire. As we know, our political leaders have thus far, never been able to agree to stick to a common set of principles and

"While I acknowledge the temporal existence of some daunting challenges besetting us as a nation, I want to assure you that this Government is poised to address all the developmental challenges facing this country…..”

policies that deliver consistently for citizens, irrespective of ethnic group or political persuasion.

"A social contract could become a basis for the virtuous circles of reform, growth, peace, security, and trust that have too long eluded us. Turning now to potential ingredients of that social contract, the first element should be a shared understanding that we must prioritise the security of life, property and national assets. We cannot have economic or social development without security, and we certainly cannot have security without development.

"We all know that security has been weaponised in our country for political purposes, by political actors, leading partly to the difficult situation we have now. We have politicians who believe that the best way to make their opponents look bad is to instigate insecurity, making it look like they can't govern. Regardless of whether this leads to loss of life and property of innocent Nigerians - this has to stop.

"A second aspect of security, relates to security of national assets. Nigerians have seen for years how organised crude oil theft on a massive scale, seriously undermine the economic and financial health of the country.

"All Nigerians must agree that stealing of our national assets of any type is intolerable and must be stopped.

"How can we be struggling to see how to strengthen our foreign exchange reserves with the Government of the Central Bank working so hard on this, when so much is being lost through oil theft?

"There is so much technology available now to track such thefts, and there must be no more excuses for inaction. Theft of electricity cables is another rampant and very dangerous form of national assets.

"No one should try to tamper with the Central Bank, asking for manipulation of interest rates or the exchange rate. Do not use the Central Bank as a fiscal agent, asking for the printing of Naira beyond agreed ways and means limits. Fundamental fiscal and financial rules should be respected, once they are on the books.

"Respect the use of the oil price-based fiscal rule that allows the accumulation of reserves and savings in good times, to be used to push in bad times. Respect the agreed budget deficit. Keep it as close to 3% of GDP as possible.

"Limit non-transparent extra-budgetary spending spent through the budget. Stick to transparency of FAAC allocations and State and Federal budgets, so that citizens have a clear view of how their money is being spent. Do not exceed sensible limits for public debt as a percent of GDP.

"For an economy at Nigeria's stage of development and given its vulnerability, debt-to-GDP ratios should remain well below 40%.

"Debt service to revenue - we should strive not to exceed 33%, so as not to crowd out operational and capital

expenditures. Budget based on a medium-term expenditure framework, to provide a sound forward-looking platform for economic and budget management.

"Create an investment-friendly business environment cutting down on bureaucracy, licensing, and policy uncertainty to encourage the domestic and foreign private sector to invest and remain in Nigeria.

"Respect of the above will ensure a sound macroeconomic framework, with core economic management working on an objective basis to become a foundation for investment, growth, and employment."

“Economic and Social Challenges are Being Addressed"President Tinubu

The President, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, GCFR has again restated his administration's commitment to addressing the social and economic challenges facing the country.

President Tinubu stated this yesterday in Lagos at the opening ceremony of the 2024 NBA-AGC held at Eko Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The President, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, highlighted some of the measures and policies being undertaken by his administration to address the economic challenges. He contended that the collapse of the multiple exchange rate regime, has helped to check corruption.

Vice President Shettima reacted to Dr Okonjo-Iweala’s speech, on the need for a new social contract between the Government and the people.

He said: "You have done justice to what is needed in this country. A German philosopher once said, "Let every man sweep the front of his door, and the whole compound will be free.

"While I acknowledge the temporal existence of some daunting challenges besetting us as a nation, I want to assure you that this Government is poised to address all the developmental challenges facing this country, and rest assured that in the fullness of time, this nation shall overcome.

"I want to assure you that this Government will continue to uphold top priority to the welfare of the Judiciary, to ease the avoidable burden on their Lordships, and speed up the adjudicatory process which is a sine qua non for social order and economic development.

"Distinguished fellow Nigerians, It is appropriate to refer to the recent landmark position of the Supreme Court, granting financial autonomy to the local government councils in Nigeria. "I commend the upheaval, for its consistent sustenance of the tenets of democracy and good governance in the polity. "Expectedly, this will spur the much-desired developments at the grassroots level, while I remain confident that more of such strategic and reform-oriented legal interventions will be achieved.'

AGF Assures Nigerians of Restoring Judiciary’s Integrity

Cross-section of Attendees at the NBA-AGC Opening Ceremony

2024 NBA-AGC: Nigerian Lawyers Set Agenda for Nation’s Rebirth

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has stated the Federal Government’s current reforms in the Judiciary are aimed at restoring the sector to its place of pride.

Prince Fagbemi said this, while speaking at a Breakout session accompanied by his Justice Sector Reform Team during the NBA-AGC, anchored by Olawale Fapohunda, SAN.

The AGF mentioned that the National Justice Summit presented the National Justice Roadmap, which the Justice Ministry is presently working on. He stated further that the Summit which saw all the separate organs of the Judiciary come together, has not only seen the cross-pollination of ideas that will lead to a new and better justice system in Nigeria.

Other reforms the Ministry is working on include engaging with foreign nations on the recovery of stolen national wealth, working with the nation’s anti-corruption agencies to ensure speedy prosecution of corrupt individuals, and collaborating with the Police on issues concerning the rule of law, Administration of the Criminal Justice Act, as well as the reforms of correctional homes and services.

Prince Fagbemi emphasised that everyone is a stakeholder in Justice Reform and therefore, everyone has a role to play.

Mr Marcus Fernandez, the Special Assistant to the Minister on Digital Technology, mentioned that part of the reforms includes making the ministry digitally compliant, where all processes are digitalised. He stated that this transformation will involve using technology to facilitate the transportation of litigants and inmates to court via digital means.

In response to comments and questions, the Minister expressed concern about the issue of deported Nigerians returning home with nothing, but clarified that it is a matter of the laws of the nation they are coming from. However, he added that his office is currently working on getting the best deal for Nigerians and Nigeria.

On the recent order by the Court of Justice in Paris which attached three aircrafts belonging to the Nigerian Government, a Dassault Falcon 7X, a Boeing 737-7N6, and the newly procured Airbus A330 Presidential aircraft, in a debt dispute between the Ogun State Government and Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment of China, and other similar cases, Prince Fagbemi said that the Ministry is working on protecting the nation’s foreign assets and interests behind the curtains, and soon the nation will see the fruit of their effort.

Earlier, the outgoing President of the NBA, Mr Yakubu Maikaiyu, SAN emphasised that this is the first time such a session had been held at the NBA Conference. He also commended the Attorney-General, for his passion for the development of justice and the rule of law in Nigeria; that the ongoing reforms if carried out effectively, will contribute to the overall development of the nation, as the law covers all areas of national development.

Political Stakeholders Task Legal Professionals on Law and Africa’s Development

Former President of Ghana, HE John Mahama, urged African legal professionals to play a more active role in shaping the future of the continent. Speaking at the plenary session of the 64th NBA-AGC in Lagos, Mr Mahama emphasised the need for legal reforms, economic diversification, and youth empowerment to tackle Africa’s ongoing challenges.

Speaking on the topic “Africa’s Future Amidst Rising Security, Economic, and Political Challenges”, the former President highlighted the historical context of Africa’s post-colonial challenges and stressed the importance of addressing structural weaknesses, over-reliance on commodity exports, and underdevelopment of key sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing. He specifically pointed to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a critical opportunity for the continent, and stressed the need for legal professionals to ensure that this framework promotes trade while protecting the rights of workers and citizens.

Addressing the Nigerian context, Mr Mahama drew parallels between the challenges facing Ghana and Nigeria, particularly in terms of public trust in democratic institutions.

He cited statistics from Ghana showing a decline in trust in the government, the economy, and democratic institutions. He urged legal professionals to empower Africa’s youth by advocating for educational reforms, promoting youth entrepreneurship, and ensuring that labour laws protect the rights of young workers in the digital economy.

Mr Mahama also proposed the establishment of a Youth Entrepreneurship Legal Clinic to provide free legal services to young entrepreneurs, and also called on the legal community to embrace their role as custodians of the law and champions of Africa’s future.

Africa’s Vast Landmass and Population are Significant Assets - Abubakar Bagudu

Also speaking at the event, former Governor of Kebbi State, Abubakar Bagudu, urged African nations to change their perspective on the continent’s potential, viewing Africa as an opportunity rather than a problem. He emphasised Africa’s vast landmass and population, as significant assets that could lead to greater prosperity, if properly utilised.

Mr Bagudu pointed out that Africa’s landmass is 30.3 million square kilometres, compared to China’s 9.5 million square kilometres and India’s 3.28 million square kilometres. He noted that Africa’s population of 1.5 billion rivals that of China and India, but, highlighted the significant difference in economic output. While China’s GDP exceeds $18 trillion and India’s is around $3.28 trillion, Africa’s combined GDP is approximately the same as India’s, presenting a central challenge for the continent.

Mr Bagudu emphasised the significance of adequate resources in driving development, stating that every unit of organisation requires a minimum of resources to be effective. He also highlighted the unequal access to capital faced by

African countries compared to Northern hemisphere nations, and called for a discourse on mobilising greater capital for Africa, underscoring it as a crucial discussion for the continent.

He further stressed the need for African countries to work together to generate the resources needed for sustainable development, drawing parallels with Nigeria’s efforts to join global alliances such as the G20 as steps in the right direction.

While reiterating that Africa must confront its realities and make necessary choices to put the continent on a sustainable development path, Mr Bagudu emphasised the importance of making choices that will set Africa on a sustainable course for development.

In his remarks, the outgoing NBA President Mr Yakubu Maikyau, SAN, said the time has come for Lawyers to rise and protect the rule of law, and to push for the economic development of Nigeria and the African continent, further noting that no serious minded investor will invest in a country where there is no rule of law and investor confidence.

Afam Osigwe Sworn in as 32nd NBA President

The recently elected 32nd President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Ozigwe SAN, on Thursday at the Lagos Intercontinental Hotel took the oath of office from the 31st President of the Association, Mr Yakubu Maikyau, SAN.

Speaking at the inauguration, the outgoing President of the NBA, Yakubu Maikyau, SAN, urged the incoming President, Mazi Afam Ozigwe, SAN, to introduce innovative measures that would drive the growth and development of the Association. He emphasised the importance of adapting to the changing legal landscape, by implementing modern strategies and reforms that would enhance the Bar’s relevance and impact. According to him, the innovations could include leveraging technology for better service delivery, improving legal education and training, and fostering greater collaboration within the legal community.

Mr Maikyau highlighted that such steps are crucial for ensuring that the NBA continues to play a pivotal role in upholding the rule of law, and advancing the interests of its members.

In his inaugural speech, Mazi Ozigwe, SAN called for unity among members of the NBA, regardless of region, practice area, or background, while emphasising the promotion of the welfare of Lawyers, professional development, and continuous education under his leadership. He also said there are plans to enhance the independence and integrity of the Judiciary, as his leadership will focus on the rule of law, justice, and the protection of human rights.

The new NBA President also stated his intention to promote the NBA’s role as a guardian of justice, and advocate for the rule of law in Nigeria during his tenure.

He noted that his executive would be committed to upholding ethical standards within the profession, as they engage with the government, civil society, and international bodies to promote justice and the rule of law, while announcing the setting up of various working committees to work on all areas of practice, including reviewing the NBA Constitution and the next AGC, which he said will commence on August 23, 2025 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The new NBA President called on all members to work together towards the betterment of the profession and society, expressing confidence in the collective ability to achieve the set goals.

How Did Lawyers Assess the Conference – Short Takes

OCJ Okocha, SAN (19th/Millennium NBA President) - Opening Ceremony was quite enthralling

"I'm saying that all major actors in the governance of our country should agree on some basic parameters for security, macroeconomic and social stability, and the enabling environment for future dynamism and growth of our country”

The 2024 NBA-AGC was a great success, and I can personally say that it met my expectations.

The Opening Ceremony was quite enthralling, especially with the participation of our own Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director General of the World Trade Organisation, who delivered the Keynote Address.

I attended the Plenary Sessions and some of the Breakout Sessions, and they dealt with topical matters that resonated well with the theme of the Conference, PRESSING FORWARD. I also attended the Annual General meeting, which also went well.

The Conference also saw the formal takeover of office by the new administration of the NBA, led by Mazi Afam Osigwe as President. I wish the new Administration every success.

Augustine Alegeh, SAN (27th NBA President) –Session on Traditional Rulers was quite exciting

The AGC had many rich sessions. I particularly enjoyed the Traditional Rulers session, which had the Ooni of Ife, Olu of Warri, Obi of Onitsha, Emir of Lafia amongst others present, to discuss justice sector reform issues.

The swearing in of the 32nd President of NBA, Afam Osigwe, was another interesting highlight of the AGC. I commend the AGCPC and the YC Maikyau, SAN administration for the 2024 AGC.

Mia Essien, SAN – NBA Saved Money without Conference Bags

Mr Yakubu Maikyau, SAN, promised a great Conference and he and the AGCPC, led by Oyinkan Badejo-Okusanya, delivered on that promise. Congratulations to them. I am also impressed by the fact that the NBA saved money by not making conference bags. In my personal view that was an excellent decision.

Dr Roland Otaru, SAN – Ondo Governor’s Lecture was thought-provoking

The 2024 NBA Conference, was a Conference like no other. The Conference was well organised, as it met the expectations of majority of members. I was particularly enthused by the quality of Lectures delivered, especially the one anchored on the imperative of having State Police. The Executive Governor of Ondo State, HE Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa delivered thought-provoking lecture on State Police like Amotekun.

The icing on the cake was the swearing in of the new Executive of the NBA. Kudos to Mr Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, OON, SAN, led Executive that put the Conference together!

Professor Abiola Sanni, SAN - An A* Conference I will rate the Annual General Conference, A*. I am happy that the administration of YC Maikyau, SAN ended with a bang! This does not mean that it is perfect. Timeliness of the opening ceremony and the duration, was a major challenge.

Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN inauguration of AGC Planning Committee under the Chairmanship of Emeka Obegolu, SAN one year ahead, is a commitment to do even better through efficient planning. The breakout sessions were many, and all seductive. I was privileged to be a Speaker at the session on reform of legal education, which clashed with a number of other high-profile sessions which I would have loved to attend.

The highest point for me was the session on artificial intelligence, where the Moderator and all the Speakers held the audience spell bound. In the course of trying to establish contact with them; it turned out that two of them were my former students. Hanging out with buddies, bumping into colleagues and old-time friends, the handshakes, hugs, laughter all made the event memorable. I look forward to the next AGC, by the grace of God.

Usman Sule, SAN – An Apt theme

The theme "Pressing forward ...." was very apt, in this critical moment of our Nigeria democracy. The organisation of the Conference, from the quality of guests to the erudite Speakers was fantastic.

It was a wonderful experience and moment, in the history of our country. All the breakout sessions were well attended, with participants showing their curiosity on various topical issues. The YC Maikyau, SAN led administration has done very well, and made the Association proud.

Folashade Alli, SAN – Impressive Lineup of Speakers

The recently concluded NBA-AGC met most of my expectations in a lot of respects. The lineup of speakers

was impressive, bringing diverse perspectives and valuable insights into various areas of law, which enriched the discussions. The registration process was seamless, it was well organised, ensuring that participants could quickly settle in and focus on the Conference itself.

The choice of TBS as a venue for the breakout sessions was excellent, providing a conducive environment for the sessions. Additionally, the facilities, including the air conditioning, were more than adequate, ensuring comfort throughout the event. I also think the choice of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as the Keynote Speaker was particularly noteworthy, adding significant flavour to the Conference. Her insights, combined with the presence of high-profile dignitaries such as the Vice President of Nigeria and the Attorney-General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN further elevated the event’s importance and relevance. There are however, some areas that could be improved upon in future conferences. There were too many parallel sessions; this made it challenging to choose which ones to attend, potentially diluting the overall experience.

The sessions did not adhere strictly to the scheduled time, and this affected the flow of the Conference, Overall, while the Conference was successful in many respects, addressing these areas of improvement will enhance the experience for all attendees in the future.

Benson Igbanoi (Past NBA Jos Branch Chairman) – Seamless transition of Exco

In my humble opinion, I could not find any reasonable explanation for the failure to provide the usual Conference materials, despite the exorbitant registration fees. Is that a sign of progress or retrogression?

I must say that from the above reason, my expectations were not met. But, the seamless transition to the Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN’s led Exco and the prospects thereof, give a ray of hope. Dr Orowhuo Okocha – 31 Breakout sessions were too much

To be entirely honest, I had reduced my expectations for this year's AGC, so it was easy to meet them.

In terms of the content, this year's Conference was packed full of sessions dealing with relevant and topical issues, and with Speakers who did justice to the respective subjects.

There was something to be desired in terms of general organisation though, because 31 breakout sessions might have been too much to attempt to pack into two days; but at the end of the day, it has come and gone, a new President and Executive Committee has been sworn in, so I'm just happy that the Conference is over. I'm also glad for the opportunity to reconnect with old friends and colleagues.

Mandy Asagba (Immediate Past 3rd Vice President) – Too many logistics challenges

I must express my disappointment with the recently concluded NBA-AGC, which fell short of my expectations due to logistical challenges. Specifically, the venue's remote location resulted in significant daily transportation costs, while the hotel allocation process was marred by delays and disorganisation, leaving much to be desired despite the organisers' best efforts.

Kudos to the organisers for their valiant efforts, but the NB-AGC was a mixed bag for me. The venue's remote location made me feel like I was commuting to another city (N8,000 daily, to be exact!), and the hotel allocation process was a thrilling game of 'room roulette.' Despite these hiccups, the Conference still managed to hit the high notes, so, here's to imperfect success!

Dr Tolu Aderemi – Conference deepened intellectual capacity of Lawyers

In my opinion, the 64th NBA-AGC, is a testament to the largest Bar Association’s role as a pressure group committed to holding the Government accountable. It also provides an invaluable platform, for training its members in international best practices.

The relevance of the topics discussed, must be reflected by all Lawyers striving to compete on a global stage. While there were minor logistical challenges, such as the distance between venues, I believe the overall quality of the discourse overshadows any minor challenge(s). I therefore, congratulate the former President, Y.C. Maikyau, SAN, and the Chairman, Conference Planning Committee, Mrs Oyinkan Badejo-Okusanya and her team, for the sterling efforts towards deepening the intellectual capacity of our colleagues.

Emmanuel Ororoh – No Conference Bags!

The cost of registration for the NBA-AGC was too high, as many Lawyers could not afford it, hence, the low turnout of Lawyers from the private Bar at the Conference. Despite the huge funds received from Sponsors of the Conference, no Conference materials were given to delegates; the only material given was a notepad sponsored by FIRS.

Cross-section of Attendees at the NBA-AGC Opening Ceremony

Dr Alimi AbdulRazaq (left) and NBA General Secretary 2024-2026, Dr Mobolaji Ojibara

3rd & 4th left, Afam Osigwe, SAN; Chairman, ECNBA, Oluseun Abimbola, SAN and other Members of the ECNBA

Ist Female NBA General Secretary, Mrs Hairat Balogun (left) and Yakubu Maikyau, SAN

Former NBA National Publicity Secretary, John Austin Unachukwu (left) and Deputy Editor, ThisDay Lawyer, Jude Igbanoi

32nd NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN

L-R: Ifeanyi Obiakor, SAN; Daniel Enwelum, SAN; Usman O. Sule, SAN and Kelechi Obi, SAN

Yakubu Maikyau, SAN (left) and Olawale Fapohunda, SAN

L-R: Korede Habeeb Lawal; Yakubu Maikyau, SAN and Charles Ajiboye

L-R: Past NBA Presidents, Yakubu Maikyau, SAN; Augustine Alegeh, CON, SAN and New NBA President, Afam Osigwe, SAN

L-R: Solomon Umoh, SAN; Hon. Onofiok Luke and Afam Osigwe, SAN

Yakubu Maikyau, SAN (left) and outgoing NBA General Secretary, Adegbite Adesina Oyedepo Rotimi, SAN

Emeka Obegolu, SAN (left) and Segun Fabunmi, SAN

Representative of the Acting CJN, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, Hon. Justice Adewale Abiru, JSC (left) and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, CFR

Former NBA President, OCJ Okocha, SAN (left) and George Etomi

L-R: Former President of Ghana, HE John Dramani Mahama; Chairman, 2024 NBA-AGC Planning Committee, Mrs Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya and Mrs Folashade Alli, SAN

L-R: Benson Igbanoi; OCJ Okocha, SAN; Prof Mike Ozekhome, SAN and former Bayelsa State Attorney-General, Kemasiodu Wogu, SAN

Senator Niyi Adegbonmire, SAN (left) and Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN

L-R: Oluseun Abimbola, SAN; ICPC Chairman, Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN and Femi Falana, SAN

L-R: Daniel Enwelum, SAN; Law School DG, Prof Isa Chiroma, SAN and Onikepo Braithwaite

L-R: Mr Layi Babatunde, SAN; Mrs Hairat Balogun and Mrs Adejoke Layi-Babatunde

L-R: Only Female President of the NBA, Dame Priscilla Kuye; VP Senator Kashim Shettima; Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Behind: Former NBA General Secretary, Mrs Joyce Oduah; Yakubu Maikyau, SAN, Olawale Fapohunda, SAN and Minister of State for Labour, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha

L-R: NJC Secretary, Ahmed Gambo Saleh; former Attorneys-General of the Federation, Adetokunbo Kayode, SAN and Michael Aondoakaa, SAN

L-R: Attorney-General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, HE Senator Kashim Shettima and Host, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu

Keynote Speaker, Director-General of WTO, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, GCON (left) and the President of the Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, CFR

Muyiwa Akinboro, SAN

L-R: President, Commonwealth Lawyers Association, Dr Peter Maynard; Hon. Justice Amina Adamu Augie, JSC (Rtd); Yakubu Maikyau, SAN and Afam Osigwe, SAN

L-R: Mohammed Nuhu; Junaidu Abubakar; Afam Osigwe, SAN and NBAWF Council Member, Adama Mohammed

L-R: Olawale Fapohunda, SAN; Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeoch; Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN and Prof Yusuf Olaolu Ali, SAN

L-R: Chairperson, Women's Legal Centre, Thuli Mhlungu; Olawale Fapohunda, SAN; Onikepo Braithwaite; Boma Alabi, SAN (Standing) and Head, School of Law, University of Bradford, UK, Professor Engobo Emeseh

Publisher of Guardian Newspaper, Lady Maiden Ibru (left) and Chief Funlola Okunowo

Dame Priscilla Kuye (left) and Mrs Joyce Oduah

L-R: Korede Habeeb Lawal; Kunle Alake; Dr Kayode Fayemi; Senator Godswill Akpabio; HE John Mahama; Yakubu Maikyau, SAN; Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; Atiku Bagudu and Mrs Oyinkan Badejo-Okusanya

Onikepo Braithwaite (left) and Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN

L-R: President of NACCIMA, Kelvin Dele Oye; Aisha Ado Abdullahi and D.C. Enwelum, SAN

Dr Roland Otaru, SAN (left) and Ayo Akintunde, SAN

Lady Bank CEOs with Mrs Oyinkan Badejo-Okusanya (1st left); Female Silks, Mrs Nella Andem-Rabana, Mrs Victoria Awomolo, Mrs Mia Essien and Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio

Former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi (left) and HE John Mahama

Email: chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, 07010510430

Menace of Open Grazing in the FCT

The FCT Administration has been unable to steer cattle away from the major highways of Abuja raising concern about the health hazards and its security breaches for the country, Olawale Ajimotokan reports

Indiscriminate grazing of cattle has been a recurring issue in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) despite moves by the authorities to curb the menace.

In fact, a major concern in the nation’s capital is the sight of cattle indiscriminately roaming about the seat of power without giving concern for the implication such would have on national security and communal harmony.

Activities of the herders has for years incensed farmers-herders unrest in addition to intractable banditry that is the major cause of food insecurity in many parts of Northern Nigeria and across the country.

In addition, several communities in the northern part of the country are prone to gastro- enteritis diseases, Cholera and other water borne diseases, partly because their rivers, which are the major sources of water are contaminated by efflux discharged by cows.

Their impunity and insistence that their livestock must enjoy free movement on the public highways, walkways and medians at the expense of citizens cause traffic snarls and inflict systemic destruction on the environment.

Aside the low cost communities, exclusive areas are not spaced from the menace of authorised cattle rearing as herds are often seen invading in broad day places like the International Airport Road, the Federal Secretariat, National Stadium Complex, Three Arm-Zone, Wuse 2, Maitama and the Central Business District in search of pasture or access to a grazing route.

But in all this it appears the FCT Administration is arm-twisted and befuddled as the sanctity of the federal city centre and its security is imperiled by roaming herdsmen in search of graze for their livestock.

When the pastoralists randomly ply the roads and streets of Abuja no one no matter his social status is spared from their notoriety.

A business man, Tunde Oluleye, once a had a bitter experience, when he almost lost his life, when his car ran into some cows that strayed onto the road at Idu, a suburb of Abuja.

He was driving home that faithful evening when the cows from a large herd suddenly encroached into the road, causing him to lose control in an attempt to avoid colliding with the animals.

The incident left him with a back bone injury, which doctors diagnosed as spondylosis and confined him to the wheel chair for six months as he could barely walk.

"It was a narrow escape. The car was damaged beyond recognition and l suffered an injury that nearly confined me to the wheel chair for life. I only regained the full use of my limbs because of the efficiency of my orthopedic doctor and physiotherapist, " he said recounted.

He added he was lucky the injury did not affect his spinal cord but only prevented him from walking with his right leg for some months because it resulted in a pinched nerve and an herniated disc.

Another commuter, Angel Dafiagbon, also recounted his bitter experience while driving one morning along Shehu Shagari Way when her car ploughed into cows that suddenly alighted from the Millennium Park by Unity Fountain and ripped off her car bumper and broke the radiator.

The experience of Oluleye and Dafiagbon only echoed the plight of many citizens from the impunity of herders on daily basis in Abuja.

Wike’s Vow to End Grazing in Abuja

Upon his appointment as FCT Minister about a year ago, Nyesom Wike vowed not allow any form of open grazing in any form in the capital city, saying herders would have to take their cows for grazing outside the city centre.

He famously said during his first media briefing:

“We will consult with the herdsmen to see how we will stop [open grazing] because we cannot allow cows inside the city,” he had said.

“They can be outside the city because the grasses are outside the city. The grasses in the city were planted to beautify the city. It is not that one that they would eat.

“So, we will discuss. It is important. Let us say it, you are driving inside the [Presidential] Villa for example, and you see about 20,000 to 40,000 goats, if foreigners see that, how would they feel?”

The minister also assured that eff orts were being made, in addition to multifaceted discussions with critical stakeholders to end indiscriminate roaming of cattle in Abuja.

He gave the assurance when the Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria raised concerns about the unsightly presence of herds on Abuja streets.

But that threat has neither carried any significant weight nor dissuaded the herders from continuing with the arbitrary practice of flocking into the streets and highways of the city with their cattle in search of pasture.

The was in contrast to the initiative of his predecessor, Mohammed Musa Bello, who in an attempt to control the threat, in 2017 identified a permanent grazing reserve for the herdsmen by allocating 33,485 hectares of land for seven million cattle in the FCT.

The allocated grazing land included Paikon Kore, 8,500 hectares; Karshi 6,000, hectares; Kawu in Bwari 9,000 hectares and Rubochi in Kuje 9,985 hectares.

It is a distraught that despite this measures in place the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB) has been unable to assert the extant laws and rules which clearly forbids anyone from keeping animals in his property nor allowed to graze on the streets.

The Situation in other Jurisdictions

Several other countries have in place measures to address similar issue that has become intractable for successive administrations in Nigeria.

For instance, India has a legislation, known as Cattle Control Bill, that prohibits movement of stray cattle within city limits. The law was enacted in April 2022 are requires cattle herders to be licensed and their flocks to be tagged. Any owner who fails to comply with this law will be instantly penalized.

In Ghana, there is in place a bye-law of Accra Metropolitan Assembly 1995, Section 79 of the LGA, 1993(Act) 462 stipulates that “no person shall keep any cattle, sheep or goat within areas

of administration without permits”. Similarly, permits and licenses are introduced along with regular vaccination and inspection to handle the situation. The permits are reviewed periodically.

In Rwanda, the movement of cattle are only confined to outside “built-up” areas and specific locations mostly in the hill side suburbs.

As a matter of fact, the authorities allow full scale ranching in Kigali, the capital city and have ensured that public places like markets, roads are declared “cattle free”, while in South Africa, movement of cattle is suspended with the exception of those designated for the slaughter house. The suspension is reviewed weekly to ensure strict compliance. Their legislation is done purely for the purpose of preserving food security and livelihoods.

In Botswana, their Road Traffic Act Section 100(2)(b) states that “no owner or person in charge of any cattle or other animals to be on the main road unless they are attended to by a person in such a manner as to have proper control over them”. They followed this up with an attempt to fence busy public roads and mark them with road signs.

MACBAN Explains Why Pastoralists Roam Abuja

But the Fulani advocacy group, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria ((MACBAN) has advanced the reasons fueling the arbitrary roaming of pastoralists in the periphery of Abuja go graze, despite the creation of a grazing reserves large enough to accommodate about seven million livestock.

The National President of MACBAN, Alhaji Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, said the refusal of the herdsmen to relocate to the grazing reserves gazette by law in Paikon Kore, Karshi; Kawu and Rubochi is because the some of the areas have been encroached by farmers and illegal settlers and the rest.

"So that is the reason why you see a lot of them coming into the periphery of the city grazing.

Because those areas that are designated have been taken over due to one factor or the other coupled with the insecurity surrounding the FCT, their cows are being taken away by rustlers on daily basis. So they are forced to be on the periphery in grazing their cows, Othman-Ngelzarma said.

The MACBAN president also urged the FCT Minister to develop and make some of the reserves habitable for the pastoralists, most especially the Paikon Kore grazing reserves in Gwagwalada by retrieving the grazing reserve in addition with coming up with a model that can be emulated by some of the states.

According to Othman-Ngelzarma, MACBAN is of the view that Wike is capable of developing the grazing reserves if he shows the desire in doing it.

“But during the tenure of the last minister, I think a certain level had been reached to the extent that I think even compensation was about to be detailed for those settlers to leave the grazing reserves to pave way for the FCT Administration

Indiscriminate grazing of cattle has been a recurring issue in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) despite moves by the authorities to curb the menace. In fact, a major concern in the nation’s capital is the sight of cattle indiscriminately roaming about the seat of power without giving concern for the implication such would have on national security and communal harmony

to develop the area into either a modernized community rents where the pastoralists will be confined to so that we will stop seeing them roaming the city causing a lot of traffic jams, a lot of embarrassment with foreigners coming in seeing cows in areas that are not supposed to be,” he said.

He also fumed that apart from Paikon Kore that has problem of encroachment, the remaining three reserves had been neglected by the FCTA, adding due to lack of water and grass, the places had been taken over by weeds which could not be consumed by the cows.

“And some that have dams, the dams have desilted and no longer hold water for the pastoralists. The major requirement for pastoralists is water and grass. That is what is causing them to go far into the hinterland and Southern parts of the country, looking for free pasture and water.

Othman-Ngelzarma stressed that given Miyetti Allah’s displeasure with seeing cows on the road they sat down with the former FCT Minister and discussed on several occasions that henceforth, no cows should be seen within the main city but only on the periphery to avoid the embarrassment associated with open grazing. “Another problem is that most of these pastoralists are not educated. And because they are forced out of those areas that they are supposed to graze, they, they move to wherever they see green grass.

When they see green grass, that will be an area for their cows to survive. So they go to that area unminding wherever the area is, whether in the central area, wherever it is. Their concern is just see grass for their cow to eat. We are never against ranching because with the population that will continue to grow against a land that doesn't increase. And the more the population grows, the more the demand for land becomes an issue because people will be looking farmlands, for houses and government infrastructures will be coming up, establishing new villages, towns and cities.

So all these will now form a serious challenge on the limited land that we have. And coupled with the natural factors of climate change, desertification, erosion, also forcing another challenge to the land. And the land doesn't increase. So, because of the growing population, there has to be a form of effective planning for both farmers and herders to coexist peacefully”.

National Assembly Seeks Ban of Open Grazing

The issue of open grazing is also receiving attention in the National Assembly with a bill seeking a ban on open grazing having scaled the second reading after a heated debate.

The bill is seeking to establish ranches as an antidote for the perennial violent clashes between sedentary farmers and nomadic herders in the country.

The Senate has also proposed a national summit on the matter, in addition to a public hearing for a comprehensive solution.

Law makers are harping on the need to adopt international best practices in animal husbandry by establishing a law to stop open grazing to discard the old-fashioned, hazardous and burdensome culture.

The bill, if it becomes an act, proposes ranching as the only viable alternative for cattle breeding in Nigeria and advocates for the urgent need to transit from traditional livestock-keeping methods to modern methods which are safer and healthier for both the herds and the herders.

The bill that has been referred to the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Trade and Investment and Legal Services further proposes that interested parties in livestock business must seek and obtain approvals of their host communities to establish ranches for peaceful co-existence.

Cattle roaming the streets in Dutse Sokale, Abuja

PHOTOS: GODWIN OMOIGUI

PremiumTrust Bank Holds First AGM, Reassures Stakeholders of Strong Performance, Profitability

In a testament to its rapid growth and strong financial performance for the 2023 financial year, Nigeria’s fastest-growing commercial Bank, PremiumTrust Bank recently held its inaugural Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Lagos.

During the event, which marked a significant milestone for the bank, stakeholders were confidently reassured by the board and management of its robust financial performance and sustained profitability, highlighting its commitment to driving growth and delivering exceptional value.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman, Board of Directors of PremiumTrust Bank, Dr. Perez Araka, said the bank remained committed to delivering consistent growth, financial stability, and exceptional value while serving the banked, underbanked, and unbanked segments of the Nigerian

population.

Araka also revealed that the board, in line with its oversight responsibilities, was focused on leveraging the Bank’s strengths to ensure continued profitability and long-term success.

These views were also affirmed by the MD/ CEO of PremiumTrust Bank, Mr. Emmanuel Efe Emefienim who expressed confidence in the Bank’s capability to surpass its 2023 financial performance and go on to achieve even greater success in 2024.

According to him, the bank would continue to innovate, expand its service offerings, and enhance customer experiences to drive significant growth.

“The numbers are already trending in the right direction, and when we gather here next year, the results will surpass what we recorded this year,” he said. PremiumTrust Bank’s

outstanding financial performance in 2023 is reflected in its impressive results across key metrics. The bank achieved total Gross Earnings of N47.80 billion, Profit Before Tax (PBT) of N14.10 billion, Customer Deposits of N260.90 billion and Total Loans of N181.20 billion.

“This saw the bank record impressive key ratios such as Net Interest Margin (NIM) of 82 per cent, Return on Equity (ROE) of 61 per cent, and impressive Cost of Funds (CoF) of 2 per cent. As Nigeria’s fastestgrowing bank, PremiumTrust Bank is committed to reshaping the financial landscape. With an impressive financial performance in 2023 and a relentless drive for innovation and speed of execution, the bank is poised to deliver even stronger financial results in the coming year, further solidifying its position as a leader in the industry,” he said.

LASG Retains MoneyMaster as Payment Partner for Ounje Eko

Payment service bank, MoneyMasterPSB, has said that it has been reappointed by the Lagos State Government (LASG) for the Phase 2 of the ‘Ounje Eko’ Food Discount Market, which commenced across the state on September 1, 2024.

Ounje Eko is an initiative by LASG to provide a variety of food items to residents at a discount of 25 per cent. It is meant to bring succor to residents

of the state in the midst of steep food prices.

The scheme, which was successfully piloted last March, recommenced on Sunday, September 1, across all the Local Government Areas (LGAs), Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) and in the premises of five tertiary institutions in the state.

“We are excited to partner with the Lagos State Government in the second

phase of the Ounje Eko discount markets as this programme aligns with our corporate philosophy of adding value to people’s lives,” MoneyMaster PSB disclosed in a statement.

“The retention of MoneyMaster PSB for the payment programme can be attributed to its excellent performance in the scheme’s first phase due to its secure, fast transaction processing and robust payment channels.

FITC, Malize Win Business Excellence, African Woman Leadership Award

Financial Institutions Training Centre (FITC) the world class innovation-led and technology driven knowledge institution has emerged the winner of the 2024 Business Excellence Award at the recently concluded BIZZ Awards, an international award organized by the World Confederation of Business (WORLDCOB) based in Houston, Texas, United States.

Also presented with an award was the Managing Director and CEO, FITC, Chizor Malize, who won the, “African Woman of the Year Leadership Award”. The award was in recognition of her game-changing work at FITC driving innovation, transformation and inspiring leadership.

In his opening address Global Founder and CEO of WORLDCOB Jesus Maron highlighted the vision for the Business Excellence Award. “This prestigious award aims to highlight the best practices in the industry, inspiring companies worldwide to strive for excellence in their operations and strategies. By showcasing these success stories, the award fosters a culture of continuous improvement and encourages businesses to adopt responsible and impactful practices that benefit not only their growth but also contribute positively to society. The ripple effect of our recognition extends beyond the winners, promoting economic development, fostering international collaboration, and driving positive social

and environmental change globally”, he remarked.

In receiving the Awards for FITC and the African Woman of the Year Leadership Award, r Malize, acknowledged the great work by the organizers, WORLDCOB and the contributions of diverse stakeholders towards the success of FITC.

“I am deeply honored to accept this Global Business Excellence Award on behalf of FITC. This recognition is a testament to the great work, dedication, and passion for excellence that our team demonstrates every day. I am grateful to lead such a talented group of individuals who are deeply committed to making a positive impact. At FITC, our mission is to empower organizations and individuals through innovative solutions and knowledge. This award reaffirms our belief in the importance of continuous personal development and the pursuit of corporate excellence. We are driven by the desire to create a future where businesses operate with purpose, responsibility, and a commitment to societal impact”. She said

“I am also deeply honored to receive the African Woman of the Year Award for Leadership. This recognition is not just a personal achievement but a celebration of the strength and potential of phenomenal African women in leadership all over the content. I am grateful to lead FITC and to work with a team that shares my commitment to innovation, growth, and positive change.

These recognitions are not just a celebration of our achievements but also a call to continue pushing the boundaries and setting new standards in our industry. As we celebrate this moment, we are inspired to keep innovating and collaborating to make a meaningful difference”, She enthused.

Under the visionary leadership of Chizor Malize, FITC has consistently demonstrated a commitment to fostering innovation and achieving remarkable results. The organization’s approach is rooted in the belief that excellence is a continuous journey, one that requires a relentless focus on creating value and driving impactful change. FITC’s success is built on its ability to anticipate industry needs, embrace cutting-edge solutions, and empower individuals and organizations to reach their full potential.

Chizor Malize’s leadership has been instrumental in guiding FITC to new heights. Her dedication to creating a culture of excellence and her ability to inspire and motivate her team have been key factors in the organization’s success. “These recognitions are a testament to our relentless pursuit of excellence,” said Malize. “They inspire us to continue our mission to innovate and lead, driving impactful change across the industry and beyond. FITC is committed to shaping the future of knowledge, bridging gaps, and empowering the next generation of leaders.”

(Gabon),

Heavy

Republic

Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria),

L-R: Executive Director, Digital & Transaction Banking, PremiumTrust Bank, Shina Atilola; MD/CEO, Emmanuel Efe Emefienim; Chairman, Board of Directors, Dr. Perez Araka; Executive Director, Specialized Banking, Olubukunola Awosanya at the inaugural Annual General Meeting (AGM) of PremiumTrust Bank in Lagos... recently.

NGX, UNIMAID Sign Strategic Partnership to Promote Capital Market Education

Kayode Tokede

Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) and the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to bridge the gap between academic research and industry practice.

This strategic collaboration aims to foster innovation, enrich learning, and promote sustainable development within the capital market sector.

The MoU signing ceremony,

attended by key representatives including NGX CEO Jude Chiemeka and Prof. Mohammed Dahiru Madawaki, Director of UNIMAID’s Business School, underscored a mutual commitment to harnessing the strengths of both academia and industry to address critical knowledge and skill gaps.

Under this partnership, NGX, through its X-Academy platform, and UNIMAID, via the University of Maiduguri Business School (UMBS), will

jointly offer capacity-building courses to advance financial and capital market education.

They will also provide consultancy services aimed at enhancing business operations within the community. Other key areas of collaboration include shared research, human resource development, industry engagement, guest lectures, and the co-development of financial and business-related courses. Additionally, the MoU outlines plans to promote and

run certification programs, entrepreneurship training, and consulting services.

Chiemeka highlighted the importance of this alliance, stating, “This MoU represents a significant milestone for both NGX and the University of Maiduguri.

“It embodies our shared vision to advance education and industry practices through strategic collaboration. By combining our expertise and resources, we are well-positioned to drive meaningful change and

contribute to a more resilient financial ecosystem.”

The collaboration will focus on developing and delivering capital market-related courses that cover essential topics such as financial literacy, investment management, and sustainable business practices.

The partnership also aims to boost retail participation in the capital markets while enhancing the skills of businesses and individuals through various educational initiatives.

Prof. Mohammed Madawaki

expressed optimism about the partnership, saying, “This collaboration with X-Academy is a natural alignment of our academic rigor with NGX’s industry expertise.

“Together, we are poised to foster innovation, inspire future leaders, and address the evolving needs of the financial sector.”

The MoU is expected to have a profound impact, driving innovation and inspiring positive change within both academic and business communities.

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF SEPTEMBER 2/24

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

How Oyebanji Won the Hearts of Ekiti Pensioners

With the recent disbursement of N1 billion in gratuities to Ekiti state pensioners, the mood in the Land of Honour is fast changing as the beneficiaries and their families are rededicating their loyalty to Governor Biodun Oyebanji. Raheem Akingbolu reports.

In Nigeria, words like salary, pension and gratuity evoke strong feelings in the mind of members of the public and they send jitters to the inner marrow of governors. Oftentimes, the country witnesses protests over non-payment of either salaries or gratuities, with governors resorting to blame game or attributing the failure to lean resources.

Under Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State, the reverse has been the case since he assumed office on October 16, 2022.

In the build up to the election that produced Oyebanji, there were varied feedback on the stand of the members of the Ekiti State chapter of Nigeria Union of Pensioners.

While some sources claimed the retirees had vowed not to support the APC candidate, it was also confirmed that a large number among them wanted to give Oyebanji a benefit of the doubt because of his background as a son of one of them who should know where the shoe pinches.

Meanwhile, in his humble manner, Oyebanji kept on pushing while the electioneering campaign was ongoing, by assuring them of his readiness, not only to clear the backlog of their monthly stipends but to give their affair the priority it deserved. From time to time, the governor was also said to have reminded the pensioners and civil servants in the state of his humble background as son of retired teachers and that his education was financed by salaries and deductions like an average child of a civil servant.

True to type, immediately he took over the mantle of leadership, Oyebanji swung into action by distributing gratuity cheques of 130 million naira to retired Local Government workers and Primary School Teachers in the state restating his administration’s commitment to prioritising welfare of workers and pensioners in the State. This according to the Governor was in fulfilment of his campaign

promises to pensioners in the state. Later he instructed the State Ministry of Finance to commit N100 million monthly to service outstanding gratuities payment. The amount was recently increased to N200 million monthly. This, he said, would go while a committee ( comprising of government officials and some executive members of NUP) set up by the Governor would come up with a creative way to offset the outstanding gratuities once and

for all.

The other leg of the Governor’s intervention in the plight of the pensioners was his directive that pensions must be paid same time salaries of workers are paid. So, Ekiti pensioners had since 2022 been receiving their monthly pensions same time the state workers receive their monthly salaries.

According to him, the intervention is aimed at providing financial support and recognition to those who have dedicated a significant portion of their lives to public service and education.

Today, Oyebanji’s administration can be attested to be the most worker-friendly administration in the current dispensation in the country. The question that therefore leaves one hazy is how the Governor has been able to live up to expectation when it comes to payment of salaries and still able to attend to capital projects here and there.

Few weeks ago, the Governor did the unexpected when he disbursed N1 billion in gratuities to another batch of 450 state pensioners. The event which was designed as a brief ceremony was turned into a carnival by the pensioners who trooped to the venue in their large number with banners bearing appreciation messages.

The Governor assured the audience at the cheque presentation event held at Jibowu Hall, Government House in Ado Ekiti that his administration would implement the new minimum wage once President Bola Tinubu signs the bill into law, noting that pensioners will also benefit from the minimum wage as well. Oyebanji disclosed that over N12 billion and N2.3 billion have been paid as pensions and gratuities, respectively, to pensioners in the state since he assumed office in 2022.

The Governor said his administration would continue to prioritise the welfare of senior citizens who had served the state diligently and meritoriously. He said this was his way of appreciating their service to humanity and the growth of the state.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to defraying all outstanding gratuity arrears in the state, assuring the people that his government is working hard to ensure that gratuity arrears become a thing of the past. Government, he said, intends to achieve the goal of a “pay-as-you-go” basis.

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As Adeleke Breathes Life to Agriculture in Osun...

Sarafa Ibrahim writes about the recent move by Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State to breathe life into agriculture by encouraging mechanised farming through purchase of tractors for use by teeming agrarian farmers in the State of the Livingspring.

Someone sent a message to me on WhatsApp, and I have since been ruminating about the phrase used, which informed the title of this my piece. Ostensibly commenting on a video showing a procession of newly acquired tractors making their ways into Osogbo, the Osun state capital, he said ‘Adeleke breathes life to agriculture in Osun’.

For several minutes, I paused to process what he said, and in the end, the import of the phrase sunk deeper into me. Of a truth, agriculture in Osun, for some time now, has been more in name than really feeling its effect. While Osun state is well known as an agrarian state, past negligence and the dearth of meaningful investment in essential equipment and implements have left the agriculture sector in the state almost lifeless.

For several years, agriculture in Osun state was just a mere rhetoric as policy and interventions in the sector were so insufficient to make any impact and drive expected growth in the sector. It was so bad that in 2020, to be precise, a meagre N6,992,500.00, was the aggregated amount spent on agriculture by the end of the third quarter, reflecting the terrible fate that the sector endured under the previous administrations.

Upon assuming office in November, 2022, Governor Ademola Adeleke radiated hope that it will no longer be business as usual, which was anchored on a five-point action plan. And less than two years in office, we can all see the manifestation of its implementation going by the remarkable delivery of service across sectors.

The last time Osun experienced this sort of investment in agriculture as reflected in the acquisition of new tractors was under the

administration of Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola.

This sounds unbelievable, but that was how bad things were under the previous administrations. In 2020, to be precise, the Osun state chapter of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) highlighted the extent of neglect that the agriculture sector in the state was subjected to when

he declared that there was no tractor in the state to aid their farming operation. Alhaji Sulaimon Araokanmi, who chairs AFAN in Osun state at that time, told reporters in Osogbo that “we also asked the government to provide tractors for us because there is no tractor in the whole state that farmers can use to cultivate.”

Apparently, it was all for nothing, as Oyetola did nothing about their request. All through his

time in office, no single tractor was purchased, nor was any other serious effort made to aid agriculture activities in the state and ramp up food production. This type of story follows a familiar pattern and clearly explains the decline in agricultural activities and damage to the state’s food security.

This is obviously not a route that Governor Adeleke is willing to thread, and the manifestation of this fact is in the new tractors bought by his administration to improve farming activities in the state. Unveiling the new tractors on Friday, Governor Adeleke left no one in doubt that Osun is poised to leverage the agriculture potential of the state for food production wealth for the state and its people by disclosing that “Today, we are distributing 6,000 herbicides, 80,000 cashew seedlings, 8,000 cassava cuttings, 8,000 various vegetable seeds and 500 bags of Lime to our farmers, women associations, people living with disabilities and government schools with large farmlands.”

I’ve seen some opposition elements trying to diminish the extent of the intervention by Governor Adeleke by cross-referencing numbers, however, the mistake they are making is failing to appreciate the monumental impact of not doing anything in the past. They should be concerned that throughout the 12 years it held sway in the state, it was unable to buy just a single tractor to aid farming activities.

-Ibrahim, Media Assistant to Osun State Governor, writes from Osogbo.

Oyebanji

Adeleke

Amid Posers over Spending, FG Rakes

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The federal government has received about $21.56 billion of the $44 billion dividends disbursed by the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG) in the last 25 years, the company’s ‘Facts & Figures’ for 2024 has shown.

NLNG was incorporated as a limited liability company to harness Nigeria’s vast natural gas resources and produce Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and Natural Gas Liquids (NGLs) for the domestic market and export.

It is owned by four shareholders, namely: Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (49 per cent), Shell (25.6 per cent), TotalEnergies (15 per cent) and Eni International (10.4 per cent).

The document released by the NLNG further stated that in 2023 alone, the federal government got $1.2 billion as taxes from the

Arthur Eriye

Nigeria’s agricultural sector witnessed modest growth in the Q2 of 2024, increasing by 1.41 per cent year-on-year (YoY) in real terms, according to the latest GDP report released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). This represents a slight decrease from the 1.50 per cent growth recorded in the same period last year, the sector continues to play a vital role in the nation’s economy, contributing 22.61 per cent to the

company headquartered in Port Harcourt, Rivers state.

“NLNG has paid dividends of over $44 billion out of which 49 per cent went to the Federal Government of Nigeria courtesy of the shareholding of NNPC Limited in the company.

“As a good corporate citizen, NLNG also contributes to national wealth and the economic wellbeing of states in which it operates, by paying all applicable taxes and levies, In 2023, the company’s corporate income tax, including tertiary education tax, paid to the Federal Government of Nigeria amounted to about $1.2 billion,” it stated.

However, the management of the accruals from the NLNG operations by the federal government has always been a subject of controversy.

As far back as 2009, the whereabouts of the $4.44 billion dividends, which accrued to the

overall Gross Domestic Products (GDP) in real terms.

The growth in Q2 2024 was primarily driven by Crop Production, which remains the largest sub-sector within Agriculture. Crop Production alone accounted for a significant 87.48 per cent of the overall nominal value of the sector, underscoring its importance in feeding the nation and driving economic activity in rural areas. Despite challenges such as unpredictable weather patterns and logistical disruptions, the sub-

federal government in respect of its investments in the Nigeria LNG project was a subject of disagreement between the House of Representatives and the NNPC.

The controversy arose as a result of the investigation by the House Ad hoc Committee into the activities of the then Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), NNPC and its subsidiaries.

Among others, there was also the issue of the last administration illegally diverting $1.05 billion (N378 billion at N360 to a dollar) at the time sourced from the NLNG dividend funds to secretly fund subsidy payment on petroleum products.

The current government has also had its fair share of controversy regarding its management of the NLNG funds, with the Bola Tinubuled federal government hinting last year that it plans to use the dividends earned from the NLNG Limited to

sector managed to sustain its growth trajectory, albeit at a slower pace than in previous quarters.

Other sub-sectors within Agriculture, including Livestock, Forestry, and Fishing, also contributed to the sector’s performance, though they faced varying levels of growth and decline. Livestock, for instance, recorded a nominal growth of 11.44 per cent, reflecting a recovery from previous contractions, while Forestry and Fishing saw growth

borrow money.

While analysts said that this would have helped prevent the naira from losing its value compared to the dollar, they also argued that implementing the securitisation strategy might affect gas production if it interferes with the company’s operations or available resources.

In addition, mismanagement of the borrowed funds by the Nigerian government, it is believed, could lead to a cash shortage for future projects and might diminish investor confidence.

The securitisation of the dividends simply involves using them as a guarantee for borrowing money. Essentially, the government, according to the report at the time, planned to use the expected future income from NLNG to obtain immediate funds.

But in terms of feedgas payment, the NLNG report stressed that Joint Venture (JV) feedgas suppliers from inception till date had hit about

rates of 6.37 per cent and 3.92 per cent, respectively.

In nominal terms, the agriculture sector grew by 2.86 per cent YoY in Q2 2024, slightly up from the 0.77 per cent recorded in the first quarter of the year. The sector’s contribution to nominal GDP stood at 18.54 per cent, down from 21.07 per cent in the same quarter of 2023, indicating the effects of inflation and other economic pressures on the sector’s overall output.

Despite the modest growth, the

$36 billion, with 55-60 per cent of such payment going to the federal government via its shareholding in the NNPC.

With its plant construction, the company said it generated considerable Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) for the country, with its assets, including property, plant, and equipment worth about $20 billion with 51 per cent stake owned by international oil companies and 49 per cent belonging to the federal government.

In addition, since 2008, the company stated that it contributed about 4 per cent of Nigeria’s annual Gross Domestic Product (GDP), stressing that with the rebasing of the GDP in 2024, NLNG’s contribution to the GDP was put at about 1 per cent.

“NLNG provided over 12,000 jobs at the peak of construction of Trains 3, 4 and 5 respectively. Overall, the major sub- contractors employed

Agriculture sector remains a critical component of Nigeria’s economy, providing employment for a large portion of the population and serving as a foundation for food security and rural development. However, the sector’s slower growth in Q2 2024 highlights ongoing challenges, including the need for improved infrastructure, access to finance, and modernization of farming practices.

The report also noted that while crop production continues

over 18,000 Nigerians in technical jobs in the Base Project (Trains 1 and 2),” it added. Through each Nigerian Content plan for its contracts, NLNG said it has promoted the development and employment of Nigerian manpower. In its host community, through the initiative to empower local contractors, it said the indigenous contractors have made human and capital investments in their companies thereby expanding their operating capacity.

The capabilities of local vendors, it said, have also been developed through mentoring and partnerships between more established Nigerian vendors and community vendors as 55 per cent of engineering activities and procurement are being carried out in Nigeria, by Nigerian vendors in Train 7.

to dominate, “there is potential for diversification within the agricultural sector. Sub-sectors such as Livestock and Forestry, which showed positive growth, present opportunities for further development and investment. Expanding these areas could help stabilize the sector’s overall growth and reduce its vulnerability to external shocks.

NECA Advocates Agriculture, Industrial, Human Devt Reforms for Nigeria’s Strategic Path Forward

The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has stated that Nigeria must focus on comprehensive sectorial reforms to enhance the country’s business environment and attract both domestic and foreign investments.

The NECA stated the need for comprehensive sectorial reforms in a public statement titled, “Nigeria’s Q2 2024 GDP Performance and Strategic Path Forward,” that it issued during the weekend.

Director General of NECA, Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, in the statement, identified enhancing agricultural productivity, revitalising the industrial sector, investing in human capital and strengthening macroeconomic stability as Nigeria’s strategic imperatives for sustainable growth.

Oyerinde said that investments in “supporting farmers with modern technology and access to finance is crucial to increasing agricultural output and ensuring food security and will also help to stabilise rural economies and reduce poverty.”

He added, “infrastructure improvements, particularly in energy and transportation, are essential for the industrial sector’s growth. By creating a more conducive environment for manufacturing and construction, Nigeria can drive economic diversification and reduce reliance on oil revenues.”

According to him, education and skill development are critical for empowering the workforce and fostering innovation.

“By focusing on upskilling workers, Nigeria can ensure that its labor force is well-equipped to

meet the demands of a rapidly evolving economy, particularly in the services and technology sectors,” he said.

Oyerinde stated that strengthening macroeconomic stability would help in addressing

the volatility in the foreign exchange market and boost investor confidence and support sustainable economic growth.

Commenting on the recently released GDP report for Q2’24 by the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics,

Oyerinde noted that while Nigeria’s economy is not yet at a stage of unqualified success, the recent GDP growth indicated, “a positive momentum that, if well-managed, can lead to sustained economic improvement.”

He reiterated that government’s focus should be on implementing the targeted reforms that would enhance productivity across key sectors, attract investment, and ultimately create a more resilient and diversified economy.

NNPC Launches Eye Care Programme in Lagos Community

Stories by Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has flagged off the third edition of the Vision First Programme, as part of its community-focused healthcare outreach targeted at the Ilaje community and its environs in Bariga, Lagos State. The Vision First programme is a continuation of NNPC Ltd/ SNEPCo

Production Sharing Contract (PSC) commitment to advancing health and well-being within its host communities.

Through the initiative, NNPC said over 1,000 individuals will receive free eye care services, alongside a range of general healthcare provisions. The services include cardiovascular screening, BMI assessments, laboratory services, consultations, treatment of mild and chronic diseases, and distribution

of insecticide-treated nets.

Since its inception, the NNPC stated that the Vision First programme has made a significant impact, with over 1,853 individuals benefiting from free eye care services.

In his remarks, the Chief Upstream Investment Officer of NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (CUIO – NUIMS), Mr. Bala Wunti stated that the Vision First Plus programme represents a commitment

to restoring hope and improving lives within NNPC Limited communities.

“Through this programme, we aim to ensure that preventable vision challenges do not hold anyone back. By providing eye screenings, corrective lenses, surgeries, and general healthcare, we’re dedicated to bringing clarity and brighter futures to those who need it most,” Wunti, who was represented by Mrs. Bunmi Lawson, added.

Globus Bank Relocates Head Office as Agusto & Co., GCR Reaffirms National Credit Rating of A-, Stable Outlook

Globus Bank yesterday announced that it has relocated its Corporate Head Office from No 6 Adeyemo Alakija, Victoria Island to Plot 722 Akinbo Savage, Victoria Island, Lagos State.

The new corporate head office, it said in a statement, provides the ambience necessary to offer superior service to our customers while retaining the old location at 6 Adeyemo Alakija, Victoria Island as a branch.

“The Management of Globus Bank wishes to express its profound appreciation to its esteemed customers, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Board of Directors, and staff for their support over the past 5 years of operation that has seen the bank grow exponentially,” it said.

Also, the bank said Nigeria’s foremost rating agencies, Agusto & Co on last month, affirmed the itss A- rating, describing the bank as “A financial institution of good financial condition and strong capacity to meet its obligations relative to all other issuers in the same country.”

“The rating according to Agusto & Co, reflects the bank’s good profitability, acceptable capitalization ratios, and experienced management team. Agusto & Co further assigned an ESG score of “3” in acknowledgment of the material contribution of Environmental, Social and Governance concerns in the bank’s credit risk and business operations. The affirmation of A- captures the bank’s quality financial condition and strong capacity to meet its obligations relative to all other issuers wit hin the country,” the statement added.

Additionally, it said GCR Ratings likewise affirmed Globus Bank Limited’s national scale long and short-term issuer ratings of

BBB-(NG) and A3(NG) respectively; with a Stable Outlook.

“The affirmation of the ratings of Globus Bank Limited is based on its well-managed risk, stable funding structure, liquidity profile and growing competitive position. Likewise, the rating signifies Globus bank’s creditworthiness and capacity for timely payment on long and short-term

obligations. Globus Bank has opened 36 branches across the 6 geopolitical zones of Nigeria within 5 years of operation, making it the fastest organically growing commercial bank in Nigeria. The bank is financially sound with Zero NPL and a balance sheet size of N1.3trillion.

“In line with CBN capitalization policy, the bank has commenced a

fresh capital raise of N50bn by way of rights and private placement, which will be concluded by September 2024. This will take the bank’s shareholders fund to about N132Billion by the end of 2024 financial year. The bank is very much on course to achieving its minimum capital requirement of N200bn within the period stipulated by the CBN, “the bank said.

Dike Onwuamaeze

Oluchi Chibuzor

Anene: How Nigeria Can Rediscover Its Potentials through Industrialisation

Nigeria has all the requirements to be a world class industrial giant. But year after year, Nigeria keeps moving up and down the scales among the worlds top 10 poorest economies with high unemployment rates and next to zero industrial development. In this interview with the Chairman Linea Group of Companies, Mr Eloka Anene he explores industrial potentials of Nigeria and analyses the reasons for the country’s poor performance in the industrial sector, while suggesting solutions garnered from years of hands-on experience as an industrialist in Nigeria.

TELL US ABOUT THE LINEA GROUP OF COMPANIES

The Linea Group is a diversified conglomerate with interests in manufacturing, construction, pharmaceuticals, and energy. We have been involved in manufacturing for nearly two decades. Linea Miles Industries specializes in producing a variety of wood products for both domestic and export markets.

In addition to manufacturing, we are engaged in construction and infrastructure development. Linea Group also distributes pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals in bulk. In the energy sector, we procure and supply oilfield equipment and tools. One of our subsidiaries has recently ventured into renewable energy, recognizing its importance for the future. Our manufacturing unit is one of the first sustainable manufacturing facilities in Nigeria, contributing to reducing the environmental impact of production and aligning with the United Nations’ 2030 net-zero emission goal.

Through the skilled leadership of our industrial team, we have successfully navigated the challenges faced by the manufacturing sector in Nigeria. Despite difficult operating conditions, we have continued to grow, increasing production volumes and expanding our sectoral involvement. Our commitment to production-oriented enterprises has been a key driver of our sustained growth. Our involvement in manufacturing has also had significant economic and social benefits for our investors, employees, partners, and the broader community.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE SECRET OF YOUR SUCCESS?

As mentioned earlier, our enterprise is dedicated to fully leveraging the potential of the manufacturing and production sector. This aligns with our mission

to distribute the resulting wealth and benefits across all economic levels in Nigeria.

Overcoming the challenges inherent in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector can lead to substantial profits. However, success requires a strategic approach. Effective leadership, rigorous micro management, and the right talent are essential. Sourcing raw materials locally can be complex, often involving supporting suppliers or creating internal sub-chains for production or importation.

Consumer targeting is crucial. For high-end markets, quality and marketing are paramount. For low-income segments, affordability and accessible packaging are key. By addressing these factors, you can achieve significant profitability in Nigeria’s vast market.

While we’re currently focusing on the domestic market, our long-term goal is to enter the export market fully. This is a key driver of economic growth for major nations. By successfully exporting our products, we aim to contribute to Nigeria’s economic development.

WHAT CHALLENGES DO YOU FACE AS A MANUFATURER IN NIGERIA?

Manufacturing in Nigeria faces numerous setbacks that deter many investors from venturing into the sector. Among the most critical challenges are inadequate power supply, scarcity of raw materials, and high interest rates from banks. Electricity is a fundamental requirement for any industry. Nigeria, despite its population, resources, and oil wealth, remains one of the few countries globally struggling to generate sufficient electricity. Frequent nationwide power outages, lasting for days, due to breakdowns in generation and distribution

“Manufacturing in Nigeria faces numerous setbacks that deter many investors from venturing into the sector. Among the most critical challenges are inadequate power supply, scarcity of raw materials, and high interest rates from banks. Electricity is a fundamental requirement for any industry. Nigeria, despite its population, resources, and oil wealth, remains one of the few countries globally struggling to generate sufficient electricity. Frequent nationwide power outages, lasting for days, due to breakdowns in generation and distribution systems, disrupt manufacturing operations. To mitigate these disruptions, entrepreneurs often invest heavily in generators and diesel fuel, which significantly increases production costs and limits market competitiveness.”

systems, disrupt manufacturing operations. To mitigate these disruptions, entrepreneurs often invest heavily in generators and diesel fuel, which significantly increases production costs and limits market competitiveness.

Raw material scarcity is another significant obstacle. The lack of support for local sub-processors has led to a reliance on imports, which is further complicated by foreign exchange shortages and cumbersome customs procedures. Additionally, Nigeria’s deteriorating road infrastructure poses significant transportation challenges, resulting in frequent accidents, delays, and losses due to damaged goods. High interest rates from banks and burdensome taxes impose additional financial strain on businesses. Moreover, the human factor, including the need for micro-management and dealing with inefficient or moribund institutions, presents operational challenges. Given these formidable obstacles, it is a testament to the resilience of Nigerian manufacturers that some have managed to survive. However, it is essential to acknowledge and address these challenges to create a more conducive environment for industrialization and economic growth.

WHAT DO YOU THINK THE COUNTRY IS MISSING OUT ON BECAUSE OF POOR INDUSTRIALISATION

Until Nigeria prioritizes industrialization, the country will remain trapped in poverty. Industrialization will create jobs, absorb the vast number of unemployed youth, and provide a source of income and livelihood. It will transform the nation’s energy into a force that propels it from a cesspool of poverty to a world-class economy. Countries like Japan and China were once in similar situations. Today, thanks to industrialization, they have surpassed Western economies and paved the way for other Asian countries like Korea and India. There’s no reason why Nigeria cannot follow suit.

Industrialization will open Nigeria to the export market, offering alternative sources of foreign exchange beyond oil. It will reduce the cost of goods and services, improving the standard of living. This will lead to a more equitable distribution of wealth, increasing per capita income and creating a substantial middle class. A strong middle class is essential for meaningful socio-economic development.

Industrialization will also enhance healthcare and education, producing a more skilled workforce. Additionally, the increased tax revenue from industries will fund better infrastructure development. In essence, Nigeria’s future prosperity depends on its commitment to industrialization. Moreover, the country possesses the resources necessary to achieve this goal.”

WHAT DO YOU THINK THE COUNTRY NEEDS TO DO TO BUILD ITS MANUFACTURING

SECTOR?

You see, we need to begin to demystify that question. It is as simple as ABC! A few years back, what you call Dubai today was just a

heap of sand dunes in the midst of nowhere! What made all the difference? Just proper application of economic metrics. To improve its manufacturing sector, Nigeria can take several strategic steps. First, enhancing infrastructure is crucial, this includes investing in reliable power supply and efficient transportation networks to reduce operational costs and improve logistics. Also increasing access to finance for manufacturers will enable them to invest in technology and expand their operations. This can be achieved through favorable lending conditions and financial products tailored for the manufacturing sector.

And then developing a skilled workforce through vocational training and partnerships with educational institutions will ensure that the labor force meets the demands of modern manufacturing. Additionally, creating a stable policy environment that encourages local sourcing and innovation can help manufacturers thrive. By focusing on these areas, Nigeria can significantly strengthen its manufacturing capabilities, leading to economic growth and job creation.

GIVE US A GLIMPSE INTO YOUR COMPANY’S CSR INTERVENTIONS

The Linea Group and all its subsidiaries are deeply involved in the economic empowerment of young people. Our woodworking industries operate a training program that imparts skills in woodworking and construction for young people who exhibit the talent and resourcefulness required to become professional craftsmen. We train them for free and employ some of them. Others we empower with tools and capital grants to set up their own businesses. Even when they work independently, we ensure their continued success by sub-contracting them for various construction, interior décor, and furnishings projects for our clients, both locally and internationally. Many of these trainees have grown to become employers of labor themselves. We also supply imported woodworking materials to some of our trainees who are involved in trading, on a credit basis. This way, they keep their profits and return the cost price to the company, ensuring their continued business viability. We have nurtured numerous entrepreneurs through this intervention. We offer a flexible training program for students, allowing them to maintain their logbooks and come in when they can to receive training at their own pace. This enables us to train students from universities, high schools, and unemployed graduates. Our objective is to equip them with skills that will enable them to earn a living if other aspirations fail. Many of them end up working in the construction and interior décor sector at various levels. Some have advanced to becoming construction contractors based on the skills acquired from us. We are also exploring other areas of intervention, such as agriculture and information technology. Our methodology is to provide a conducive and reliable environment where people can train at their own pace, free of charge. After acquiring adequate hands-on skills, they can seek employment or start their own businesses. We provide business equipment, tools, and inputs. Giving back to society is a core value at the Linea Group, and we are strongly committed to social responsibility.

Anene

OPENING OF THE 16TH OUTLET OF BURGER KING NIGERIA...

L-R: Managing Director/CEO, Burger King Nigeria,Mr. .Rushdi Ibrahim; Group Head, Finance Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited, Mrs. Yosola Popoola; Member, Lagos State House of Assembly/

Chairman House of Committee on Transportation, Hon. Temitope Adewale ;and Group Manager, Marketing and Communications of Ibom Air, Aniekan Essienette, during the official opening of the 16th store of Burger King Nigeria in MMA2 Ikeja, Lagos... recently

Police Unveil Identity of British Citizen,

Wynne, Planning Regime Change in Nigeria

I can’t plot to destabilise country that accommodated me for 25 years, says suspect Northern govs pledge unified action against escalating insecurity Yahaya receives CNG's report on region

Segun Awofadeji in Gombe and Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Police, yesterday, unveiled the identity of a British Citizen, Andrew Wynne, who was surreptitiously plotting to topple the democratically elected government of President Bola Tinubu.

The Police also said documentary evidence and confessions, revealed that Andrew Wynne issued directives, monitored progress, and provided finance and operational guidance to achieve unconstitutional regime change in Nigeria.

The Police, therefore, declared him wanted alongside his local coordinator, one Lucky Ehis Obiyan, from Edo State, adding that global man hunt for the anarchists had since commenced in connection with the ongoing investigation.

But Wynne, has dismissed as untrue the allegations by the Nigerian Police, saying he could not have been plotting to topple the administration of a country that has accommodated him for 25 years.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja yesterday, the Force PRO, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, an Assistant Commissioner of Police, said investigations had identified a foreign mercenary, Andrew Wynne, also known as Andrew Povich or Drew

Shettima:

Povey, a British national, who built a network of sleeper cells to topple the government and plunge the nation into chaos.

"The police have launched a comprehensive investigation into the activities of the foreign national and subversive elements plotting to undermine the democratically elected government in Nigeria through unconstitutional regime change and orchestrating violence across the country," he said.

He revealed that following extensive intelligence gathering and collaboration with other security agencies, nine suspects had been apprehended, who received substantial financial backing from foreign sources to destabilise the country.

"Preliminary findings suggest they orchestrated and funded violent protests, disseminated false information, and engaged in other unlawful activities to create anarchy and justify their illegal plot to overthrow the democratically elected government," he said.

Adejobi noted that Wynne rented a space at Labour House, Abuja, for an 'Iva Valley Bookshop' and established 'STARS of Nations Schools' as a cover for his subversive activities.

Wynne, the force spokesperson said, mobilised and deployed several billions of naira to his Nigerian collaborators, urging them to mobilise the public to

violently storm police facilities and military barracks.

He said the suspect had anticipated a bloodbath that would instigate international condemnation of the Nigerian government, stating that these acts were in clear violation of the Terrorism (Prevention) Act 2011 and other relevant laws.

Adejobi said: "Since the commencement of investigations, Andrew Wynne, has fled the country. He and one of his local coordinators, one Lucky Ehis Obiyan, have accordingly been declared wanted and global hunting for them has commenced in connection with this investigation.

"The ten other suspects already apprehended have been arraigned before a competent court of law today, Monday, September 2, 2024, for Criminal Conspiracy, Terrorism Financing, Treasonable Felony, Subversion, and Cybercrime.

“They include Angel Love Innocent (F), Opaluwa Eleojo Simeon (M), Michael Tobitoba Adaramoye AKA Leni (M), Suleiman Yakubu (M), Buhari Lawal (M), Mosiu Sadiq (M), Abayomi Adeyemi (M), Abdulsalam Zubairu (M), Nuradeen Hamis (M), and Bashir Bello (M). These acts are in clear violation of the Terrorism (Prevention) Act 2011 and other relevant laws."

Inspector General of Police, Kayode

Tinubu Not Taking Nation's Security Lightly, NAN to Explore Options

Deji Elumoye

Vice-President Kashim Shettima, has declared that President Bola Tinubu was very interested in the security situation in Nigeria and was not taking it lightly.

He, however, sought regional and collective efforts to address the insecurity in West Africa's Sahel region, observing that the security situation in the Sahel region has significant implications for Nigeria and neighbouring countries.

Speaking with the leadership of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at the State House, Abuja, he emphasised the importance of collaborative action and called for wider support for NAN's upcoming international lecture on Sahel security.

His words: "The international lecture NAN is organising is very timely, especially on the issue of insecurity in the Sahel. The security situation in the nation is something that the president is very much interested in and is not taking it lightly."

Shettima expressed optimism about the potential outcomes of the conference, saying, "I believe that with the calibre of people that will grace the lecture, you will come up with a lot of perspectives on how to address the insecurity in the Sahel in a holistic way."

He also commended NAN for its crucial role in Nigeria's media landscape saying, "Your organisation plays a crucial role in Nigeria's media landscape, helping to bridge the information gap and shape public

discussion on national issues."

Earlier, NAN Managing Director, Ali Mohammed Ali, disclosed the theme of the conference as, "Insecurity in the Sahel (2008-2024): Dissecting Nigeria's ChallengesGenesis, Impacts and Options."

According to him, the lead speaker at the Lecture billed for September 25, 2024, would former Chairperson of the ECOWAS Commission, Mohamed Ibn Chambas.

The conference, he said, would be part of NAN's efforts to expand its role beyond news dissemination to actively contributing to national discourse and problem-solving.

"NAN is organising its first international lecture as part of the media's role to expand the frontiers of knowledge and find solutions to problems," Ali explained.

Egbetokun, while condemning the activities of the group, has since activated the INTERPOL tools and other global policing networks to support ongoing domestic investigations aimed at locating and apprehending the suspects at large.

The IG assured the general public that the police would leave no stone unturned in dealing with and bringing to deserved justice, any individual or group threatening Nigeria’s security and peace or promoting any movement with the motive of truncating Nigeria’s democratic government through unconstitutional means.

Noting that the police recognised and remained committed to protecting citizens' constitutionally guaranteed fundamental and democratic rights to peaceful assembly and free expression, Egbetokun advised citizens to be wary of subversive elements, who weaponise and commercialise protests for personal financial and ideological benefits.

On the alleged involvement of the NLC President, Joe Ajero, in terrorism financing and other crimes leading to his invitation for questioning by the police, Adejobi explained that contrary to disinformation, the invitation extended to certain individuals within the NLC leadership has nothing to do with rights advocacy and activities of the Union leadership.

He said it was aimed at clearing the relationship between the individuals and Wynne, who in addition to plotting unconstitutional regime change was also financing terrorism in Nigeria.

He said: "Following the interaction between the police investigation team and the NLC President, there is now a clearer understanding of the focus of the ongoing police investigation and the depth of Andrew Wynne's subversive network and activities.

“No nation will tolerate attempts by foreign elements to interfere in its internal affairs, threaten national security and organise and fund local elements to instigate uprisings aimed at destabilising the country and engendering violent and unconstitutional regime change."

Egbetokun, however, appealed for the cooperation and support of all law-abiding citizens in the ongoing investigation. He assured anyone with information leading to the arrest of any of the suspects declared wanted would be appreciated and rewarded handsomely.

Wynne Denies Allegation

However, Wynne, who made this

denial while featuring on Channels Television’s Politics Today, via Skype from his base in the United Kingdom, denied every knowledge of the allegation.

Wynne, who feigned ignorance that he was declared wanted alongside one other Nigerian, by the Nigerian police, also argued that he couldn’t have been scheming to destabilise the leadership of a country that accommodated him for 25 years.

“I am not aware that I am a fugitive. I am not aware that I am running away from the law. I have been visiting Nigeria for 25 years and have had a bookshop in the NLC office right in the centre of Abuja for seven years. All that time, of course, the security forces have paid no interest in me.

“I have always had one nationality. The name on my passport is Andrew Wynne, and I operate with a nickname. I think it really started as differentiating in the sense of the broad political education work that I do with the bookshop."

He expressed willingness to interact with the investigative team of the Nigerian police on Zoom or any other social media platform to state his own side of the story.

He, however, expressed willingness to engage with the Nigerian diplomatic mission in United Kingdom, if he is availed that channel.

Northern Governors Pledge Unified Action Against Escalating Insecurity in Region

The Chairman of the Northern States Governors' Forum (NSGF) and Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has reaffirmed the collective concerns of northern governors regarding the rising insecurity in the region, and emphasised strong commitment to partnering key stakeholders to tackle the issue effectively.

He stated this yesterday while receiving a comprehensive report of the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) put together by the Experts' Committee on insecurity in Northern Nigeria as part of the outcomes of the recently conducted roundtable meeting held in Abuja. Yahaya noted the growing impact of insecurity on the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians, particularly in the agricultural sector, which has led to hike in food prices,affecting not only the Northern states but the

entire nation.

He emphasised that the governors were committed to tackling the insecurity that has plagued the region, which has hindered farming activities, exacerbated the inflation of food commodities and general economic challenges faced by the country.

"As governors, we are deeply concerned about the security situation in Northern Nigeria. This region has the largest portion of the country's population and is endowed with mineral resources and fertile soil ideal for farming.

“The region's agricultural strength plays a significant role in ensuring food security in Nigeria. Unfortunately, the current insecurity is disrupting these activities, contributing to the rising cost of food commodities, which affects all Nigerians, not just those in the North," the Governor stated.

As part of the NSGF’s response under his leadership, Yahaya announced plans to convene an expanded meeting that would bring together all relevant stakeholders, including past and present leaders, traditional rulers, security chiefs, and civil society organisations, to discuss and implement strategies aimed at restoring the glory of the region.

"This time around, we want to take a collective approach to the insecurity issue. This report is timely. We will study it and work together towards its implementation.

“We are currently planning to convene an expanded meeting with all critical stakeholders in the region to further explore how we can come together to propose solutions that will genuinely address these problems completely," the governor said.

He also commended the leadership of the CNG for its detailed analysis, acknowledging their role in addressing the region’s most pressing issues.

Speaking earlier, leader of the delegation and Chairman of the Committee of Experts on security component of the CNG, Bashir Yusuf Ibrahim, explained that the report presented to Yahaya was a culmination of a long and painstaking process looking at the changing faces of insecurity in Northern Nigeria with a view to proffering workable solutions.

Highlighting some content of the report, he acknowledged the imperative of all society approach introduced by the group which would establish synergy among stakeholders across the spectrum of Northern Nigeria in tackling insecurity.

GOVERNOR RADDA’S CONDOLENCE VISIT TO YAR’ADUA FAMILY...

Alhaji Abu Aminu Yar Adua, an uncle to late President Umaru Yar’Adua (L) and Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, during the governor’s condolence visit to the Yar’Adua family on the death of the former president’s mother… last night

Yar’Adua’s Matriarch, Dada, Passes on at 102

Radda, Saraki, northern governors, southern senators forum mourn

Segun Awofadeji in Gombe and Francis Sardauna in

The matriarch of the Yar’Adua family, and mother of former President Umaru Yar’Adua, Hajiya Dada Habi Yar’Adua, is dead.

The woman, who died in the evening of yesterday in Katsina, was aged 102.

A family member, who pleaded anonymity, told THISDAY that she died around 7pm yesterday at her country home in Katsina, the Katsina State capital.

According to the source, a funeral prayer will be conducted at the family house, in Katsina metropolis, by 1:30pm today.

Dada was also the mother of the late General Shehu Musa Yar’adua and Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’adua, the current Chairman, Senate Committee on Army.

Her son, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, served as the president of Nigeria from 2007 until his death in May 2010. He had previously served as the governor of Katsina State from 1999 to 2007.

Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, had immediately paid a solemn visit to the Yar'Adua quarters to offer his condolences to the family.

Radda cut short his engagements in Daura and rushed to Katsina to stand in solidarity with the bereaved family.

Accompanied by key members of his administration, the governor’s response underscored the state government's support for the family in their moment of grief.

Radda praised the deceased for her exemplary life and invaluable contributions to the community, even as he highlighted her role as a pillar of strength for the Yar'adua family and her positive influence on the state as a whole.

The governor offered prayers for the repose of her soul and asked Allah to grant her eternal rest. He also prayed for strength and fortitude for the family to bear this irreparable loss.

Former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, mourned the Yar’Adua

matriarch, a woman he described as his late friend’s mother.

In a statement by his media aide, Yusuph Olaniyonu, Saraki said, “Dada Habi Yar’Adua, the beloved mother of my dear friend and our late President, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, was a true matriarch.

“Her warmth, grace, and compassion were boundless, extending to all, who had the privilege of knowing her.

“My last encounter with her in Katsina State is a memory I will always treasure – filled with her kindness and wisdom. It was a reminder of the remarkable person she was.

“Today, I join the nation to mourn the passing of this incredible woman. May Almighty Allah (SWT) grant her a place in Al-Jannah Firdaus. My thoughts and prayers are with

the Yar’Adua family during this difficult time.”

Chairman of the Northern States Governors' Forum (NSGF) and Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Muhammadu Yahaya, also expressed his condolences.

In his message of condolence on behalf of the 19 northern governors, Yahaya described the late Hajiya Dada as a rare gem and a remarkable woman, whose legacy was deeply etched in the history of Nigeria.

In the press release issued by Director-General, Press Affairs, Ismaila Uba Misilli, Yahaya said Dada’s life was a typical example of resilience, wisdom, and a nurturing spirit that greatly influenced those around her.

The NSGF chairman stated that Hajiya Dada was not only a mother

to a president, but also to a second-incommand, and a serving senator, as well as other distinguished personalities, who had played significant roles in shaping the future of Nigeria.

He recognised the profound loss that her death represented, not only to her immediate family, but to the country as a whole, given her significant contributions through her children's services to Nigeria.

Yahaya prayed that Dada’s enduring legacy would continue to inspire future generations of Nigerians to serve their country with dedication and integrity, just as her children had done.

Also reacting to the news of her demise, the Nigerian Southern Senators Forum commiserated with Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar' Adua and the entire Yar'Adua family over the demise

of their matriarch.

In a statement personally signed by Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, who is the Chairman of the forum, he said

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the beloved mother of our colleague Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar'Adua, the Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum.

Hajia Dada Musa Yar'Adua was not only a pillar of strength to the Yar'Adua family but also the revered matriarch of one of Nigeria’s most distinguished families. Her departure marks the end of an era and leaves a void that will be profoundly felt by all who knew her".

Senator Abiru was further quoted as saying that "As the mother of the Chairman of the Northern Senators

Forum and of our beloved former President, His Excellency Umaru Musa Yar'Adua, she was a source of inspiration, nurturing a legacy of service and leadership that has greatly impacted our nation. Her grace, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to her family and community will forever be remembered"

He concluded by saying "during this time of great loss, I on behalf of the forum extend our heartfelt condolences to Senator Abdulaziz, the entire family and the government and people of Katsina State. May they find comfort in the cherished memories that they shared, and may the Almighty Allah grant her Al Jannah Firdaus. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Please accept my deepest sympathies"

Foster Pan-Africanism, Nigerian, South African High Commissioners Charge African Media

MTN media innovation programme fellows embark on South African study tour

The African media has been advised to foster pan-Africanism through sustainable partnerships in order to change the negative stereotypes concerning the continent.

The High Commissioner of Nigeria to the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency, Ambassador Alexander Ajayi, and High Commissioner of the Republic of South Africa to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Ambassador Thami Museleko, made the call yesterday in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Speaking to the Media Innovation Programme (MIP), cohort three fellows, of the School of Media and Communication (SMC) of the Pan Atlantic University (PAU), when they embarked on a study tour of the MTN

Innovation Centre in South Africa, Ajayi and Museleko stated that the media could tell African stories for Africa better.

During the panel session anchored by Juliet Tontoye, MIP-3 Fellow and Station Manager, Royal Roots FM, Museleko said there was need to build trust between government and the people, adding that it is necessary to change the stereotype against the continent.

The high commissioner challenged journalists to report issues that mattered and also be objective in reporting issues in a bid to strengthen the bilateral relationship between South Africa and Nigeria.

Ajayi called for stronger synergy between government and journalists, saying the media should foster partnership among themselves if they are to change the narrative about Africa.

Chief Executive Officer/Director of the South Africa/Nigeria Business Chamber, Diana Games, while recapping the gains made in bilateral trade by both countries, advised journalists to keep retooling their skills.

President of the African Media Forum, Churchill Otieno, who was represented by former Editor-in-Chief of Publications, Sunday Times and City Press, Mathatha Tsedu, charged African journalists to report Africa for Africa for the world, adding that they must play their role in how African stereotypes are propagated against Africans.

Tsedu added that first, "There has to be a seismic change in our own psyche as Africans. We must love ourselves before we can change the perception about ourselves."

Speaking on MTN's Sustainability Strategy, MTN Group Executive on

Sustainability and Shared Value, Marina Madale, said it was premised on “Doing for Tomorrow, Today”.

According to Madale, part of this strategy include "doing for the planet: road to Net Zero" where MTN is delivering its commitment to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2040, 10 years earlier than sector pathway.

She said, "We are also 'Doing for People: Driving inclusion growth across our markets'; doing for people: contribution through ICT at the MTN Skills Academy'; and 'Doing it right: Managing key risks and proactive online safety'."

On “Ambition 2025: Framing our Strategic Priorities”, the MTN Group said they believed that everyone deserved the benefits of a modern connected life, which was why they were leading digital solutions for Africa’s progress.

Such strategic priorities included building the largest and most valuable platforms; driving industry-leading connectivity operations; creating shared value; and accelerating portfolio transformation.

All these had vitally enabled them to ensure leading customer experience; value-based capital allocation; Environment, Social Governance (ESG) at the core; and technology platforms second to none. Also visited was the Innovation Lab, where the fellows were taken on a tour of the ESG and AI; the 5-Gigaverse; Super-site efficiency; Intelligent RAN accelerates network intelligence; CASSI orientated transport network; CEI+ enabling network NNPS; SGtoB Smart Policing; Green RAN; Generative AI driven hyperpersonalised services, autonomous network, among others.

Adibe Emenyonu

Eighteen days to the September 21 governorship election in Edo State, a Senior Special Assistant to the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Samson Omoarebokhae, has been shot dead by gunmen. The tragic incident was said to have occurred on August 31, 2024, near Ozalla in Owan West Local Government Area of the State. Omoarebokhae met his untimely

death when he was ambushed while traveling.

In response to the news, the Speaker, Blessing Agbebaku, expressed deep sorrow and extended his condolences to the bereaved family.

The Speaker’s Special Adviser on Media, Mrs. Ivy Adodo-Ebojele, in a statement, revealed that Agbebaku had promptly dispatched a delegation to visit the family of the slain aide to offered his condolences.

Describing Omoarebokhae’s death

as a profound loss, Agbebaku assured the family that every effort would be made to ensure the perpetrators were apprehended and brought to justice.

“Though this is a painful situation, we pray that God, in His infinite power, will give the family a reason to smile again.

“We also pray that God grants the soul of the deceased eternal rest and gives the family the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” Agbebaku said.

The North Central APC Elders’ Forum has commended President Bola Tinubu and the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, for resolving the political crisis in Benue State. Chairman, North Central APC Elders’ Forum and former President of the Senate, Senator Ameh Ebute, in a statement, said the dissolution and constitution of the Caretaker Committee

in Benue has restored peace to both the party and governance in the state.

The forum further commended the Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, for his role in restoring peace to the APC in the region. It pointed out that Sule’s recent courtesy visit to Ganduje in Abuja to discuss the interest of the North Central Geo-political zone was a right step in the right direction.

“The forum, however, thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and

the National Chairman of our party, His Excellency, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje for resolving the political crisis which hitherto bedeviled Benue APC.

“The dissolution and constitution of the Caretaker Committee in Benue has restored peace to both the party and governance in the State,” he said. Ebute urged all APC governors of the region to emulate Sule in visiting Ganduje to further cement their relationship with the leadership at the center.

Katisina

Adedayo Akinwale

Chiemelie Ezeobi

Super Eagles Camp Bubbles with 11 Players on Opening Day

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Bayer Leverkusen forward, Victor Boniface was the 10th Super Eagles player to arrive the team’s camp in Uyo yesterday evening ahead of Sunday’s 2025 AFCON Qualifier against Cheetahs of Benin Republic. Amongst the early birds in camp was Captain of the team, William

Troost-Ekong who recently switched to the Saudi Pro League with Al Kholood.

Despite his face-off with Atalanta, forward Ademola Lookman also came in early to join the likes of Ola Aina, Taiwo Awoniyi, Semi Ajayi, South Africa-based defender Olisa Ndah, Stanley Nwabali and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.

Lookman was hoping to join French champions PSG after agreeing personal terms, but his Italian club blocked the transfer.

Also in camp as at yesterday evening was Leicester City midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi and former Bendel Insurance goalkeeper, Amas Obasogie.

Obasogie recently joined

Ethiopian club Fasil Ketema FC. Meanwhile, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed that Super Eagles caretaker coach, Augustine Eguavoen, has selected Tomaz Zorec as fitness coach for 2025 AFCON qualifiers against Benin and Rwanda this month.

He also selected match analyst Eboboritse Uwejamomere as well

in Uyo until Wednesday

Bolaji Makes Paralympic Games History, Wins Bronze in Paris

Nigerian para-badminton player at the on going Paralympic Games in Paris, Mariam Eniola Bolaji, yesterday became the first Nigerian and African athlete to win an Olympic or Paralympic medal in badminton.

She defeated Kozyna Oksana of Ukraine 21-9, 21-9 in the bronze medal match early yesterday morning.

According to President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, Bolaji’s journey to the medal was a very rough ride. “We are here now with a medal to show for all the effort and investment both on the part of the federation and more importantly from the player herself.

“The path to reaching this remarkable milestone was made possible by a collective of public, private and individual efforts, in which the Badminton Confederation Africa (BCA), Federal Ministry of Sports Development, late Coach

Bello Oyebanji, Dina Sarinena, states like Abia and Kaduna states, Corporate organizations like Mikano International, GIG Group and Owu Sportswear all played crucial roles and were very supportive throughout the journey,” observed the BFN President in excitement yesterday.

Orbih describes Eniola's remarkable victory “as a testament to her unwavering dedication, exceptional talent, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Her hard work and perseverance has paid off, not only for herself but for the entire Nigerian sporting community.”

He therefore on behalf of BFN, extends its heartfelt congratulations to Eniola Mariam Bolaji for her outstanding performance. “Her achievement is a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes across Africa and Nigeria making it a proud moment for us all,” he concluded.

as Enugu Rangers coach Fidelis Ilechukwu and Daniel Ogunmodede from Remo

After playing Benin Republic on Sunday, the Nigerian delegationwill

depart

A brilliant late goal by Flourish Sabastine in Bogota earned Nigeria all three points at the expense of the Korea Republic and put the Falconets in a good position to reach the Round of 16 at the 11th FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup finals early hours of yesterday. Opportunities were few and far between in a game between two

strong squads not unfamiliar with themselves, but Nigeria had more of the chances, particularly in a more entertaining second half at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo.

Big forward Mary Lucky Mkpa

StarTimes Takes Spotlight as NPFL Coaches Join Eagles Camp

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) continues to play a pivotal role in Nigerian football, as evidenced by the inclusion of two top NPFL coaches in the Super Eagles' coaching staff for the upcoming AFCON qualifiers.

Fidelis Ilechukwu, the 2024 NPFL champion with Rangers International, and Daniel Ogunmodede, the manager of Remo Stars, have been appointed assistant coaches to interim Super Eagles coach Augustine Eguavoen for the matches against Benin Republic and Rwanda.

The duo's selection highlights the growing recognition of the NPFL and its coaches.

Their success in the league, combined with StarTimes' recent acquisition of the NPFL broadcasting

rights, has increased visibility for the league and its talents.

The return of NPFL matches to TV screens last season marked a monumental milestone, courtesy of a landmark five-year broadcast rights deal worth N5.9 Billion with StarTimes.

This groundbreaking partnership has revolutionized the way fans experience the league, bringing the thrill of live matches directly into their living rooms and captivating a broader audience nationwide.

"Getting NPFL back on TV and partnering with a professional company like StarTimes has done our league a lot of good," said NPFL enthusiast Reuben Kolawole. "Our coaches are now getting the recognition they deserve, and our players

are no longer playing in the dark."

Both Ilechukwu and Ogunmodede bring significant experience to the Super Eagles.

Ogunmodede "Ija-ball" as he is fondly called has led Remo Stars to three consecutive continental preliminaries, while Ilechukwu the self acclaimed “Working One” has managed over 71 league games and won the NPFL title with Enugu Rangers.

The Super Eagles squad for the qualifiers will also feature at least three players who have previously played in the NPFL: goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali and Amas Obasogie, and defender Olisa Ndah who last played for Akwa United before moving to Orlando Pirates in South Africa.

was full of endeavour and with some precision, should have put away at least two of the opportunities. The Asians, who also lost by a lone goal to Nigeria in a group phase encounter at the last edition of the competition in Costa Rica two years ago, came close to drawing the first blood on the quarter-hour, but Shukurat Oladipo got one foot to a teasing cross from the right to wrong-foot Park.

Nigeria goalkeeper Shukurat Bakare missed a pull-out altogether in the 28th minute but the Korean touch took the ball over the sticks, and at the other end, Mkpa heaved the ball a little too high after a pass by Rofiat Imuran. Nigeria’s blushes were saved just before halftime when Myeyung rocked the crossbar from a 22-yard free-kick.

In the second half, Sabastine and Amina Bello saw their shots blocked in the opposition box, and substitute Chiamaka Okwuchukwu came close from a good run on the right, before Sabastine sliced the ball from the right wing to smack the upright and roll into the net for the game’s only goal.

Next up for the Falconets is a clash with three-time champions Germany at the same venue on Wednesday evening.

Following the new opportunity that opened for Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen to move to Galatasaray on a loan spell from Napoli, the Nigerian forward will not join the rest of his national teammates in Uyo until Wednesday. Osimhen was left in the dark following failed move to Chelsea and mega-pay day in the Saudi Pro league which ended last Friday. He was frozen out of the Napoli squad for the new season after demanding transfer away from Naples. But Napoli-based publication, Tutto Napoli, confirmed last night that the Nigerian star left for Turkey early yesterday to formalise all the paper works with Galatasaray and is not due to arrive Uyo until Wednesday. Sources in Italy hinted yesterday that the loan spell became the option

following Galatasaray's desperate need for a forward following the injury of their player Mauro Icardi while Napoli on the other hand were also in search of who to take the burden of Osimhen's huge wage bill. It has been a torrid summer for Osimhen due to the issues surrounding his future. The 25-year-old striker joined Napoli in 2020 and grew to become a force at the club. He also became the first African to win the Italian Capocannoniere when he registered 26 league goals in the run-up to Napoli’s Scudetto win two seasons ago. His brilliant performances attracted some of the top clubs in Europe, with Chelsea, Arsenal, Al Ahli and Liverpool reportedly interested in him. Unfortunately, he failed to seal a transfer away from Napoli due to the 130million release clause inserted in his contract to expire 2026.

The Nigerian Under-18 boys’ basketball players have been denied visas by the South African Consulate at the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. This decision has jeopardised Nigeria’s trip to the AfroBasket Men’s U18 competition starting in South Africa today.

The Nigerian boys were scheduled to face Egypt on Tuesday in Pretoria.

The players who trained and camped in Abuja on return from Abidjan are in total shock, tears, and pain as they watch their dreams of being at the FIBA World Championship fade on account of the South Africans denying them entry.

The Vice Chairman of the Youth Development Committee of the Nigeria Basketball Federation, Ugo Udezue who is already in Pretoria with the first team was shocked when he was alerted of the development. He sees the development as a total sabotage. He said on Monday, “First of all it’s rather unfortunate that an African country needs a visa to travel to another African country. Secondly, this is against the spirit of sportsmanship. These kids have sacrificed too much for a visa consular officer to deny them the opportunity to represent Nigeria globally.”

SportyBet and LALIGA have announced a landmark multi-year partnership by which SportyBet becomes the new "Official Betting Partner" of LALIGA across Africa.

Effective this season, this groundbreaking agreement firmly establishes SportyBet as the leading sports betting platform in the region, marking a new chapter in its mission to deliver world-class football content to fans across the continent.

The partnership will kick off with an unforgettable launch event in Africa featuring one of LALIGA’s most iconic ambassadors—a football legend recognized worldwide. This spectacular event will set the stage for a collaboration that promises to revolutionise the betting landscape for millions of fans on the continent.

Among the most prominent LALIGA ambassadors are legends like Malian star Frédéric Kanouté, David Villa, Luis Figo, Samuel Eto’o, Carles Puyol, and Iker Casillas, among others.

SportyBet will take LALIGA

betting experiences to new heights, introducing cutting-edge features that are unique in the sports betting world.

Fans can look forward to innovative, first-of-their-kind betting options that will redefine their interaction with the game, offering unprecedented engagement and excitement.

As part of this partnership, SportyBet will gain prominent exposure during LALIGA match broadcasts, with advertising billboards and cam carpets displaying the SportyBet brand around the stadiums. This presence will be especially noticeable during matches where Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atlético Madrid play as the visiting team, marking a major leap forward for the SportyBet brand in the world of football.

Additionally, SportyBet will provide exclusive access to LALIGA content, offering fans richer, more immersive ways to experience the league through its platform and social media channels. With enhanced, dynamic features, users will feel closer to the action than ever before.

Stars to assist him for these matches.

for Kigali same evening, for Tuesday’s Matchday 2 clash with the Amavubi (Bees) of Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium, starting from 3pm Rwanda time (2pm Nigeria time).

Super Eagles Captain, William Troost-Ekong (right) is in camp already while Victor Osimhen(left) is sorting out his loan move to Galatasaray and is not expected

Femi Solaja with agency report

U20 WOMEN’S WORLD CUP

Kenneth Okonkwo Blames Abure for Labour Party’s Crisis

Chuks OkochainAbuja

Former spokesman for Obi/Datti Campaign Organisation, Kenneth Okonkwo, has blamed the Labour Party(LP)’s national chairman, Julius Abure the party’s crisis. Okonkwo accused Abure of turning LP into a personal business.

He said the party has no elected officials at the ward, local government and state levels because Abure appointed leaders of the

party across the nation contrary to the party’s constitution.

Okonkwo further claimed that despite court judgements on an inclusive convention, Abure refused to obey the court orders.

He further stated that Abure and his executive have hijacked the party that was supposed to represent the interest of the masses and workers.

Okonkwo said: “The major stakeholders of LP went to court

Epenal Partners Guinean Defence on Maritime Safety

A Nigerian marine company, Epenal Group, has expressed delight as it partners the Defence Ministry of Equatorial Guinea for the provision of gunboats and other services to aid their marine operations.

The Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of Epenal Group, Mr. Numo Lele Aaron, stated this yesterday when the Vice Minister of National Security of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Fortunato Nsue, led other members of his team to the company’s corporate office and show house in Port Harcourt, River State.

Aaron said for the government of the West African nation to form partnership with a Nigerian firm means that they are comfortable with the gunboats and other marine gadgets built by the company.

He said: “Members of the Equatorial Guinean delegation are here because they have seen what we are doing and they are in love with it.”

“We produce boats of

different kinds and other marine equipment.

“For the Government of Equatorial Guinea to come to Epenal Group shows that Nigeria can do things even better than some of the people who bring things here to us from outside the country,” he stated.

He, however, called on the government to partner more local producers to boost the Nigerian economy, saying that: “Now you can see that we can produce this things; we are employing people and boosting the Nigerian economy.”

Speaking on how the partner engaged Epenal, Aaron explained that: “They have seen our activities with the Nigeria Navy so they decided to come and see for themselves and today they have decided to acquire this boats from us. They are here for business and we are also making Nigeria proud in the comity of nations.”

Aaron added: “Equatorial Guinea are here which shows that we are not just producing for Nigeria alone but we are going to West Africa and Central Africa.”

and obtained a judgement that compelled Abure in 2018 to organize an all-inclusive convention, inaugurate the Board of Trustees (BOT) Till date Abure refused to obey the judgement.

“He never inaugurated the BOT till date. INEC in their magnanimity brokered an agreement between Abure and the stakeholders of LP to organise an all inclusive convention. Abure refused to obey the agreement.

“In LP today, there are no elected ward, local government, state, or national executives. Abure alone appointed every official of LP untill his tenure expired. This is shameful. Yes, LP is not a party that should be controlled by one man and that’s why Abure, the only one man that controlled LP is gone after the expiration of his tenure.

“It’s even more absurd that Abure who refused to obey court judgements is accusing other law-abiding stakeholders of LP of disobeying court orders. In law, he that pleads equity, must first of all do equity. In the communique, Abure confessed that INEC has rejected him; that the elected members of LP have rejected him; that the major LP stakeholders have rejected him.

Stakeholders Call for Dialogue on Controversial Education Policy

Funmi Ogundare

Concerned Parents and Educators (CPE) yesterday called for consultations with relevant stakeholders and open dialogue on the formulation and implementation of education policies.

They made the appeal during a webinar titled: ‘Above 18/

Below 18: The Pros and Cons of the New Directive by the Minister on the Education Landscape’. The group highlighted the urgent need to reassess age restrictions for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), cautioning the federal government about the potential long-term impacts on

youths and society.

The Chief Executive Officer of Edumark Consult and Coordinator of CPE, Mrs. Yinka Ogunde, voiced her concerns over a recent directive from the Minister of Education that bars students under 18 from taking the WASSCE.

She criticised the directive for being hastily implemented, and stressed that significant educational decisions should involve thorough planning and consultation with educators. According to her, “Such directive by the minister doesn’t show good thinking and major decisions that will affect the lives of people, especially their education, which is not what should be taken overnight.

Sule to Security Operatives, Tell Me What You Need to Secure Nasarawa

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, yesterday asked heads of security operatives in the state to tell him what they need to secure the state against criminal activities.

The governor charged the heads of security operatives to furnish him with what they needed during a security meeting he had with them in the Government House in Lafia. He said: “Tell me what you need, and I shall provide them so that we can secure our people and their property. Unfortunately, some of the criminal activities we only hear of in distant places are creeping into our state capital. We cannot afford to be complacent.”

Governor Sule noted with concern cases of security breaches in some parts of the state with an assurance to redouble efforts in tackling the menace.

Sule added: “In addition to all we have done, tell me what you need and we shall provide them so that we can secure our people.

“Recent unfortunate incidences in Lafia and other places in the state cannot be allowed to continue. We cannot afford to be complacent but intensify efforts and collaboration to safeguard our people.”

Rivers Crisis: PDP Can’t Afford to Lose Fubara, Says Sani

Funmi Ogundare

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Sani, yesterday cautioned the party against allowing Governor Sim Fubara of Rivers State to defect, saying that it can’t afford to lose him to another party.

Sani, a guest of The Morning Show on ARISE News channel, spoke amid

the continued crisis between Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

The former Senior Adviser on Media and Publicity to ex-Vice President Namadi Sambo, stated that: “The PDP can’t afford to lose Fubara to another party, because if he feels he’s not in charge and can’t run the affairs of the party, he will naturally look for an avenue to do so.

“This will be catastrophic. I welcome the decision of the PDP Governors Forum in Jalingo and in line with their thinking, Bala Mohammed is now providing the needed leadership the party requires.” Wike and Fubara have been at loggerheads over the control of the political structure of Rivers State.

The rift had affected the state House of Assembly which had produced factions arising from lawmakers loyal to the duo.

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

FG to Terrorists, Bandits

“The time is up for these bandits and terrorists as increased and consistent operations will weaken all their activities. Outraged at the activities of terrorists and bandits ravaging Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi States, the Minister of State for Defence...directed the CDS, General Christopher Musa, and other military chiefs to move to Sokoto...to rid the NorthWest...of banditry, kidnapping and other forms of terrorism” --MinisterofStateforDefence, BelloMatawalle,givesthemarchingordertoflushoutbanditsandterroristsinNorth-West.

TUESDAY WITH REUBEN ABATI

abati1990@gmail.com

NNPC And Those Who Plan To “Remove”Tinubu

“HBros. Hello. Hello. Hello”

“Yes. I can hear you”

“Which kin thing be this now? I don dey call you since, you no pick call. Person go dey call you, you no go pick.”

“At your level, you should know that if you call somebody once or twice and the phone rings, the best thing to do is to leave a message and expect the person to call back.”

“I called you up to ten times.”

“Why? Once you call a person twice, leave a message or send a text. Do I owe you money? You Nigerians do not know how to use a phone. You think if you call me, I must answer you compulsorily. I do not respond to such calls. All the people who call me up and down are people who want to beg for money. In this Tinubu Nigeria, if you call me and up and down, I won’t answer. I may even block your line because the desperation is a serious signal, that a hungry Nigerian is calling me. I did not cause inflation oh, let nobody come and disturb me. All of you who voted for APC in 2015, 2019 and 2023, carry your cross. Do you know some people even have the effrontery to come and ask me to help pay for their wives’ hospital bills in the maternity ward. If you have enough strength to impregnate a woman, when it is nine months and the result comes out, carry your own cross. The notice is long enough. I don’t want to hear that nonsense about helping the neighbour. Neighbour wey no get common sense.”

“So, am I one of those persons who will disturb you for hospital bills? When person call you, make you pick”

“I dey unavailable that time. Davido says I am unavailable. Dem no dey see me. The network must have told you that the line you were calling was not available at the time. So, what’s up, Omo? I have a busy day.”

“Have you seen what I am seeing in the papers today? They say NNPC Limited is facing financial strain, financial pressure and that is why there is fuel scarcity, and long queues. NNPC says it is overburdened by debt obligations running into about $6.8 billion”

“I thought they said it was weather and bad roads causing the fuel supply disruptions, and that even if they were owing, it is in the nature of the business to source credit.”

“We are in September. The weather condition will soon change from rainy season to dry season in Nigeria. There is a limit to which anyone can blame the weather and the roads. The truth has now been let out of the bag. My question to you is what do you think this implies?”

“It is obvious. NNPCL is the breadwinner of Nigeria. If the company says it is under financial pressure, it is as good as saying that Nigeria is financially bankrupt. When you link that to the fact that NNPCL is the sole importer of finished products in the downstream sector, it means that the NNPC Limited has no money to import more PMS, and that would create supply problems and translate into fuel scarcity and longer queues at the fuel stations. Very simple.”

“Nigeria produces over 1.3 million barrels of crude per day. How is that possible? NNPC Limited can sell crude and make money.”

“Sorry. Your 1.3 million, 1.4 million barrels have already been used to take loans upfront from Afrexim Bank and other sources. You produce the crude; you use it to pay existing debts. It is a perfect storm.”

“But what of the plan to have an Operation and Maintenance concession with private investors at the Warri and Kaduna Refineries?”

“It is called O and M. If you are an investor, I ask you, will you go and invest your resources in the same refineries that the Nigerian Government has not been able to fix for the past 20 years? Not even the Chinese who are looking for every possible opportunity in Africa will go near that. Why do you think the multinationals are very careful with Nigeria and some of them are using style, style to reduce their risk margins in Nigeria? A country that cannot protect its biggest assets cannot be

trusted. Investors look at risk factors. And I don’t think that refineries should be for concession. They should be privatized. Or sold as scrap. The Nigerian Government cannot run refineries.”

“President Tinubu is in China. He is talking to the Chinese looking for more investments. We pray that he succeeds at the Forum for China- Africa Co-operation (FOCAC)”

“I hear everybody is in China too, with some of your Ministers behaving like they have seen Heaven, the same Heaven that they cannot create here in Nigeria”

“Don’t mind those ones. Very soon there will be a cabinet reshuffle and they will be sent out”

“How can you be so sure?”

“I am not sure of anything. I just think that the President should return to the country to address the many matters arising. He is Minister of Petroleum, and the fuel queues have not disappeared. There is flooding in many of the states.”

“The President does not have to be on the ground for the country to run properly. That is why he has appointed people to do the job. The fuel scarcity issue is simple. I wish the government can deal with all the rent collectors in the oil and gas sector. They are the ones causing the problems and they are all over the system. The fuel marketers. The fuel depot owners. The middlemen. The thieves. Tinubu did not cause the crisis. This is one of those things that Tinubu inherited. He is trying to clear the rot in the land. His situation is compounded by the fact that he is coming as President after eight years of Buhari, whose government is remembered for its sleep-walking for eight years!”

‘Buhari. Hmm. Have you noticed that since he left office more than one year ago, nobody, I mean nobody, I mean no institution or platform anywhere in the world has invited him to come and give a lecture on any subject, not even cattle rearing? Even his Vice President gets invited all over the world. President Jonathan has been busy virtually every month since he left office in 2015. President Tinubu has a lot to worry about taking over from Buhari”.

“I am hearing that the Federal Government may increase fuel price. The Minister of State for Petroleum has said that PMS must be sold above the landing cost, at the open market price to stop smuggling and ensure sustainable fuel supply.”

“One, I don’t think the fuel subsidy regime which government had to go back to is sustainable. It only benefits the rent collectors of Nigeria. Two, I am worried about fuel price going through the roof. What would be the open market price of

PMS? N2, 000?”

“People are already buying fuel at over N1, 000”

“We have issues with foreign exchange. If we don’t strengthen the Naira, people will groan.”

“As an economist, I think the pain may be for about two months, then things will stabilize and the market will adjust and self-correct.”

“Please leave economics out of this matter. No economic theory works in Nigeria. When prices go up in this environment, they will refuse to come down and the government will be confronted with another problem.”

“But I hear the Dangote Refinery has started production, up to about 70 to 80%. If they pressurize the refinery further, production levels for PMS could reach 90%.”

“What you do not know is that Dangote Refinery is a private business. Oil business is international. Dangote Refinery is not a charity outfit. They will sell at open market price and in any case NNPC limited has not yet reached an agreement with the Refinery as to how much fuel should be sold.”

“Are we helpless then? Will fuel price go up?”

“Things will get worse before they get better.”

“But how about this thing I am hearing that one British national, Andrew Wynne is working with some other persons to remove Tinubu. The Police have declared a certain Drew Povey, also a Briton wanted for subversive activities against Tinubu’s government. Povey is accused of renting a space at Labour House in Abuja as a cover for his activities which includes the funding of protests to create anarchy in Nigeria.”

“The same Povey says he has been running an innocent business in Nigeria for about seven years and that he has never done anything wrong.”

“A sleeper cell in Labour House, shortly after the NLC President was invited by the Police for terrorism related issues? I sense something here. But my position, Bros is that nobody should ever think of talking about removing Tinubu’s government. Britons coming to Nigeria to remove government? That would be pure madness. Anybody that tries any nonsense. No, it is not even trying, if anybody gets so reckless as to think of it, that person and his or her collaborators should be summarily executed. When a Northerner was in power, nobody talked about removing anybody. Now that it is our turn, some animals are talking about removing. This country belongs to all of us. Whoever is frustrated, hungry or angry should wait till the general elections in 2027, and make a choice at the polling station.”

“I agree with you. The Nigerian Military has also pledged their loyalty to the President and the Nigerian state. Even the Police.”

“The Police have no option. The retirement age for policemen has just been extended by the Senate from 60 to 65 years. The IGP, Kayode Egbetokun has been granted a grace period of four more years.”

“Well, well, well. I really don’t have a problem with that. The extension is not for Egbetokun alone. Other policemen will benefit from it, and every government has a right and the privilege to adopt its own directions. In the. UK, Sir Keir Starmer wants to stop winter fuel privileges. He wants to introduce a more stringent tax regime. The only thing that bothers me is that I know one police officer who is always terrorizing other people, threatening to lock people up. What this new law means is that he would spend more time wearing the police uniform. Useless man.”

“The general belief out there is that the retirement age for policemen was revised just to keep Egbetokun as Inspector General of Police. He is a Tinubu man, they say. And Tinubu wants his own person in that office.”

“I don’t get it. If you are President, will you as Tinubu appoint Peter Obi’s person or Atiku’s person as IGP? These are commonsense things. What we should expect is performance and better quality from the Nigeria Police Force.”

“You know what I am thinking?”

“What?”

“With all these problems that we are facing in Nigeria, why would the President buy a new

Tokunbo Presidential jet? Why would a member of the National Assembly of Nigeria collect as much as N21 million per month at a time NNPC Ltd says it is facing financial constraints?”

“You have a point. Nigerian leaders should be seen to identify with the people. Yes. But purchase of PMS is not the same as buying a presidential jet or the N21 million that Senators collect. It doesn’t show on them anyway. Many of these our lawmakers look miserable.”

“It is just that I expect higher standards of conduct.”

“From who? From Comrade Senator Adams Oshiomhole for example?”

“Ha. Comrade oh Comrade. I am his fan oh. And I like his contributions on the floor of the Senate. His intervention on the National Anthem issue. His request that the Nigerian military must account for all the money that they collected to fight terrorism and banditry. But Comrade drop person hand oh, with his attack on Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, the wife of Governor Obaseki of Edo State, publicly calling her a barren woman, and asking the couple why they have failed to adopt a child.”

“I was shocked too. When did Comrade Oshiomhole become a family planning expert. And who ask am question? Wetin concern am?”

“He was actually defending the APC Gubernatorial candidate in Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, after Mrs Obaseki while introducing Mrs Ifeyinwa Ighodalo to the women electorate in Ubiaja, South East Local Government said that it is only the PDP candidate that has a wife among all the Gubernatorial aspirants in Edo State. She did not mention anybody’s name.”

“Having a wife or a child is not a pre-requisite for becoming a Governor. There is no such thing in the Nigerian Constitution. But even if the innuendo lands perfectly where it is targeted, what is Oshiomhole’s own in the matter? We hear more from him than from the APC candidate himself. He has become Okpebholo’s spokesman and campaign manager. I sympathize with the people of Edo State. Instead of their politicians talking about issues – how to fix roads, generate employment, create jobs, promote prosperity, what we now hear is gutter politics – who has a wife who does not have, who has children, who does not have. Who has DSTV, who does not. Terrible”

“I think the Comrade Senator owes the Obasekis an apology. Politics or no politics, there are things an elder should not say. When JD Vance, Donald Trump’s running mate in the US election played the same fertility card referring to Kamala Harris as a “childless cat”, there was an uproar. There must be decorum in politics.”

“Sometimes I actually think that the whole world is going mad. Look at what the South African did to Chidinma Adesina. They pursued her out of the Miss South Africa Beauty Pageant. They threw all kinds of things at her: They said she was married or divorced, the organizers said it did not matter, they said her mother is an identity thief and that she is actually from Mozambique. Nobody remembered that Nelson Mandela, father of modern South Africa also married a former First Lady from Mozambique. When Chidinma was invited to participate in the Miss universe pageant in Nigeria, South African netizens pursued her still. They gave their votes to Miss Kwara. But in the end Miss Chdinma Adesina emerged victorious. A very big story about xenophobia, national identity politics, Nigeria South Africa relations and the love-hate relationship between the peoples of both countries.”

“Quite a moving human story. Congratulations to Chdinma Adesina. Thanks to all the fans who gave her the 15, 482 votes that brought her victory. Perhaps not everyone is going crazy. Some people will always stand by you, no matter what.”

“What do you think of Nyesom Wike saying he would fight anybody that supports Governor Fubara of Rivers state, be such a person a Governor of another state or anybody at all?”

“Please, Bros, I think my phone is out of credit. I sincerely do not want to discuss Wike.”

ello,

President Bola Tinubu