WEDNESDAY 4TH SEPTEMBER 2024

Dangote Refinery: Otedola Hails Tinubu's Unwavering Support as New Facility Begins Petrol Production

Says Nigerians will now know actual national daily fuel consumption

First Bank Holdings Plc, Mr. Femi Otedola, yesterday hailed President Bola Tinubu on his support for the new Dangote refinery located in Lagos.

Describing the President’s backing for the project as ‘unwavering’ Otedola in a message on his X handle,

stated that Tinubu’s support for the 650,000 barrels per day, $20 billion facility had been instrumental to the success of the project. Dangote had yesterday said that the release of petrol to the public from the refining facility could be in a matter of hours pending

PDP Governors Reply Wike, Say His Threats Unbridled, Irresponsible and Unacceptable

North-east group condemns FCT minister’s action, seeks his sack

Dangote Releases Sample of Refined Petrol, Says Local Production Will Stabilise Naira

In a united response, governors elected on the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), yesterday, upbraided the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for saying he would “put fire in their states”, if they intervened in the politics of his native Rivers State. The PDP governors disclosed their position in a communique issued after a meeting in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital. They described Wike’s NNPC raises petrol price to N897 per litre, filling stations sell for N950 and above Lokpobiri says FG did not fix N1,000 per litre price for marketers NLC to meet over fresh hike in fuel price President Holds Bilateral talks With Xi Jinping, Both leaders raise

mEEtS Xi JiNPiNg...

President People's Republic of China, President Xi Jinping (right), received President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at Great Hall of the People, during the State Visit to Beijing, China ... yesterday

L-R: Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu; President Bola Tinubu; President Xi Jinping; and Minister and Chairperson, China National Development and Reform Commission, Mr. Zhang Shanjie, during the signing of Memorandums of Understanding for the strengthening of relations between Nigeria and China in Beijing... yesterday

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Billionaire businessman and Chairman of Geregu Power Plc as well as

tiNUBU

Chuks Okocha and Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

Tinubu Holds Bilateral Talks with Xi Jinping, Both Leaders Raise Ties to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Level

Tinubu: Our government remains committed to sustainable growth through economic reforms Jinping: We'll continue to seek collective strength via unity, and win-win cooperation Both leaders sign 5 MoUs on nuclear energy, human resource development, promoting the belt and road initiative, media exchange and cooperation President lays wreath for fallen heroes at Beijing cenotaph

Deji Elumoye in Beijing, China

President Bola Tinubu and his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, on Tuesday in Beijing, China, announced the elevation of Nigeria-China ties to comprehensive strategic partnership levels.

The two leaders, who met at the Great Hall in Central Beijing, also agreed to build a high-level Nigeria-China community with a shared future.

The meeting attended by aides of the two presidents, including cabinet ministers, was preceded by the inspection of a guard of honour by Tinubu and waving of Nigerian flags by selected Chinese children, to the delight of the elated Nigerian president.

The elevation of ties between Nigeria and China was the highlight of the talks between the two leaders during Tinubu’s official visit to China.

The Nigerian president's official visit preceded his participation in the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, scheduled

to hold from Wednesday, September 4, to Friday, September6l 6.

In his speech during the bilateral talks, Tinubu described his visit to China as important for Nigeria and the rest of Africa, "as I arrive in my capacity as the Chairman of ECOWAS. I thank you for the high-level of honour accorded to us".

The Nigerian president stated, “Relations between China and Nigeria have, indeed, lasted for over half a century and should be further strengthened to advance our trade and economic development programmes.

''Nigeria holds great potential as the country with the largest population in Africa and is the biggest economy with a very young population that can drive economic growth and cross-sectoral programmes.

''We have upgraded the relationship to more than what is just strategic –but a comprehensive developmental partnership.

''This comprehensive strategic partnership should result in robust development, stability, and security

in the West African sub-region. This is very crucial."

On economic reforms in Nigeria, Tinubu said his administration remained committed to sustainable growth through the effective implementation of ongoing economic reforms.

He said, "We believe that President Xi has demonstrably reformed the Chinese economy, and our reform programme in Nigeria is on a similar course. I am a reformer with verifiable antecedents.

''We have recognised the need to reform our economy, and we are doing so diligently across tax and tariff reviews, to various other segments of our nation's economy.

''Trading and investment partners will have easy access to bring in their investments and seamlessly take their resources out."

Jinping noted the strong mutual understanding between Nigeria and China since the establishment of diplomatic ties over the past 50 years.

The Chinese president stated, “We have found the path of seeking

COREN Begins Engineering

collective strength, through unity, and win-win cooperation.

''China and Nigeria, as major developing countries, strengthening strategic coordination will inject fresh impetus to China-Africa relations in the new era and spearhead common progress among Global South countries.''

According to the Chinese leader, the 2024 FOCAC Summit provides an opportunity to reflect on mutual friendships and advance the consolidation of China-Africa relations.

He pledged that China and Nigeria would continue to work closely within the FOCAC framework as a model of cooperation between nations.

During the meeting, both presidents witnessed the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) on various areas of mutual interest namely:

* Cooperation plan between Nigeria and China on jointly promoting the Belt and Road Initiative;

* Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the peaceful application of nuclear energy;

Assembly in Abuja, Minister Calls for Quality Infrastructure

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigerian (COREN) yesterday formally kicked off its 32nd Assembly in Abuja, with the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Mr Ahmed Dangiwa calling for a culture of building quality infrastructure nationwide.

At the event, the minister highlighted the issue of engineering failures in the country, explaining that there was the need for rigorous regulation to prevent the menace.

He stressed that COREN remains one of the most important regulatory partners in the sector, underscoring the significance of the standards and professional ethics enforced by the body in ensuring the quality, safety, and resilience of housing and other infrastructure.

He added: “The standards COREN

sets and the professional ethics it enforces are crucial to ensuring the quality, safety, and resilience of housing and infrastructure projects across the nation.”

Specifically, Dangiwa raised the issue of building collapses, which he said have plagued the country for a long time, acknowledging COREN’s efforts to mitigate these issue.

He congratulated COREN for its proactive measures in addressing the challenges within the built environment, especially concerning building collapses, especially in the area of training, certification, and licensing.

The minister emphasised the importance of synergy, teamwork, and information sharing among professionals to enable proactive measures against potential engineering failures.

Dangiwa urged the engineering community to use the assembly as an

opportunity to reflect on the current challenges and collaborate in finding sustainable solutions.

Also speaking, the President of COREN, Prof. Sadiq Abubabar noted that for the first time, the country was going to witness another epoch-making event in the way of addressing the formal and informal sector wherein they will be allowed to have some certification or licensing.

“For the first time in this country, we're going to expand that sector that allows building collapse to thrive. We have developed a technique that is very comprehensive that will allow us, for the first time in Nigeria, to track who is doing what, at what point, who is not doing his job, either individuals or organisations.

“So that for the first time, we're able to track and have very comprehensive documentation that allows

us to do forensic investigation to be able to identify the perpetrators and to be able to apply the law accordingly to sustain the incessant building collapse,” Abubabar stated.

Also speaking, the Governor of Nasarawa state, Abdullahi Sule, stated that his state has become one of the four states contributing at least N1 billion to the federation through improved harnessing of mineral resources.

He lamented that Nigeria was still generating less than 6,000 megawatts of power in 2024, stressing that engineers must practically find a way to solve the problem.

“Nigerians are intelligent. Nigerians have the capacity. Engineers in Nigeria are some of the best engineers that you can find. So we must do something to be able to practice and show that we are truly engineers that are making this impact,” Sule stated.

* Memorandum of Understanding on strengthening cooperation on human resource development under the global development initiative;

* Memorandum of Understanding on media exchange and cooperation, and

* Memorandum of Understanding between China Media Group and the Nigerian Television Authority.

Rising from the bilateral meeting, Tinubu proceeded to the Beijing cenotaph, just a stone’s throw from the Great Hall, where he laid a wreath for the fallen heroes after the rendition of Nigeria's national anthem – Nigeria We Hail Thee – by Chinese soldiers.

The Nigerian president had earlier on Monday in Beijing visited the China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC), during which he acknowledged the company's role as a reliable partner in Nigeria's infrastructure development programme, and commended its ongoing railway projects in the country.

Tinubu stated, during a meeting with Chairman of CRCC, Mr. Dai Hegen, following a tour of the CRCC and China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) office in Beijing, “It is equally very important that we give assurances to the Nigerian people across our local communities that the IbadanAbuja-Kaduna-Kano railway segments will be completed and done to the satisfaction of Nigeria and West Africa at large.

''We will support your investment in solid minerals and other ventures in Nigeria. I am here to assure you that Nigeria is ready to do business with you.''

Hegen disclosed that CRCC had been involved in Nigeria for 43 years, implementing over 300 projects and training over 100,000 local workers.

He said, ''The Abuja-Kaduna railway and Lagos-Ibadan railway have transported approximately nine million passengers and 180 tonnes of cargo. The Lagos blue line has transported over 1.6 million passengers.”

Also on Monday, Tinubu visited Huawei Technologies' Beijing Research Centre, where the company announced the launch of DigiTruck, a mobile ICT classroom aimed

at enhancing digital literacy in underserved Nigerian communities.

During the president's meeting with Huawei's leadership, led by Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mr. Liang Hua, the company said the initiative would operate in 10 states annually, training at least 3,000 students each year.

Acknowledging the ongoing efforts by Nigeria's Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy to train three million technical talents (3MTT) and equip the country's young population with the skills necessary for present and future economic opportunities, the Huawei leadership said the DigiTruck initiative will complement the programme.

Hua praised Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for identifying digital technology as a critical driver of economic growth.

He stated, "This is very encouraging for us. Huawei is fully prepared to offer its ICT expertise and become a reliable partner of the Nigerian government to support the country in achieving its policy objectives and furthering its digital, intelligent, and low-carbon development."

Chief Executive Officer of Huawei Nigeria, Mr. Chris Lu, expressed support for Nigeria's National Talent Export Programme (NATEP), an initiative that seeks to position Nigeria as a hub for talent outsourcing in Africa.

Lu said, "In the future, we hope to continuously develop the NOC and expand its capacity so that it can meet the requirements of more African markets, thus, facilitating more Nigerian technology talents in serving more overseas' markets and helping to achieve the goal of NATEP."

During the tour of the Huawei Research Centre’s exhibition hall, Tinubu and his delegation were introduced to Huawei's latest innovations in e-government, smart education, smart grid, and solar power, demonstrating their potential to enhance public services, digital governance, and Nigeria's inclusive development agenda.

As part of the efforts to achieve the aforementioned goals, Huawei also plans to establish a joint PV test lab with Nigeria's Rural Electrification Agency (REA).

L-R: Vice President, Oil & Gas, Dangote Industries Limited, Devakumar Edwin; President/CE, Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote; and Group Executive Director, Commercial Operations, Dangote Industries Limited, Fatima Aliko Dangote, during the unveiling of the first output of the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) product (Petrol), from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, Lekki Lagos... yesterday

and

Nigeria, Others to Seek Increased Financing, Investments, Debt Relief, Others from Developed Nations

FG eyes UN support to achieve food security, economic diversification

The United Nations Deputy Secretary-General to Nigeria, Dr. Amina Mohammed, yesterday assured the federal government of continued support in surmounting current economic challenges.

She said Nigeria will seize the opportunity of the Africa Food Summit scheduled to hold in Kigali, Rwanda, to push for financing and increased investments as well as ask for debt relief from its creditors.

The UN deputy secretary-general spoke at a meeting with the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari in Abuja.

She said Nigeria will further seek different ways on green transitions on carbon credits as well as explore innovative financing on green bonds, and foreign direct investments from the private sector, adding that such inflows were key to revenue generation to help developing countries power systems and overcome challenges.

Mohammed said while much is expected from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, in terms of the food security policies, the “international community will make sure that we do our best to support you to meet those expectations”.

This came as Kyari, in earlier remarks, urged the UN ambassador to use her global influence to explore opportunities for Nigeria to create jobs, diversify the economy and reduce food imports.

Th minister said the country

must rise to the occasion and invest massively in agriculture leveraging the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs)1 and 2.

However, Mohammed said though the country may be facing difficulties at the moment, “I still believe it has more potential than the challenges and I look forward to seeing you succeed”.

She said even though overseas development assistance remained important for developing nations, the scale of financing required to

Electoral Act: Appeal Court Moves to Save Governors Whose Deputies Are Disqualified

Says winners shouldn't be sworn in until courts determine appeals against them Wants pre-election

sunday aborisade in Abuja

The Court of Appeal, yesterday, proposed an amendment to the Electoral Act, which would ensure that a governor whose deputy has been disqualified by a competent court of law was sworn-in and allowed to nominate another running mate

The Supreme Court had Thursday, February 13, 2020, sacked David Lyon of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as governor-elect of Bayelsa State, barely 24 hours to his inauguration. Lyon had won the November 2019 governorship election, but a five-member panel of the apex court led by Justice Mary Odili nullified his election because his deputy, Biobarakuma Degi-Eremienyo, presented false information to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

But, the appellate court in its proposal at a three-day retreat on amendments of the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act 2022 by the National Assembly in Abuja, explained that the anomaly should be addressed.

The retreat was put together by the Joint National Assembly Committee on Electoral Matters in collaboration with the Policy And Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC).

The session on the Judiciary was presided over by the 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.

The proposed amendments by the President, Court of Appeal, Hon.

matters terminated at the appellate court

Justice Monica Dongbam-Mensem, was presented to the NASS panel by the duo of Justices Peter Olabisi Ige and Abba B. Mohammed at the event, attended by the leadership of registered political parties in Nigeria.

The President of the Appellate Court specifically sought an amendment to Section 187 of the 1999 Constitution to include a new Section 187(1).

The justice explained that Subsection (1) (A) & (B) should state clearly that the disqualification or non-qualification of a deputy governor shall not affect the governor-elect or governorship candidate of a political party.

The proposed Section 187 (1) (A), she said, should read that: “The removal of a deputy-governor or deputy-governorship candidate on account of qualification or disqualification by a Court or Tribunal, shall not

affect the election of a governorship candidate or governor-elect.

“Section 187 (1) (B) If a deputy governor or deputy-governorship candidate is removed by a Court or Tribunal, the governor or governorship candidate shall have the right to nominate another person as deputygovernor or deputy-governorship candidate.”

The Appellate Court also proposed an amendment into the Section 246 (3) which states that, the decision of the Appeal Court in relation to the pre-election matters shall be terminated at the Appeal Court.

“The decisions of the Court of Appeal in respect of appeals arising from the Governorship, National and State Houses of Assembly election petitions and all pre-election matters shall be final,” the proposal read.

Similarly, the Appellate Court sought amendment to Section 285(7)

& (12) of the Constitution on the need to dispose of, all litigation arising from elections within 60 days.

The proposed amendment to Section 285(7) of the 1999 Constitution, the Appellate Court states:

“An appeal from a decision of an election tribunal or Court of Appeal in all election matters shall be heard and disposed of within 60 days from the date an appeal is entered in the Court of Appeal or the Supreme Court.

“285 (12) of the 1999 Constitution: – ‘An appeal from a decision of a Court in a pre-election matter shall be heard and disposed of within 60 days from the date an appeal is entered in the Court of Appeal or the Supreme Court."

The Court also sought to an amendment of Section 285 of the Constitution by inserting a new subsection 15.

make impact was in trillions and not billions of dollars.

She said, “We need to support a financial architecture that is more willing to bring the investments to countries like Nigeria.

“This is a country that should not be compared with any other. We have a large population that alone is an asset but we have to invest in it whether in terms of education or the fact that we are seeing it as a market. That alone can strengthen our foundations.”

Commenting on the security challenges which the country is currently grappling with, she said, “Well, I think the question of security is one that is being handled by the government. It's not just a national issue, it's a sub-regional issue as well.

“And they have to handle this in a manner in which we're looking at those that are affected most. And in food security is it the smallholder farmers that have been displaced.

“What we are doing from the UN is to help that planning so that we can continue to support the displacement while we're trying to solve the security issues in the country. It's not easy, it will not happen overnight.

There are many interests that have to be resolved as you see all over the continent.”

Nonetheless, she said, “But I think that the strategy that the government has in itself, if we can get behind it and support it with the resources that are needed, we should be able to manage the food security issue in time.

On the rising cost of commodities and how the UN could support, Mohammed said, “Well, we continue to support the strategies both from an economic perspective but also a food production perspective. And I know that this crisis is not just what happens domestically, it's also external -inability to recover in most of our countries in Africa from the

COVID crisis, from the food security crisis of the war in Ukraine.

“So multiple crises have mounted and to find our pathway out of that is not something that will happen overnight. But I think the direction is right and as we go, we will find that there are many more hurdles but provided we're speaking together in a federal system, from the local governments to the states, and of course the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, I think we will overcome.”

In his remarks, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, said the country must rise to the occasion and invest massively in agriculture leveraging the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs)1 and 2.

He said with large population and growing demand for food security, Nigeria’s partnership with the United Nations had become critical to meet the attendant huge consumption demand in the immediate and long-term plan of action, adding that the ministry was totally committed to providing the desired policy direction to steer the agriculture and food security sector.

The minister also said the mandate of ministry was well aligned towards the attainment of the key priorities of President Bola Tinubu’s 8-point agenda.

He pointed out that the country has had along-standing history of cooperation with some of the UN Organizations across various sectors, including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Industrial Development Organization(UNIDO), International Labour Organization (ILO), World Food Programme (WFP), World Trade Organization (WTO) and International Organization for Refugees, among others with notable success stories.

Coalition of CSOs Seeks End to Female Genital Mutilation, Backs Legislation

emmanuel addeh in Abuja

A coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), led by Women Against Violence & Exploitation (WAVE) has backed a submission to the National Assembly advocating the adoption of laws prohibiting Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in the Nigeria. This initiative, the organisation said, marks a significant effort to protect the rights and wellbeing of girls and women across the nation.

WAVE Foundation, founded in 2016, is the first organisation to organise a walk to end female

genital mutilation in Nigeria. A registered non profit organisation in special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nation, it specialises in gender equity and transformation leadership.

The group expressed full support to the recommendations sent to the National assembly for deliberations and to enact laws that will prohibit female genital mutilation, and also made submissions of actions to be taken by the National Assembly to achieve the goal.

“We express our full endorse-

ment of the submission sent to the National Assembly advocating for the adoption and implementation of comprehensive laws prohibiting FGM. This crucial initiative, spearheaded by WAVE Foundation and Value Female Network (VFN), represents a significant step towards protecting the rights and well-being of girls and women across our nation.

“We urge the National Assembly to prioritise the enactment of laws that unequivocally prohibit all forms of FGM. Such legislation must include strict penalties for

perpetrators and robust protection mechanisms for survivors.

“We call for nationwide campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of FGM and to educate communities about the legal and health implications associated with this harmful practice and also emphasise the importance of involving local communities, traditional leaders, and religious institutions in the fight against FGM. Their support and collaboration are vital to the success of any legislative measures,” the group stated. It further advocated the provi-

sion of accessible healthcare and support services for survivors of FGM. This, it said, includes physical, psychological, and social support to help them rebuild their lives and regain their dignity.

“We demand the establishment of monitoring and accountability frameworks to ensure effective enforcement of the laws prohibiting FGM. Regular reporting and evaluation mechanisms are essential to measure progress and address challenges. In addition a law should be made to protect the whistle blowers from being victimised”

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Social Development

Humanitarian Affairs, Mrs. Ifueko Alufohai; Chairman, Edo State Sports Commission, Yusuf Alli; Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, and Special Adviser to the Edo State Governor on Media Projects, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, during a press conference in Benin City, to

season Betsy Obaseki Women Football Tournament (BOWFT) ... yesterday

James emejo in Abuja

CONFERENCE ON NIGERIA'S NON OIL SECTOR PERFORMANCE...

May & Baker CEO, Ajah: Cost of Medicine Will Remain High till Power, Forex Situation Improve

Says zero tariffs on pharmaceuticals yet to take effect since June announcement

Sunday Ehigiator

The Managing Director and CEO of May and Baker Nigeria Plc, Mr. Patrick Ajah, has warned that the cost of medicines in Nigeria will remain high until the power and forex situations in the country improve.

He also disclosed that an executive order signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on June 28, 2024, exempting essential medical imports from duties and VAT, has yet to be implemented, despite being over two months old. Ajah made this statement at a press conference in Lagos, commemorating May and Baker's 80th anniversary in Nigeria.

He attributed the high cost of medicines to local manufacturers’ reliance on imported Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) and packaging materials, which are affected by the high and fluctuating exchange rate.

According to him, the pharma industry has done a lot to reduce the cost of medicines, including depriving themselves of profits, despite paying high forex, and tariffs to import APIs and packaging materials.

His words: “When GSK left, prices of things like Ventolin Inhaler, which we know many asthmatic patients need, skyrocketed.

“Any asthma patient that goes into crisis and doesn't have inhalers is going to die. There's nothing you're going to do about it, and the doses are very technical, there is no company in Nigeria that can make them because they don’t have the machine to make those inhalers.

“It used to cost about N1,800 when

GSK was fully on the ground. The month they announced they were leaving. It was not available anywhere.

It's not just Ventolin, there's Seretide and the others, also inhalers. The cost of Ventolin went as high as N25,000 and Seretide as high as N50,000.

“And some of the key reasons are because we're still importing. Most of the APIs that we use are imported. I just came back from India. Most, if not all the APIs are imported including packaging materials and so many other things that we use to produce these medicines, they are imported.

“The difference you're going to have is if that product can be made by a local company like us, the cost will be less than if you were importing the finished product because you'll be importing everything.

“When Nigeria floated Naira, the exchange rate went from N461 to a dollar, to N1,600 to a dollar. We've been struggling for some months now to buy dollars. The least we can get is N1,509. Multiply that increase by how much we buy active ingredients, like paracetamol.

“So, if you multiply it, you find out that most companies are not making a profit. And that's why companies are collapsing. If the government doesn't do anything about the exchange rate, I'm sorry to say the price of drugs will not come down.

“We have on several occasions held ourselves from doing price increases. The other time, it started coming down, it came down to N1,300, and we were rejoicing that it is coming down, but we know where it is now, over N1,500 to a dollar.

“Some months back, the government made an announcement and said effective immediately there are goods they are removing tariffs from. We all heard it, you know these things are said in the newspapers and on television and people are going to be expecting that, the price is going to go down tomorrow.

“As we speak, I'm in the committee that was set up to help the government on implementation. Since that time, it's more than two months old. Nothing has been done.

“So yeah, we can make this announcement, but if it's not implemented, nothing is going to happen; but having said that, even implementing that is not going to change much, because you're just dealing with maybe 5 per cent of the“Ifproblem. the forex situation is not addressed, we'll have a long way to go. Take customs in Nigeria for instance. They are in Nigeria and operate in Nigeria, but the moment the forex situation changed, customs changed

tariffs based on the exchange rate, and so many other things.

“So that is what’s going on. But as local companies, it will still be much better than if you were importing the drug, because our own cost of operation, once we have covered that, we try as much as possible not to do an increase beyond what we think people can afford.

“We also need people to be able to afford our products. As we speak, and I'll just say this and leave it at that - the cost of power has increased

by over 300 per cent. So, as we speak, every month, like I said, I'm not going to put “Butnumbers. I know that a friend of mine who has a company told me that his cost for power is between N250 million to N300 million in a month.

“This man is also going to need to recover the cost of producing the medicine. So, it is a whole lot. And I know it's all driven by the forex situation. But we'll keep doing our best in the areas where we can reduce prices to hold it on.”

FRC Tasks Telecoms, Oils and Gas Operators on Sustainability Reporting

Dike Onwuamaeze

The Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC), Dr. Rabiu Olowo, has enjoined operators in the oil and gas and telecommunications industries to embrace sustainability reporting as way to demonstrate their commitment toward responsible corporate principles, sustainable practices, risk management and sustainable finance opportunities.

Olowo made this call yesterday in Lagos during the “Awareness Workshop on the Implementation of ISSB’s IFRS S1& S2 for Oil and Gas/Telecommunications Industries.”

According to him, sustainability reporting is the practice of organisa-

tions disclosing their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance and impacts caused by their everyday activities.

He said: “It is a disclosure to the various stakeholders on the impact of ‘action taken in the present has upon the options that are available in the future.’

“For oil & gas and telecoms institutions, sustainability reporting is crucial as it enables them to demonstrate their commitment towards responsible corporate principles, sustainable practices, risk management and sustainable finance opportunities.

“Globally, sustainability reporting is crucial for the oil and gas industry as it faces increasing pressure to

BOI, Imose Technologies Set to Boost Local Content Development

Emma

Okonji

The Bank of Industry (BOI) has assured Imose Technologies, a Lagos-based local manufacturer of Imose Zedon X-Pro laptops, mobile phones and tablets of its support to boost the local manufacturing of Imose brands of laptops, tablets and mobile phones in Nigeria.

The support is in line with the Executive Order 003 of the federal government that seeks to promote local manufacturing and local content development in Nigeria.

The Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of the Bank of Industry, Dr. Olasupo Olusi, gave the assurance yesterday, when he led a team from BOI on a facility inspection tour of Imose Technologies

assembly factory in Lekki, Lagos.

In line with its six thematic areas for economic growth and development impact namely, SMEs, youth and skills, digital economy, infrastructure, climate and gender, the BOI provided N2 billion loan facility to Imose Technologies in 2023 to expand its operations.

The facility tour was therefore aimed at reviewing the organisation’s progress since receiving the facility last year.

Olusi further said: “I want to assure you that BOI is committed to standing side by side with Imose Technologies to ensure that the company’s value chain is further developed.

“We believe that it is by developing the value chain that we can also contribute to your own growth and

also job creation in this country. So, I look forward to seeing the great factory shop where you produce all these fantastic devices.”

Olusi who spoke on arrival for the facility tour expressed happiness that Imose Technologies currently has over 250 distributors across the country, adding that such milestones show that the company has very strong support for medium and small businesses, which he said was a major and most significant part of the mandate given to BOI to establish.

“This is one of the institutions that BOI loves to support. We've been supporting them through loan facilities and it's great to see their trajectory of growth and development over the last 10 years, which

is amazing.

“BOI will patronise their products, boost local content development and see to the growth of the technology company,” he added.

In his opening remarks, the Chairman and Founder, Imose Technologies, Mr. Osayi Izedonmwen, appreciated the BOI for its support and stated that the facility from BOI had fueled the company’s growth.

“In 2023, Imose Technologies, an indigenous technology company opened its first assembly factory at the Benin Technical College in Edo State. With the BOI’s intervention, the second factory was opened in Lagos at the beginning of 2024. Both assembly factories can produce up to one million smart devices and laptops annually,” Izedonmwen said.

address environmental and social concerns.”

Olowo said that oil and gas industry’s operations have significant impacts on the environment, including greenhouse gas emissions, oil spills, and habitat destruction.

According to him, “sustainability reporting allows oil and gas companies to transparently disclose their sustainability performance, progress towards reducing their environmental footprint, and efforts to mitigate climate change.

“This transparency builds trust with stakeholders, including investors, customers, and regulators, and helps companies identify areas for improvement and innovation.

“Moreover, sustainability reporting enables oil and gas companies to demonstrate their commitment to responsible business practices and contribute to the global transition to a low-carbon economy.”

For the telecoms industry, Olowo said that sustainability reporting is essential for managing the environmental and social impacts of its operations and products.

He said: “The industry's growing demand for energy, e-waste generation and supply chain risks necessitate responsible management practices.

“Sustainability reporting enables telecoms companies to disclose their sustainability performance, including energy efficiency, renewable energy usage, and e-waste reduction initiatives.

“This transparency helps telecoms companies identify areas for improvement, reduce costs, and capitalise on opportunities for innovation and growth.

“Furthermore, sustainability reporting allows telecoms companies to demonstrate their commitment to sustainable development and contribute to the achievement of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).”

He argued that the impending negative effect of climate change required that everyone should act, “and it is therefore not a business decision or a nice to have. It is a compliance issue, which every company is expected to comply by default through cultural behaviour.”

In his remarks during the workshop, the Chief Executive Officer of NGX Regulations Limited, Mr. Olufemi Shobanjo, said that the implementation of the ISSB’s first two IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards, better known as IFRS S1 is a pivotal moment that marked a significant step toward enhancing transparency, accountability, and sustainability in our industries.

According to Shobanjo, the oil and gas industry is at the forefront of the global transition towards sustainable energy and by implementing IFRS S1 and S2, companies in the sector would better articulate their environmental impact, strategies for managing climate-related risks, and progress toward sustainability goals.

He said: “Similarly, given the high levels of greenhouse gas emitted in the telecommunications industry, companies in this sector are not left out of the need to transition toward adopting sustainable practices and operations.

L-R: Director, Product Development, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Evelyn Obsidian; Executive Director /CEO, NEPC, Nonye Ayeni; Director Policy and Strategy NEPC, Mr. Lawal Dalhat and Director Trade Information, NEPC, Dr. Joe Itah, during the NEPC press conference on the Nigeria's Non Oil sector export performance and progress report, held in Abuja... recently

Photo: ENOCK REUBEN

FG Signs MoU with Chinese Coy to Assemble Electric Tricycles in Nigeria

Adelabu says national grid has hit 3-year high of 5,313mw

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The federal government yesterday signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with a Chinese Company, Mutual Commitment Company (MCC) limited for the assembly of electric tricycles in the country.

The MoU was facilitated by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), an agency of the Federal Ministry of Power, a statement from the ministry said.

Present at the ceremony to represent Nigeria were the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu and the Managing Director of REA, Mr Abba Aliyu.

Speaking at the event which took place in Beijing on the eve of the opening ceremony of the African-China Co-operation Summit, Adelabu said the MoU will go down as a memorable

day for Nigeria.

“ I know Nigeria and China have a lot of things in common one of which is the fact that Nigeria and China are both high population countries and with a country with high population, you have so much pressure.

“The first pressure is that of energy access and the second being job creation. So when you take steps to achieve both, it is a thing of joy. I am particularly happy that this is happening during the tenure of President Bola Tinubu, as it is in line with achieving the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration for the country,” he said.

The minister said President Bola Tinubu has prioritised the power sector as the driver for all other critical sectors of the economy and was giving all the support to ensure the minister delivers.

in Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna broke down.

Africa's richest person, Aliko Dangote yesterday released official samples of petrol from his refinery, assuring that the local sale of the fuel will help stablise the naira by helping to correct distortions in the value of the local currency compared with the dollar.

Describing the development as historic, Dangote said the refinery located in Lagos will assist in knowing the true consumption of petrol in Nigeria since every loaded truck can be tracked.

Dangote, who spoke during a live programme relayed on Arise Television, THISDAY’s broadcast arm, lauded President Bola Tinubu for all the support to ensure the dream became a reality.

The 650, 000 barrels per day facility is expected to serve the entire Nigerian market as well as export to the West African Sub-region as well as the global market eventually.

In about the last 28 years, Nigeria has not produced Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popularly known as petrol after its four official refineries

unacceptable.

A group, North-east Unity Forum (NUF), also yesterday, condemned the FCT minister’s comments, likening them to political banditry, and called for his sack by President Bola Tinubu.

Wike had on Saturday, during a factional congress in Rivers State, threatened to instigate crisis in any state, whose governor interfered with the politics of Rivers State.

But the PDP governors restated their support for their Rivers State counterpart, Siminalayi Fubara, in the political crisis in the state.

They promised to “engage the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party to revisit the congress to correct the anomaly and allow Fubara to take his rightful leadership position of the party in the state”.

Chairman of PDP Governors’ Forum and Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, signed the communique.

In the statement read by Director General of PDP Governors’ Forum, Dr. Emmanuel Agbo, the governors called on the various security agencies to take note of Wike's threat.

The communique read, "The attention of the Peoples Democratic Party Governors' Forum (PDP-GF) under the chairmanship of H.E. Senator Bala Abdulkarim Mohamed (CON) and Governor of Bauchi State and all the member-governors has been drawn to a widely circulating news story in which the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, H.E. Barrister Nyesom Wike, former Governor of Rivers State, made scathing and threatening comments regarding member-governors of the forum and notes the significant

Several governments in the past have spent billions of dollars on turnaround maintenance for the refineries but without results. Nigeria spends over $10 billion annually on the importation of petrol for its over 200 million citizens.

Underscoring the importance of the event, Dangote during an interview, stated that since 1974, Nigeria has had fuel scarcity in various degrees, but said that that was about to become a thing of the past.

“It's a very historic, monumental achievement, which I think I must congratulate the people of Nigeria and the government of President Bola Tinubu for giving us all the support to be where we are today. In the last 28 years we haven't really had this sort of achievement.

“You can see that even there are some videos of 1974, where we had fuel queues, and those fuel queues are still here. This will eliminate all fuel queues in Nigeria. This will improve the health of everybody. This will also make sure that there is consistent supply to the market. It will also bring the real demand of PMS.

“ There will be no paper transaction. It will also help to make sure that,

concerns that has been raised in the public space regarding the unity and peaceful coexistence within our party.

"The statements and threats to peaceful coexistence made by Wike to ‘put fire’ in the PDP controlled states are unbridled, irresponsible and without ambiguity totally unacceptable, as it undermines efforts to build and maintain peace, cohesion, collaboration and mutual respect amongst leaders and members of the party.

"It is rather unfortunate that this is coming from someone, who was once a member of this highly revered forum as a former governor.

"The forum has always maintained ‘a touch one touch all’ philosophy and individually and collectively stand by and support each other, no matter the circumstances. A tradition Wike tremendously enjoyed in his days of travail as governor.”

PDP-GF maintained, "Thus, we therefore maintain that our position on the affairs of the PDP in Rivers State, as unanimously resolved at our 2024, third and fourth meetings held in Enugu and Taraba states, respectively, are not subject to review by any individual no matter how highly placed.

"We wish to emphasise that neither is the position of the forum personal nor does it by any stretch of the imagination undermine the relevance of any stakeholder in the party.

“Rather, as loyal party faithful, members of the forum remain committed to that pristine practice that was intended to guarantee order, eliminate conflicting centres of loyalty epitomised by the situation in Rivers

He noted that energy access and expansion was government’s major priority because nothing can be achieved without strong, stable, functional and reliable electricity sector.

“ We have relied so much on centralisation of our power sector for so long that it is not taking us anywhere”, he said, adding that almost 40 per cent of Nigeria’s population lack access to energy with its attendant consequences.

“So moving away from centralisation, we have decided to adopt the distributed power model to ensure that every Nigerian has access to energy. A lot of our population reside in the rural areas, a lot of our institutions-educational and tertiary health institutions are isolated and they are still facing epileptic power supply.

“We have also found out that the

you know, it corrects this distortion of the Naira, bring stability to the Naira, bring growth, development and prosperity,” Dangote stated.

Dangote also took time to display samples of petrol and diesel from the new refinery, stressing that it is the first in the country to produce Euro 5 fuels of less than 10ppm, which contain lower sulphur and prolong engine life.

The billionaire businessman stressed that what this means is that it will help the vehicle engines last longer, while the health of people and that of the environment will not be polluted.

“ This is the real thing, Euro 5 diesel, for the first time in the history of Nigeria. We are actually testing for all parameters. Our lab actually is not number two, it's number one in the world,” he added.

According to Dangote, the imminent release of the product into the Nigerian market will not only ensure stability of the naira, but help to minimise round-tripping.

“This will give a lot of stability for the Naira, where now you remove 40 per cent of the demand for dollars in the market, and that will actually stabilise the market. But that's not it. As you know, there's quite a lot of what you call round-tripping, where

State and guard against distracting the governor in the prosecution of his mandate. Wike benefitted wholly from that arrangement.

adoption of distributed energy model will expand the energy net for our rural dwellers, the rural businesses, our universities and tertiary health institutions,” he added.

According to him, as Nigeria continues to expend energy access, the country also wants to achieve transition to cleaner sources of energy that are sustainable and environment-friendly.

“This is why we have both long-term and medium -term target to achieving net zero carbon emission by year 2060 and also to enable us achieve 30 per cent of our energy generation coming from renewable energy by year 2030. So renewable energy is currently a major focus for us in the power sector,” he stressed.

He said the two MoUs would achieve the vision for the renewable energy sub segment of the power sector

people now do documentation and the fuel does not come into Nigeria, and this is a fact.

“So right now, as we have this refinery working, it will show the true consumption of Nigeria. We can track every single loaded trucks, and we will try as much as possible to track the loaded ships. Trucks, we can tell you where they are.

“Just like now, in some of the projects that we do, we can tell you exactly the consumption pattern. But that is a discussion for another day. Today's discussion is just to celebrate and to thank God Almighty for bringing us to this stage of now producing gasoline.

“And I know that a lot of people have not actually believed that we'll be able to deliver, but we've been able to deliver,” he added.

Price of Petrol to be Set after Agreement with FG

Dangote said the price of petrol coming out of his 650,000 barrels per day refinery will be determined through an agreement between his company and the federal government.

The richest man in Africa stated this yesterday at the refinery complex in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos, where he unveiled a sample of the first refined petrol

with focus on five items— development of local capacity , noting that along the value chain of the renewable energy sector, a lot of human and material resources that are required are still significantly dependent on import.

“ Also, we will be able to produce jobs for our large youthful population that is growing everyday. Our polytechnics , technical colleges and universities are turning up graduates on a yearly basis without assurance of job placement. This will go a long way to make it happen, at the same time, we will be able to achieve our energy access expansion,” he said.

Speaking earlier, Aliyu reiterated the importance of the ceremony as it was capable of delivering on the presidential mandate of building local capacity and creating more job opportunities.

from the $20 billion facility. .

He said the pricing arrangement was being designed by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) led by President Bola Tinubu, adding that the company was ready to roll out products into the market as soon as that arrangement was finalised.

Dangote stated: "Our petrol can be in filling stations within the next 48 hours depending on NNPC and that the pricing of the petrol would be based on an agreement with the federal government.

“It is an arrangement which is designed and approved by the Federal Executive Council led by His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu. As soon as it is finalised, which he (Tinubu) is pushing, once we finish with NNPC, it can be today, it can be tomorrow, we are ready to roll into the market.

”Nigerians would have good petrol while the engines of your vehicles will last longer. You will not be having an engine issue, which a lot of us were having. It won’t happen at all."

He further emphasised that the quality of petroleum products from his refinery will match that of any refinery in the world, and the United States of America (USA).

NMDPRA: Initial 25m Litres Set for Release in September

economic factor that this initiative will drive, the level of GDP contribution, the employment opportunities provided and the socio-economic activities that will crystallise,” he said.

Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) to agree on local crude supply to the Lagos-based refinery.

“At the NMDPRA headquarters in Abuja, NNPC reached an agreement to commence crude oil sale and supply to Dangote Refinery in local currency. “The refinery is now poised to supply an initial 25 million litres of PMS into the domestic market this September. And will subsequently increase this amount to 30 million litres daily from October 2024,” the NMDPRA said.

NNPC Raises Petrol Price to N897 Per Litre, Filling Stations Sell for N950

In a move that could further compound the hardship faced by Nigerians, the NNPC yesterday raised the pump price of petrol to N897 per litre from the official price of N617. This is coming days after the national oil company said it was heavily constrained by the huge debt it owes international suppliers. The debt is estimated to be $6.8 billion.

The governor said, "Our undiluted commitment to the unity of our party is paramount. The PDP has always been a party that values unity and collective progress. The recent actions of the governors, including their support for Governor Fubara, reflect

Continued on page 28

"We are irrevocably committed to working with the National Working Committee (NWC) of our great party, the PDP, in ensuring that Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State is conferred with all the privileges he is entitled to as a governor elected on the platform of our party, both at the state and national levels.”

Company Limited (NNPC).

“First and foremost, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support and belief in actualising this monumental achievement under his administration.

“This day belongs to every Nigerian who has dared to dream of a better future. Congratulations to our great nation—today, we all stand a little taller,” Otedola stated.

In his message to his friend, Dangote, on the successful completion of testing of the product and imminent release of petrol to the public, Otedola praised Africa’s richest person for never giving up on the dream shared by both of them.

He noted that henceforth Nigeria will know how much petrol is consumed nationwide locally, since the movement of trucks can easily be tracked, unlike in the past the figures were not verifiable.

He added: “Aliko, it feels like just yesterday, but it has been 25 long years since we first set our sights on transforming Nigeria’s energy landscape. I remember vividly when we set up the Blue

Star Consortium to acquire stakes in the Kaduna and Port Harcourt refineries—20 per cent for me and 51 per cent for you.

“We were ready to change the game, but fate had other plans. The government of the day, in an act I can only describe as utterly obnoxious, cancelled our stakes and thwarted our vision. But, as always, you refused to be deterred.

“You never gave up on the dream we shared. You carried the torch forward, igniting a spark that has today become a roaring flame. And now, 25 years later, here we stand on the precipice of history, with the first fuel shipment from the Dangote Refinery—a feat that is nothing short of miraculous.”

Otedola stated that while the Kaduna and Port Harcourt refineries have remained dormant, with their promise unfulfilled despite billions of dollars spent on so-called turn-around maintenance, Dangote has achieved what many said was impossible.

“You have beaten all the sceptics, silenced the naysayers, and proved wrong those who doubted your resolve, even those who never wanted this project to succeed.

Also yesterday, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) said the refinery will release an initial 25 million litres into the market this month.

In a message on its X handle, the organisation added that refining will be further ramped up in October to 30 million litres, explaining that it met with the Nigerian National

“You have not just built a refinery; you have liberated us from the chains of economic dependence that have held this nation back for far too long. The days of bowing to foreign powers for our fuel needs are over, thanks to your vision and determination,” he added.

Otedola argued that with the refinery finally releasing petrol to the public, Dangote has dealt a heavy blow to those he described as ‘local cabals’ who have perpetually enslaved Nigerians.

“You have dealt a death blow to the so-called local cabals who have fattened themselves for years, feeding off our nation’s economic slavery. These cabals, who have grown rich by keeping Nigeria in a perpetual state of dependence, must now face the reality that their era of easy gains is coming to an end.

“I am reminded of the time you revolutionised the cement industry in Nigeria. Ships that once brought in cement turned into rusting relics, scraps of a bygone era. Now, with your refinery in full swing, I foresee a similar fate for fuel imports.

“The depot owners should take heed—it’s time to dismantle those

THISDAY observed that many NNPC filling stations in Abuja had already effected the prices, with its downstream facilities selling for N897. Eterna in Wuse 2 was dispensing at N930 per litre with extended queues. Total Energies in zone 3 were not selling, while Conoil was selling for N940 and NIPCO was dispensing for N955 when THISDAY visited . In Port Harcourt, the product was selling for between N950 & N1,500, although many of the filling stations were not dispensing, while in Owerri, Imo State , marketers were deployed for between N990 and N1,000. NNPC was selling for N897 in Maiduguri while other filling stations

Continued on page 29

depots and sell them as scraps while the market is still high. The world has changed, and those who do not adapt will be left behind,” he pointed out.

Otedola noted that when he ventured into the depot business with Zenon, it was in response to the inefficiencies of the NNPC, stressing that, today, that aspiration has been fulfilled by the commencement of production of all fuels by the facility.

Zenon, he said, pioneered the diesel business in Nigeria and quickly became the largest in the country, filling the gaps left by the country’s inefficient system.

“But today, your refinery stands as a beacon of what is possible when one has the audacity to dream and the tenacity to see it through.

“Aliko, you have my deepest admiration and respect. Congratulations to you and the entire board, management and staff of Dangote Refinery on this monumental achievement.

“This is not just a victory for you but for every Nigerian who dares to dream. May this be just the beginning of even greater things to come,” he stated.

PDP

Emmanuel Addeh, Onyebuchi Ezigbo and James Emejo in Abuja, Peter Uzoho and Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos and James Sowole in Abeokuta

“ We will track this and ensure the delivery of the commitment within the tenure of the present administration. We will also track the

Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu

NAN'S MANAGING DIRECOR MEETS VICE PRESIDENT SHETTIMA...

Vice President Kashim Shettima ( R ) with NAN Managing Director, Ali Mohammed Ali, during a visit to the Vice President's office at the Presidential

With FG’s Support, I’ll Wade

into Fulani

Crisis, Provide Ideas, Strategies, Sanusi Says

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

The 16th Emir of Kano State, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has said if the federal government would provide necessary support to him, he would not hesitate to provide ideas and strategies that would put an end to the Fulani/Herders crisis in the country.

Sanusi II, who spoke while receiving the Leadership of Tapital

Pulaku Njode Jam Nigeria in his place yesterday in Kano, said the federal government has the might to put an end to crisis.

"Federal government has the might and what it takes to make my strategy work, while I will provide the ideas and the methodologies of how to go about it.

"This can be done only if the federal government will support me in achieving my mission, because

it has the might and what it takes to make my strategy work, while I will provide the ideas and the methodologies of how to go about it," he stated.

The Emir told the Fulani group that, "It is high time to find a permanent solution to the Fulani crises in the Country.

"No doubt, Fulanis in Nigeria have suffered heavy attacks, isolation, killings and their cows rustled. This is

indeed carried out against them across the country and something needs to be done to arrest the situation.

"This is the time that government, together with us, will have a permanent solution to the crises, more specifically between them and the farmers and also where they are suspected to be carrying out other crimes.

"I am ready to help the government achieve the desired mission of having

FCCPC: We're Poised to Curb Exploitative, Anticompetitive Market Behaviours, Not Price Control

The Federal Competition and Consumers Protection Commission (FCCPC), yesterday clarified that its recent directive on commodity price hike wasn't aimed at price control rather "focused on curbing exploitative practices and anti-competitive behaviours that distort the marketplace and harm consumers".

The commission spoke against the backdrop of call by Organised Private Sector (OPS) urging it to address economic fundamentals that led to commodities price increase rather than resorting to forcing down the prices of items.

However, in a statement, FCCPC Director, Special Duties and Strategic Communication, Ondaje Ijagwu, said, “Price control is entirely outside the scope of our responsibilities. We have never considered, nor will we ever consider, intervening in the market to regulate prices.

“Our recent directives are not about controlling prices but are focused on curbing exploitative practices and anti-competitive behaviours that distort the marketplace and harm consumers.

“We recognise the complexities of the current economic environment, including challenges such as foreign exchange fluctuations and fuel subsidy removal."

He said, “Discoveries made during our market surveillance and a recent disclosure by Abdul Samad Rabiu, Chairman of BUA Cement, underscores the critical need for our oversight. Mr. Rabiu revealed that despite BUA Cement’s effort to sell cement at a fair price of N3,500 per bag, their plan was undermined by dealers who inflated prices to as much as N7,000 to N8,000 per bag.

“This situation exemplifies the kind of exploitative conduct that the FCCPC is committed to addressing. Such practices make it difficult for ethical businesses to thrive."

Ijagwu said, "While promoting competition is essential for economic health, as evidenced in sectors like telecommunications, it is equally important to enforce laws against practices that undermine fair competition."

According to him, price gouging constitutes an unfair practice that takes advantage of crises or economic hardships to inflate prices arbitrarily. He, therefore, reiterated the commission's commitment to enforcing the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018 as it affects prices of commodities in the market, adding that any contrary claims were baseless and unfounded.

peace and prosperity among the Fulanis and indeed other Nigerians, their suffering should stop. I believe together we can do it," he stated.

Speaking, Malam Buba Jada, said they were at the palace with all their members from the 36 states of the federation, including those from the

forests to show support to the Emir, because they believed in him as a leader, who cared for them.

Jada expressed belief that the Emir had what it would take to correct their battered names and set the records straight on who they are, and their contributions to the country.

Buhari Rejoices With Shettima on His 58th Birthday, Ex-SGF, Boss Mustapha at 68yrs

Deji Elumoye in Beijing, China

Former President Muhammadu Buhari, on Monday, placed a telephone call to Vice President Kashim Shettima, to congratulate him on his 58th birthday, saying his journey from Governor to Senator and now Vice President has been remarkable.

The ex-president, in a release issued by his spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, wished Shettima many happy returns and prayed for strength and good health for him.

This, he said, was to enable him to discharge the enormous responsibility of supporting President Bola Tinubu in their efforts to make life better for the citizens and build Nigeria

into a strong and virile democratic nation. In a similar message to the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Gida Mustapha, who is68 years today, the former president described him as a transformative leader.

“Hearty congratulations and best wishes to Boss as you celebrate your birthday. Your far-reaching vision and strong leadership have in no small measure contributed to all that we achieved as an administration.

“I pray to God Almighty to keep you happy, safe, and healthy to continue to benefit your family and the country with your amazing work. Many Happy Returns.”

Application Opens for 2024 Swarovski Foundation Creativity Competition

The Swarovski Foundation, an international non-government organisation focused on promoting sustainability, is calling for application for the 2024 Swarovski Foundation competition, through its “The Creatives for Our Future” programme.

The programme is run by the Swarovski Foundation in collaboration with the United Nations Office for Partnership.

According to a statement released by the foundation yesterday, each of the winners will be awarded a €20,000 (N35 million) grant to pursue their stated dream. The application process, which has already opened, will be on

until October 15, 2024.

The programme is open to young creatives worldwide, within the 21 to 30 years age bracket, and extends to a multitude of disciplines, including fashion, design, art, architecture, and engineering. Successful applicants are expected to be already working on an original project or product that uses the creative process to drive awareness, technology or solutions for sustainable development and drives progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals set out by the United Nations, the statement said. It added that the programme has, to date, supported 21 projects in innovative design, founded and initiated by young creatives,

who have ground-breaking ideas for addressing the world’s sustainability and development challenges. The programme has enabled them to develop and scale their projects - either with funds to build on their research, or through mentorship and networking opportunities to unlock new directions.

Previous winners include Nigeria’s Joshua Ichor who developed a hand pump monitoring system and built a clean water kiosk for rural communities in sub-Saharan Africa.

Equally, Stanley Anigbogu, also from Nigeria, has developed an eco-friendly energy solution by reusing electronic waste and plastic bottles to provide clean

energy and light sources for marginalised groups through the Creatives for Our Future programme. He has built a local AVATAR station in Nigeria, a solar-powered hub crafted from recycled shipping containers, known as the ‘AVATAR Station’.

The Director of the Swarovski Foundation, Jakhya RahmanCorey, said: “We are excited to open applications to the Swarovski Foundation Creatives for Our Future programme and nurture the next generation of inspiring talent”, adding that “creativity has the power to solve global challenges and achieve sustainability goals.”

“The Swarovski Foundation is looking forward to welcoming

this year’s applications to turn their ideas into reality through access to education, resources, and a vital support network,” Rahman-Corey added.

The Executive Director of the United Nations Office for Partnerships, Annemarie Hou, said: “We need young talents, from fashion to engineering, to use their creativity to tackle sustainable development challenges. With mentorship, industry connections, and funding, these young people are turning obstacles into opportunities and driving real progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals. Through the Creatives for Our Future programme, we are fostering the next generation of leaders."

Villa in Abuja...on Monday

Emma Okonji

James Emejo in Abuja

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

Is Regionalism in the Offing with Creation of Zonal Development Commissions?

President Bola Tinubu’s recent decision to sign into law bills seeking the establishment of the North-West and South-East Development Commissions, is fueling speculation that Nigeria is gradually sliding towards regional government administration. Sunday Aborisade reports.

Federal lawmakers in the National Assembly have since the creation of the North East Development Commission, been working towards the establishment of federal government-funded agencies for the development of their various geo-political zones.

Members from the six geo-political zones sponsored bills to the National Assembly for the creation of a fully funded federal body for the development of their region.

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has been in operation since 2000 when former President Olusegun Obasanjo yielded to agitators’ pressure. It was established to address the development gaps in the nine states designated as Niger Delta.

Also, as a result of the Boko Haram terrorism which has wreaked havoc in the North East geo-political zone since 2009, the North East Development Commission (NEDC) was established in 2017 to help resettle communities devastated by the dreaded sect.

The Bill for the establishment of the SouthEast Development Commission (SEDC) has been signed into law by President Bola Tinubu to address the core issues of rehabilitation of projects abandoned since the end of the civil war in 1970.

It was also meant to particularly address the massive erosions that were never evident before the war. Efforts made to pass the bill was frustrated twice under former President Muhammadu Buhari, first in 2017 and again in 2018.

The Bill which sought to establish the North-West Development Commission (NWDC) has also passed through normal legislative procedure and had been assented to by President Tinubu. The NWDC Bill was charged with the responsibilities, to among other things, receive and manage funds from allocations of the Federation Account and international donors.

The funds will be used for the settlement, rehabilitation and reconstruction of roads, houses and business premises destroyed by multidimensional crisis, as well as tackling the menace of poverty, literacy level, ecological problems and any other related environmental or development challenges

in the North West States.

Tinubu had since justified his assent to the SEDC and NWDC bils in a statement by his media aide, Ajuri Ngelale who said the bills would accelerate development across geo-political zones in the country.

The President said the North-West Development Commission was set up to facilitate the reconstruction of roads, houses, and business premises destroyed by multidimensional crisis as well as tackle poverty, literacy level, ecological problems, and any other related environmental or development challenges in North-West states.

In addition, he said the South-East Development Commission was established to ensure the reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads, houses, and other infrastructural damages suffered by the zone, as well as tackle ecological problems, and other related environmental or developmental challenges in South-East states.

The statement read in part, “President Tinubu believes in building the nation on the fulcrum of fairness,

equity, and unity; hence, he is committed to ensuring equitable development, inclusive governance, and the provision of qualitative services to all Nigerians — no matter where they reside — while knitting even more tightly together the national fabric”.

Justifying his decision to sponsor the NWDC bill, Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, said the proposed agency will address the infrastructure gaps in the seven states of the North West geopolitical zone.

Barau had said the bill would address the challenges facing the geo-political zone occasioned by Boko Haram insurgents and bandits. According to him, the seven states in the North West geo-political zone would witness rapid infrastructural development.

He assured his constituents of President Tinubu’s commitment to address the challenges facing all parts of the country while also appealing to all to support the president’s quest to return the country to progress and prosperity.

His words, “President Tinubu is committed and working tirelessly to alleviate the suffering of the masses. What we want from you is to continue to pray for the president.

Some stakeholders have argued that the NDDC is more or less, an avenue to pacificy some agitators and empower friends of government in the region than a development agency. They also argued that this informed why corruption was being condoned in the agency. The stakeholders noted that zonal development commissions should run on the model already established by the NEDC, which is highly effective and accountable. Keen watchers of current development in the country opined that the NDDC, which is primarily tied to oil producing states in the South-East and South-South should be reformed.

He has the interest of the North at heart. The NWDC he recently approved for us will have its headquarters in Kano. I assure you that the NWDC will address the gaps in infrastructure in the entire North West geopolitical zone.

“Let’s continue to support the president and the government so that the administration can deliver its lofty policies and programs. At the parliament, we will continue to support the executive with the necessary legislation to stimulate our country’s economy for the benefit of all”.

Similarly, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, who sponsored the SEDC Bill at an event after the bill was passed, said the commission would heal the wounds of the civil war in the eastern part of the country.

He also commended the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio for his role in the passage of the piece of legislation in the National Assembly.

Kalu said: “We want to thank you for how you supported the South East Development Commission Bill. You showed that you are a good leader and good in-law knowing that the South East over the five decades has not enjoyed the reconciliation and rehabilitation that they needed, post-civil war.

“And you believed alongside myself that it is a strategic tool. With that bill, we will give answers to all the hydra-headed questions in the mind of the South Eastern people. I thank you, for that has brought a lot of peace in the South-East because there’s hope that the President will assent to it.”

Kalu also commended Akpabio for the amicable working relationship between the parliament and the executive arm, saying, “I want to commend you for the support you’ve given to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Your support is genuine and sincere.

“You’ve exemplified the fact that though we are three arms of government, we are one government with one national objective.

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

Tinubu

Barau

Kalu

Email: chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, 07010510430

Rev Ben Eragbai: Celebrating 60 Years of Spreading God's Love and Transforming Communities

With a reputation for transforming lives and communities, the visionary General Overseer of Divine Appointment Ministry in Lagos, Reverend Ben Eragbai, has dedicated his life to a singular mission, ‘serving God and redeeming lost souls’, earning him the affectionate moniker ‘Jesus Soldier’, for his tireless efforts in rehabilitating street touts and restoring hope to the marginalised. As he marked a milestone 60th birthday recently, he shared his journey of faith, revealing a transformative path marked by initial disillusionment with religious hypocrisy, a period of rebellion against Christianity, and ultimately, a profound encounter with God's grace that reshaped his life and purpose. Sunday Ehigiator brings excerpts:

Reflecting on your 60 years, what's your life's journey been like?

My life's journey has been winding, and filled with unexpected twists and turns. It began in the vibrant city of Lagos, where I spent my youthful days frequenting the Fela Shrine, smoking marijuana, and attending Fela's Yabis Nights. My parents, who were in the village while I was at school, thought I was headed for destruction. But little did they know, grace was already working in my life.

Growing up in the Army Barracks with my elder sister and her husband, I was exposed to a contradictory environment that shaped my views on Christianity. We attended Catholic Church services in the morning, but in the evening, a native doctor would be invited to perform rituals and make incisions on our heads. As a young child, I had many questions. If the church we attended in the morning was mighty, why did my guardian resort to these practices in the evening?

This dichotomy fueled my rebellion against Christianity. I thought it was all fake, and I wanted nothing to do with it. When I got to the university, I broke free from any semblance of Christianity. Churches would come to evangelise me, but I thought they were all fake. That was until I was invited to a fellowship by Archbishop Idahosa's church. For the first time, I witnessed genuine power and sincerity, unlike anything I had experienced before.

But my journey was far from smooth. I continued to struggle with my past, jumping in and out of church sporadically. I attended a church where the prayers were loud and intense, like bullets. It was a far cry from the quiet prayers I was used to. I expected my aunt to take me back to that church, but she never did. This left me continuing my pattern of not attending church regularly for some time.

However, when I was invited to the New Covenant Gospel Church in Benin, something shifted. I realised that Christianity didn't need to be mixed with anything else. I accepted the Holy Spirit, and it was a turning point in my life. The experience was so profound that I didn't even feel like eating, fearing that doing so might cause the experience to fade.

But I still had my struggles’ I backslid, smoking marijuana in Europe until Grace found me once more. When I gave my life to Christ, I didn't intend to become a pastor. I just wanted to be a faithful worker. But God had other plans. I attended Bible school, completed it, and tried to sit quietly in the congregation. But Mama Abiola Omobude spotted me and told the pastor, ‘This man is an asset. Don't let him go’.

I cried, ‘God, I just wanted to stay in the background’. But I followed Dr. Omobude's advice, completing every task given to me until I grew in my faith. I didn't want to be a pastor, but I eventually realized I didn't have a choice. God's faithfulness has been my journey, transforming me from a rebellious youth to a vessel for His glory.

When did you eventually get called to the pulpit?

My call to the pulpit dates back to 1993 in Lagos. I initially began ministering at the New Covenant Gospel Church under the guidance of the pastor there. After several years, when it was time to move on, I relocated to Lagos, and that's where my journey continued.

I started in a tall-story building at Logema, Onipanu Bus Stop before I built my first church in Fadeyi. What inspired your mission to help drug users?

I've had the privilege of working with the current Lagos State Commissioner of Police, a man of strong faith and conviction. He's seen firsthand the transformative power of God in our community.

When we built our church in Fadeyi, he recalled putting his men on high alert due to the area's notorious reputation. But, to his surprise, there were no issues, and two former troublemakers even became ushers in our church.

This is just one example of how God has used me to make a difference in the lives of others. My own experiences on the streets, selling goods and hawking items, have shaped me and given

me a message to share. I've learned that our mess can become our message, and that's the truth.

I remember when I was exhausted, feeling like I couldn't go on. But God spoke to me, saying, 'You are tired.' I replied, 'Yes, I'm tired.' He then said, 'I told you to go and stand before the people. If you don’t go there now, I'll raise an area boy to take your place.' That was a wake-up call for me.

My past experiences have taught me to be humble and not look down on anyone. I've been in their shoes, and I know what it's like to struggle. That's why I can relate to them and help them transform their lives.

The Commissioner of Police has seen this transformation firsthand, and he's become a close friend and ally. He's even asked me to pray for his officers and bless them, which we've done on several occasions.

I've also had experiences with former troublemakers who have become members of our church. One man of God had a vision of me surrounded by these boys, and he was amazed when he saw them kneeling while I prayed for them.

My message is clear: our mess can become our message. We don't have to be defined by our past mistakes. We can use them to help others and make a difference in our communities.

Share examples of life transformations through your messages.

I'm often invited by the police to help curb crime in the state, and I'm happy to do so. However, I also make it a point to do my part every day in my way. As someone who has worked with many young men involved in cults and crime, I've seen firsthand the transformative power of God's love and redemption.

One notable example that comes to mind is the story of an armed robber who turned to Christ after being wrongly accused and imprisoned. Despite being a graduate and working as an accountant, he was sent to Kirikiri awaiting trial for a crime he didn't commit.

After his release, he was rejected by his family and eventually turned to a life of crime. But during one of our church services, he felt compelled to come forward after

I shared a message from God about an armed robber in our midst. He confessed his plans and surrendered his gun.

I took him under my wing, counselling him and providing for his needs. Despite facing setbacks and beatings, he persevered and eventually became a pastor. He's now married and living a life of purpose.

This story illustrates the solution to the drug problem that's plaguing our society. It starts with accepting Christ and surrendering to His love. Then comes counselling, to help them work through their issues and find a new path. Finally, we need to give them hope - a better alternative to the life they're leaving behind.

The drug problem is complex, fueled by unprecedented hardship and the availability of countless substances. But I believe that with the right approach, we can make a difference. We need to offer a message of hope and redemption and provide the support and resources needed to help them overcome their struggles.

How do you help drug users through recovery?

When it comes to helping individuals struggling with drug addiction, it's crucial to approach the situation with empathy and understanding.

Simply telling someone to leave their drugs or the places they frequent isn't enough; we must first give them hope. I've found that sharing my own story of transformation, from a troubled past to a life of purpose, can be a powerful tool in inspiring others to seek change.

My journey hasn't always been easy, but it's taught me the importance of supporting others in their struggles.

I recall a time when I was detained at the Bahamas airport for not having the necessary visa. But through a miraculous turn of events, an immigration officer who recognised me as a man of God intervened and allowed me to enter the country. Experiences like these have shown me the faithfulness of God and the impact that our testimonies can have on others.

However, I've also learned that it's not enough to just share our stories; we must also provide a solution and support the recovery process.

This is why I emphasise the importance of rehabilitation centres and partnering with individuals to help them overcome their addictions. Simply relocating the problem or telling someone to stop using drugs without offering a helping hand can

be counterproductive and even lead to further struggles.

My regret is not accepting Christ earlier in life, but I don't regret the journey that has brought me to where I am today. Our mess can become our message, and it's essential to support one another in fulfilling our callings. By working together and offering a supportive community, we can help individuals overcome their struggles and find a better hope for their future.

Kindly touch on your congregation outreach efforts.

As I approach my 60th birthday, I've been reflecting on how I want to celebrate this milestone. In the past, I would have expected my congregation to shower me with gifts, perhaps even a car. But this year, I feel a strong desire to give back instead. I believe that's what birthdays should be about, especially when so many people are struggling. We've already collected an impressive amount of donations - over 1,000 bags of rice, each weighing 5kg, along with groundnut oil and salt. We plan to distribute these essential items to those who need them most.

This is a departure from the traditional Nigerian way of celebrating birthdays, where the focus is on receiving gifts. But I believe that's exactly what's wrong with our society. We can't ignore the struggles of those around us. When people are hungry and desperate, they can't be expected to be joyful and celebratory. That's why I want to use my birthday as an opportunity to make a difference. I want to show that even in a time of personal celebration, we can still think of others.

What’s your perspective on Nigeria’s current economic situation?

The current state of hardship and oppression in Nigeria is not a new phenomenon, but rather a persistent issue that has been exacerbated over time. Musicians like Fela, Sunny Okosuns, and Ras Kimono have been singing about these problems for decades, highlighting the struggles of the common man. The fact that these issues persist today is a testament to our collective failure to address the root causes.

Rather than pointing fingers at current leaders, we must acknowledge that the problems of hardship and oppression have been ongoing for years. It's time to take responsibility and work towards finding solutions. Our misplaced priorities and lack of empathy for the people have contributed significantly to these issues.

We need to recognize that the challenges we face today are not new, but rather a continuation of the struggles of the past. By acknowledging this, we can begin to work towards creating a better future for all Nigerians.

It’s time to move beyond excuses and find meaningful solutions to the problems that have held us back for so long.

Turning 60, what's next?

As I celebrate my 60th birthday, I'm filled with a sense of fulfilment, energy, and health. It's hard to believe I've reached this milestone, but I'm grateful for the journey.

My secret to a youthful spirit is forgiveness. Letting go of grudges and forgiving those who need it has been liberating. I've learned to focus on what I can change and leave the rest in the past.

I've also discovered the power of smiling. Did you know that frowning activates 77 muscles while smiling only uses 13? It's a simple yet profound truth. By choosing to smile, I've reduced stress and welcomed joy into my life.

Deception and lies have no place in my life. I've seen how they can lead to a web of problems and harm. Instead, I strive to live authentically and honestly, knowing that integrity is key to a life well-lived.

As I look to the future, I'm excited to continue sharing my message of hope and forgiveness. I believe that by living with intention and purpose, we can stay youthful and vibrant, regardless of our age. So, let's choose to forgive, focus on the present, and smile our way through life's challenges. God bless!

General Overseer of Divine Appointment Ministry in Lagos, Reverend Ben Eragbai

Crime&Punishment

Curbing Cybercrime, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault Collective Responsibility: Asemudara

Funke Olaode

Managing Partner, Royal Practice (Legal Group) and founder, Mission Against Injustice in Nigeria (MAIN), Barr. Ayeoba Ige Asemudara has decried the rate at which Nigerian society looks the other way when crimes are being committed, even on their door steps. He said the attitude has eroded the values and torn the moral fabric that Nigeria of old is known for.

Asemudara made this statement during an interview with THISDAY Crime and Punishment.

According to the legal luminary, there are laws guiding the affairs of the country, but taming cybercrime, theft, pickpocketing, violence, should be a collective responsibility “because any society that leave its responsibility in the hands of the law enforcement agencies alone is bound to fail.”

Reacting to the menace, which has continued to disrupt society’s peace despite the government’s efforts and legal framework to punish offenders, he opined that even when the laws take its full course, society still has a major role to play by addressing the root course of these menace.

He said the late literary giant and writer Chinua Achebe wrote that when birds have learned to fly without perching, men have also learned to shoot without missing. Every day, society evolves and develops, and the law should rejuvenate itself to meet the development of society.

“Abuses have always been there, and if care is not taken, it will continue. What we should do as a society and as a people is to reduce it to the bare minimum. To eradicate this may be impossible because there are factors that lead to abuses, especially domestic violence. It is important that we have new legislation to address it. It is also important to find another way to deter people from committing such

crimes,” he stated.

He added, “Coming back to legislations, we have always had laws. The Criminal Code is strict legislation that prohibits domestic violence, with provisions on indecent assault, assault generally. It doesn’t have to say assault in marriage. Once you see somebody being assaulted, including the modern ones, cyber-bullying and cyber trolling, the Cyber Crime Prohibition Act of 2015 has addressed some of these acts. Lagos State has enacted the law prohibiting sexual abuses under section 262 of the Criminal Laws. Even if any of the states have not passed specific legislation, I can tell you that the criminal code and penal code have abundant provisions for this.”

He noted that domestic violence is a crime that is common within a family or marital setting, pointing out that “is why we need to go back to the basics by taming it especially on the onset of starting a family through counselling, pre-marriage engagements between prospective couples” and “that is why the religious leaders should come in, government through the Ministry of Women Affairs. We need to put more effort into pre-marital engagements.”

For instance, in the United Kingdom, if you maltreat your children or your wife and your neighbours are aware, even without the victims calling the emergency line, the neighbours will call the police, he stated.

“Even if you are their best friend, they will invite the police, who will investigate and deal with the issues,” Asemudara said.

Advising the law enforcement agencies on the way forward, Asemudara urged the custodians of law to wake up to their responsibilities.

“What we should do is how these laws are enforced is that all apparatus of law must wake up to their responsibilities,” said Asemudara. “The court should sit up to ensure that the

laws are properly deployed on the issues related to domestic violence and sexual abuse. The states have a lot to do, and the other law enforcement agencies have a lot to do, too.”

Expressing his view on sexual harassment that has gone unabated, the legal titan still emphasized that the law must take its full course on the offenders to prevent the victims and survivors.

“The problems must be addressed squarely from the source, the values in the society from parenting, enlightenment in schools, the government through various sensitization programmes, etc.

A spoilt child will become a spoilt adult,” Asemudara noted. “You won’t say that just because a person is sentenced today doesn’t mean that others won’t commit it. It must be tackled from the source.

Asemudara said that the I-don’t-care attitude, which has eroded the popular cliché of

being one’s brother’s keeper, is a behavioural attitude that bothers him.

“Crime in this climate is seen as a norm. I say this because if it is happening under their noses, they do nothing about it. People will be fighting in public, and we all feel indifferent about it,” Asemudara lamented. “On the street, you will see people picking pockets. We shrug it off. Even in traffic, unarmed robbers known as street urchins will be robbing motorists. We will just be watching. A lot of harassment takes place, and we all look the other way if we are not directly affected. It is a whole lot of mess. We all need to stand up.”

Cybercrime is known as Yahoo and involves young men whose parents allegedly formed an association with them. They even encouraged them to go for training, make money, and catch up with their

counterparts in crimes.

“This is disheartening. For instance, where I was raised, you couldn’t bring money home and cannot explain the source. This is how it should be. It is unfortunate that we now have parents who are encouraging their wards to go into yahoo business,” Asemudara stressed. “I have heard of parents who are giving out money to children to undergo training on Yahoo. That is how the society has degenerated into. The value system is being eroded because of societal pressure.”

He added, “We should consider the interest of the country. Whatever the situation, all of us must look at it from the point of view that it must work. How can parents finance their children who are involved in cybercrime and take the benefit or proceeds of the crime? I have seen people whose children buy them cars and build houses for them,

and they can’t account for where they earn the money.

“The system needs total overhauling by going back to the traditional institutions where morals are reeled out. It is about us all. You won’t be in the company of fraudsters in my younger days but today, society often celebrates them. Even those who are doing lawful ones can’t come clean. A situation whereby somebody earns a monthly salary of N100,000 but is assured of making N300,000 extra at the end of the month. That is why he took the job. What kind of a mindset is that?

“So, we have loads of problems in this country, and if we continue to blame the law enforcement agencies or the judicial institution, we won’t get anywhere. Let’s rise up and stamp out crimes in our society, and while caught, the law should take its full course on the offender.”

Police Arraign Fake Forex Trader over Alleged N1.66bn,

Wale igbintade

The police in Lagos have arraigned a 39-year-old man, Bassey Ikpi, before the Chief Magistrate Court in Ebute-Metta for allegedly posing as a forex trader, thereby defrauding several individuals and companies of N1.66 billion, $355,000, €13,000 respectively.

The defendant is facing four counts bordering on conspiracy, obtaining by false pretence, fraud, and breach of public peace, preferred against him by the police.

Ikpi allegedly obtained N1,066,311,503, $355,000, and €13,000 under fraudulent circumstances from his victims.

$355,000, €13,000

The police prosecutor, Inspector Cyriacus Osuji, told the court that Ikpi and his accomplices, still at large, committed the alleged offences.

Osuji stated that in conspiracy with others, the defendant fraudulently obtained these large sums under the pretence of Forex trading.

He also told the court that these offences took place on October 18, 2023, at Ikeja, Lagos. Ikpi was specifically accused of defrauding one Mrs. Caroline Kamaya, of N25 million and another victim, Mrs. Tope Augustine, of N36 million. He allegedly swindled

Mrs. Henrietta Achiekwelu out of N200m, $75,000, and €13,000.

Inspector Osuji further told the court that Ikpi obtained N82,211,503 from NKG Energy Services, N683,100,000 from Sacvin Nigeria, and $280,000 from Neco Trading Services Limited and Mr. Arinze Anyaeche.

The defendant was also accused of duping Mrs. Stella Mohammed of N21 million and Mr. Tokunbo Adebiyi of N19 million, all under the false pretence of forex trading.

Osuji said that the defendant conducted himself in a tumultuous manner, an act capable of breaching

Fraud

community peace and order. The offences are said to contravene Sections 411, 314, 380 (1), and 168 (1)(d)(f) of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State 2015. Ikpi, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Magistrate Mrs Abimbola Davies granted the defendant bail in the sum of N2 million, with two sureties in like sum. She ordered that the sureties must be gainfully employed, evidence of tax payment must be presented to the Lagos State government, and their residential addresses must be verified. For further mention, the case has been adjourned until September 10, 2024.

ProPerty & environment

Onwumere: With Maxcoop, no Need to Navigate Complex Loan Systems, Save for Decades to Own a Home

Real estate mogul and Chairman of PWAN Group, Dr. Augustine Onwumere recently unveiled Max Construction Housing and Cooperative Society Limited, which he believes is a game-changing initiative that will bridge the housing deficit in Nigeria. He tells Bennett Oghifo how a prospective homeowner can start and finish the journey towards homeownership and avoid complex loan systems

Tell us about your Maxcoop initiative Recently, we had the inaugural edition of the Lagos State Youth Empowerment programme, featuring the launch of Max Construction Housing Cooperative Society Limited, otherwise known as Maxcoop. The idea is to bring youths of Lagos together and equip them with the necessary skills to be able to fend for themselves in the real estate industry. Maxcoop is a game-changing initiative bringing cooperative ideology into real estate marketing, and incorporating an affiliate marketing model whereby co-operators earn passive income for bringing in other co-operators. We had the inaugural lecture at Mr Empowerment International Training Center located on the second floor of Bennies Plaza, Lekk-Epe expressway, Lagos. We hope to have another one in two weeks, precisely on the 7th of next month at the Combo Hall, LTV in Ikeja.

Explain the concept of Maxcoop in a way that a layman will understand Maxcoop is a ground-breaking initiative that makes homeownership not just a possibility but a reality, regardless of your budget. It’s a visionary project from PWAN MAX Property & Business Solutions Limited, a proud member of the esteemed Property World African Network (PWAN Group). We have simplified the process of owning your home, breaking it down into easy, manageable steps that put the power back in your hands. Now, people who are desirous of owning a place they can call their own home do not need to save for decades or navigate complex loan systems. With Maxcoop, anybody can be a homeowner by becoming a co-operator and own a home of their choice by just contributing 50% of the cost of their desired house type, in a short time.

How does it work?

Register as a Co-operator: Choose the membership level that suits you best—Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum—and pay a registration fee that fits your budget. Select Your Dream Home. We have over 300 exquisite house designs tailored to varying membership categories; and there’s something for everyone—from cozy studio apartments to luxurious duplexes. Then begin to contribute towards your desired house type. Once you’ve contributed 50% of the cost of your house type you receive the keys to your dream home. You can move in immediately and pay off the remaining 50% over 4-5 years while enjoying your new space.

What inspired the Maxcoop initiative?

Nigeria faces a severe housing shortage and lacks adequate mortgage facilities. Where mortgages are available, the requirements are excessively stringent. As a result, many Nigerians cannot afford even basic homes like one-bedroom, two-bedroom, or bungalow units.

This realisation led to the creation of Maxcoop. In 2022, I was troubled by the fact that since its inception, PWAN Max—one of the 63 affiliate companies under PWAN Group—had sold over 40,000 plots in four years, but less than 0.1% of buyers had started building. This disconnect between land ownership and home ownership goes against PWAN Group’s vision of making homeownership a reality. To address this, we needed a solution to encourage clients to build homes on their purchased plots. On August 24, 2024, we launched the Max Construction and Housing Cooperative Society Limited, a cooperative registered in 2023. Through this initiative, members can contribute towards building their own homes, bridging the gap between land ownership and homeownership.

What would you say is the reason many of your clients do not start building even after purchasing their land?

Many landowners delay building because they are overwhelmed by the high costs, which can run into millions. This makes the idea of starting to seem daunting and discouraging. However, the key is to begin with what you have. For example, during the launch of Maxcoop, I shared how Prof. Julius Oyedemi, a son from the PWAN Group, started an estate with just N400,000. He used this to dig the foundation and laid the blocks gradually, and three years later, Cedarwood Luxury was fully developed and occupied. The journey to homeownership doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It’s about starting small and building gradually, just like in a gym where people draw motivation

from others working out around them. When landowners see others making progress, they are encouraged to keep building, step by step, until they achieve their dream home. Maxcoop creates a synergy where members can pool resources together to build homes faster. When members see others contributing and making progress, it motivates them to increase their own efforts toward building their homes. Beyond contributing, members can also earn income by recruiting others into the cooperative through a network marketing system. While signing up is free, activating an account requires a minimum of N25,000 registration fee renewable annually.

The recruitment process is managed separately by an entity under Mr. Empowerment, which provides a platform for people to join and start contributing toward homeownership. A significant advantage of Maxcoop is price stability; for example, if a house costs N50,000,000 today, it remains at that price for the member, even 4 to 10 years later.

Nigeria faces a severe housing shortage and lacks adequate mortgage facilities. Where mortgages are available, the requirements are excessively stringent. As a result, many Nigerians cannot afford even basic homes like one-bedroom, twobedroom, or bungalow units

How?

We believe a home can be broken down into its basic materials—cement, nails, wood, doors, tiles, and more. Think of a house as a puzzle that comes together piece by piece. Through Maxcoop, members pool their funds into a cooperative account to buy and stock building materials in advance. This way, we protect against inflation, as the materials’ value increases while they are stored, rather than having money lose value in a bank. For example, if you contribute 50% of the cost of a house worth N50,000,000 in 2024, and continue contributing over five years, you can still get the house for N50,000,000 in 2029. Additionally, members can earn commissions by recruiting others into the cooperative and from the payments made on their homes. The goal is for everyone to become a homeowner. It’s crucial to break the cycle of generational tenancy and create a future where every generation builds homes, solving the housing shortage in Nigeria.

So, can you confidently say that this is for real and their money is safe? Yes, I can confidently say that this is a real initiative designed to make homeownership accessible and affordable. The cooperative structure ensures transparency and collective decision-making, meaning members’ money is actively working towards their goal of homeownership. Additionally, the system’s safeguards, such as warehousing materials, mean that your investment is protected from market fluctuations. While any investment carries some risk, Maxcoop is structured to minimise these risks and provide a reliable path to homeownership. Our mission is to make homeownership a reality for every Nigerian. Through Maxcoop, we provide a practical and collaborative path for people to pool resources, buy materials in bulk, and build homes at stable costs. Our approach focuses on affordability, transparency, and community support, ensuring that every member has the opportunity to own a home. As the President of MaxCoop, I promise that anyone who contributes to our scheme will have their money secured and well-managed. We have strong security measures in place, including safeguarding our warehouses. For materials like cement and iron, we buy in bulk and store them with manufacturers until needed, ensuring the safety and value of your investment.

How has the response been?

The response was incredible—the hall was packed to capacity with attendees. Since we call it empowerment, we ensure constant training. On August 28th, we held a session from 10 am to 2 pm that started with fewer than 10 people but grew to over 70 participants. We also offer free youth training every Friday and Sunday at 7:30 pm online, and every Wednesday and Thursday at the Mr. Empowerment International Centre in Lekki. These sessions help address concerns, and open minds and encourage participants to embrace the programme.

Is this opportunity open to your past clients in the real estate business?

Yes, the Maxcoop opportunity is open to everyone, whether you are a past client or not, regardless of where your land is located—even if it’s in your village or another state. Once you show us your land, we will assess the cost of building your chosen house and provide you with a bill to start paying.

Is there any particular message you want to send to the public?

The message is clear: Own a home—no excuses with Maxcoop.

Onwumere

Kayode Tokede

In a move that indicates continued support for the nation’s economic growth, banks Credit to Private Sector increased by N2.29 trillion between June and July 2024, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has said.

The additional N2.29 trillion credit is coming on the backdrop of unstable naira at the foreign exchange market and double-digit inflation rate.

The CBN in its Money and Credit statistics report credit to the private sector increased by 34 per cent from N56.46 trillion in July 2023 to N75.5 trillion in July 2024.

The CBN numbers indicated that banks’ loans and other facilities to the private sector have increased by nearly a third, underlying the resilience and support of the banking sector to the economy.

The report showed that CPS rose

by 33.7 per cent to N75.48 trillion in July 2024 as against N56.46 trillion recorded in July 2023, an increase of N19.02 trillion.

A breakdown indicated that credit to private sector increased by 3.1 per cent or N2.29 trillion to N75.48 trillion in July 2024 compared with N73.19 trillion in June 2024.

The CPS includes loans, trade credits and other account receivables and supports provided by banks to the private sector within a period.

The CPS is a global measure of the banking sector’s balance sheet resilience and contribution to national economic agenda.

The latest report underlined the continuing growth in banks’ operations and deployment of funds to the productive sector of the economy.

The report showed that Nigerian banks had seen significant increase in deposits during the first half of

this year. The report indicated that banks’ demand deposits rose from N26.7 trillion recorded at the end of December 2023 to N33.0 trillion by June 2024.

Banks had sustained steady growth in deposits across the quarters as total demand deposits in the first quarter ended March 2024 increased by 8.1 per cent to N28.9 trillion. In the second quarter ended June 2024, banks’ deposits increased by 14.3 per cent to N33 trillion.

Analysts believe bank are lending to big corporations to enable them meet the 65 per cent Loan-to-Deposit Ratio (LDR) threshold set by the CBN.

They said banks are in position to continue to create more loans, citing aggressive growth strategies by banks and enabling regulatory environment.

In a related development, a recent report on capital importation into

the country had also shown that banks attracted nearly two-third of capital importation into the country.

Analysts said this was a measure of confidence in the Nigerian banks as foreign investors gradually take more active stance in the nation’s economy.

Analysts agreed that increase private sector credit implies a major boost for the economy as there is a link between credit to the private sector and the economic growth.

Several studies have continuously found that increased lending by banks directly leads to increase in Gross Domestic Products (GDP).

Commenting, analysts at Cordros Capital said the trend in credit to private sector may continue in the period ahead.

“We believe the re-enforcement of the CBN’s limit on Deposit Money Bank’s loans-to-deposits macro-prudential ratio will continue

to drive the willingness of commercial banks to create risky assets over the short to medium term,” Cordros Capital stated.

The analysts however, noted that the apex bank’s intensified monetary policy tightening measures could tether the magnitude of growth going forward.

A study published by the CBN concluded that, “credit is growth-enhancing, even when trade openness, monetary policy, investment climate and infrastructure are low.” The study found that private sector credit increases economic growth.

The balance sheet strength of banks also determine the flow of credits, with the continuing increase in lending amidst macroeconomic headwinds underpinning Nigerian banks’ resilience and stability.

In a study on ‘Balance Sheet Strength and Bank Lending

During the Global Financial Crisis’, researchers at International Monetary Fund (IMF) examined the role of bank balance sheet strength in the transmission of financial sector shocks to the real economy.

The study found that, “banks with strong balance sheets were better able to maintain lending during the crisis.”

According to the study, banks that were ex-ante more dependent on market funding and had lower structural liquidity reduced the supply of credit more than other banks.

“However, higher and betterquality capital mitigated this effect. Our results suggest that strong bank balance sheets are key for the recovery of credit following crises, and provide support for regulatory

Despite notable fluctuations across the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) sector indicators in August 2024, the NGX Oil & Gas Index bulked the trend with an impressive 22.39 per cent gain.

This index, which includes eight prominent Oil and Gas Marketing companies; Conoil Plc, Eterna Plc, Japaul Gold and Ventures Plc, MRS Oil Nigeria Plc, Oando Plc, Seplat Energy Plc, Total Nigeria Plc, and Capital Oil Plc showcased robust

performance throughout the month.

In addition, NGX Insurance Index recorded a monthly gain of 11.46 per cent, while the NGX Banking Index rose by 6.96 per cent month-on-month. NGX Consumer Goods Index also posted a 4.30 per cent increase in August. However, NGX Industrial Goods Index experienced a decline of 13.06 per cent, driven primarily by the underperformance of Dangote Cement, a major player in the sector. This poor performance of Dangote Cement had a considerable impact

on the broader market index.

Amidst these sectoral gains, the overall Nigerian stock market exhibited volatility. The All-Share Index (ASI) dipped by 1.22 per cent to close at 96,579.54 basis points on August 30, 2024, down from 97,774.22 points at the start of the year. Market capitalization also saw a decline, shedding N36 billion to close the period at N55.478 trillion from N55.514 trillion at the beginning of August. Despite the overall market decline, certain stocks showed remarkable

gains. RT Briscoe Nigeria Plc surged by 367.10% month-on-month, rising from 76 kobo to N3.55 per share. Oando Plc followed with a 207.6 per cent increase, from N25.00 to N76.90 per share. Julius Berger Nigeria Plc also performed well, with its stock appreciating by 75.77 per cent, from N97 to N170.50 per share. These gains underscore the selective nature of market performance, where specific stocks outperformed even in a generally declining environment.

Capital market analysts observed that investor sentiment in the local

market has been driven by profittaking, but they emphasised that Nigeria’s capital market remains one of the top-performing exchanges in Africa and globally. They highlighted that while market sentiment has been cautious due to the high-interest-rate environment, the overall outlook remains positive. Key drivers of this optimism include ongoing banking sector recapitalizations and increased interest from foreign portfolio investors.

Commenting on the market’s performance over the first eight

months of 2024, Vice President of Highcap Securities Limited, Mr. David Adnori, noted that investor trading has been largely sentiment driven. He added that the emergence of President Bola Tinubu has further energized the stock market, as participants are optimistic about his ability to revitalize the economy and implement business-friendly policies.

Kayode Tokede

Sustaining Public Sector Reforms

James e mejo , writes on the need to sustain the current drive to reform the public sector amid huge financial and material commitments

Policy somersault remains a key issue with the country’s public administrations, posing significant risks to economic stability, investor confidence, and national development.

Policy somersault, the frequent reversal, abandonment, or inconsistency in government policies often create significant challenges for a country, including economic instability, undermining of reforms, erosion of investor confidence and public trust, as well as loss of international credibility.

Experts have emphasised the need for consistent and well-implemented policies are to fostering growth, improve governance, and ensure sustainable progress.

Nigeria’s civil service remains key to creating a stable and conducive environment for economic activities through effective policy implementation, infrastructure development, efficient public administration, and fostering innovation, leading to sustainable economic growth.

But, over the years, the sector had failed to live up to these expectations as a result of widespread corruption, inefficiency and bureaucracy, lack of professionalism and training, low morale, dearth of transparency and accountability, lack of innovation, bribery and nepotism and resistance to change, political interference, among other limitations. These identified deficiencies have largely resulted in the misallocation of resources, and undermined public trust.

It took the intervention of private sector partners including the Aig- Imoukhuede (AIG) Foundation, working with the federal government to recently introduce key reforms to reposition the public service for greater efficiency – and the interventions have started to yield positive results – amid huge financial commitments.

Nonetheless, there are concerns that the lack of continuity may reverse these gains as continuity in public sector reform ensures that the momentum for positive change is maintained, resources are effectively used, and institutions strengthened over time to contribute to better governance and service delivery for citizens.

Continuity iS key

Speaking recently at a national workshop on public sector reforms in Nigeria with the theme, “Rethinking Reforms: Why Many Reforms Fail in Nigeria and What We Can Do About It,” which was organized by the Aig-Imoukhuede (AIG) Foundation, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, emphasised the need for continuity and commitment in current efforts to reform and reposition the public service to play its role in economic development.

He said discontinuity remained the greatest pain of any reform, stressing that sustainability was one of the key ingredients of reforms, coupled with ownership, initiators, drivers and executors.

The former president described reforms as a “lifelong process, a journey, not a destination,” adding that ongoing reform must be accepted and widespread, adding that government must do all it takes in ensuring that the public service is

strengthened.

Obasanjo said where necessary, monetary and other reward system including legislation should be applied to achieve the goal of repositioning the public service, and particularly commended the collaboration between government and private sector players, particularly the AIG Foundation towards sanitizing the public service.

Obasanjo further reiterated the need for recognition of the critical roles which technocrats civil service play in driving key reforms and effective governance. According to him, “The greatest pain of reform is discontinuity. Continuity of personnel is crucial. Reform is a lifelong process, a journey, not a destination. I’ve met and dealt with some of the best in the public service. We need good men and women in the public service as much as we need them in the private sector. Some are frustrated, inadequately rewarded,

and we need to correct that.”

Obasanjo said such reforms also required political heads and technocrats to work together, respecting and understanding each other, stressing that “public service, including the executive, legislative, judiciary, and technocrats, has power. Technocrats have power, and we must recognise that...I will continue to respect the Nigerian public service, particularly the technocrats until I die.”

Huge FinanCial CommitmentS to ReFoRmS

According to Chairman, AIG Foundation, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, the foundation has committed so much to the advancement of the country’s public sector, investing £2.9 million in leadership development, and supported the civil service reform initiatives with N1 billion as well as interventions to improve healthcare across Africa amounting to N3 billion. This was in addition to N4 billion raised from co-sponsors for the Adopt-a-Health- Facility Programme. Also, through the foundation’s various capacity development programmes, public servants had received a total of 408 specific trainings, while 169 completed the AIG Public Leaders Programme. Altogether, 43 Federal Permanent Secretaries have been coached while the coveted AIG Degree Scholarships to University of Oxford had been awarded to 32 recipients, including AIG Fellowships to the University of Oxford granted to three beneficiaries. Imoukhuede, highlighted the essence of an efficient and motivated public service in achieving good governance, production and distribution of public goods, formulation and implementation of economic policy, and management of public expenditure. Citing Nigeria’s Human Development Index ranking of 161 out of 189 countries, he said this was a reflection of the performance of government over several decades.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Jennifer adighije: Bringing Vibrancy, experience to Consolidate nDPHC

With her appointment as the new Managing Director of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), Jennifer Adighije, who started her career as a transmission maintenance engineer at the former Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), is expected to leverage technology and human capital to drive positive change in NDPHC, writes Festus akanbi

In line with the mood of the nation, the wave of transformation sweeping the key agencies of government crept into the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), On Monday, August 26, 2024, when Chiedu Ugbo, Ugbo, an electric energy law specialist with over 30 years of extensive experience in electricity industry reform, power project documentation, and privatisation handed over the mantle of leadership of Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) to Engineer Jennifer Adighije following the expiration of his second tenure of four years. Ugbo was first appointed in August 2016 after which President Muhammadu Buhari renewed the tenure for a second and final term. It ended on Friday, August 23 and he handed it over to Adighije.

NIPP was originally designed around seven medium-sized gas-fired power stations in the gasproducing states this was later increased to 10 with the additional three in Kogi, Ogun, and Ondo states, and the critical transmission infrastructure needed to evacuate the added power into the national grid. A commitment to electrify host communities in the vicinity of the power stations and major substations gave rise to the distribution component of the project.

Observers said the positive sentiment engendered by the appointment of the youthful Adighije who boasts of academic and practical knowledge and experiences spanning electricity, telecommunications, central banking, politics, and governance is not misplaced. It is believed the new boss would bring her education and diverse experience to bear, especially at a time when the federal government is desirous of raising grid electricity generation and distribution to 6,000MW by the end of 2024.

She is a graduate of the University of Lagos with a B.Sc. in electrical and electronics engineering. She later obtained an M.Sc. in wireless networks and

Adighije

telecommunications at Queen Mary University of London and returned to Nigeria in 2006. She was born on April 15, 1983, to the Adighije family of Abia state. Her father, Chris Adighije, served as the senator representing Abia central senatorial district under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from 2003 to 2007. Chris defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2016 and is now a chieftain of the ruling party.

Adighije started her career as a transmission maintenance engineer at the former Power

Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) from where she joined Globacom as Network Switching Subsystem (NSS) specialist, after which she worked with Helios Towers Nig, a telecommunication infrastructure company, as a head of operations and planning.

In 2018, she joined the Central Bank of Nigeria as a value engineer and cost controller in the procurement department and left in September 2023 when she was appointed as a senior special assistant (entrepreneurship development in communications, innovation, and the digital economy) to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

HeR ViSion

While receiving handover notes, Adighije promised to hit the ground running. She told her audience “Our mandate at NDPHC is clear: to execute and manage national IPP assets optimally. My vision rests on three pillars: optimising asset performance. Number two, optimising our processes to ensure that we can drive organisational and operational efficiency, and number three, which happens to be the most critical is to ensure we leverage technology and human capital to drive positive change in the organisation and with our external stakeholders. number three is very crucial to me because our human capital is our greatest asset. Our human capital is the powerhouse to assist in making positive change.

The fashionpreneur, a member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) is currently in the second year of her doctoral study at the Catholic University of Murcia, Spain. She got married to Obiora Okolo, a US-based medical doctor, in 2013.

Her hobbies include reading, cooking, and making a social impact. She is a humanitarian, a life member of the Rotary Club, and a socialentrepreneurship advocate. She is a patron of the Digi-Tech Empowerment Foundation for Youths, where she dedicates her time and resources to fostering digital inclusion by bridging access gaps for digitally vulnerable youths.

In August 2005, the National Council of State and the National Assembly approved initial funding for NIPP from the excess crude savings account’ (ECSA) which statutorily belongs to the Federal, State, and Local Governments. The Federal Government therefore incorporated the Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC) as a limited liability company to serve as the legal vehicle to hold the NIPP assets using private sector-orientated best business practices. NDPHC has a current installed capacity of 3,585 MW and contributes over 40 percent of the power requirement in the grid. The plants include Benin Generation Company Limited at Ihovba, Edo state, Calabar Generation Company Limited, Cross River state, Geregu Generation Company Limited, Kogi state, Olorunsogo Generation Company Limited, Ogun state, Omotosho Generation Company Limited, Ondo state, Olorunsogo II, Ogorode (Sapele), Delta State, Geregu II, Omotosho II, Ihovbor, Alaoji, Gbarain in Bayelsa State, Omoku, Rivers State, Egbema, Imo State and Alaoji steam. With just about three of the plants still under construction, and hundreds of thousands of kilometres of transmission and distribution lines, substations, and transformers installed across the length and breadth of the country, NDPHC can be said to have entered the stage of consolidation.

Thisday Afrinvest Index Down 0.1%

Thisday Afrinvest 40 index fell by 0.1% to print at 4,256.09 points due to price decline in ZENITH ( 1.8%), FBNH ( 1.8%), and WAPCO ( 0.4%). Cumulatively, these stocks account for 13.4% of the index.

Bulls Extend Dominance... ASI up 0.1%

Yesterday, gains in OANDO (+7.6%) STANBIC (+3.6%) and GTCO (+0.9%) pushed the NGX ASI higher by 0.1% to close at 96,873.74 index points. As a result, YTD return improved to 29.6% (previously 29.4%) while market capitalisation inched higher by 0.1% to close at ₦55.6tn. Activity level declined as both volume and value traded dipped 5.0% and 5.7% to 473.0m units and ₦10.4bn, respectively.

Negative Sector Performance

Performance across our coverage sectors was bearish as four indices closed in the red, while the other two gained. Leading the laggards, the Insurance and Consumer Goods indices fell 0.4% and 0.3% respectively, due to price decline in AIICO ( 5.8%), SUNUASSURE ( 4.7%), DANGSUGAR ( 2.1%) and NB ( 1.8%). The Banking and Industrial Goods indices followed suit, down 6bps and 2bps respectively, due to sell pressure on ZENITH ( 1.8%), FBNH ( 1.8%), WAPCO ( 0.4%) and CUTIX ( 1.0%). On the flip side, the Oil & Gas and AFR ICT rose 59bps and 5bps accordingly, following price uptick in OANDO (+7.6%), ETERNA (+9.9%), ETRANZACT (+9.8%) and CWG (+2.8%).

Outlook

Investor sentiment, as measured by market breadth, remained unchanged at 0.02x, as 29 stocks advanced, 30 declined, while 62 closed flat. Today, we expect the bourse to sustain the upbeat momentum, spurred by extended positive reactions to interim dividend announcements.

Corporate Disclosure

Yesterday, Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC announced an interim dividend of ₦2.00 per ordinary share of 50 kobo each, amounting to ₦25.9bn for the period ended 30 June 2024. The dividend will be paid on 30 September 2024 to shareholders registered by 18 September 2024. Shareholders are advised to ensure completion of their e dividend registration to receive payments directly into their bank accounts.

Wednesday September 4th, 2024

NAICOM Partners Nigeria Governors’ Forum to Deepen Insurance Penetration

Stories by Ebere Nwoji

The Commissioner for Insurance and Chief Executive of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin recently visited the Director General of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum Dr. Abdulateef Shittu at the NGF Secretariat in Abuja.

The Director General while welcoming the Management of NAICOM informed them that the NGF has transformed into a policy hub for the state governors and is serving as the technical and administrative arm of the forum. He stated that the forum consist of the 36 state governors in the federation while the secretariat

is the administrative arm and a resource center for the forum that renders services and policy formulation.

He said the NGF secretariat was a one-stop shop for any business you want to do with the states. He introduced members of the teams, and thanked the Director General for the warm welcome and briefed the secretariat on the core mandate of the National Insurance Commission which is supervising, regulating and developing the insurance sector in Nigeria and by so doing it involves how the culture of insurance can be deepened by getting the Nation as a whole to comply with some of the compulsory Insurances as provided in our law. He noted

that at the federal level these is been driven by Federal agencies but at the states level the Commission needs some high level of cooperation and collaboration. He stated that the key reason the commission was at the NGF secretariat was to discuss how a coordinated approach could be adopted in working with the states and that the collaboration must start from engaging the NGF Secretariat as policy hub for the state governors. He said having been appointed recently, few months back, his team was trying to see how it could address some of the issues differently from the way it has been handled in the past in order to achieve a better result.

Experts to Discuss Roles of Insurance, Pension at NAIPE Confab

Insurance experts will once again gather to brainstorm on issues concerning the economy of Nigeria. This year’s theme is, ‘Roles of Insurance and Pension Sectors Towards, a $1 Trillion Economy’, a projection targeted by the Federal Government, will form the main trust of 2024 National Insurance Conference organised by the Nigerian Association of Insurance and Pension Editors (NAIPE).

Panelist for the conference have been unveiled recently to include, Managing Director/

CEO, Sanlam Life Insurance Limited; Mr Tunde Mimiko, Executive Director, Technical, NEM Insurance Plc (General); Mr. Wale Okunrinboye, Chief Investment Officer, Access Pensions; Mr. Oluseye Olusoga,).

The panelists, comprised of experts from key sectors of the economy including insurance, Pension, and Capital Market. They will discuss and analyse the theme of the Conference .

This year’s edition of the NAIPE conference which is 9th in the series will take place on

October 8, 2024, at the Oriental Hotel, Lekki-Ajah Expressway, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The former Commissioner for Insurance/CEO, National Insurance Commissioner (NAICOM), who is also the former Managing Director/ CEO, FBS Reinsurance Limited, Mr. Fola Daniel, will chair the conference. At the same time, the Managing Director/Chief Economist, Analysts Data Services and Resources, Dr. Afolabi Olowookere, will deliver the theme paper.

CII London Appoints Funmi Babington-Ashaye as Goodwill Ambassador

The Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) London has appointed Dr. Babington-Ashaye, as goodwill ambassador, representing Nigeria.

Ashaye, was appointed amongst other top distinguished professionals across the globe.

According to the CII, the goodwill ambassadors are qualified members, experienced in the profession, who volunteer their time to assist its international team. The Institute said the ambassadors were to assist in promoting professional standards to achieve the building of public trust in insurance.

“They do this by communicating with local businesses,

advocating the importance of professional qualifications and sharing best practice to influence sector frameworks. The network of ambassadors will continue to grow,” the CII said.

The ambassadors appointed in Africa are: Dr (Mrs) Funmi Babington-Ashaye, Nigeria; Rev. Asante Marfo-Ahenkora FCII, Chartered Insurance Broker, Ghana; Gigi Chen ACII, China amongst others.

Ashaye who is Chartered Insurance Broker, was the former Managing Director/ Chief Executive of Cornerstone Insurance Plc and NICON Insurance Plc. She is an Alumnus of Lagos Business School and a Fellow

of the Chartered Insurance Institute both of Nigeria and United Kingdom.

In addition, she is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Insurance Brokers, and a Fellow of the Institute of Directors Nigeria, with a Masters in Entrepreneurship from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) United States of America.

In 2017 she became President/ Chairman of the Council of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria, the premier insurance body responsible for promoting skills development and professional conduct among members engaged in the industry.

Essay Competition: Heirs Insurance Group Shortlists 15 Semi- finalists

Heirs Insurance Group, has shortlisted its top 15 semifinalists for the third edition of the Heirs Insurance Essay Championship. The top 15 participants emerged from a competitive pool of close to 5,000 entries from Junior Secondary School students across Nigeria. All entries underwent a rigorous grading process by renowned academics, on originality, depth of analysis, and clarity of thought. Furthermore, Deloitte & Touche, a leading Audit and Quality Assurance Firm, independently

reviewed the grading process to ensure objectivity.

According to the company, out of the shortlisted participants, three students will proceed to the grand finale for a concluding presentation, on an all-expense paid trip sponsored by Heirs Insurance Group, which will take place at Transcorp Hilton Abuja, in September. It said winners of the Heirs Insurance Essay Championship will receive a combined scholarship of N8 million, with the final winner’s school getting an

additional N1 million donation.

The Heirs Insurance Essay Championship is part of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts of the group geared towards improving the quality of education of the next generation. The Championship also highlights emerging talent, while bringing parents and children closer to insurance through extended workshops on financial security. According to the underwriting firm, this year’s competition witnessed creative entries from 35 states of the country, in response to

AXA Mansard Appoints Surakat Chief Marketing Officer

AXA Mansard Insurance Plc, has appointed Adebola Surakat as the new Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) to move the company to a great height.

Adebola’s extensive experience in the insurance industry and her technical expertise in key operational areas of the business over the years will drive the company’s ambition to simplify insurance and increase adoption. With a remarkable career

at AXA Mansard, spanning over 19 years, Adebola has consistently demonstrated her expertise and leadership across various roles. Most recently, she served as the Chief Fulfilment Officer, responsible for claims administration and the development of microinsurance technical processes. Her previous role includes Head of Claims Services, Reinsurance, Technical Risk Survey, and Fraud &

Insurance Procurement.

Throughout her career at AXA Mansard, Adebola has held pivotal roles that have shaped her comprehensive understanding of the insurance landscape. She began her journey in retail sales, managing ban assurance and Agency Distribution channels, where she showed her skills in client relationship management and business development.

Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

From L-R: S.A to Kaduna State Governor on Investment, Sani Sabiu; Regional Business Head, North Central, The Alternative Bank, Umar Umar; Group Head, Structured Trade and Commodities Finance, Gbenga Awe; Commissioner of Agriculture, Kaduna State, Murtala Dabo; Business Head, Staragri, Jaya Prakash; GM KADA, Muhammad Rili; State Director, Fed. Min. of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Timkat Vontau Permanent Sec. Cabinet Affairs Kaduna State, and Mr. Iliya Duniya during an MoU between The Alternative Bank and Staragri in Kaduna…recently

H1 2024: Stanbic IBTC Holdings Reports N116.4bn Profit

Kayode Tokede

Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, yesterday announced its audited half year ended June 2024 result and accounts to investing public, reporting N116.4 billion profit after tax, about 71.3per cent increase from N67.92 billion reported in half year ended June 2023.

The Group’s in its profit & loss figures posted on the Nigerian Exchange Limited

(NGX) declared N147 billion profit before tax in H1 2024, about 77 per cent increase from N82.99 billion reported in H1 2023.

Amid significant increase in profit, the management of Stanbic IBTC Holdings announced an interim dividend of N2.00 per ordinary share of 50 kobo each, that is, N25.9 billion.

The group’s gross earnings rise to N378.55 billion in H1 2024, representing a 77.44 per

PRICES FOR

cent increase from the N213.33 billion gross earnings posted in H1 2023.

From the profit & loss figures, net interest income of Stanbic IBTC Holdings stood at N174.3 billion in H1 2024, about 140 per cent increase from N72.68billion reported in H1 2023, driven by interest income and expenses.

In the period under review., its interest income stood at N246.13billion, 123 per cent

growth from N110.26billion in corresponding period, while interest expenses moved from N37.6 billion in H1 2023, representing an increase of 91.2 per cent from N71.83 billion declared in H1 2024.

From the balance sheet position, the group declared N6.1 trillion total assets as of June 2024, about 19per cent increase from N5.15 trillion reported in 2023 full financial year.

The growth in total assets is

driven by N2.17 trillion loans and advances as of June 2024, about 6.5 per cent increase from N2.04 trillion reported in 2023 and N2.89 trillion deposits from customers as of June 30, 2024, representing an increase of nearly six per cent from N2.7 trillion reported in 2023 full financial year.

The Group in 2023 financial year had announced profit before tax of N172.91 billion, up 72per cent from N100.27 billion reported in 2022, while profit after tax was

at N140.62 billion, an increase of 74per cent from N80.73 billion in 2022 financial year. While commenting on the 2023 FY results, Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC, Dr Demola Sogunle in a statement said, ““Our strategic theme for 2023 was “Accelerating Growth”, and notwithstanding the trends in the Nigerian operating environment, we were able to record remarkable progress in our key focus areas.

TRADED ASOF SEPTEMBER 3/24

Education

Kola-Olusanya: Why Varsities Must Modernise, Expand Facilities to Align with Current Educational Trends

Anthony Kola-Olusanya is a professor of environmental sustainability and former deputy vice-chancellor of academics, research, innovation, and partnerships at Osun State University. In this interview with Funmi Ogundare, he explained why it is critical for institutions to modernise and expand their facilities to align with current educational trends and technological advancements essential for meeting academic goals and programme needs and that such investments will go a long way in delivering quality education and supporting pioneering research, thereby achieving world-class standards

What constitutes quality at the level of tertiary institutions, and in what ways can quality be interpreted?

Quality at tertiary institutions is multifaceted and can be interpreted through various lenses, including academic and research excellence, faculty engagement, student satisfaction, and the availability of robust infrastructure and support services. One key aspect is academic excellence, which includes rigorous curricula, innovative teaching methods, and the availability of diverse programmes that meet industry and societal needs. High-quality institutions typically exhibit strong graduation rates and successful career placements for their graduates. Research output is another critical component. Quality institutions are often leaders in their fields, contributing significantly to knowledge through high-impact publications, patents, and collaborations with industry. The presence of well-funded research programs and opportunities for students to engage in research activities also signal a high-quality institution. Academic staff qualifications and engagement are essential indicators of quality, in this number of academic staff with PhDs is critical. It is apposite to state that institutions with highly qualified, experienced, and actively engaged academic staff who are leaders in their respective fields tend to offer better educational experiences. It is also important for academic staff to be involved in professional development, and their accessibility to students also plays a crucial role in ensuring high education standards. Student satisfaction and support services are vital in interpreting quality.

The provision of robust support services, including counselling, career services, extracurricular activities, and a vibrant campus life, tends to lead to higher student satisfaction rates. These services help foster a conducive learning environment and holistic student development. Modern infrastructure and resources such as state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries with a mix of recent and rare books and journal collections, and technology are critical for maintaining high educational standards. It is imperative for institutions to continuously invest in upgrading their facilities and resources to be better positioned to provide quality education and support cutting-edge research to attain a world-class standard. Within the Nigerian university ecosystem, to ensure quality is upheld across the spectrum of universities, the National Universities Commission (NUC) routinely and periodically appraises the situation to ensure universities live up to standards through accreditation and re-accreditation processes.

What key indicators do you believe represent quality in a tertiary institution, and how do you prioritise them?

Key quality indicators in tertiary institutions include academic excellence, research output,

faculty qualifications, student support services, and infrastructure. Prioritising these indicators depends on the specific goals and mission of the institution. While all these indicators are essential, prioritising them requires balancing immediate educational needs with long-term institutional goals. Typically, academic excellence and faculty quality are prioritized to establish a strong educational foundation, followed by research output and infrastructure to enhance the institution’s capabilities and reputation.

Student support services are also critical to ensure a well-rounded educational experience. In this sense, I will broadly categorise this into three, which are a strong educational foundation, institutional capabilities and reputation as well as student support and engagement. Educational foundation is a top priority and speaks to the combination of academic excellence and academic staff qualifications as the core function of any tertiary institution is to provide high-quality education. It can be measured through the rigour of curricula, student-to-lecturer ratios, and graduates’ success in the job market. Prioritizing a strong educational foundation ensures that students receive a robust and relevant education that prepares them for future challenges. Further, the quality of academic staff in terms of

how highly qualified and experienced faculty members enhance the learning experience and contribute to the institution’s academic reputation ensures that students benefit from their expertise and mentorship. The second indicator is institutional capabilities and reputation, in this sense, refers to the combination of research output and Infrastructure as critical indicators for many institutions, especially research universities.

This includes the number and impact of publications, research grants obtained, and contributions to advancements in various fields. Prioritising research fosters innovation and maintains the institution’s reputation in the academic and scientific communities. State-ofthe-art facilities, including libraries, laboratories, and technology, support both learning and research activities, ensuring students and faculty can access the necessary resources to excel.The third indicator is student support services, and this speaks to the availability and quality of student support services, such as academic advising, mental health counselling, career services, and extracurricular activities, which are vital and contribute to student satisfaction and success, making them a key priority for institutions that aim to provide a holistic educational experience.

How does academic excellence contribute to the overall quality of a tertiary institution?

Academic excellence significantly contributes to the overall quality of a tertiary institution by

AFUED Council Appoints Akintunde as Acting VC

The Governing Council of Adeyemi Federal University of Education (AFUED), Ondo State, has approved Dr. Samuel Akintunde’s appointment as the university’s acting Vice-Chancellor. Before his appointment, Akintunde was the institution’s acting deputy vice-chancellor (administration).

The council also approved the appointment of the Chairman University Transition Committee, Dr.

Olufemi Abayomi Olajuyigbe, as the acting deputy vicechancellor.

The elevation of the two principal officers was contained in a memo dated August 21, 2024, which was signed by the Deputy Registrar, Division of Council Affairs, Mrs. Veronica Akpe. Council noted that the management, all staff unions, and

the student body of the university made the recommendation.

setting a high standard for education, fostering intellectual growth, and ensuring student success. Institutions known for academic excellence typically offer rigorous and relevant curricula that challenge and prepare students for their careers and bigger experiences after graduation. This emphasis on high academic standards attracts motivated students and academic staff, creating a vibrant learning environment. Moreover, academic excellence helps to drive the institution’s national and global reputation. Universities with strong academic programmes are often recognised in rankings and by employers, enhancing their prestige. This recognition, in turn, helps attract top-tier students and academic staff, thus creating a virtuous cycle of continuous improvement. Furthermore, academic excellence also promotes critical thinking, innovation, and research. By providing a solid educational foundation, institutions enable students to engage deeply with their disciplines, encouraging the pursuit of new knowledge and solutions to real-world problems.

This focus on excellence ensures that graduates are well-prepared, adaptable, and capable of significantly contributing to their fields. Largely, academic excellence supports the institution’s mission and long-term goals. It aligns with the core purpose and values of the founding fathers and stakeholders, which is to educate and empower individuals to be globally relevant and competitive. By prioritising academic excellence, institutions ensure they fulfil their role in society, producing graduates who are knowledgeable, ethical, and socially responsible.

How do you gather and analyse student feedback to assess satisfaction and improve quality?

Gathering and analysing student feedback to evaluate satisfaction and improve quality involves several steps. First, create comprehensive surveys that cover various aspects of the student experience, such as teaching quality, course content, support services, and campus facilities. Ensure the surveys include quantitative (e.g., rating scales) and qualitative (e.g. open-ended responses) to capture detailed feedback. Second, distribute these surveys regularly, such as at the end of each semester, through online platforms to ensure broad participation. Encourage honest and constructive feedback by assuring students of the anonymity and confidentiality of their responses. Thereafter, the collected data is analysed using statistical software to identify trends and patterns. Quantitative data can be summarized using descriptive statistics, while qualitative responses can be categorised into themes through content analysis.

NOTE:

The council also confirmed the appointments of other principal officers of the institution in an acting capacity. They include Mrs. Olufisayo Fakorede as acting registrar, Mrs. Taiwo Adedoyin as acting bursar, and Dr. Mrs. Adeola Afolabi as acting librarian. All the appointments took effect from August 2024. Akintunde

Kola-Olussanya

CREATING FAMILY LEGACIES...

L-R: Mrs Adaeze Obi-Umeofia; Company Secretary/General Counsel, United Capital Plc,

COAS: Data Management Key to Military’s

Operational Success, Administrative Excellence

Armed forces capable of containing banditry like insurgency, says Marwa

and Michael Olugbode

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, observed Tuesday in Abuja, that in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, the ability to manage and secure data efficiently is not just a requirement but a cornerstone of operational success and administrative excellence.

Gen. Lagbaja made this observation while declaring open, the Second Edition of the Army Headquarters, Department of Military Secretary Data Management and Record Keeping Seminar 2024, themed "Efficient Data Management and Record Keeping in a Digital Era: An Imperative for Sustaining a Professional Nigerian Army within a Joint Environment".

In another related development, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd.) has commended the officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces for their professionalism, patriotism and daily sacrifices in their efforts to curb banditry in the North West and other security challenges in parts of the country.

Marwa spoke Tuesday when the National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Maj. Gen. Adamu Laka paid him a courtesy visit at the NDLEA’s National Headquarters in Abuja to seek collaboration of NCTC and NDLEA.

Gen. Lagbaja who was the special guest of honour, also expressed conviction that effective data management and record keeping is fundamental to a successful army, stating that the seminar offered valuable opportunity

for participants to gain essential knowledge and skills which are essential for maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of their operations.

"By focusing on current best practices in our data management and record keeping system, we will ensure that the Nigerian Army remains adaptive, resilient, and capable of meeting the demands of a joint environment," he said.

According to Lagbaja, this includes not only traditional military engagements but also the increasingly significant domains of cyber and media operations.

Expressing delight at the participation of various AHQ departments, corps, and formations' record offices, the army chief added that their presence at the seminar here demonstrated strong commitment to enhancing their expertise in data management, record keeping, cyber security, and document security.

Represented by Chief of Standard and Evaluation (Army), Maj. Gen. Olumuyiwa Aiyenigba, the army chief, said the seminar came at a time when the military is operating in a complex environment, especially in cyber and media domains, while also engaged in numerous national operations.

The army chief averred that these challenges underscore the vital importance of efficient data management and record keeping for the effective administration of the Nigerian Army.

Earlier in his address of welcome, the military secretary (army), Maj. Gen. Eyitayo Oyinlola, said the seminar was borne out of the critical necessity to streamline and enhance data management and record keeping practices

Abia Deploys

within the Nigerian Army in today’s digital era, noting that the seminar represents a significant milestone in their collective pursuit of excellence in data management and record keeping within the Nigerian Army.

Oyinlola said that the focus of the seminar, was to imbue best practices in data management and record keeping with emphasis on proper document storage and security in a digital era, in order to foster efficiency and effectiveness of the Nigeria Army.

"Effective data management and record keeping ensures the preservation of institutional data and records of vital historical value to facilitate quick decision-making and sound administration of the Nigerian Army for years to come," he said.

He concluded that the knowledge

that will be shared during this seminar, will therefore be instrumental in enabling Nigerian Army to maintain accurate records, facilitate informed decision-making, and optimise its overall effectiveness in the force’s administration.

Retired Brig. Gen. Marwa said there is need to support and encourage the armed forces following a viral video of bandits celebrating the ‘capture’ of an armoured military vehicle stuck in a mucky path in Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

He added that the Nigerian military is well placed and capable of containing banditry like they already contained insurgency in the North East.

He urged Nigerians to stand with the military and other security agen-

cies in the ongoing efforts to end all security challenges facing the country. According to him, “man for man, officer to officer, soldier to soldier - the Nigerian Armed Forces personnel are an equal or better match to any of their colleagues anywhere in the world.”

Marwa said this explains their success in peacekeeping operations even before independence and the reason why they are well sought after by the United Nations, adding that the exploits of our armed forces under ECOMOG are still fresh in memory.

“I recall that during my tenure as Defence Adviser in our Permanent Mission to the UN, Nigerian troops were always sought after for their professionalism and effectiveness”, he stated.

The NDLEA boss harping on the need to appreciate the sacrifices being made by personnel of the armed forces, said: “We must always remember that our men and women in uniform left their families and went to the bush these past 15 years, fighting an asymmetrical warfare in ill-defined territories and an amorphous enemy that easily mixes with the rural population.”

He said if the same security forces have been able to contain the Boko Haram insurgency in the North East, which was once far worse than the present banditry in the North West, they will in a matter of time end the criminal activities of non-state actors in Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina and other parts of the region.

Domestic Violence: Mrs Otti Horrified by Degree of Injuries Inflicted on Abia Woman, Canvasses Change

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

Wife of the Abia State Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti has expressed horror at the degree of bodily harm done to a woman by her spouse, Mr. Lawrence Uzor, in a failed attempt to gouge out the victim’s eyes for ritual purpose. The man also inflicted matchet cuts on his landlady, Madam Lovejane Nwaiwu, who had rushed in to rescue the abused wife on hearing her distress cry for help.

At the Federal Medical Centre

(FMC) Umuahia where she went to sympathise with the two women, Mrs. Otti said she was deeply saddened at the sight of Mrs. Amarachi Lawrence, writhing in pains on hospital bed with her eyes barely sitting in their sockets.

"This is a terrible case of violence, attempted murder and abuse", the governor’s wife said, adding that she would ensure that Mrs. Lawrence got the needed medical care and protection against domestic violence going forward.

The Abia first lady had recently

Security Personnel to Schools, to Checkmate Crime, Other Unwholesome Activities

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in

As Abia State public schools prepare to commence new school year on September 16, 2024, the government has made good its promise of deploying security personnel to guard the institutions and maintain adequate security.

Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, made this known yesterday at a media briefing in Umuahia after the weekly meeting of the State Executive Council.

He stated the personnel of Abia State Vigilante Services (AVS) have already taken positions in the schools.

The Alex Otti administration had

said that it inherited many anomalies in the schools, including destruction and stealing of school properties, land encroachments, and use of school premises for criminal activities by delinquent youths.

But Kanu said that government was determined to put an end to all the unwholesome activities in Abia schools hence the decision to checkmate the menace with security personnel.

"Posting security personnel is aimed at securing the lives and property of both the students, teachers and the property of the schools involved. The promise that the state government had made in the past has come to fulfilment with the posting of security

personnel to our schools," he said.

The information commissioner explained that safeguarding the schools was "part of the wider agenda of the state government to reform our education system."

He gave assurance that the reformation of the school system is on course, saying that government "has concluded plans to train 2,000 master trainers for teachers in the state".

According to him, 200 teachers have already passed through the training programme while the remaining 1,800 would soon undergo the same training.

He said the Abia State Basic Education Board(ASUBEB) has

screened, interviewed and shortlisted 40 teachers for training under the Abia State School Enhancement Team Program, a quality assurance initiative for monitoring performance in the school system.

Prince Kanu further stated that government was also keeping its promise to motivate teachers to higher productivity, adding that a total of 5,746 teachers at the basic school level have been earmarked for promotion.

In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Education, Dr. Kenechukwu Nwosu, said that government was presently mapping out all the schools in line with their security needs assessment.

signed the compact agreement on Gender-based Violence (GBV) with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) alongside other wives of governors and Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

Mrs. Otti having been confronted with this ugly incident of GBV, called for tougher action on perpetrators of domestic violence and other forms of GBV in the state.

She promised that GBV responses front desk and team would take proper actions on such incidents and commended the Umueze Ibeku community for their response and support to the two women victims of GBV.

The Abia first lady stated that the state GBV Response Team would be partnering communities to prevent incidents of GBV and to bring to justice anybody involved in perpetrating it.

She made cash donation for the treatment and upkeep of the two victims.

The Director, Medical Services, Mrs. Aisha Onyemaobi, had told Mrs. Otti that reports indicated that Mrs. Lawrence was deeply asleep when the husband woke her up and started cutting her.

"There was an attempt to gouge out her eyes and she had genital mutilation", she said.

The perpetrator of the violence, Uzor, is said to be an aluminum worker from Umuchieze in Bende Local Government, but residing with his wife at Adiele Estate in Umueze Ibeku, Umuahia.

In her account of the ugly incident, Madam Nwaiwu said that it happened at about 1.00am on Sunday when she heard Mrs. Lawrence shouting for help as her husband was trying to pluck out her eyes. She pointed out that, prior to the incident, she had heard Uzor praying very loud, shouting "odogwu, odogwu" (an invocation of greatness), adding that she had never heard the couple praying like that before.

The landlady said that at about 1.00am she heard Mr. Uzor's wife, who is a teacher with one of the foremost private schools in Umuahia, shouting, “mummy, I'm being killed. I opened my door, came out and peeped through their bedroom window and saw the man pressing down his wife with a knife in his hands, trying to use the knife to remove her eyes."

Nwaiwu said she tried to rouse neighbours to wake up and save Mrs. Lawrence from being killed but her efforts didn't yield the desired results hence she rushed in to offer help to the helpless woman. She further narrated that she entered the sitting room of the couple and "started knocking on the door and suddenly, he (Uzor) opened the door still holding the knife. He tried giving me cuts on my head but I defended it with my hand."

Madam Nwaiwu added that the aggressor ended up cutting her hand and dealing matchet blows to her face and mouth forcing "many of my upper teeth out".

Linus Aleke

in Abuja

Umuahia

Dr Leo Okafor; Convener of the Carleton University Canada Queen Elizabeth Scholar Community Engagement Program, Dr. Sophia Abiri-Franklin FCIS; Managing Director, NSIA Insurance Limited, Mr. Moruf Apampa: Consultant Family Physician and Lifestyle Medicine Physician LASUTH, Dr Moyosore Makinde; and Chairman TECO group, Engr Charles Aladewolu, after a Panel Session on Creating Family Legacies... recently

BARAU LEADS SENATE DELEGATION TO LATE YAR'ADUA FAmILY...

L-R: Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TetFund, Senator Muntari Dandutse; Chairman of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, Senator Aminu Iya Abbas; Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau; Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Police Affairs, Senator Abdulhamid Malam- Madori, when the senators led by the

of the Senate paid a condolence visit to the Katsina State Government House over the demise of the mother of the late former President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua, Hajia Dada ... yesterday

Nigeria Has Lost a Colossus, Iconic Woman in Hajiya Dada Yar’Adua, Tinubu Declares

Shettima

leads

Deji Elumoye and Francis Sardauna in Katsina

President Bola Tinubu has expressed the nation’s grief over the passing of the mother of the late President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua and former Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters, Major General Shehu Yar'adua (rtd), Hajiya Binta Dada Yar'Adua, describing her as a colossus and iconic woman.

FG's delegation to the late Yar'Adua matriarch's burial

The president said the passing of Hajiya Yar’Adua on Monday night, was a loss not just for the immediate family or Katsina State alone, but the entire nation.

The remains Hajiya Yar'Adua, were laid to rest in Katsina yesterday afternoon according to Islamic rites.

The funeral prayer was led by Sheikh Aminu Yammawa at the old Katsina stadium, at about 2:15 p.m.

She was later buried at about 3:00 p.m close to the tombs of her sons: Musa and Shehu Yar'Adua and that of her late husband, Musa Yar'Adua at the famous Danmarna cemetery, located in the Katsina metropolitan area.

Tinubu spoke yesterday through his deputy, Vice-President Kashim

Though it was earlier scheduled for 1:30 p.m. but had to be postponed due to a heavy downpour in the ancient city.

Shettima, who led the federal government's delegation to her burial in Katsina State.

President Tinubu, while eulogising the deceased, noted that the loss of Hajiya Yar’Adua had impacted the whole nation.

"We are here to express his commitment to the governor, the government and Nigeria as a whole over the loss of the matriarch. We are sympathising with the family

Bill Gates Advises Against Prioritising Local Vaccine Production

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

Philanthropist and co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Bill Gates, has advised Nigeria not to place much emphasis on local manufacturing of vaccines to the detriment of other much-needed health sector products. Gates said this on Tuesday in Abuja, at the Northern Traditional Leaders’ Committee on Primary Health Care Service Delivery (NTLC) quarterly review meeting. The meeting was organised by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA).

Speaking on the subject of promoting local manufacturing in the health sector, the renowned philanthropist said there were a lot of complexities involved in vaccine manufacturing, as against other health commodities that were desperately needed in the country.

He added that while Nigeria should aspire to eventually produce vaccines, other health products could offer more immediate benefits in terms of local production.

While acknowledging opportunities for local manufacture of health products, Gates said vaccines might not be the first choice due to

35th NIA-organised Expo Set to Kick Off in Abuja

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The 35th edition of Archibuilt, an acronym of Architecture and the Built Environment exhibition organised by the Nigerian institute of Architects (NIA) is set to commence its annual exhibition in Abuja.

Archibuilt is an annual exhibitionforum that brings to the fore trends, technologies, systems, and policy issues that impact the building industry’s intervention and responses to everyday living.

This intervention, intended to generate the framework is championed by architects.

Chairman of the organisation, Usman karaye at a press conference in Abuja said:“This year’s highly anticipated Archibuilt 2024 will take place from September 10 to 12t at the expansive Rainbow Events Centre, marking a significant shift from its traditional location at the International Conference Centre.”

With the theme of this year’s exposition being : “Innovations

in Sustainable Construction”, he stated that it will have a concrete mixture of bringing individuals and organisations to leverage on technology in the building industry.

The event, a premier showcase for the architecture and construction industries, he said, is set to feature a dynamic array of exhibitors, including young architects presenting innovative products and local institutions unveiling new materials. According to him, the goal is to foster local talent and attract investors interested in advancing commercial applications of these innovations.

The event’s programme and venue coordinator, Zingak Gomwalk, emphasised that Archibuilt 2024 aims to highlight cutting-edge products and solutions that cater to the increasing demand for smart infrastructure.

In addition to the exhibition, the event, he said will offer a series of training sessions aimed at upskilling professionals and students.

regulatory complexities and scale economics.

He stated, "Vaccines are probably not the first thing they would choose to do because of the regulatory complexity and the scale economics. However, in the health sector, there are many other things that should probably be higher on the list to ensure availability and cost are improved by local entrepreneurs."

Gates called for strategic focus on ensuring the effectiveness of vaccination teams, stressing the need for diligent and trusted individuals at the ward and settlement levels.

He said, “The selection of the right people for vaccination teams is crucial.

“They must be diligent, trusted by the community, and capable of following up on cases of noncompliance. Where results are lacking, we must be ready to make necessary changes.”

In addition to the polio eradication efforts, Gates underscored the importance of routine immunisations in protecting children from diseases, like pneumonia, diarrhoea, and measles.

He praised the Sultan of Sokoto and other leaders for their commit-

ment to improving health outcomes, and urged continued cooperation to raise immunisation levels across the country.

According to Gates, “We’ve made tremendous progress together.

“With continued collaboration and focus, we can finish the job on polio and significantly boost immunisation coverage, ensuring better health for all Nigerian children.”

Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate, spoke on the transformative impact of vaccines, as one of the most costeffective public health interventions that had saved millions of lives globally.

Pate noted the crucial role of vaccines in combating diseases, despite challenges posed by misinformation and social media. He stressed that while vaccines were fully acknowledged for their safety and efficacy by regulators, misinformation had hindered their uptake in many countries, including Nigeria.

The minister underscored the vital role traditional and religious leaders played in countering the myths and ensuring community support for vaccination programmes.

and take and eschewing, at all times, the incendiary posturing that inflames passions among their followers.

Buhari absent as first lady mourns over this great loss. She was our mother and our grandmother.

"May Allah grant her soul eternal rest and reward her with Aljannah Firdaus. May Allah give the government, the family and people of Katsina State, the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss."

Earlier, son of the deceased and representative of Katsina Central Senatorial District, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar'Adua, paid tribute to his mother's legacy.

According to him, "Our mother was a shining example of kindness, compassion, and piety. Her life was a testament to the values of hard work, dedication, and service to humanity.

“As a devout Muslim, she lived a life of unwavering faith, always seeking the pleasure of Allah (SWT). Her passing leaves a void that can never be filled, but we take comfort in the knowledge that she lived a fulfilling life and left behind a legacy of love, kindness, and generosity,” he added.

Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, who led senators to the burial, urged Abdulaziz Yar'Adua and all those she left behind to take solace in the fact that she lived a righteous life dedicated to the service of Allah and humanity.

“Hajiya Dada was a devout Muslim who dedicated her life to the service of Allah and humanity. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army and Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar'Adua and all other persons she left behind. May Allah give them the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” he said.

Shettima was accompanied to the burial by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas; Minister of Housing

and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa; Minister of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa.

Also on the delegation is a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe; and Special Adviser to the President on General Duties, Aliyu Modibo.

Other dignitaries at the event included Governor of Katsina State, Dikko Radda; former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi. Meanwhile, former President Muhammadu Buhari was absent at the funeral prayer, even though he was said to be in Daura, Katsina. But in a condolence message issued by his spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, the former president condoled with the Yar’Adua family and the government and people of Katsina State.

He described as sad, the news of the passing of Hajiya Dada.

"She was a mother who cared for her family as she did us, the friends of her children. Her virtuous life was an inspiration to us and all who came close to her; her righteousness and high values of life gave the country a set of successful and patriotic leaders. May Allah grant her Jannatul Firdaus.”

On her part, Mrs Tinubu in a release personally signed stated:

"She was a mother, who played her role admirably, producing great sons including the Late former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, Late General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua and Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua.

"I pray Almighty Allah grants the entire family, friends, loved ones and the numerous people she touched their lives the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. May Allah grant her Aljannah Firdaus."

PDP Governor S r e P lY W I ke, S AY H IS T H re ATS Unbr ID le D , Irre SP on SI ble A n D Un A cce PTA ble their dedication to these values. It is crucial for all party members, including Wike, to work together towards common goals rather than pursuing personal vendettas.

"The forum insists that it is incumbent on the National Working Committee of the PDP to invoke both official provisions and unofficial good offices platforms to find an amicable solution to the crisis in its Rivers State chapter.

“Similarly, if, indeed, the larger interests of Rivers State is their individual motivation, the warring parties should allow themselves to be guided by a spirit of give

"It is inevitable for us to encourage dialogue and reconciliation continuously. The PDP has established mechanisms for addressing grievances and resolving conflicts, such as the recently constituted disciplinary and reconciliation committees.

“Thus, it is important for Wike to engage with these processes constructively, as dialogue and reconciliation are the pathways to resolving differences and strengthen-

ing the party." The forum called on the heads of the national security apparatuses to take note of threats by Wike to stoke violence at the sub-national levels, as no one is above the laws of the land.

North-east Unity Forum

Condemns Wike

North-east Unity Forum (NUF) condemned the alleged brazen political banditry displayed by Wike, and called for his sack as FCT minister.

The group said Wike’s recent

threats against PDP governors, who supported Fubara, and his threat to unleash crisis in the states demonstrated his dangerous disposition and orientation, which had no place in a civilised and democratic society. NUF alleged that Wike had lost touch with reality and had become a political outcast in Rivers politics.

Convener of NUF, Abubakar Kabir, said in Abuja, "He, Wike, has become a political liability, embroiled in a crisis of relevance and identity, exposing him as a political scabbard devoid of a bayonet in his home state of Rivers."

Deputy President

ShettImA LeAdS FG'S deLeGAtIOn

Acting on President’s Directive, Defence Minister, CDS in Sokoto to Fight Insecurity

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen Christopher Musa, have finally relocated to Sokoto in obedience to President Bola Tinubu’s directive to coordinate troops’ efforts in the fight against banditry and other elements of insecurity.

A statement by the ministry of defence, yesterday, noted that the minister and CDS, on arrival, paid a crucial visit to the 8 Division Headquarters in Sokoto State.

The Minister, the statement stated, was accompanied by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Intelligence, Maj Gen Emmanuel Undiandeye; and the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Brig Gen IA Ajose, alongside other very senior military officers.

"The purpose of this high-level visit was to review the ongoing operations of 8 Division and issue a directive to the troops of Operation Hadarin Daji to intensify their efforts in flushing out bandits and terrorists from the region, in line with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“During the visit, Dr. Matawalle expressed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security in the Northwest," the statement stated.

Matawalle, commended the troops for their dedication and resilience in the face of challenging security operations and emphasised the importance of their mission in protecting the lives and property of Nigerians.

"The security of our nation is paramount, and the president has given a clear mandate that the bandits and terrorists threatening our peace must be flushed out.

D A ngo T e Rele AS e S S A mple of Ref I ne D p e TR ol, S AYS

sold for between N1000 to N1,500.

In Anambra, the prices ranged from between N960 and N980, while in Yola, it was retailing for N970 per litre.

In Jalingo, Taraba State, fuel was sold for N980 per litre, while in Ibadan,Oyo State, the few stations that were open sold for between N1000 and N1200

A separate signal to depot owners sighted by THISDAY confirmed the increase.

"This is to inform you that NNPC Retail Management has approved upward review of PMS pump price from N617/litre to N897/litre effective today, 3rd September, 2024.

"Please ensure all your pumps and totems (price boards)/MIDs reflect the new PMS price of N897/litre," the message said.

Lokpobiri

Denies

Ordering Sale of Petrol at

N1,000

The Minister of State, Petroleum (Oil) has also refuted information circulated on social media, which claimed that he directed the NNPC to inflate petroleum prices to N1,000 above the approved pump price.

“We categorically condemn these claims as baseless, malicious, and a deliberate attempt to incite public discontent. We challenge anyone in possession of any evidence-be it written documents, audio, or video recordings that support these fabrications to make it public. Such a claim is entirely devoid of truth and should be recognized as an intentional effort to mislead the public.

“It must be stressed that NNPC operates as an independent entity under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), with a fully empowered Board of Directors. The Ministry of Petroleum Resources does not, and will not, interfere in the internal decisions of NNPC, including pricing matters.

“Any suggestion otherwise is not only incorrect but also reveals a profound misunderstanding of

the deregulated nature of Nigeria's petroleum sector,” a statement signed by the minister’s spokesperson Nneamaka Okafor, stated.

It advised that the minister cannot, and does not, direct NNPC or any other entity within the sector to manipulate prices.

NECA: New Pump Price Will Make Nigerians Pay for NNPC's Inefficiency

The Nigeria Employer's Consultative Association (NECA) has described the new petrol pump price that was announced yesterday as making Nigerians to pay for the crass inefficiency of the NNPC.

The Director General of NECA, Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, told THISDAY yesterday that the new pump price of petrol is not only worrisome but also unfair.

Oyerinde said that NECA had expected that the federal government would have leveraged on the momentum created by the completion of the Dangote Refinery and the planned commencement of operation of the Port Harcourt refinery to clear the obvious self-inflicted pain on Nigerians and progressively reduce the pump price of petrol.

He said: "This new pump price could be seen as making Nigerians to pay for the crass inefficiency in the NNPC.

"Rather than address the fundamentals that have made Nigeria a net importer of petrol, even when we have four refineries, government continues to inflict pain on Nigerians and inadvertently, contributing to the increase in cost of doing business.

"We urge the government to have a rethink and do all that is necessary to address the continuous impoverishment of Nigerians and incapacitation of organised businesses."

Oyedele: Inefficiencies

May Inhibit Sale of Cheap Fuel

The Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Tax Policy and Fiscal Reforms, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, has said the resuscitation of the country’s ailing refineries may not deliver petrol at cheaper costs to Nigerians or alleviate the current economic hardship resulting from the recent removal of subsidy.

He said even if crude oil was refined in the country, the operational inefficiencies often associated with the management of the refineries will make Nigeria’s petrol the most expensive in the world.

Oyedele spoke at the Platform NG 2023 event in Lagos.

He said unless it is effectively addressed, inefficiency in the operation of the refineries could make Nigerians change their minds towards having functional refineries for local refining.

Citing National Assembly sources, he said the country had spent over N10 trillion to maintain the moribund refineries without producing anything.

Oyedele said: “Nigerians who say if only our refineries are working, they would be fine; nothing can be farther from the truth than that. In fact, Nigerians should come together and say please make sure that our refineries don't work. We should sell them.

“Maybe you have not been following this story - the National Assembly said we have spent over N10 trillion maintaining our refineries even when they have not produced anything.

“The time when they were producing, the GMD of NNPC at the time, who is now the CEO of NNPC Limited, said and I quote, ‘We have to shut down the ones that we're producing because the took crude of $100 and produced refined product of $97’.

“And I have not added the overhead. My point is if Nigerian refineries produce crude oil, unless we deal with our inefficiency, one litre of petrol will be the most expensive in the world. You would have succeeded in replacing the subsidy at the pump

“I am here today to reaffirm the federal government’s support and to urge you to remain relentless in your efforts. Your bravery and dedication are the backbone of our national security," he said.

He further encouraged the troops to leverage the full support of the government and military leadership in their operations. His words: "The Chief of Defence Staff and the Service Chiefs stand with you, providing the necessary resources and strategic guidance. We expect nothing less than total success in this operation. The safety and security of

with the subsidy at the refineries.”

The presidential committee chairman also said the removal of fuel subsidy had been a painful sacrifice that Nigerians have had to make as life has become impossible.

He said though the policy was necessary, the government needed to “react and respond in a way that is robust enough so we can take some of that pain off our people”.

He insisted that “every single naira we save” from subsidies should be “spent on the people 100 per cent”.

He argued that rather than target the upper-class, government’s interventions should focus on the lower middle-class particularly the vulcanizers, mechanics and apprentices among others - who have been hard-hit by government’s policies and unable to support their families at this critical time.

Oyedele said interventions should be directed to areas where they could make the most impact on the vulnerable people. He said quality data mining was particularly key to achieving positive outcomes.

Abiodun: Refinery Will Boost Nigeria's Economy

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun yesterday said the commencement of petrol production by the Dangote refinery will strengthen the nation's economy by eliminating constant shortages and conserving foreign exchange.

Abiodun, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Lekan Adeniran, said that with the refinery coming on stream, one of the most significant challenges faced by Nigeria for more than three decades—reliance on fuel importation—will be solved. According to the statement, with the Warri and Port Harcourt refineries also being prepared to begin production, Nigerians will heave a sigh of relief from constant fuel shortages while the economy will also receive a boost.

He praised Alhaji Aliko Dangote

the people of Sokoto and the entire Northwest region depend on your effectiveness.

"The President is worried about what is happening in the North West. He called me and the Chief of Defence staff while he was in China to immediately suspend whatever we are doing and come down to Sokoto.

"He said we should come and supervise the operation of our troops currently ongoing in the North West, under the leadership of General Officer Commanding 8 Division, Sokoto to see our troops, to review the operations and to make sure that all their needs

for his determination in seeing through the multi-billion dollar projects against all odds.

He said: "This significant achievement marks a transformative milestone not only for you as an entrepreneur but also for Nigeria and the broader African continent.

“The establishment of this refinery represents a pivotal shift in the energy landscape of the region, showcasing the power of vision, resilience, and unwavering commitment to economic development.

"The Dangote refinery is poised to be a game-changer in the production of petrol, addressing one of the most pressing challenges faced by Nigeria: reliance on imported fuel. This dependency has not only strained our foreign exchange reserves but has also hindered our potential for self-sufficiency.

"By producing petrol locally, the refinery will drastically reduce the outflow of foreign currency, thereby strengthening our economy. This move aligns perfectly with the President Bola Tinubu-led administration's efforts to achieve economic diversification and reduce reliance on oil exports alone.”

Prioritise Patriotism Above Profit, PDP Chieftain Begs Dangote

As Dangote Refinery begins supply of petroleum to the country this month, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ogun State, Segun Showunmi has begged the industrialist and owner of the refinery, Dangote to prioritise patriotism and nationalism above profit.

Showunmi in a statement said Nigerians have suffered a lot and bore great burden of having to pay heavily for a litre of fuel.

Pleading with the industrialist to be moderate with the pricing, Showunmi said that the act of selfless love for the people which runs in the family of Dangote must reflect in the way and manner the petroleum products from his refinery are sold

are provided so that they can go and fight those criminals.

"Nigeria is not a banana Republic, Nigeria is a country that governs by the Constitution, and you all know Mr President knows the problem of the North and that is why he appoints his security team from the North, including myself and the Defence Minister. "He gave us this responsibility because he knows our major problem is security. The President carefully selected northerners and appointed them into key position. Look at me, I am from Zamfara state, and the Chief of Defence is from Kaduna State.

to the people. The Abeokuta-born politician described Dangote as a great gift to Africa hailing him for doing so much especially, in the area of investment and employment creation, to redeem the pride of the Black race.

NLC to Meet Over Fresh Hike in Fuel Price

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has said that it will convene a meeting of its organs in the coming days to respond the new hike in pump price of petrol.

In a statement signed by the NLC President Joe Ajaero yesterday evening, the labour movement said the action of the federal government was a betrayal. He said: "We are filled with a deep sense of betrayal as the federal government clandestinely increases the pump price of PMS. One of the reasons for accepting N70,000 as national minimum wage was the understanding that the pump price of PMS would not be increased even as we knew that N70,000 was not sufficient.

'We recall vividly when Mr President gave us the devil's alternatives to choose from: Either N250,000 as minimum wage (subject to the rise of the pump price between N1,500 and N2,000) and N70,000 (at old PMS rates), we opted for the latter because we could not bring ourselves to accept further punishment on Nigerians.

"But here we are, barely one month after and with government yet to commence payment of the new national minimum wage, confronted by a reality we cannot explain.”

He described the ditsy as both traumatic and nightmarish, but said the union was guided by its belief in the country and the need to secure and sustain its sovereignty, integrity and welfare of the people.

"In the coming days, the appropriate organs of the congress will be meeting to take appropriate decisions which will be made public," he said.

Linus Aleke in Abuja and Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

L -R: Labour Party Presidential candidate, Peter Obi; Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and President Kashim Shettima during the burial of the late Hajiya Binta (Dada) Yar'Adua, mother of the late former President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua, in Katsina, Katsina State ... yesterday

INDONESIA/AFRICA PARLIAMENTARY FORUM 2024…

L-R: Member of Parliament, Indonesia, Hon Zanele Mashaba; Speaker, Indonesia House of Representatives, Dr. Puan Maharani, and representative of Speaker of House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, and leader of the delegation, Hon Uche Okonkwo, (Idemili North and South federal constituency, Anambra State), at the 2024 Indonesia Africa Parliamentary Forum for Sustainable Partnership and Shared Development held in Bali, Indonesia…recently

NSCDC Uncovers Illegal Refinery in Rivers’ Thick Forest

Michael Olugbode in abuja

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has uncovered another illegal bunkering site were stolen crude oil are channeled to a thick forest in Umuedeokwara Community, Etche Local Government Area

of Rivers State, where they are refined.

A press statement yesterday by the National Public Relations Officer of the NSCDC, Afolabi Babawale said the NSCDC Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad (CG’SIS) uncovered another

Vicar Suspended over Alleged Sexual Misconduct in Ekiti

Gbenga Sodeinde in ado Ekiti

The Vicar of Aramoko Archdeaconry of Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Ekiti West Diocese, Rev. Emmanuel Gbenga Erinle, has been suspended for alleged sexual misconduct.

The suspension order was conveyed to him through a letter by the Bishop of the Diocese, Rt. Revd. Cornelius Adagbada, who frowned at the fact that such nefarious act was making worshipers to leave the church

daily.

The suspended cleric was also said to be involved in a scuffle with a church warden whose girlfriend he impregnated in one of his sexual escapades.

Apart from this, the suspended cleric was said to have fathered another child outside his wedlock.

Reports also said the vicar was found of making video recording of his nefarious activities with members of the church and that one of the videos was leaked to the bishop.

Expert Calls for Yearly Eye Check

Hammed ShittuinIlorin

An eye specialist and community service provider, Alhaji Azeez Amuda, has advised that human eyes should be well taken care of by examining them regularly, at least once in a year.

The expert warned against visiting quacks and chemist shops to complain about their eyes, as they could be misled.

illegal bunkering site where stolen crude oil was tapped, channeled to reservoirs and refined locally in a thick forest

at Umuedeokwara Community, Etche Local Government Area of Rivers State.

He said the CG’s SIS

Commander, Deputy Commandant Appolos Dandaura, hinted during a media briefing that the squad acted based on

sustained intelligence, which revealed that a gang of criminal elements was operating an illegal refinery at the crime scene.

Euphoria as Ighodalo’s Wife Storms Benin Metropolis to Garner Support for Husband, Asue

Adibe Emenyonuinbenin-City

It was a carnival-like event, yesterday as wife of the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in the September 21 governorship election in Edo State, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Ighodalo, took to major street in Benin-City, capital of the state, to canvas support for

her husband, Dr. Asue Ighodalo. The road show, which has a funny character like a giant King Kong and with other women dressed in the party’s T-shirt, fenzcap and other paraphernalia danced to the Asue Ighodalo’s jingles which were played repeatedly. Addressing those who left their wares to listen to her campaign,

Mrs. Ighodalo introduced herself as the wife of the governorship candidate of the PDP..

Mrs. Ighodalo who spoke in Igbo language to drive down her message to traders, told them that she is one of them and that they should vote for her husband come September 21 in the governorship election.

She told them that they have no reason to regret it as one of the lines in the jingle bells clearly stated “if Asue enter you go prosper.” Mrs. Ighodalo, who showed her dancing skill, while on the motor cade, distributed face-caps, aprons to those who trooped out to participate in the roadshow and the on-lookers.

NBTS President Backs FG on Distribution of Palliatives to States

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

The President, The Nigerian Baptist Theological Seminary, Ogbomoso (NBTS), Rev. (Prof.) S. Ola Ayankeye, has thrown his weight behind the distribution of palliatives to state governments by the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

Ayankeye while addressing journalists on the preparation for the 2024 Ministers’ Conference of the NBTS, said while the policy may not be the best, the federal government deserves a pat on the back for making the palliatives available to the states for onward distribution to Nigerians.

According to him, the palliatives

provide an opportunity for the poor in the society to at least get something to keep body and soul together, urging state governments to do everything possible to ensure that the palliatives get to those meant for and not in the homes of politicians or civil servants. He said: “There is no doubt that Nigerians are passing through challenges most especially in the area of putting food on the table, so for the federal government to be sending palliatives to the state governments to be distributed to the masses must be supported by all. While it is may not be the best but given the circumstances in the country presently we must give kudos to the Federal Government.

Fubara Donates 100 Vehicles to Police, Charges Personnel against Partisanship

Blessing Ibunge in port

Harcourt

He states that: “Just like conjunctivitis in newborns, in which babies bring out discharge in their eyes, and mothers are advised to insert breast milk to clear the eyes, such act can lead to complete blindness.”

The expert, therefore, advised people to always visit hospitals and eye experts before taking any step in treating their eye problems and getting eye glasses.

He added that high blood pressure could add to eye problems, saying that there was a need to monitor patients’ blood pressure while treating their eye problems.

Delivering a health lecture at the 2024 Press Week of the Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Ilorin, Kwara State, yesterday, he said there are several cases of people who listened to hearsay on how to care for their eyes, but ended up losing their sight.

FG Set to Host Five-day Research Exhibition

The federal government is set to host a five-day research exhibition scheduled for the 17th of November, dedicated to showcasing the latest innovations and groundbreaking research.

The event, which is set to bring together researchers, inventors, and creators to share their cutting-edge projects and visionary ideas, will take place in Abuja. Speaking on the upcoming fair, the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, said intense and wide consultations are

ongoing with institutions and organisations that can partner with and support TETFund to drive interest and encourage organizations and individuals to participate and identify technologies with a view to establishing enterprises and/ or enhancing the performance of existing businesses.

He said TETFund is deliberately organising the fair for researchers, inventors, and creators who express interest in showcasing their technologies to participate free of charge, and that the Fair is open to the general public to attend free of charge.

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has handed over 100 operational vehicles to the state Police Command aimed at boosting the morel of officers of the command

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

to effectively fight crime and criminality.

This came just as Governor Fubara has advised the officers against partisanship, urging them to be professional in the discharge of their duties.

He noted that slide to partisan affiliations on

the part of the police, will permanently dent their ethical and professional reputation with irrevocable scars.

He said partisan police officers who abandon their core professional responsibilities to pursue vested political interests to know that the enmity they fuel and eventually create will hurt them in the long run.

Governor Fubara maintained that police officers are engaged and trained as professionals to protect lives and property while contributing to the desired peace in the State as a patriotic duty.

Alabi gave this advice when the new Exco members and others paid a courtesy and solidarity visit to his office in Lokoja yesterday.

The Chief Medical Director, Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja in Kogi State, Dr. Olatunde Alabi, has admonished the newly elected members of the executive officers of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) to always be guided by the ethics of the profession.

Oluchi Chibuzor

The Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) has said it is raising a $75 million blended finance facility and a $5 million technical assistance (TA) sidecar facility which focuses on

The Chief Medical Director explained that it is very important for the medical practitioners to always be above board, and work diligently, tasking them to work hard and respect others.

Alabi assured the members of the NMA of the management support and cooperation.

He stated that the management would not relent in its efforts to ensure the welfare of the members and the wellbeing for efficient service delivery at FTH. He also commended the NMA members for their solidarity with the management of the Federal Teaching Hospital Lokoja, when one of the medical staff members was kidnapped recently.

PIND Raising $75m Blended Finance Facility to Support Clean Energy, Agric Sectors

providing concessional local currency debt to beneficiary companies in the clean energy, agriculture, and youth empowerment sectors. This was disclosed by the Director of Strategy and Business Development, PIND, Aline Varre, during the unveiling of PIND’s 2023 annual report recently.

He noted that the organisation was poised for a new era of greater impact, noting that PIND would continue to explore new avenues for impact, including the adoption of impact investment to build on its successes and drive further progress in the Niger Delta.

According to him, “A major initiative in this direction is the PIND Impact Investing SPV, which focuses on providing concessional local currency debt to beneficiary companies in the clean energy, agriculture, and youth empowerment sectors.”

Her Sound Nigeria Launches Second Edition with Google Support

Her Sound Nigeria, the pioneering initiative empowering and supporting female music creatives, is thrilled to announce the launch of its second edition, now enhanced with support from Google Nigeria. Building on the success ofthe inaugural programme, Her

Sound Nigeria 2.0 aims to further elevate the voices and careers of talented women in the Nigerian music industry.

The collaboration with Google marks a significant milestone for Her Sound Nigeria, as it brings together the power of technology and creativity to create an even more impactful program. Google’s commitment to fostering innovation and empowering individuals aligns perfectly with Her Sound Nigeria’s mission.

Commenting, Founder of Her Sound Global, CheChe Smith, said:”Her Sound is a movement to amplify the voices of talented women in the music industry. Building upon the success of our inaugural edition, which empowered 20 female creatives, we are thrilled to announce the second edition of Her Sound.”

Kuni Tyessi in abuja

AFCON 2025: Ekong, 19 Others Train in Uyo as Eagles Prepare for Cheetahs

A full complement of players will emerge tomorrow with just three still being expected at the camp of the Super Eagles, as 20 players trained in Uyo yesterday evening, ahead of Saturday’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against the Cheetahs of Benin Republic.

Captain William Ekong led from the front, arriving on Monday with the earliest birds, which included defenders Ola Aina, Semi Ajayi, and Olisa Ndah, midfielder Fisayo Dele- Bashiru and forwards Ademola Lookman and Taiwo Awoniyi.

Goalkeeper Amas Obasogie and midfielder Wilfred Ndidi were in tow, and forward Victor Boniface and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali joined in the evening.

On Tuesday morning, defender Calvin Bassey and midfielders Alex Iwobi and Frank Onyeka pitched in, before defender Benjamin Tanimu (drafted in place of Bright Osayi-Samuel), midfielder Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi, and forwards Moses Simon and Samuel Chukwueze landed.

In the evening, just before the team bus pulled out of the

is

Tinubu Congratulates Eniola Bolaji on Paralympics Badminton Feat

Deji Elumoye in Beijing, China

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Eniola Mariam Bolaji on winning a medal in badminton at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, becoming the first African athlete to achieve such a feat in the sport at the Games.

Eighteen-year-old Eniola clinched bronze in the women's Para-badminton SL3 at the Paris Paralympics on Monday.

In a press release by his Media

Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, the President commended Bolaji for her courage and resilience, which she demonstrated against all odds to secure Nigeria's first medal at the Games.

President Tinubu thanked the young athlete for making the nation proud and described her as a fine example of Nigeria's youths' resourcefulness, talent, and grit.

The President enjoined Ms. Bolaji not to relent but to keep striving for success.

Edo First Lady Announces 4th Edition of Betsy Obaseki Women Football Tourney

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin-City

The Edo First Lady, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, Tuesday, announced the commencement of the Betsy Obaseki Women Football Tournament (BOWFT).

The BOWFT is an initiative of the wife of the Edo State Governor in collaboration with private sector partners to groom and empower the girl-child and engender grassroots sports development in Edo State and Nigeria.

Addressing journalists in Government House, Benin-City, Mrs Obaseki said the the tournament was borne out of her passion to create opportunities to inspire the girl-child while promoting causes that raise awareness about and discourage social vices.

on the global stage with many of the girls from the past editions of the Betsy Obaseki Women’s Football Tournament representing Nigeria on the international stage with distinction."

She further said, "I am delighted to state that three of our girls from Edo Queens are currently part of Nigeria's Falconet team flying the nation’s flag and making us proud at the FIFA U-20 World Cup taking place in Colombia. They include Comfort Folorunsho, Chioma Olise and Goodness Osigwe. "This is in addition to the several international players who have participated in different editions of the tournament who are now making their mark in top-tier clubs across

the globe.

The Edo First Lady said this year's tournament with the theme: “SAY NO TO TEEN PREGNANCY AND CHILD MOTHERHOOD", will take place from 2nd to 13th October 2024 between 14 participating teams with two international female teams from Benin Republic introduced to the tournament to make this year’s edition even more exciting.

She listed the teams to include Edo Queens FC - Benin City, Fortress Ladies FC - Benin City; Rivers Angels FC - Rivers State; Nasarawa Amazons FC - Nasarawa State; Naija Ratel FC - Abuja; Heartland Queens FC - Imo State; FC Robo - Lagos State and Ekiti

Queens FC - Ekiti State.

Others according to her are, Delta Queens FC - Delta State; Confluence Queens FC - Kogi State; Bayelsa Queens FC - Bayelsa State; Abia Angels FC - Abia State; Espoir FC de Cotonou - Benin Republic and Aigle Royal d'Adjara - Benin Republic. "While this is my last edition as First Lady, I want to assure you that this is not the end of BOWFT as we will be setting up the Board of Trustees for this initiative to ensure the continuity and sustainability of the BOWFT.

"We have also appointed Nilayo Sports Marketing Ltd. as the Marketing Consultant for BOWFT.

Defending Champions, MFM Basketball Club and former champions First Bank have won their first two games of the 2024 Zenith Bank Women’s Basketball League as Phase One of the Atlantic Conference enters top gear.

The competition being staged by the Nigeria Basketball Federation with the full backing of Zenith Bank is taking place at the Indoor Sports Hall of the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure.

In the first round of games on Monday, First Bank defeated Delta Force of Asaba 51-23 and only yesterday, the Bankers whipped First Deep Water with a blow-out score of 55-17.

MFM also got up to a great start with an easy win of 55-16 over First Deep Water on Monday and yesterday, MFM also beat the home team Sunshine Angels 68-55. And so, First Deep Water has lost their first two games of the 2024 campaign and will have to buckle up to be on course for a place in the final in Lagos.

According to her, it is Nigeria’s only pre-season women's football tournament which has continued the tradition of promoting women's football through a two-week long socially-conscious programme that brings important issues to the front burner.

Sunshine Angels, the home team after losing to Bayelsa Whales of Yenegoa 35-29 on Monday again lost to MFM. On Monday, Delta Force defeated IGP Queens 45-37 before losing to First Bank only yesterday. Day 3 matches will be up today as First Bank takes on IGP Queens, First DeepWater clashes with Sunshine Angels and Delta Force tangos with Bayelsa Whales just as MFM clashes with Dolphins in the last match.

The Executive Committee of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has approved the recommendation of its Technical and Development Sub-Committee for the appointment of Mr. Aliyu Zubairu as Head Coach of the National U20 Boys, Flying Eagles.

The appointment of Zubairu, who led El-Kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri to win the President

Federation Cup at the expense of Abia Warriors FC in Lagos in June, takes immediate effect. Zubairu’s immediate task is to put together and prepare a team for the WAFU B U20 Championship, scheduled for October/November in Togo, where the zone’s representative will emerge for next year’s Africa U20 Cup of Nations

She said: "Since its inception in 2020, the tournament has grown remarkably, making a significant impact by providing a platform for our young girls to dream big and pursue their passions and aspirations while showcasing the incredible talent and potential of these girls to the rest of the world.

"Beyond nurturing our local talent, the tournament has also helped position our female football players

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has determined that Beyond Limits Football Academy will not be participating in the 2024/2025 season due to concerns regarding dual interest. Specifically, there is one ownership of Beyond Limits Football Academy and Remo Stars, a club already competing in the NPFL, which constitutes a breach of Rule B11.4 of the NPFL Framework and Rules.

As a result of this decision, the slot previously occupied by Beyond Limits Football Academy has been relinquished and subsequently handed over to Heartland FC. This decision

aligns with Rule A5.2, which stipulates the criteria for club participation. Heartland FC met the requirements set by the NPFL board and was the only relegated club to express interest in filling the vacancy.

We also need to clarify that there was no slot-buying transaction, as such practices are explicitly prohibited under NPFL rules. The NPFL remains committed to upholding a fair and competitive league. While the NPFL rules do not explicitly foresee every scenario, the board has exercised its discretion, as permitted under the league’s governing

Ogunkunle Beats World’s Number Three, Moves Closer to Medal Zone

Team Nigeria’s Isau Ogunkunle continued his outstanding performance in the table tennis event of the Paralympics in Paris following his win over World number three, Abdullah Ozturk of Turkey.

The Nigerian star displayed another comeback against the highly-rated table tennis player to reach the semifinal in the Men’s Class 4 category.

Ogunkunle emerged winner after dropping the first game in a

3-1 scoreline that through the playing

into a

with a

of 6-11, 11-6, 11-7 and 12-10. National coach Nasiru Sule expressed his delight at Ogunkunle, saying it’s a morale booster for the team. “I am so happy today that my player lived up to expectations. It has not been easy in the last few days, but

today we showed that we can turn things around. Ogunkunle’s comeback against a two-time Paralympic gold medallist stunned everyone at the venue.

“His opponent won gold in Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020, and today Ogunkunle has shown he has the quality of a champion,” he remarked.

documents, to ensure that decisions are made in the best interest of the league and its stakeholders. The NPFL will continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, ensuring that all actions taken are in line with our commitment to fairness and the integrity of the competition.

In its reaction via the official social media handle, noted that; “although we are disappointed to miss out the opportunity to compete at the highest level, we respect the decision and are committed to continuing our development and growth as a team,” it stated.

hotel for training, defender Bruno Onyemaechi (of Portuguese club Boavista) and midfielder Raphael

Onyedika (of Belgian side Club Brugge) arrived in camp. Forward Kelechi Iheanacho

due in camp on Wednesday while goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and forward Victor Osimhen are

expected on Thursday. After Saturday’s encounter, the Super Eagles are scheduled to fly to Kigali on Sunday for Tuesday’s Matchday 2 clash with the Amavubi of Rwanda.

Super Eagles players in their training session.

Isau Ogunkunle

arena

frenzy mood

score

MISSILE

Stakeholders to Minister of Education

“Such directive by the Minister (WASSCE age limit) 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 planning and government should involve educators before voicing out such a policy. You don’t toy with education or play politics with people’s lives” --Coordinator,ConcernedParentsandEducators(CPE),flaysthe controversialeducationpolicythatbarsstudentsunder18yearsfromtakingtheWASSCE.

SamAmADI

gu EST COL um NIST

How Democracy (Really) Dies

On Monday, the Brazilian Supreme Court was reported to have approved the ruling of a judge in Brazil banning Brazilians from making use of the Elon Musk’s microblog site, X. Elon Musk has been in running battle with Brazilian authorities over the latter’s allegation that the former has used his online platform to spread falsehoods against the government. In the past, falsehood used to be countered with truth. Today, views and opinions adjudged to be false by authorities in liberal democracies are not countered, they are criminally indicted. It is a matter of poetic irony that on the same day that the Brazilian Supreme Court reportedly issued the order criminalizing inconvenient speech, the Nigerian government arraigned 10 citizens who participated in the ‘end bad governance’ protests on a charge of treason. Treason carries a death penalty. So, the Nigerian government’s response to a politically inconvenient protest is to seek the court’s order to hang the protesters. Some in the Brazilian government are bracing up to arrest and prosecute Elon Musk for providing a platform that is adjudged to enable false information. Now, be careful. False information could mean any statement that does not agree with the official information. It is also interesting that the US government, that selfacclaimed undertaker of democratization, has not made any statement condemning the threatened prosecution of an American for free speech or the Nigeria’s government prosecution of protesters. The administration in Washington has even expressed its delight to have the microblog X scrambled and Elon Musk prosecuted. It is not because it is busy that the Biden-Kamala administration has not bothered to react to many of these threats against free speech. It is a principled and strategic silence.

The Biden-Harris administration seems to have some problems with free speech. Many high officials of that administration have called for the arrest and prosecution of Elon Musk. Although, they continue to use X to promote their views about social and economic affairs, they do not hide their dislike of Elon Musk for buying the microblog site and the removing the restrictions against dangerous and false information. Before Musk, President Trump was yanked off the site for posts unaccepted to the influential liberals who controlled the site. The reality of the most powerful man in history having his voice suppressed alarmed many conservatives who had complained that many conservatives were blocked from expressing their views on the excuse of extremism. Elon Musk removed that ideological filter. This is why he now represents a threat to society. Kamara Harris, the Vice President and the Democratic Party’s candidate for the November presidential election has not hidden her opposition to Elon Musk and his X. Professor Robert Reich, a leading liberal and former Clinton Secretary of Commerce, notably called for the arrest of Elon Musk for promoting views that he considers dangerous and enable extremist opinion on his microblog.

Why is the US government less concerned about assaults against free speech across the world? This is unlike it. The US government is notorious for its propensity to intervene across the world in purported defense of democratic right. Is free speech no longer a fundamental democratic right? Or is democracy no longer that important? Why is the government not bothered about threats by political authorities in notable western democracies against free speech? My view is that this change is evidence that the US government is in pursuit of something more important than freedom of speech. For instance, the US government’s official communication shows that protecting transgenders, and promoting gender transition are more important concerns than protecting free speech. It has taken drastic actions against countries that are reported to criminalize homosexual relations or are denying official recognition to transgender interests. It looks like many in western government consider free speech the real enemy to fight.

The irony is that free speech, together with the right to life and the right to freedom of opinion, is the most basic democratic right. So, the demise of free speech is in many ways the demise of democracy. This knowledge is basic in public understanding of democracy. If the US government do not care about it, it suggests that something is going on. We need to know what it is. Is democracy no longer important? Are we now in a post-democracy era in human history?

After the first tenure of Mr. Donald Trump as the President of the United States of America, there arose a

cottage industry of democracy pessimism. Many political scientists wrote books about the end of democracy. The three most notable of the books of this new genre are ‘How Democracy Ends’ by David Runciman, ‘How Democracies Die: What History Reveal About Our Future’ by Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt, and Crises of Democracy by Adam Przeworski. There was so much glib talk about how democracy ends and the such. In 2020 Biden defeated Trump and we did not see any such frenzy again. It looked like the threat to democracy was no more. Trump was that singular threat that provoked the rise of the literature of the end of democracy. But was Trump really a threat to democracy? Or was a narrative crafted by resentment and hatred for Mr. Trump and what he represents?

Just a little point about the literature of the ‘How Democracy Dies’ epidemics. In Runciman’s view, three events announce the end of democracy. Democracy ends when a coup uproots the foundations of a democratic regime. It is usually quick, violent and unannounced. In the past, coups against democracy involved “tanks surrounded the city overnight and soldiers were sent to seize communication points, including the radio and television stations and post office”. Anyone in Africa who is above 30 years is familiar with these situations. Today, coup don’t come unannounced and quick. They creep in through multiple ways unnoticed when strong leaders erode the guardrails. As Runciman wisely puts it, “some coups need to make clear that democracy is over to succeed, and some coups need to pretend that democracy is still intact”. Another way democracy comes to an end is through a catastrophic event. Catastrophe drains us of civic energy and imposes an urgency that may lead to the dismantling of the democratic state. Runciman quotes Eliane Scarry in her book, Thermo-nuclear Monarchy: Choosing between Democracy and Doom, that “Nuclear weapons undo governments and undo anything that could be meant by democracy”. He references Hannah Arendt’s powerful insight that modern democracy entrenches mindlessness which often leads to failure to preempt disasters. So democracy can end when it confronts a disaster that requires more than democratic habits. To choose to avoid either doom or democracy, many people will choose democracy. Technology can also upend democracy. It does so when it drains democratic politics of its civic character and the moral authenticity and replaces it with plastic machination. Runciman quotes Ghandi to argue that “Representative democracy was wholly artificial. It had become a thrall to machines. It operated through the party machine, the bureaucratic machine, the money machine. Citizens were passive consumers of their own political destiny. We press a button and we expect government to respond. It is no surprise that we are disappointed. What we get instead is cheap promises and outright lies”. The implication of ‘technological takeover’ of politics is that politics become boring and boorish. It has no truth, soul or authenticity. Network replaces neighborhood; and majority rule is replaced by the rule of the few who are technological adroit. Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt write about the lessons of history about how democracy dies. Their main

thesis is that democracy dies when elected officials turn around and undermine democracy. “Blatant dictatorship- in the form of fascism, communism or military rule- has disappeared across the world. Military coups and other violent seizures of power are rare. Most countries hold regular elections. Democracy still dies but by a different means”. Adam Przeworski sees the crisis of democracy as sign that democracy would “gradually and scrumptiously deteriorate”. The key point is that deterioration is usually seen as the handiwork of rightwing conservatives, extremists who would destroy freedom. But is that really how it is turning out?

These books on how democracy ends or dies always use Trump as the signal figure who prefigures these threats. The COVID 19 pandemic further etched in black on white canvas the ‘evil’ that Trump posed to democracy. Trump seemed to have doubted the efficacy of modern science. He allegedly assembled and platformed assorted pseudo-scientists and extremists who questioned venerable personages like Dr. Fauci and the bureaucrats at the World Health Organization (WHO) and disputed their prescribed modalities and vaccines for the virus. Let us forget for a moment that Dr. Fauci and his venerable colleagues have walked back on tens of what they said were scientifically proven about the virus. Today, some of the so-called conspiracies from Trump-like scientists have now being accepted by mainstream scientific sources as authentic.

Now that Trump is back to fight for the presidency with a message that challenges the liberal global coalition that calls the shot in international public policy, the noble men and women of Davos, the real undertakers of whatever remains of the ‘Washington Consensus’, are once again, chanting ‘Trump is a threat to democracy’. The way the anti-Trump elites paint a scary picture of the end of democracy if Trump gets a second term as US President, you would assume we never had a Trump first term. Trump definitely threatened to end many things important to the global elites , like the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and cozied up to dictators like Putin and Kim Jong of North Korea. But he did not throw political opponents into prison. He did not abolish any of the constitutional rights of the US citizens? He did not use state power to expel elected representatives from Congress. He did not enact decrees in place of laws passed by Congress. He did none of these. Yet Trump represents the most credible threat against democracy.

Anyone who studies American constitutional law would argue that, arguably, President Obama, the posterchild of democracy, issued more executive orders that threatened liberties of American citizens than President Trump. Some of these executive actions were successfully challenged at the Supreme Court. Obama’s regulatory state was more incursive than Trump’s in many ways. Yet, Trump continues to represent the archetypical threat to democracy. Maybe he is. But that would be construing democracy in a tendentious manner.

Trump may be odd and weird as democrats claim. But Trump is not the President of Brazil where a judge has banned Brazilians from expressing themselves through the X platform. A few weeks ago, the founder of Telegram was arrested in Paris and is undergoing criminal prosecution for what appears to be trumped up charge that belies the truth that government officials are angry at the platform for not censoring what they consider misinformation and disinformation. A few weeks ago, a top official of the EU fired a warning against Elon Musk to stop his proposed interview with President Trump on his X platform to avoid serious consequences. This was a barely concealed attempt to censor a political viewpoint from a man running for the US Presidency. Apart from constituting a veiled election interference, the threat betrays a mindset that is poised against some perspectives considered as ‘dangerous’ to society. What makes these perspectives dangerous in the mind of the ruling elites in the west is that they are frontally opposed to some dominant liberal projects. Think about the war in Ukraine. It is reasonable to think that the west should support Ukraine to defeat Russia. It is also reasonable to argue against continuing the war against Russia. None of these views constitutes a real threat to democracy.

The global liberal elites have constructed democracy to mean some important agenda that override the basic rights and freedoms that are traditionally associated with the democracy. Some political theorists are wondering whether democracies needs to accord tolerance to those

who oppose the ‘democratic’ life. This has always been an issue in establishing the coherence of liberal theory. But it is now being implemented as a programmatic shutting down of ideas and viewpoints that contradict the ideas and viewpoints of dominant liberals. Take for example, views about homosexuality or transgender. Some western countries have enacted laws that criminalize failure to address transgenders by their preferred pronouns. The renowned writer, J.K. Rowling, is threatened with criminal prosecution by Scottish authorities for refusing to accept that transwomen are women. The Vice President of Google startled many when he defended the IT company’s overt manipulation of its algorithm to block certain facts from public search by saying that accuracy is not as important as the project.

There is no doubt that the left in the west have problem with the traditional concept of democracy to include the necessity for freedom of opinion and expression. They have problem with constitutional democracy if it means that the people may elect those who do not accept their comprehensive moral doctrines. This century’s leading political philosopher, John Rawls, propounded a theory of justice that is based on the liberal faith that civil society can have reasoned coexistence with those who reject the liberal canons. He argued that this is feasible though the overlapping consensus in which liberal and non-liberals can bracket their comprehensive moral doctrines and engage contractarian views on the basis of public reason. In his book, The Law of the Peoples, he showed how to build a just and peaceful social order through such epistemic abstinence.

The possibility of an overlapping consensus has been one of the core faiths of modern political liberalism. It is not based on forceful repressing of a viewpoint considered wrong or false, but the construction of a public good accessible from all divergent reasonable comprehensive doctrines. This means that a platform like X should allow divergent, even incommensurable, perspectives without suppressing any. But modern left liberals do not believe this anymore. They are clamoring for stronger censorship for fear of the presumed damage that unregulated free speech could cause. But the lesson of history is clear: on the whole there is more harm with suppression of speech and control of channels of expression by a person or group of persons than by expression or falsehood or hate speech. Yes, some speeches could be dangerous. But freedom of speech should be continually protected. Democracy, properly understood prioritizes self-determination over safety, of the city or of the ideology. It we no longer believe in this prioritization, then we should become China.

It is evident that many of the new liberal lefts have abandoned this naive faith in the priority of democracy in pursuit of the project of establishing a social order that protect their substantive vision of the good. To implement this, the need to take out those who oppose their project. They are willing to abandon democracy to protect the emerging woke and radical agenda. This is like the former communists who railed against democracy because the freedom that liberal democracy offers are superficial. As some of them argued, the right of man in a bourgeois society is just an illusory right. Today’s ‘neo-Marxist’ in the guise of the liberal extreme left argue that freedom of speech undermines real freedoms. For these extreme left ideologues, democracy is not as important as the project. Just as the Google exec put it, ‘The project is more important than accuracy”.

Free speech and freedom of expression are cornerstones of democracy. They are the engine of innovation. There are obvious dangers that ignorant and provocative speeches pose to society. These dangers are preventable and manageable through legal and social measures that do not require the suppression of speech. The presumption is that the most potent threat to democracy comes from the extreme right who resents the democratic way and values. These fascists elements are the killers of democracy. So reads the literature of ‘how democracy ends’. But the true situation is different. Trump and his right-wingers may not be the most potent threat to democracy. That dishonor now belongs to the radical left. Today, democracy is dying in the West. Surprisingly, it is dying at the hands of the radical left. This truth is not captured in the literature of How Democracy Dies. That literature needs an update. It is the extreme left (not the extreme right) that is (really) killing democracy.

Elon Musk