THURSDAY 5TH SEPTEMBER 2024

At Zenith Bank Trade Seminar, Stakeholders

Advocate Increased Investments in Non-oil Exports

Dike Onwuamaeze

Stakeholders unanimously called for concerted efforts towards adding value to non-oil export products by processing them into semi-finished

and finished goods to unlock significant economic benefits for the nation.

This clarion call was made at the 9th Edition of the Annual Zenith Bank International Trade Seminar themed

“Nigerian Non-Oil Export Industry: Awakening the Giant,” which was held yesterday, at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos and virtually. In her welcome address, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive

Officer of Zenith Bank Plc, Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, highlighted the importance of non-oil export as a catalyst for job creation. According to her, “Our theme ‘Awakening the Giant,’ speaks directly to the untapped

potential within the non-oil segment of the economy and how to optimise them. This involves an increase in the number and volume of exportable non-oil items and value addition to exportable items into finished Continued on page 10

products. Increasing the number and volume of exportable non-oil products implies more business for you, our esteemed exporters, and

labour Party Sacks Julius abure-led NeC, Sets Up 29-member Caretaker Committee...

www.thisdaylive.com

L-R: Executive Director, Marine and Operations, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Engr. Olalekan Badmus; Executive Secretary/CEO of Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Barrister Pius Akutah; Comptroller-General of Customs, Mr Adewale Adeniyi; Personal Assistant to the President on Subnational Infrastructure (Office of the Vice President), Musaddiq Mustapha who represented Vice President Kashim Shettima; CEO, APM Terminals Nigeria, Mr Frederik Klinke; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Olufemi Oloruntola; Chief Operating Officer, APM Terminals, Olaf Gelhaussen; and Executive Director, Engineering and Technical Services of NPA, Engr. Ibrahim Abba Umar, during the inauguration of the USD115 million APM Terminals West Africa Container Terminal (WACT) upgrade at Onne Port, Rivers State... yesterday

Petrol Price Hike: PDP, Labour Unions,

Afenifere, CSOs Fume, Lambast FG

N1,000 per litre brutal assault on Nigerians, says opposition party NLC, TUC demand reversal, insist it's breach of agreement with government LCCI, NACCIMA, OPS, others express concern over effect on businesses

L–R: Executive Director, Zenith Bank Plc, Mr. Adamu Lawani; Executive Director, Mr. Akin Ogunranti; Managing Director, Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM), Alhaji Abba Bello; Representative of the Governor of Lagos State, The Honourable Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade & Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem; Group Managing Director/Chief Executive, Zenith Bank Plc, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON; Secretary, National Action Committee, AfCFTA, Mr. Segun Awolowo; Executive Director, Mrs. Adobi Nwapa; Executive Director, Mr. Henry Oroh; and Executive Director, Mr. Louis Odom at the 9th Annual Edition of the Zenith Bank International Trade Seminar on Non-Oil Export held at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, ...yesterday.

Continued on page 10

Deji elumoye in Beijing, China, Chuks Okocha, michael Olugbode in Abuja, John Shiklam in Kaduna and Seriki adinoyi in Jos

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, condemned Sunday’s attack on Mafa, in Tarmuwa Local Government Area of Yobe State, as atrocious and cowardly.

BILL GATES, DANGOTE AT NEC MEETING...

President, Dangote Group of Companies, Alhaji Aliko and state governors, during the meeting with Gates and Dangote with members of the

Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa, Abuja…yesterday

Shettima: We Must Form Strong Alliance to end Poverty, Improve Lives of Nigerians

Insecurity: FCT, Adamawa, Kwara, Sokoto, Kebbi delay NEC decision on state police Get Monday deadline to submit reports Council constitutes flood disaster committee As 36 states get N3bn to ameliorate flood effects Bill Gates to invest $2.8bn to boost agric, healthcare, nutrition in Nigeria

Deji Elumoye

Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for strong alliance among key players in government at all levels and development partners in the bid to end poverty in the country and enhance the quality of life of citizens.

Shettima spoke yesterday during the 144th meeting of the National Economic Council (NEC) held at State House, Abuja.

The council took critical decisions bordering on the economy, including state police as part of measures to curb rising insecurity. Insecurity had adversely affected crop farming in parts of the country and caused food shortages, as many farmers could not access their farms.

NEC issued a final call to state governments that had yet to submit their memoranda on the establishment of state police to do so by September 9 or be bound by the resolutions agreed upon by other council members.

Four states – Adamawa, Kebbi, Kwara, and Sokoto – along with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) were yet to make their submissions.

Shettima said the efforts to end poverty would remain ineffective if those in the business of governance did not align with one another to create a conducive environment where every

Emmanuel Addeh, Folalumi Alaran and Aminat Hassan in Abuja EFInA, a Financial Sector Deepening (FSD) organisation, yesterday moved to promote women’s access to financial services in the country as well as breaking the barriers to the gender's financial inclusion.

In a panel hosted by the organisation at the ongoing Gender and Inclusion Summit 2024 sponsored by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) and Policy Innovation Centre (PIC), EFInA stated that for the society to make progress there was the need to support women inclusion in the financial sector.

The session which was tagged: “Unpacking Access to Essential Tools and Services for Women’s Economic Empowerment -Collaborating for Sustainable Outcomes”, had World

Nigerian could thrive and develop their potential.

He suggested ways to address the immediate needs of the citizens, including building sustainable systems to empower the people to become self-reliant and prosperous.

He acknowledged that though the problems inherited by the administration of President Bola Tinubu could not be solved overnight, Nigerians were in urgent need of quick and impactful measures to ameliorate the hard economic conditions.

Shettima stated, “Our commitment to alleviating poverty and enhancing the quality of life for all Nigerians will never materialise if we do not align with one another. We must strive to create an environment where every Nigerian has the opportunity to thrive.

“This includes not only addressing immediate needs but also building sustainable systems that empower our citizens to become self-reliant andHeprosperous.”commended the efforts of development partners, particularly the co-chairman of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Mr. Bill Gates, and Chairman of Dangote Group of Companies, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, who were at the NEC meeting.

The vice president described Dangote and Gates as “two distinguished

Bank’s Yetunde Fatogun, FSD’s Sophie Mills and Dr Chinonso Egemba as members. Also on the panel were: Emezino Afiegbe from the Centre for Excellence, EFInA, Ifeanyi Nwokolo, Head, Business and Financial Inclusion at the FCMB as well as Aisha Hadejia, Partner , Sahel Consulting Agriculture and Nutrition Limited.

In her submission, Fatogun maintained that women needed to be given a voice when it comes to financial inclusion, stressing that when this is done, it will help address a number of other societal issues.

“When women are part of a group, they have more access to finance, they have access to markets, they have access to capital, they have access to even health insurance. And they also have access to social capital.

“They have where they feel they

individuals whose commitment to Nigeria’s progress is unparalleled”.

He said both men had invested enormous resources into the welfare of Nigerians, spanning critical areas, such as health, nutrition, agriculture, and education.

According to him, “Their philanthropy is not seasonal but a steadfast commitment that continues to shape our nation’s future. We did not survive the lowest points of our journey as a nation by the proactivity of the government alone; we did so because we remained partners in rain and sunshine.”

Shettima added, “So, permit me to once again extend the nation's deepest gratitude to our guests, whose empathy has always shone through whenever they are needed.

“Mr. Gates, in particular, has been a steadfast friend of Nigeria, contributing immensely to our nation's inclusive economic growth and the well-being of our people in both tumult and tranquillity. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has recently approved a significant investment—the Nigeria Cassava Investment Accelerator (NCIA).

“This initiative, championed by my office and hosted by the Lagos Business School, in partnership with the Boston Consulting Group, sets out to revolutionise our cassava industry,

belong, where they can socialise, where they have voice and where they have agency. So I think it just further reinforces that it's important that we do not neglect women, particularly women in the rural areas, that are in one group or the other.

“This is because that group serves as a platform to address other developmental challenges and other challenges that women face,” she stated.

Also speaking, Mills , who is the Gender Lead, FSD Network, argued that for a country’s financial system to work better, explicit attention must be paid to women.

“Our work is to make sure that the work that these organisations are doing includes being very intentional about gender. So, that means we can be working with the regulators,

an essential pillar of our economy and food security.”

For the state governments, the vice president said as sub-nationals in the federation, they were all “stakeholders in redefining the future” of Nigeria.

He said, “We are gathered here because none of us can fulfil the goals of guaranteeing the survival of our people in isolation. Whether by expanding access to quality education, improving healthcare, or offering skills training and job opportunities, it is clear that each one of us has the power to influence policy and decisions at various levels.

“Our success relies on recognising the socio-economic threats that have pulled us down the development index and, more importantly, on our resolve to walk the talk.”

Underscoring the importance of investment in food security, Shettima commended the efforts and reforms made so far by state governors to boost agriculture.

He stated, “However, we must not overlook the state of nutrition in our nation, which has led to stunting and other health challenges. This is a crisis that demands our unified attention and action. The future of this nation hinges on the health and well-being of our children.”

NEC took some decisions on

for example, to support them to understand how regulation impacts differently on men and women,” she stated.

She argued that things as basic as an identity card could be a huge problem for women, especially those who live in the rural areas, suggesting that there must be deliberate efforts to reduce these barriers.

“We know that women find it harder in some cases to get access to ID. There are still rural areas in many countries across the continent where it's difficult for women to get ID,” she said.

Also speaking, EFInA’s Afiegbe , who leads the Gender Centre for Excellence in IFINA, said that to implement the women's financial inclusion in Nigeria, stakeholders needed to agree on an actionable plan of action.

flooding, nutrition, state police, and polio eradication.

On flood, the council gave the greenlight for the full implementation of the approved recommendations from its Ad-hoc Committee on Flood, Erosion, Drought, and Desertification.

The decision came after a recent memorandum submitted by the committee's chairman, Governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Ododo.

The report outlined a comprehensive Roadmap on Flood, Erosion, Drought, and Desertification, complete with detailed timelines.

Each of the ministries, departments, and agencies (MDA) of government was assigned specific responsibilities, with the creation of task forces recommended for inter-agency collaboration where necessary. The aim was to move away from the reliance on ad-hoc committees formed during the onset of the rainy season.

One of the report's cardinal recommendations was establishment of the National Flood, Erosion, Drought, and Desertification Management Council (NFEDDMC) under the Office of the Vice President.

NFEDDMC will coordinate inter-agency efforts, ensure real-time information flow, and facilitate a unified response to natural disasters across the country.

The vice president will chair the council, which will included the following members: governors of Kogi, Bayelsa, Oyo, Ebonyi, Bauchi and Jigawa states.

Others were Minister of State, Water Resources and Sanitation; Minister of State, Environment; Directors-General of Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, Nigeria Meteorological Agency, National Water Resources Institute, and National Emergency Management Agency

Managing Directors of National Inland Waterways Authority, Niger Delta Development Commission, and North East Development Commission were also members.

The governors expressed their appreciation to the federal government for the recent disbursement of N3 billion to each state to assist in addressing immediate challenges, particularly those caused by flood and other natural disasters.

Regarding state police, NEC issued a final call to state governments yet to submit their memoranda on the

establishment of state police to do so, failure which they would be bound by the decisions of other council members.

NEC also received a presentation on the state of nutrition in Nigeria by Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate. Following the presentation, the council approved several critical resolutions aimed at enhancing the country's nutritional outcomes.

Council agreed to prioritise nutrition interventions in the 2025 budget across federal, state, and local levels, ensuring that sufficient funding is allocated to meet the nation's nutrition goals. Additionally, the council resolved to reinforce the functionality and financing of State and Local Government Committees on Food and Nutrition. It decided that the establishment and operation of Food and Nutrition Security (FNS) task forces at subnational levels will be supported to ensure effective coordination, monitoring, andNECreporting. also endorsed the N-774 programme as a primary platform for combating malnutrition within Nigerian communities and encouraged development partners to provide financial and technical assistance, particularly in the areas of annual results monitoring and scaling successful interventions.

The Accountant General of the Federation provided the council with an update on the Excess Crude Account, which currently stood at $473,754.57, the Natural Resources Fund with a balance of N3,451,078,538.57, and the Stabilisation Account with N33,875,398,389.75.

On polio, in response to a presentation by co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Bill Gates, the council resolved to establish a Committee on the Eradication of Vaccine-Derived Poliovirus (VDPV). This followed reports of VDPV cases in Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara states.

The committee will be chaired by the governor of Gombe State and will include the governors of the five affected states. Other members will include Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Director-General of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, and representatives from the NEC secretariat and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

L-R: Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State; Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate; Vice President Kashim Shettima; Founder, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Bill Gates;

Federal Executive Council held at the

PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI

FriEnDs CElEbratE ChiEF MagistratE EjirO KubEinjE On hEr birthDay...

China Pledges More Support for Nigeria’s Infrastructure Devt

Backs move by W’African country’s trade expansion initiatives Tinubu: Africa has huge potential for investments, growth Holds bilateral meeting with Chinese Premier, Li Qiang solutions of practices for mankind in seeking modernisation.

Deji Elumoye in Beijing and Michael Olugbode in Abuja

China has agreed to continue to support Nigeria’s infrastructural development in sectors such as transportation, ports and free trade zones, for the West African country to achieve integrated development and connectivity.

This pledge was made as President Bola Tinubu disclosed that Africa holds vast opportunities for investments, growth, and development with its vibrant population, productive economy, and natural resources.

These were part of the fallouts of the ongoing visit of Tinubu to China.

The pledge by the Chinese government to Nigeria was contained in a joint statement issued yesterday, between the People’s Republic of China and the Federal Republic of Nigeria on Establishing a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and Building a High-Level China-Nigeria Community with a Shared Community with a Shared Future.

The statement revealed that the two sides agreed to deepen cooperation on the infrastructure connectivity between the two countries, with

China proactively supporting Nigeria in developing its domestic infrastructure construction, including transportation, ports, and free trade zones, towards achieving integrated development and connectivity for industries.

The statement noted that the two sides would make joint efforts to fully support Nigeria’s geographical and development advantage in West Africa to establish Africa’s flagship projects on cross-national and cross-regional cooperation.

During the visit of Tinubu to China at the invitation of Xi Jinping and to attend the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), the statement added that the two leaders had a cordial discussion, with an in-depth exchange on China-Nigeria relations as well as international and regional issues of mutual interest.

The two presidents agreed that both countries stood at a new historical starting point as significant representatives of major developing countries and emerging economies.

Their strengthened strategic cooperation would propel a new dynamic for China-Africa relations in the new era and lead the Global South to march

together.

According to the statement, to consolidate mutual trust, expand cooperation, and strengthen coordination, the two Presidents agreed to upgrade the China-Nigeria relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and build a High-level China-Nigeria Community with a shared future.

In building high-level strategic mutual trust, the two sides agreed among others to support each other on issues related to their respective core interests and major concerns, particularly sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The Chinese side extended its support to the Renewed Hope Agenda of Nigeria and the efforts made by Nigeria to maintain national unity, peace, security, and social stability, as well as promote economic development and improve people’s welfare.

“The Nigerian side firmly adheres to the one-China principle, acknowledges that there is but one China in the world, and the government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory,

declaring opposition to any form of ‘Taiwan Independence’ or interference in the internal affairs of China and firmly supports all efforts made by the Chinese government to achieve national reunification,” it stated.

The two sides spoke highly of the leading roles played by FOCAC in advancing the quality of cooperation between China and Africa over the past 24 years since the establishment of FOCAC.

They believed that the successful convening of the Beijing Summit of FOCAC opened a new chapter of unity and cooperation between China and Africa.

The two sides reiterated their firm support to each other in independently seeking a development path that suits their national interest and would further strengthen exchanges on experiences of governance, with Nigeria recognising that under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, the Chinese people have made great transformation through a Chinese path to modernisation, and subscribed to the opinion that the Chinese path to modernisation expands options of development and

Food Inflation: Lagos to Trace Distribution, Prices of Food Items to Stem Exploitation

Dike Onwuamaeze

Days after concerns were raised over the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission’s (FCCPC) perceived move to institute price control, the Lagos State government has announced that it would start to trace the distribution and prices of food items to ensure that consumers are not ripped off.

This was disclosed yesterday by the Lagos State Commissioner of Agriculture, Ms. Bisola Olusanya, who represented the state governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, at the 2024, “LCCI Agric Symposium and Fair.”

Olusanya said: “Going forward, government has said any support to any farmer has to be with an agreement that we must understand your trail to the market for us to be able to say that ‘yes we supported you with this based on this amount and this is the price you are going to sell in the market.

“The federal, state and local

governments invest so much in food production. But we do not follow our investments to the markets.

“What I mean is that we give farmers inputs and we give processors support but we do not follow the products to the markets to ensure that the prices at which these items are being sold are reasonable for average Nigerian.

“We leave the dynamic of pricing to market arbitragers and those who will play at the margins and at the end of the day we say that ‘prices of foods are too high.’”

She said going forward, the state government’s investments should be tailored in such a way that the government would know the markets the beneficiaries are selling their products and the landing price in that market compared to their cost of production.

“We must ensure that with all of our supports, the average Lagosians and Nigerians can see the impact. The average Nigerian out there does not understand that you gave someone a

bag of fertilizer, seeds and pesticides.

“The only thing Nigerians wants to hear is that the price of foodstuff is now at this low price,” she said.

Commenting on the various fresh food hubs being set up by the state government, the commissioner added that the government should know what, “the landing cost will be in whatever market they are.

“We should also start tracing the different distributors and dealers that are off taking these products and how much they are being sold to the average market woman/man such that at the end of the day every Logosian and Nigerians will be able to say if this is really overpriced or this is what the real market indices will be.

“That will help us to start to put accountability to everyone in the food value chain. So, it will not be that the middlemen are making the most margins at the expense of the farmer who put in the labour, the sweat and the tears and yet make

minimal margins.

“That is what we have seen over the years and the narrative must change. This is why the Lagos State is building the largest food logistic hubs and other middle level hubs, which are actually helping us in terms of tracing to know what food items that are being produced or sourced from elsewhere; what quantities are coming into these hubs, how much they are sold and what is the quantity sold at to various markets where it is going and how the distribution goes.

“It will also help us sit at the table with partners to start to negotiate for the quantity of food that should come in at any point in time and the pricing at which farmers should make margins and be profitable.

“These are some of the things that we are doing and we believe that all us, including the private sector, bilateral and multilateral agencies will work together to ensure that this becomes the norm in the agricultural and food system space in Nigeria,” she said.

The two parties also commended each other’s efforts towards the prioritisation of sustainable development and economic growth through the implementation of various developmental initiatives aimed at achieving poverty alleviation and enhanced food security.

Nigeria applauded and supported the vision of Building a Community with a Shared Future for Mankind, The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the Global Development Initiative (GDI), the Global Security Initiative (GSI) and the Global Civilisation Initiative (GCI) proposed by President Xi Jinping, with both sides pledging to support each other’s efforts in multilateral affairs, including the UN, the G20 and BRICS, agreeing to support the increased calls for UN Security Council reforms with balanced geographical representation to reflect current geo-political realities.

They also agreed that human rights, including the right to development, are a common cause for all humanity and opposed the politicisation of human rights issues and interference in other countries’ internal affairs under the pretext of human rights.

“China appreciates the efforts of Nigeria in enhancing regional peace and solidarity and promoting regional integration, with a strong emphasis on respecting democracy, good governance, and the rights of citizens.

“China supports the West African countries in addressing differences through friendly dialogue and consultations and to carry forward the regional integration. In this regard, China also urges other international actors to refrain from actions that could turn the region into a space for geopolitical contestation.

“China welcomed Nigeria to expand trade between the two countries through platforms such as the China International Import Expo (CIIE), the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE) and the China Import and Export Fair (the Canton Fair), Lagos and Abuja International Trade Fairs, the Annual Nigerian Mining Week and through new channels such as e-commerce and overseas warehouses in China. China supports the import of more quality products from Nigeria into its market.

“Nigeria expressed its willingness to strengthen its partnership with China in the development of energy and mineral resources and to work with Chinese companies to set up plants in Nigeria to meet local consumption and

export needs, while China promised to encourage more competent Chinese companies to invest in Nigeria to contribute to the diversified and dynamic development of Nigeria’s economy.

“The two countries showed interest in seizing the opportunities of developing productive capacity to further deepen overall reform and jointly explore cooperation in areas such as digital economy, green development, blue economy and agricultural modernisation, and foster new growth drivers in cooperation,” the statement added.

Nigeria welcomed the Global Initiative for Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance and Global Initiative on Data Security proposed by the Chinese side and appreciates China’s efforts in promoting the rights of developing countries in artificial intelligence, network, data and other fields.

“The two sides also expressed committed to supporting the WTO focused multilateral trading system, oppose trade protectionism, promote trade and investment liberalisation and facilitation, create a transparent and non-discriminatory business environment for cooperation between the two countries, while equally expressing support for the establishment of more friendly relations between Chinese and Nigerian provinces/states and municipalities with a view to expand and deepen cooperation at the subnational level.

“China commended Nigeria’s leading role in ECOWAS and its efforts towards bringing stability to the region, it also support Nigeria to play a strong leading role in the regional affairs including fight against terrorism and managing differences, even as the two sides agreed to stay committed to safeguarding peace, security and stability in the region, including the Sahel and Gulf of Guinea,” it stated further.

Meanwhile, Tinubu has disclosed that Africa holds vast opportunities for investments, growth, and development with its vibrant population, productive economy, and natural resources.

Speaking yesterday, at a bilateral meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, in Beijing, Tinubu called for a strategic focus on areas of collaboration that will ensure the relationship remains mutually beneficial.

He said: "Africa is a huge opportunity for economic development. As great people, we are willing to partner for progress and development.

L-R: Justice Adamson, Justice Omolade Awope, Justice Olamide Akinkugbe, the celebrant’s daughter, Oritsesan Kubeinje, the celebrant Chief Magistrate Ejiro Kubeinje, Justice Latifat Folami and Justice Rahman Oshodi at the birthday party of Ejiro Kubeinje in Lagos.... recently

MISS UNIVERSE NIGERIA 2024...

FG Grants Additional 5,000 bpd Licence to Waltersmith Refinery in Owerri

Inaugurates gas expansion working group, others

Addeh in Abuja

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) yesterday announced the granting of an additional 5,000 barrels per day licence to Waltersmith located in Ibigwe, Imo State.

In a statement on its X handle, the midstream and downstream regulator stated that the approval was granted in the phase two of the plant’s development, but noted that the next phase will begin in 2025.

ramp up the capacity to 40,000bpd in the shortest possible time.

The modular refinery with a 5,000 barrels per day production capacity achieved under the Phase1 development, had been undergoing expansion to 10,000bpd with a target to further

“Today, the Authority granted a License to Construct (LTC) of Phase 2 to Waltersmith Refining and Petrochemical Company Limited.

“Authority Chief Executive, Farouk Ahmed, stated that Waltersmith operates a topping plant refinery in Ibigwe, Imo State,-with a capacity of 5,000

Collaboration Between Nigeria, South Africa Will Benefit Africa, Says Think Tank

An independent international public policy think tank, the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), yesterday said that good trade, diplomatic and bilateral relations between Nigeria and South Africa would positively impact the African continent.

Programme Head, African Governance and Diplomacy, SAIIA, Steven Gruzd, said this in a meeting with the third cohort of the MTN-sponsored Media Innovation Programme (MIP) at the SAIIA, University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg.

While speaking on: "Assessing the Nigeria- South African Bilateral Relations and the Gains and the Losses", Gruzd said: If South Africa and Nigeria are working together; if the relations are strong; if there is good trade; and if there is good diplomatic relations, it really makes a difference and it really can pull up the rest of the continent."

Lamenting that there had been more attention on other things that get in the way of what really is a critical relationship for the continent, he added that tensions will makes things much more difficult for the continent to develop.

"There is much work to be done and we call on our leaders to really make sure that this is a strong reciprocal relationship that can last for generations because it benefits the continent if both nations have the best relationship because they haven't taken their place in the global stage.

"The South African Institute of International Affairs has a vision of a well governed, stable, peaceful continent and initiatives like this can really help us in that mission because we get to know Nigerians,

we get to understand some of the issues that are motivating the media in Nigeria and it just helps us with creating a platform for dialogue which is what we are all about and it really gives us an opportunity to strengthen the relations between our two countries," he added.

On the thorny issue of xenophobia and the rivalry between South Africa and Nigeria, he said it lingered this long because the SA government had in the past been denying its existence.

"The government kept denying it because they couldn't bring themselves to believe it. Foreigners are blamed for crime and taking their jobs and some groups build their tickets on this anti-immigration, thus fuelling the situation.

"According to a 2017 BBC World Service Poll, 53 per cent of Nigerians view South Africa's influence posi-

tively, with 27 per cent expressing a negative view. This is the lowest Nigerian positive perception of South Africa ever reported by the poll since polling began in 2009, with the 2014 poll reporting 65 per cent of Nigerians viewing South Africa's influence positively and 17 per cent expressing a negative view," he said.

Also speaking on "PanAfricanism, Nigeria South Africa Relations: The Role of the Media" he first commended MTN for the MIP initiative and the study tour to South Africa, adding that it will go a long way to propagate Pan-Africanism,

On the trade relations between both nations, he said there were far less Nigerian businesses in South Africa than there were South African businesses in Nigeria, which threw up the visa challenges that goes both ways.

barrels per stream day (BPSD). This plant produces AGO, DPK, HPFO, and Naphtha.

“The refinery is expected to be commissioned by Q3 2025, and that the refinery plans to expand to Phase 3 immediately after,” he stated.

It also quoted Waltersmith's Managing Director, Muhammad Musa,as highlighting that the milestone will allow Waltersmith to double its current capacity.

Musa expressed gratitude to both the Waltersmith and NMDPRA teams for their support and noted that the achievement reflects the government’s confidence in their capabilities.

“ The company assures Nigerians of its dedication to finding new ways to contribute value to the country,” the NMDPRA noted in the message.

Meanwhile, the federal government has inaugurated the Technical Working

Group (TWG) for the National Gas Expansion Programme (NGEP), National Directorate of Employment (NDE), and Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) power project to oversee the utilisation, implementation and establishment of Gas Power Projects in local government areas across the nation.

In his remarks at the inauguration ceremony in Abuja, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Nicholas Ella highlighted NDE's strong focus on vocational skills development programme, a core mandate that aligns with NGEP's Gas-preneurship initiative

He explained that the Gaspreneurship initiative, developed by NGEP, encompasses the art and science of all aspects of the gas value chain, including exploration, production,

transmission, and distribution. The TWG will drive the implementation of this initiative, fostering collaboration among NGEP, NDE, and ALGON to promote gas-based economic development and job creation in local communities.

“The comprehensive training component covers:- Entire gas streams and operating principles- audit of machinery and equipment types and capacity for suitable system installation and calibration,” he stated. The gaspreneurship Initiative would conclude with the provision of starter packs, including diagnostic tools and equipment, and identification of appropriate workshops and business incubation centres in local government areas nationwide and this would enable trainee gaspreneurs to become employers of labour upon graduation, he added.

Obaigbena, Osoba, Adetiba to Attend Dimgba lgwe Lecture

Media gurus, public relations and marketing giants as well as other eminent Nigerians will on Friday (tomorrow) gather to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the passing of Dimgba lgwe at The Colossus Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.

Igwe was the pioneer Deputy

Real Estate Developers Set Up 24 Panels to Drive Housing Sector Growth in Nigeria

The Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN) yesterday announced the setting up of 24 committees to accelerate its contributions to the housing sector in Nigeria.

National President of REDAN, Akintoye Adeoye, who disclosed this in Abuja at a press briefing, explained that the organisation continues to play a vital role in addressing the pressing housing challenges faced by the nation. To this end, he stated that REDAN was working closely with all all stakeholders, including financial institutions to promote affordable housing and sustainable development across Nigeria.

Adeoye acknowledged what he described as the outstanding leadership of the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, whose achievements within just one year, he said, have greatly advanced the President's Renewed Hope agenda.

“We recognise the notable progress in increasing the availability of affordable and decent housing for Nigerians, as demonstrated by the groundbreaking of 6,612 housing units across 13 locations nationwide under the Ministry's Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme.

“We also commend the Ministry's Urban Renewal and Slum Upgrade Programme, which aligns perfectly

with REDAN's advocacy for inclusive development.

“The minister's vision and dedication to housing, as highlighted in your recent press briefing, and your partnership with Shelter Afrique Development Bank to provide 5,000 affordable housing units in the pilot phase, are commendable. His initiatives in Housing Institutions Reforms and plans for a National Housing Data Centre are also significant milestones that deserve recognition,” he added.

To further support the government's efforts in addressing the housing needs of Nigerians, and in line with REDAN’s mission, he said the committees will comprise over 100 dedicated members of the association.

Editor of Weekend Concord and former Vice Chairman of The Sun Publishing Limited, a statement by the organisers of the event said. lgwe, also former Deputy General Overseer of Evangel Pentecostal Church, Okota, Lagos, died on September 6, 2014, aged 58. Born on May 16, 1956, he would have been 68 years old last May.

To commemorate the 10th anniversary of his passing, a committee of friends and mentees of lgwe has concluded arrangements for a public lecture scheduled to be delivered by veteran journalist, father of soft-sell journalism in Nigeria, and publisher of Prime People, Mr. Muyiwa Adetiba.

Titled: Tabloid Journalism: Yesterday, Today and The Future”, the public lecture will have as Chairman, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, Publisher of THISDAY Newspapers, Chairman and Owner of ARISE Television, and past President of the Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN). Former Governor of Ogun State, Olusegun Osoba, will be Special Guest of Honour. Another Special Guest of Honour is the matriarch of the lgwe Family, Mrs. Obioma Dimgba-lgwe, who has gallantly held the forte since her husband, Dimgba;lgwe, died. Chairman of the Organising

Committee, Femi Adesina, former Special Adviser to former President Muhammadu Buhari on Media and Publicity, said the epoch was conceptualised to celebrate the gigantic contributions of the late lgwe to Nigerian journalism. He noted that there was the need to mark Igwe’s unwavering commitment to good governance, public order, advancement of democracy, as well as general development of the country.

Adesina, a former Managing Director of The Sun and former President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) said: "This lecture is a celebration of a man, who, together with his 'twin brother', Chief Mike Awoyinfa, midwifed Nigeria's first Saturday newspaper, Weekend Concord, at a time many had thought such novelty was impracticable in the country's media space at the time.

"But they not only blazed the trail, they mentored a generation of journalists who have flown the flag very high in their different spheres of calling and influence in Nigeria, Africa and across the world.

“That is why we are celebrating him through this public lecture, which would be an annual event and it will get bigger with each year passing."

Emmanuel

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Chiemelie Ezeobi in Johannesburg, South Africa

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa(left), and Miss Universe Nigeria 2024, Miss Chidinma Adetshina, when Dabiri-Erewa hosted the beauty queen in Lagos…recently

In Throwback Video, Emefiele Argues Nigeria Can Only Float Naira after Dangote Refinery Begins Production

CORAN congratulates Aliko on commencement of PMS refining NUPENG pledges support for new facility

Emmanuel Addeh and Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

An old video reiterating the comments of former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, on the Dangote refinery and how it will only be appropriate to float the naira after it commenced production has surfaced online.

Emefiele was speaking during a foreign investors’ meeting held in New York, while answering questions raised by the businessmen who had an audience with him.

Emefiele maintained that it was only appropriate to float the naira when it stopped haemorrhaging against the dollar, apparently, through the import of petrol and several petrochemicals that depleted Nigeria’s foreign exchange (FX). For this reason and more, Emefiele stoutly resisted pressure to float the naira insisting then that the time was not right, and floating it would plunge the naira into chaos.

As a way of support, the ex-CBN Governor frequently visited the massive facility to encourage its completion.

The Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration floated the local currency last

Okocha, Onyebuchi

Adedayo

in Abuja, Dike Onwuamaeze, Emma Okonji and Agnes Ekebuike in Lagos Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and political organisation, Afenifere, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and some civil society organisations (CSOs), yesterday, expressed outrage at the recent hike in petrol prices, lamenting that the federal government is inflicting further hardship on Nigerians.

PDP rejected what it described as the punishing increase in the pump price of premium motor spirit (PMS) to over N1,000 per litre in various parts of the country. The leading opposition party stressed that it was a brutal assault on the sensibility and well-being of

Tinubu assured the people of the state that perpetrators of the evil act that resulted in the loss of many lives would be brought to justice.

The president, in a release by his media adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, commiserated with the government and the people of Yobe State over the tragic incident.

Tinubu also extended his condolences to the bereaved families, and condemned the killings as an act of terror by a degraded group of criminals. He prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and speedy recovery for the wounded.

Dozens of people were killed on Sunday afternoon after suspected Boko Haram terrorists attacked a village in the state, setting fire to shops and homes.

Yobe State police spokesman, Dungus Abdulkarim, said, “Around 150 suspected Boko Haram terrorists armed with rifles and RPGs (rocketpropelled grenades) attacked Mafa ward on more than 50 motorcycles.”

Abdulkarim said, “They killed many people and burned many shops and houses. We are yet to ascertain the actual number of those killed in the attack.”

Abdulkarim also said the attack was in apparent retaliation for the killing of two suspected Boko Haram fighters by local vigilantes.

Yobe is one of the three states on the frontline of a 15-year insurgency by Boko Haram and other hard-line groups, which had killed tens of thousands of people and displaced more than two million.

The armed groups had strengthened their position by working with gangs of criminals known as “bandits”, who raid villages, kill and abduct residents, and burn homes after looting them.

Officials said efforts were continuing to confirm the number of people killed

year, a development that severely depreciated the naira against other currencies.

Emefiele is seen saying in the video, “By that time (when Dangote commences petrol production), you will see what we will be doing in terms of when most people talk about allowing the market to float. We will float the market and then let’s see how this currency will depreciate.”

The Dangote refinery has now begun the production of petrol and other fuels, even though largely delayed.

The former CBN governor said Nigeria would save up to 40 per cent of its foreign exchange earnings when the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Plant was in full operation.

He stated that the commencement of the refinery will be a great saver of foreign exchange for Nigeria, highlighting that Nigerians will benefit greatly from the project.

At the time, he said the overall FX Nigeria spent on imported petroleum products, including diesel, aviation fuel, and others, was close to 30 per cent of the country’s earnings.

Emefiele said, “The Dangote refinery

Nigerians “by the insensitive and arrogant All Progressives Congress (APC) administration”. Afenifere called on the federal government to immediately order the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to reverse the price increase.

NLC maintained, in a statement yesterday, that the federal government had undertaken, during the N70,000 minimum wage deal with organised labour, not to approve further hike in the price of petrol. It called the recent price hike a betrayal by the government.

But the presidency denied making any undertaking not to increase fuel prices.

Similarly, TUC asked the federal government to rescind the decision on the recent increases in the pump price of petrol and electricity tariff.

ActionAid Nigeria and the Network Against Corruption and

in Mafa.

Bulama Jalaluddeen, a resident of the area, said, “It has been established that at least 81 people were killed in the attack.”

Jalaluddeen stated, “Fifteen bodies had already been buried by their relations by the time soldiers reached Mafa for the evacuation of the corpses. In addition to these, some unspecified number of dead victims from nearby villages, who were caught up in the attack were taken and buried by their kinsmen before the arrival of the soldiers. Many people are still missing and their whereabouts unknown.”

A military official, who accompanied the army’s commanding officer for Yobe to Mafa on Monday evening said the route to the village had been rigged with explosives, which troops managed to defuse.

“We recovered 37 corpses and brought them to Babangida General Hospital,” the official told the Reuters news agency. He declined to be identified because he was not authorised to speak to the media.

Modu Mohammed, who lives in Mafa, said several more residents were missing and estimated the death toll at more than 100. He said some corpses were still in the bush.

Another source said about 34 of those killed were given a mass burial on Tuesday. The victims were buried at Babangida, the headquarters of the Tarmuwa Local Government of Yobe State.

Though villagers said over 100 persons were killed, the state government said the casualty figure was 34. The dead bodies were recovered in a search-and-rescue operation led by the Nigerian Army and supported by local vigilantes.

Villagers claimed that 86 dead bodies were recovered in the sur-

has the capacity to produce 650,000 barrels per day. There is a domestic component that is about 455,000 barrels. Even if the 455,000 is what is sold to Dangote in naira alone, it is going to be major forex saving for Nigeria.

“And If you look at the cost of freight alone, it is a major saving for Nigeria. That is because if we have to go to Europe or other parts of the world to bring in petroleum products, where Nigeria pays heavily in freight and in stocking those products in the high sea before we offload them, Nigerians would benefit a lot from the Dangote refinery.

“That project is one of Nigeria’s backward integration programmes and we are very proud it is coming to light and, indeed, we know that refineries abroad are already scared because they know the market they will lose because Nigerians will prefer to patronise the Dangote refinery than foreign imported refined products where we will save on transportation and logistics.”

Aside petrol, diesel, jet fuel and others, Emefiele stated that other chemicals being imported into Nigeria will be a thing of the past with the

Trafficking (NACAT) condemned the latest hike in pump price of PMS, and demanded immediate action from the government on economic reform.

Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI); Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA); the organised private sector (OPS); and Nigerian Gas Association (NGA) all frowned on the increment.

PDP, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, said, "The thoughtless increase in fuel price, especially at this time, is a huge recipe for crisis, as Nigerians cannot bear its worsening effect on the suffocating economic hardship, which they currently face under the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led APC administration.

"The secretive and corrupt administration of the petroleum sector and persistent increase in fuel price

rounding communities of the Mafa village, following the terror attack.

The dead bodies were prepared for burial by the volunteers of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Babangida Division, under the supervision of the Divisional Secretary, Garba Bulama Kachallah.

Yobe State Deputy Governor, Idi Gubana, led a state government delegation on a visit to the community, where he donated N30 million to the families of the victims, and reiterated that the casualty figure was 34.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari decried the attack on Yobe State, saying the latest incident is a “dreadful reminder that communities supported by governments have more work to do in curbing the menace of the terrorists”.

increased foreign exchange earnings for our country.

“In addition, this sector will drive employment generation for Nigerian youths who constitute 60 percent of the estimated 233 million population, and Zenith Bank is committed to being at the forefront of these efforts.”

Delivering his keynote address, the Secretary, National Action Committee, AfCFTA, Mr. Segun Awolowo, commended Zenith Bank and its leadership led by the Founder and Chairman of the Board, Jim Ovia, CFR, for its laudable initiative in organising an annual export seminar targeted towards exploring opportunities for growth in Nigeria’s non-oil export industry and for its consistent exploits in supporting the implementation of the AfCFTA.

Commenting on the theme of this year’s export seminar, he added, “In awakening the giant, we

commencement of the refinery.

He explains, “On the petrochemical, because that is also supposed to be coming online about that same period. That petrochemical plant will be producing 900,000 tons of polyethylene and polypropylene granules. Nigeria's annual consumption of polypropylene and polyethylene granules is less than 200,000 tons.

“What does that mean? By contribution in import content, again, FX content, that is close to about five per cent of our imports. If you save five per cent of your imports, save another 30 per cent in petroleum products, and then even fertiliser, that is only maybe another two per cent to three per cent. We are moving close to saving about 40 per cent foreign exchange import for the country.”

Relatedly, Crude Oil Refinery Owners Association of Nigeria (CORAN) extended its congratulations to Mr. Aliko Dangote and his team at Dangote refinery on the remarkable achievement of commencing the production of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

CORAN said that the significant milestone was not only a testament to the dedication and hard work of

under the Tinubu-administration, without due regard to the wellbeing of the people, is akin to pushing Nigerians to the wall and daring them to do their worse."

Ologunagba argued that the APC administration had consistently shown itself “to be anti-people, unconcerned and deaf to the agonies of millions of Nigerians who can no longer afford their daily meals, medications and basic support for families due to the catastrophic high cost of living occasioned by the insensitive and reckless policies of the Tinubu administration”.

According to the PDP spokesman, "Today, under the Tinubu-led APC administration, over 150 million Nigerians have sunk below poverty line, businesses are collapsing daily, as the naira now exchanges for over N1,600 to a dollar, with over 34 per cent inflation rate and over 40 per cent unemployment rate, which are

In a message to Yobe State Governor Mai Mala, Yobe State Council of Chiefs, and entire people of the state, Buhari prayed for the repose of the souls of those killed, and called for strict response to those who committed these “monstrous acts”.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubukar accused the federal government of insensitivity to the plights of Mafa.

Atiku wrote on his X account, "Despite the tragic bloodshed in Yobe, which has claimed scores of lives, and the rampant destruction across numerous villages in Katsina, Sokoto, and other towns within the Northwest and North-central regions, the government seems to remain detached, engrossed in inconsequential affairs.

Continued on page 34

must focus on scaling production, productivity, and value addition for some specific export products with high potential across three main sectors – solid minerals, agriculture and petrochemicals. We should also aim to capture at least five percent of the global trade and export volumes for these products.

“Additionally, in the genie bottle is the services sector, which is not only a major contributor to Nigeria’s GDP but also a key driver of economic diversification, job creation, and innovation.”

Also in his keynote address, the Managing Director of Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM), Alhaji Abba Bello, emphasised the need to amplify the export of services to facilitate economic growth.

In his words, “A key area that needs mentioning is the need to intensify efforts to support the

Dangote refinery, but also reflected the collective resolve of CORAN to contribute meaningfully to the economic development and wellbeing of Nigeria.

A statement by CORAN Chair man, Mr. Momoh Oyarekhua, said, “This achievement aligns perfectly with CORAN’s vision of creating sustainable refining solutions that drive economic growth and our mission to efficiently increase the refining capacity of the country. It is members like Dangote refinery who bring our goals to life, and we are proud to have the refinery as a key part of our community.

“We look forward to witnessing the continued success of Dangote refinery and the positive impact it will have on our industry and the broader economy.”

The leadership of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) equally expressed its solidarity with the management of Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Company, as the facility commenced operations.

In a letter addressed to President/ CEO, Dangote Group, on the historic

expected to rise further with the latest draconian increase in the price of fuel.

"There is practically no hope in sight under the current APC government policies, as major multinational companies continue to exit our country in droves in the face of ill-conceived and ill-implemented macro-economic policies.

"The admission by the APC-led federal government that it has handed the fate of Nigerians to oil racketeers in the name of a free market economy further validates the position of the PDP that the Tinubu-led administration has abdicated the primary purpose of government; which is to provide for the welfare and security of the citizens."

Ologunagba addd, "President Tinubu is the Minister of Petroleum Resources and cannot exonerate his government and officials from the secretive and fraudulent management of the petroleum sector, which is fast pushing our nation’s economy to the precipice."

The PDP spokesman stated, "it is inexplicable that the APC administration continues to increase fuel price despite the scandalous revelation in the public domain that it is secretly paying a whopping N5.4 trillion as fuel subsidy for 2024.

"The APC government has now become an enabler of a cabal of corrupt APC rent-seekers who derive pleasure in inflicting pains on Nigerians while hugely benefiting from the proceeds of incessant increase in fuel price to satisfy and fund their luxury appetite and consumption.

"With the hopeless state of affairs of our nation today, our party wonders what President Tinubu, during his numerous trips abroad, says to his foreign counterparts in nations where

promotion of export of services to leverage on the sector’s economic strength in which the services sector annually contributes over 50 percent to the GDP. “Specifically, strategic frameworks need to be developed to complement the current government’s $620 million programme under the Digital and Creative Enterprise (IDiCE), which is designed to empower youths to create IT and skilled/technical jobs that could promote and expand export of ICT and creative industries products and services.”

In his goodwill message, Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, highlighted efforts of the Lagos State government in facilitating non-oil export for the growth of the Nigerian Economy.

landmark, the union described the feat as epoch-making.

The letter signed by NUPENG General Secretary, Labi Olawale said, "This day has been long anticipated and awaited with bated breath and prayers not only by Nigerians but by the entire continent of Africa. We are very proud of you, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, you are a man with uncommon courage and determination. You have dared to dream and thread where no mortal has ever done.

leaders prioritise the welfare of their people!

"Nigerians will recall that the PDP had on several occasions offered constructive advice and suggestions on the management of the economy, which the APC government in its arrogance in failure ignored.

"Our party restates that with a deft, transparent and innovative management of resources, economic potentials, comparative advantage and national refining capacity, petrol should not sell more than N250 per litre in Nigeria."

PDP called on Tinubu to save the country from further socio-economic dislocation by immediately reversing the latest increase in fuel price and revisit all life-discounting and suffocating policies of the APC government.

NLC, in a statement signed by its Head of Information and Public Affairs, Benson Upah, said, “Our attention has been drawn to the denial credited to the Senior Special Assistant to Mr. President on the Print Media, Mr. Abdulaziz Abdulaziz.

"In the said statement, Abdulaziz was quoted as saying: ‘I sat through the two meetings President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had with labour leaders on minimum wage. At neither of the meetings was an offer made in exchange for the fuel price hike. Ajaero is once again playing his dirty politics with the emotions of Nigerians.’”

NLC said it found the denial of Abdulaziz amusing, describing him as someone "suffering from selective amnesia or attention span deficit".

NLC stated, "Whatever the matter is with Abdulaziz, we stand by our statement. And if Abdulaziz was at those meetings, as he claimed,

He said, “This seminar’s theme resonates deeply with the strategic objectives of the Lagos State Development Plan 2052. Nigeria’s creative economy is a powerful engine of growth and a key pillar of our export diversification strategy.

“Our focus is on value addition—transforming raw agricultural products into finished goods that command higher prices in international markets. For instance, Lagos State is rapidly becoming a hub for the processing of cocoa, cashew nuts, palm oil, and sesame seeds.

“These products, when processed and packaged to international standards, can significantly boost our export revenues and create thousands of jobs for our citizens. The manufacturing sector offers another promising avenue for export diversification.

T I nubu: A TTA ck on Yobe c ow A r D lY

Chuks

Ezigbo, Micheal Olugbode,

Akinwale

Kenneth Okonkwo: Nigeria Doesn’t Need Obi, Atiku, Tinubu in 2027

Chuks Okocha in a buja

Former spokesperson for Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, Kenneth Okonkwo, yesterday said that Nigeria needs new political leaders come 2027.

Okonkwo therefore called President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar and Obi, to step aside for fresh faces to emerge.

Speaking on ARISE News

Channels yesterday he said that both the ruling party and the opposition have failed Nigerians.

His call is coming in the wake of the report that candidates of three strong opposition parties in Nigeria were planning to form a merger to unseat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to him, Nigeria needs a fresh idea to solve the country’s socioeconomic problems because the present

PIA: ‘Allegation of Embezzlement of HCDTF Politically Motivated’

Okon Basseyinuyo

A member of the NNPC/MPN JV EMOIMEE Host Community Development Trust Fund (HCDTF) representing Esit-Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Mr Dan Abia, has refuted allegations of embezzlement of the Trust Fund in the local government, describing it as politically motivated.

He said it is impossible for anyone to carry out any form of embezzlement because of the way the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) is structured.

Abia stated this in Eket Local Government yesterday while reacting to allegations of mismanagement of funds and purchase of rickety buses as palliatives for beneficiaries.

He said: “PIA is a specialised area and very novel. Every day we are learning and because we don’t want to make mistakes, the speed isn’t much because the checks

mechanism is serious. In fact, the way the PIA is fashioned, it’s almost impossible to have any form of embezzlement.

“We have several layers of control. We have the Board of Trustees whose job and responsibilities are distinct from the Management Committee.“

“ The management committee also has it responsibility very distinct from that of the Advisory Committee

“The checks don’t even stop at that level, we have the Settlor, which is like the general overseer, then you have yet again the regulator, by this Act, there is only one regular and that regulator is the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulation Commission(NUPRC).

The regulator regulates the settlor and the activities of the Trust.

“You cannot go outside the host community development plan, so you are guided by the PIA document.

set of politicians have proven they had nothing to offer.

He said: “Rather than jumping into discussions about mergers, there is need for consolidation and

alliance-building among opposition parties.

He stressed the importance of working together to form a strong, united front before considering electoral alliances.

“I completely agree that we need new faces, 100 per cent and that is how I have said it, that Atiku, Peter Obi, and Tinubu should step aside.

“The reason is because the

ruling party has failed, the opposition has failed. Are you aware that we have more opposition members as representatives than the ruling party?

NiMet DG Canvases Farmers Insurance to Strengthen Food Security

Kasim sumaina in abuja

The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Professor Charles Anosike, has said that insurance coverage for Nigerian farmers would strengthen the country’s food security.

Gideon arinze in enugu

The Enugu State Government has clarified its position on the reports over the collection of industrial gas emission levy by consultants to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.

Anosike made this call when a delegation from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) paid a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja. He appreciated the delegation for recognising the role that NiMet is playing in the agricultural valuechain and other sectors, and for seeking the agency’s partnership in organising the forthcoming Agricultural Insurance and Weather Advisory Services Roundtable.

The NiMet DG/CEO urged the USAID team to also extend an invitation to the financial sector.

“It’s also about saving lives. Lives have already been lost in the 2024 flood. Let’s keep in mind that early warnings save lives.”

“When financial institutions talk about risk management, they focus on shareholder value.”

He said: “NiMet does a lot of work in early warnings. When we talk about insurance or early warnings, it is not just about the productivity of farmers.

Enugu Clarifies Position on Industrial Gas Emission Levy

The government was reacting to reports making the rounds that government had introduced fines for the use of renewable energy sources such as solar.

In its reaction, via a public notice signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, and made available to newsmen yesterday, the government noted that the exercise had since been suspended on August 29, 2024, and the consultancy terminated with immediate effect.

It also clarified that the state governor, Mr. Peter Mbah, equally directed the refund of any such levy so collected, noting that the said consultants exceeded their brief.

The government explained that whereas the Ministry acted within its powers, given the provisions of Section 4 (2) and Section 124 of the Enugu State Environmental and Climate Protection Law, 2024, which covers the enforcement of environmental laws, as well as Section 125 of the Law, which prescribes fines for “obnoxious gaseous emissions into the environment.”

“Such levies and enforcements were premature as the necessary groundwork and infrastructure were still being put in place.

At PSHAN Summit, Ihekweazu Advocates Improved Health Infrastructure

sunday Ehigiator

Assistant Director General of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and former DirectorGeneral of Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu and his wife, the Managing Director, Nigeria Health Watch, Mrs Vivianne Ihekweazu, have called for the need to strengthen

Nigeria’s health infrastructure with the establishment of a purposeful data and diagnostic capabilities.

They made this statement at the Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN’s) new episode in the second season of its ‘Leadership Series’ podcast.

Hosted by Managing Director/CEO of PSHAN, Dr. Tinuola Akinbolagbe, the episode is an enlightening discussion with Dr. Ihekweazu and Mrs. Ihekweazu on ‘Leading Nigeria Through Infectious Diseases

Outbreaks: Challenges and Triumphs’.

According to Dr. Ihekweazu, data and diagnostic capabilities are crucial to building public health agencies, and the general health system.

He noted: “The most important currency of a national health public health agency is its data and diagnostic capabilities. Without these, you have no foundation for your existence.”

As a result, he stated that he prioritised the development of the National Reference

Laboratory and other critical structures during his tenure as the DG of NCDC.

Referring to these significant achievements, Dr. Ihekweazu noted, “Building these structures was essential not just for managing the pandemic but for laying the groundwork for future public health challenges.”

In addition to highlighting the importance of strengthening Nigeria’s health system, the guests spoke briefly about the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria while launching a book ‘An Impending storm’ that explains the behind-the-scenes look at the NCDC and its pivotal role during this global crisis.

Rotary Club Holds Health Outreach in Warri

sylvester idowu inWarri

The Rotary Clubs of Edjeba, Effurun and Bendel Estate yesterday organised a health outreach for the residents of Edjeba and Effurun to improve health care and support the local communities.

The ceremony tagged “Project Empowering Communities” and held at Edjeba junction by Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS) witnessed large turnout of residents.

Amongst the services rendered to the communities included medical screening, blood pressure, sugar level, eye screening while under its food assistance programme distributed items ranging from rice, beans, vegetable oil and others.

Clothes and shoes were also distributed to both the old and young, including students from Edjeba College that thronged the venue of the event.

More than 500 residents benefitted from the project put up the Rotary Clubs in the communities.

Flagging off the exercise, District Governor D9141, Rtn. Chinedu Ikegwuani, said that it is a testament to Rotary’s core value of “Service Above Self.” He commended the three Rotary Clubs for carrying out a successful project that would impact on the lives of the people in line with the doctrine of the club.

Labour Party Sacks Julius Abure-led NEC, Sets Up 29-Member Caretaker Committee

Labour Party (LP) has sacked the national chairman of the party, Comrade Julius Abure, and members of the National Executive Committee (NEC).

To fill the leadership vacuum, the party set up a 29-member caretaker committee, with former finance minister, Senator Esther Nenadi Usman, as chairman and Hon. Darlington Nwokocha as secretary.

The decision was the outcome of the "duly constituted" NEC and

expanded stakeholders’ meeting hosted in Umuahia by the governor of Abia State, Mr. Alex Otti, the party's only governor.

The meeting, chaired by the presidential candidate of LP in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, was well-attended by

prominent members of the party, including all LP federal and state lawmakers.

Abure and his allies were not at the meeting.

The stakeholders insisted that Abure’s tenure had expired in June, hence, he no longer had

UN Women to Facilitate Seed Funding for Coordination Platforms Working on GEWE

Oluchi Chibuzor

The United Nations Women, Nigeria, has said it will provide seed funding for coordination platforms working on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE).

According to the UN body, this would help facilitate advocacy drives on gender related issues within the various regions of the country.

The Country Director, Country Representative to UN Women, Nigeria, and ECOWAS, Ms. Beatrice Eyong, disclosed this recently at the Southwest zonal coordination mechanism for GEWE Meeting series 2.0, held in Lagos.

She stressed that with the launch of the quarterly zonal coordination

mechanism meeting for GEWE with all the commissioners and leaders of the state ministries of women affairs, networks and coalitions in 2023, more work was needed on critical issues that concerns women.

Eyong, represented by the National Programme Officer, Coordination and Partnership, UN Women, Mrs. Patience Ekeoba, said more

Minimum Wage: Zulum Sets Machinery for Payment in Motion, Approves Committee for Implementation

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has approved the constitution of a committee to discuss modalities for implementing the new national minimum wage in the state.

President Bola Tinubu had last month, signed the new Minimum Wage Act into law after agreeing to N70,000 with the organised labour unions.

The statement released by the Secretary to the Borno State Government on Wednesday indicated the committee would be chaired by the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Engr. Babagana Malumbe, while the Head of Service, Barrister Mallam Fannami, will be co-chair.

According to the statement, the committee comprises 12 other members from the government side, including the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Hauwa Abubakar, Permanent Secretary Finance & Economic Development, Alhaji Basha Talba, Permanent Secretary Admin. & General Services, Dr. Muhammad Ghuluze, Permanent Secretary Environment, Dr. Juliana Bitrus, Accountant-General, Baba Bura Usman, and the State Auditor-General, Alhaji Shettima Bukar.

Others are Senior Technical Assistant (STA), General Service; Mohammed Habib Alkali, (STA), Finance and Economic Development;

Mai Adamu Yau, Director, Biometric and Data Capture; Abubakar Kachalla, ICT Consultant; Prof. Babagana Gutti; Engr. Bako Adamu; and Permanent Secretary, Establishment, Dr. Sadiq Abubakar, will serve as the secretary of the committee.

On the part of the Nigeria Labour Congress & Trade Union Congress, members include the NLC Chairman, Comr. Yusuf Inuwa, TUC Chairman, Comr. Babayo Hamma, and JNC Chairman, Comr. Umar Abdullahi. Also included are the NLC Secretary, Comr. Musa Chiroma, the TUC Secretary, Comr. Baba Mohammed, the President of NULGE, Comr. Mustapha Bulama, the JNC Secretary, Comr. Haruna Musa, the Chairman of Pensioners, Comr. Alh. Musa Bukar Kukawa, and the SSANIP Chairman, Comr. Abba Aji Suleiman. The statement also noted that Abubakar Ibrahim, State Controller of Labour, Federal Ministry of Labour, will serve as an observer.

The SSG noted that part of the committee’s duties include: to analyse the current consequential salary adjustment at the federal level and determine the extent to which it can be applied in totality or partially in the state; to use the consequential adjustment at the federal level as a guide to arrive at a reasonable and sustainable salary adjustment based on the specific peculiarities

of the state and; Any other matter relevant to arriving at a reasonable and realistic salary for civil servants. The statement also noted that Governor Zulum, while congratulating the members on the opportunity to serve the state, directed them to start work immediately.

coordinated efforts are needed to drive gender issues.

According to her, “We identified and mapped hundreds of coordination platforms working on various GEWE across various thematic areas and using a SWOT analysis we were able to garner information on the status of the existing coordination platforms.

“We brainstormed on how we could work together to get the groups functioning to facilitate the goal of GEWE, especially touching on critical issues that concerns women’s representation, relevant adoption of GEWE bills and funding for GEWE.

“We concluded by supporting states to develop plans that could help create coherence in the ways that GEWE is planned, implemented and coordinated.

“The fund will help to mobilize urgent and sustained action to achieve gender equality and the empowerment (GEWE) of all women and girls.”

any legitimacy to continue in the capacity of national chairman.

A five-point communique read by the LP 2023 deputy governorship candidate in Plateau State, Hon. Edward Pwajok, said the membership of the committee reflected “various interests and tendencies" in the party.

The critical interests include Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), Senate, House of Representatives, Houses of Assembly, and the governorship candidates of LP in 2023.

According to the communique, the caretaker committee "should immediately ensure" that the congresses of the whole party were conducted at ward, local government, state and national levels "as soon as possible".

The caretaker committee would preside over the affairs of LP in the next three months within which new leaders would emerge from ward to national levels after the party congresses.

The stakeholders enjoined "all party members to support the caretaker committee to carry out its mandate".

Obi commended Otti for his efforts to reposition the party by ensuring that the meeting held as planned.

He said, "We consulted and discussed" before agreeing on the need to convene the expanded stakeholders’ meeting in order to resolve the troubling issues

affecting LP.

The former Anambra State governor told his party members that they already knew "my own position" in the crisis rocking the party.

Obi said because of the position he had taken, "I have been called all sorts of names. Some said I'm not serious; some said I'm weak and should not present myself again as presidential candidate."

He stated that unsavoury utterances from people will not change his position.

Obi added, "But I want due process to be followed. Whatever we are going to do in future, I want everybody to be free to participate in it. In going forward, let everybody learn to sacrifice for the party."

The LP national leader spoke in a conciliatory tone. He said the meeting was not meant to suspend or sack party members, hence, "nobody would be secluded after this meeting".

Usman said the caretaker committee had been saddled with "a big responsibility".

But she assured the party stakeholders and elders that the committee would work to put LP back to its proper footing.

The caretaker committee chairman stated that the crisis in LP had been repelling prospective members, saying, "people have not registered with LP because of the problem that bedevilled the party".

The Policy Innovation Centre (PIC) said children from the poorest families are nearly 11 times more likely to die than those from the wealthiest families.

The Policy Innovation Centre is an initiative of the Nigeria Economic Summit Group, a leading think tank in Africa.

The Executive Director of PIC, Dr. Osasuyi Dirisu, stated this at the ongoing Gender and Inclusion Summit 2024, themed "Reimagining Gender-inclusive Pathways and Partnerships for poverty reduction," held in Abuja yesterday.

The director said: "In Nigeria, for instance, the link between poverty and child mortality is particularly stark. Children from the poorest

families are nearly 11 times more likely to die than those from the wealthiest families.

"The global multidimensional poverty index offers a comprehensive understanding of poverty, going beyond monetary measures to capture its multidimensional aspects, providing a clearer picture of who is poor and why.

"It is against this backdrop that the Policy Innovation Centre has dedicated this Gender and Inclusion Summit 2024 to discussing policy imperatives and actions necessary to realize a more inclusive Nigeria for all.

"Hence, the PIC community commits to translating every idea and recommendation from this summit into a clear roadmap for actions towards improving

Nigeria's performance in gender index rankings.

In his opening remark, the chairman of NESG, Mr. Niyi Yussuf, stated that since 2022, the summit has been institutionalized as an annual gathering for multi-stakeholders to discuss and co-create contextually relevant solutions for gender and inclusion in Nigeria.

According to Niyi, the theme of the 2024 gender summit is highly relevant “as we urgently need to tackle poverty in the country, which disproportionately affects women. The scourge of multidimensional poverty persists, entangling millions and hindering the full realization of our potential.”

He said: "Hence, every aspect of our assistance must influence

the fabric of our society and shape our collective future. Today, we gather with a sense of urgency and purpose, dedicated to combining our wisdom and insights to confront this pressing challenge head-on.

"Our aim is to create solutions that directly lead to the reduction of inequality and deprivations that have stifled progress for far too long. Together, I believe we aspire to forge a path towards a more just, equitable, and prosperous society where every individual can thrive and contribute to our shared prosperity.

"Hence, we need to design and implement solutions that will allow our women and every citizen to take their rightful place in our society, so that our dear nation can finally realize its potential."

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

L-R: Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed; Mr Peter Obi; Senator Nenadi Usman, the Caretaker Committee Chairman of the Labour Party; Governor Alex Otti; Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu and Senator Darlington Nwokocha, Secretary of the Caretaker Committee of the Labour Party at the Expanded Labour Party Stakeholders Meeting in Umuahia, Abia State, yesterday.

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

Bagudu: Nigeria Stands to Gain More from Tinubu, Xi Jinping’s Bilateral Talks

Budget and National Planning Minister, a lhaji a tiku Bagudu is one of the Ministers on President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to Beijing, the capital of People’s Republic of China where five Memorandum of Understanding, including the one on peaceful use of nuclear energy were signed on Tuesday. In this interview, Bagudu who is also participating at the on-going 2024 Forum on China and a frica Cooperation holding also in Beijing, speaks on the significance of the signed agreements and the renewed focus on strategic bilateral ties between the two nations. Deji Elumoye brings excerpts:

What does the signing of the five MoUs mean to Nigeria?

Today is a very important day in the history of Nigeria where the Chinese President Xi Jinping received Mr. President for an official visit. President Bola Tinubu was received with the highest level of respect to China in addition to statements of joint mutual interest and commitments to developments, security, and undertakings to work together for the betterment of Nigeria, and Africa and to partake in global development.

Specific Memorandum of Understandings were signed. Five are all development-related. Four of them were signed on behalf of the Chinese government by the National Development and Reformed Commission of China and I also signed on behalf of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Equally, there is one with the China International Development Agency - again, I signed on behalf of Nigeria.

These five agreements are all developmental in nature and they are in various fields of interest, ranging from agriculture, digital economy, infrastructure, youth development, and education.

One of the agreements has about 19 projects that China and Nigeria are cooperating and intend to cooperate with.

Equally, Mr. President has added more, like the Abuja/Kaduna/Kano railway, and the Eastern railway. These are all projects that are important to the infrastructure drive.

In addition, the Chinese side has indicated

interest as part of the cooperation agreement to buy more from Nigeria, to import more from Nigeria, so that our trade can grow and be balanced like solid minerals, gas, and methanol

development, agricultural produce as well as undertaking to support with training of our young ones for scholarships and bilateral training that will help us progress development as well as agreement to cooperate in order to

foster development in the world.

There are issues, Food security is an important issue of security. So, this philosophy that we share, let’s bring prosperity to all parts of the globe that require prosperity, and global security will be enhanced. I think, it is quite commendable and this is consistent with our renewed hope agenda.

Just a few months ago, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) considered the Renewed Hope Agenda, the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Fund, which is meant to identify those projects that we need to fastract with innovative financing. They are consistent with the Belt and Roads initiative of the Chinese and their conception of development.

Today, we have a demonstration of most efforts.

How do these MoUs directly impact the economy?

The MoUs that were signed witnessed the highest level of government presence. The two Presidents witnessed it. It means all those areas of cooperation both in the projects and the cooperative mechanisms which involve relationships from fields as diverse as atomic energy, media, technology, education, health as well as projects, justice, and security.

The projects now give us the platform to engage the Chinese more and deliberately, making sure that we make progress in these areas, meaning more trade among us, more collaboration on global issues, security, and more exchange between our people so that both China and Nigeria will benefit enormously from the agreements.

Mimiko: I’ll Liberate Ondo People from Poverty If Elected Governor

Candidate of Zenith Labour Party in the November, 2024 governorship election in Ondo state, Dr abbas Mimiko in this interview with Fidelis David speaks on the concept of gubernatorial rotation policy, his sevenkey agenda for the state, among other issues.

Why do you want to be governor of Ondo State, especially considering the fact that your brother, Dr Olusegun Mimiko ruled just eight years ago?

One of the things that propelled me to coming back was when ‘Iroko’ wanted to run Ondo State . I knew the caliber of person he is, that if we can have a leader like this in the state, things are going to change for our people. So I said, let me come and throw in my 10 cents as the saying goes.

It is easy to sit in the comfort of your home and say, well, I’m a psychiatrist, I’m this, I’m that. When your next-door neighbor that is pregnant die because she couldn’t bring up N350,000 to pay maternity. When your next-door neighbor’s daughter that left in the morning looking beautiful, what you hear in the evening is that they amputated her legs after she had accident on motorcycle. Unless you don’t have consciousness of God in you, you won’t feel good.

So I kept asking myself, must it be like this? Must we continue like this? When are people going to realize that there is bigger joy in service than in what you accumulate personally? So, I said, let us take up this challenge.

Do you think your ambition is a cause worth fighting for?

Definitely, it’s a cause that is worth fighting. But it’s not something one can fight alone.

Look, I’m a regular struggling person. If you want to take power from those who obtain N10 billion a month from federal allocation it’s going to be difficult unless the common people believe that they really want to take themselves out of the doldrums of poverty and disease and want a place of prosperity. It’s not a one-man show.

What is your agenda for the state?

We are running on the seven keys of prosperity. One is ‘Karije’ – food security for everybody. Two is ‘Karimu’ – portable water for every citizen. The third one is ‘Karina’ – massive industrialisation, wealth creation, entrepreneurship that will take us to the next level in economic independence. ‘Karika’ – educational opportunity for every citizen, ‘Kanilera’ – that’s our health project, among others.

You are from the central district and going by the “unwritten” zoning arrangement in the state, the people of Ondo South Senatorial district believe that it is their turn to produce the next governor. What’s your position on this?

Ondo State isn’t ripe for the concept of governorship rotational policy.We need an efficient running system that is productive for the people before talking of rotation. A place where people are already happy with their lives. I’m not using Lagos as a prototype of goodness but for example, Lagos state, it doesn’t matter if they have a very good governor or not because the system has a lot of businesses and a lot of things running, almost like an automaton.

But in Ondo state, we have to understand one thing, we are running basically on federal allocation. It’s extremely important that we have a leader that can use what we have to get what we want. That’s why I said, if everything was running smoothly, it would be an embarrassment. I personally felt embarrassed the

first time I said, I want to run for governor. It is like we are on a flight, and the plane is about to crash. We want the best pilot in the world to pilot that plane to safety, not the ones that come from a particular neighborhood. That’s my own challenge with regards to weather it’s the turn of the South, North or central. Until we have a system where every mother feeds herself and her children, where every father goes home proudly in the evening with money in his pocket to take care of the school fees of his children, we can’t do rotation now. Let’s get the best of the best.

Is your brother, Dr Olusegun Mimiko in support of your political move?

I don’t want him to give me any endorsement. What I need is the people, the endorsement of the masses and the people of Ondo State. I won’t vote for somebody whose brother is raising his hand saying I became governor, come and vote for my brother! No! So I don’t want to be referenced, you can reference me as part of the success of the ‘Iroko’ phenomenon because we planned many of those good programmes together, but I can’t claim those programmes. I was not the governor, I want to be governor so that I can showcase the plans I have. ‘Iroko’s’ administration will be child’s play with what we have on ground for Ondo.

Mimiko

Bagudu

Advocating for Sustainability of Media Business in the Digital Age, the MTN Way

The overarching objective of the MTN Media Innovation Summit, which was held in collaboration with Pan-Atlantic University (PAU), Nigeria; and University of Johannesburg (UJ), South Africa, was to advocate for the sustainability and survival of the media business while empowering media professionals to drive innovation within the industry. Themed “Sustainability of Media Business in Digital Age”, the summit was an integral part of the MTN Media Innovation Programme (MIP) study tour to South Africa to retool the skills of the 20 fellows to understand the evolving media landscape, and equip them to effectively utilise technology in creating impactful media content. Chiemelie Ezeobi reports

Among other initiatives, for three years, MTN, a telecommunication and ICT giant, found expression of their “What Are We Doing Today?” slogan by sponsoring the Media Innovation Programme (MIP), a six-week long fellowship at the School of Media and Communication (SMC) of the Pan-Atlantic University (PAU) in Nigeria.

Spread across six months, it was targeted at selected media practitioners in the Nigerian space “to increase their knowledge and skill base and help them understand the changing media landscape, and how to effectively use technology to create impactful media content”.

This week, the third cohort of the MIP converged on South Africa for a study trip targeted at highlighting the bilateral relationship of both countries, while equipping them on the skills and knowledge needed to drive sustainability of the media landscape in the ever evolving digital age.

As part of the Nigerian contingent to guide the fellows in South Africa were PAU SMC Director Professional Education, Prof. Isaac-Ogugua Ezechukwu; Funso Aina, Senior Manager, External Relations at MTN Nigeria; Public Relations Manager MTN Nigeria, Dr. Lakinbofa Goodluck; and Samsideen Akano, SMC Marketing and Coordination.

Sustainability of the Media Business

Thus to drive conversations and proffer solutions on how to sustain the media industry in the ever evolving digital age, the MTN Media Innovation Summit was held in collaboration with Pan-Atlantic University (PAU), Nigeria; and University of Johannesburg (UJ), South Africa, on Wednesday, September 4, 2024.

Themed “Sustainability of the Media Business in the Digital Age”, civil society, government, media professionals, and renowned academics, both locally and internationally, drove conversations on the challenges and the way forward.

Anchored by Dr Sifiso Minisi, Head, School of Communication, UJ, the summit delved into the concept of sustainability survival of the media business while empowering media professionals from both nations to drive innovation within the industry.

MTN’s Quest to Build Media Capacity

On the continuous quest by the MTN Group to build media capacity, Senior Manager, External Relations, MTN Nigeria, Mr. Funso Aina, said the MIP was designed to foster such conversations, all targeted at innovating the media space.

He said: "The media plays an all important role in the society so they must speak truth to power while setting agenda for all. It was therefore to build capacity for media

professionals that the MIP was born."

“To give you a view of how intentional this has become for us, today we have 20 of some of the smartest talent Nigeria has to offer from print, electronic and new media. To let you know how special these people are, we got over 5,000 applications and only 20 of them got in. That is to let you know how highly sought after this programme has become.

“Why are we doing it in MTN, an African ICT company. We believe very much that in any environment we operate, we owe it as a duty to also impact that environment beyond the telecommunications and ICT services that we provide

“The media in any society has a very important function to gain public trust, set agenda and speak truth to power to ensure we have a better society. So for us, it was how do we support the media, by helping them build their capacity, functioning like the tide that leads all roads at the same time.

“We know in many African countries, we know some of the challenges that we have and we know the media does not necessarily get all the training intervention and we thought it important to intervene and help them build capacity so they can not only report MTN better but also report African societies better so that at the end of the day, it’s a win-win situation for us.

“It’s something we will continue to drive as the year goes by and we feel at this stage, it will be important to have South African journalists come to Nigeria because we feel that as the two largest economy in Africa, if Nigeria and South Africa succeeds, the continent succeeds. It’s important to continue to provide such leader and the way to do it is by helping the media to develop and grow.”

Charge for Media to Sustain Commercial Viability, Quality of News

In the keynote address, the Honourable Deputy Minister in the Presidency, HE Keneth Morolong, charged the media to embrace the digital space as society depends on the quality of information they churn out, just as he clamoured that they should sustain not only its commercial viability, but the quality of news it purveys.

Quoting Walter Lipman's Liberty and the News book, Morolong said although "the health of society depends upon the quality of the information it receives”, it is instructive to ensure a balance between profit making and sharing of quality information that insures that our society is in good health.

Adding that the ecosystem of digital networks connects public administration to

the active citizen; promotes economic growth, development and competitiveness; drives the creation of decent work; and underpins nation-building and strengthen social cohesion; and support local, national and regional integration.

For South Africa, he said the quest to digitise led to the institution of the ‘Fourth Industrial Revolution’ (4IR), which has been placed at the centre of digital policy in the country after its establishment in 2022.

The Presidential 4IR Commission and its immediate implementation government and stakeholder, he said expedited innovation in their country by building human capacity in the area of the 4IR; establishing the National Artificial Intelligence Institute; Creating the Advanced Manufacturing Institute (AMI); the establishment of a National Data Centre; and Incentivising SMMEs for the adoption of 4IR technologies and the emergence of future industries and platforms.

Stressing that South Africa needs a strong open data policy, he reiterated that the significance of profitability and revenue streams in the transformation debate cannot be understated either from advertising revenue, revenue from cover prices, competitive practices regarding advertising sales, government advertising and the impact of digital media.

He said: "The media terrain is highly contested and very competitive, and this must be taken into account in the drive towards transformation. Media companies in general play a fundamental socioeconomic role in society. The media and journalists facilitate the exercise of holding government and corporate leaders accountable to citizens.

"Media companies are also at the forefront of the driving economy development in terms of their contributions to a country’s gross domestic product (GDP), employment creation, general literacy and skills development."

Flaying the rise of fake news, predatory content and unscrupulous content creators, he said they are also creating a serious and ever-evolving threat to society as a whole, often derailing the public’s trust in the media.

Shared Commitment to Empowering Media Professionals

Earlier in his welcome address, Vice Chancellor and Principal, University of Johannesburg, Prof. Letlhokwa Mpedi, said the collaboration represents a

significant step forward in "our shared commitment to empowering media professionals and driving innovation across the industry.

"We are tasked with understanding innovation and the sustainability of the media business in the digital age.

Every facet of society is fundamentally undergoing a shift characterised by the injection of technology – innovation is key to our response to these shifts. Through the lens of the media business, we have seen a distinct evolution in mediums of media.

" Traditional media forms have evolved into online publications, blogs, podcasts, tiktoks and social media posts to name just a few examples. What this indicates is that there is still immense value we gain from media.

"As it is said, ignorance is a choice in this age. It is through media that we are able to disseminate information, shape public thought and contribute to a more meaningful and engaged society".

How MIP Has Strengthened Media Industry

In turn, Director of Professional Education, School of Media and Communication (SMC), Pan-Atlantic University (PAU), Prof Isaac Ogugua-Ezechukwu, highlighted the importance of the MIP and the successes recorded thus far since its inception three years ago, adding that the fellows in the three cohort so far has been exposed to the critical role that technology plays in shaping the media of tomorrow.

He said: "MIP is a gift and the best capacity building programme in Nigeria sponsored by MTN Nigeria for the Nigerian media. The programme has been helping SMC in achieving one of its cardinal objectives of the school, which is to strengthen the media industry.

“When you have a strong media, the nation society and culture starts to gain. The course content and research methodology continue to stir new thinking in media practice and empower the participants to better society.

Unsurprisingly, the programme has become a big success and is sought after in Nigeria.”

For MIP Fellow, Chioma Chinyere Chukwuemeka, who also doubles as Radio/Tv Sapientia Onitsha, News Lead

"The ability of the media to tell the truth without bias is the biggest defender of journalism and will ensure its sustainability. Again, it's imperative to teach young journalists the business of media".

Also speaking, the Executive Dean, Faculty of Humanities, UK, Prof Kammila Naidoo, who was represented by Prof. Corne Meintjies - Vice Dean, Teaching and Learning, said media organisations must adapt to the changing landscape by embracing digital technologies.

L-R: Board member at the school; Prof. Corne Meintjies - Vice Dean, Teaching and Learning; Senior Manager, External Relations, MTN Nigeria, Mr. Funso Aina; Honourable Deputy Minister in the Presidency, HE Keneth Morolong; Vice Chancellor and Principal, University of Johannesburg, Prof. Letlhokwa Mpedi; Director of Professional Education, School of Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University, Prof Isaac Ogugua-Ezechukwu; a guest; Public Relations Manager MTN Nigeria, Dr. Lakinbofa Goodluck; and Nifemi Oguntoye, Deputy Head of Presentation, TVC Communications and President, MIP-3 Cohort, at the University of Johannesburg during the Media Innovation Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa

National Protest and the Road Not Taken

It is difficult to understand why Nigerians are facing the harsh flakes of bad government. If it was an interim government, perhaps it would be excusable. But we have a President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who said the quest to be a Nigerian President had been a life-long ambition. He is lucky to have realised this ambition. Many struggled for it, but did not have it. Realisingthe ambition therefore meant that he had been preparing for the office and should, from Day One, hit the ground running, know what to do, how to do and when to do. Perhaps it was an exercise of that “capacity” that he announced, with triumphant glee, moments after he was sworn in that, “Subsidy is gone!” That three-word declaration is what has spelt torture to Nigerians. It became the beginning of our troubles under President Tinubu. Those close to him said the declaration of “Subsidy is gone” was not part of the speech prepared for him.That meant he was quite eager and enthusiastic to deal with Nigerians even before he got into his office.

More than one year after, what Nigerians have seen as style of governance does not support the claim that President Tinubu had been working on his presidential project. It couldn’t be that the evidence of that life-long preparation was to spray red pepper on the eyes of those who gave him the mandate, right from Day One. Needless to say that the removal of the so-called subsidy launched Nigeria and Nigerians into the rough hemisphere of hardship and agony. And as if that was not bad enough, President Tinubu soon floated the Naira such that the local currency has been on a free fall for over a year now. As at the time of writing, the U.S dollar is exchanging for nearly N1,600/$. This is the root cause of the hyper inflation that is choking Nigerians. With their acclaimed competence and knowledge in economy management and the science of market place control, Nigerians did not expect to be administered the drug that will kill both the disease and the patient. What kind of economic reform or policy that will be so choky and cruel that will make Nigerians unable to afford even the very basic of life and living anymore?

As I watch the duo of Central Bank Governor, Yemi Cardoso and the Finance Minister, Mr Wale Edun (both of whom are die-hard Tinubu’s allies)struggle each time on television to explain, the economic direction of the country, I see a people who are merely uttering gibbering jargon that make no sense to even adroit professionals, let alone ordinary Nigerians. How long does it take for Nigerian to understand and benefit from what they are doing? Can the solution to the present problem only be encased in visiting more hardship and physiological torture on the people?

The organisersof the #Endbadgovernance protest, besides giving long notice of the planned protest, went further to highlight their demands many of which are accommodated in the broad malaise of hunger and hardship. Nigerians are not asking for too much if all they are asking is to be able to feed and do basic things. With the purchasing power crushed, inflation nearly reaching the sky while we see those in government (custodians of the people’s mandate) splurging in provocative luxury and orgy of reckless lifestyle, the hunger-generated

Again, Nigerians

anger is bound to be harsh and smoky.

As the father of the nation, President Tinubu, should have introspected deeply to look into what the protesters were asking for, invite them for dialogue, long before the August 1 date came to be. If the President had had a dialogue with theorganisers many of whom were known long before the protest kicked off, perhaps the protest itself would have been averted.

But Mr President, curiously, chose to deploy his energy and the nation’s huge resources mobilizing peripheral forces (traditional, religious and political leaders including executive urchins like AsariDokubo,Nyesom Wike) to stop the protest from taking place. As it has shown, all such efforts were of no effect.

It took Mr President more than four days of wild and massive protest to respond to the demand for him to address the nation. And when he eventually did, last Sunday, it was a flurry fume of emptiness. The lengthy address was more like a campaign speech, replete with intentions and promises, rather than a response tothe demand of the protesters. It was a clear disregard for the office of the nation’s citizens. We shouldn’t experience what recently happened in Kenya and now Bangladesh for the will of the people to be respected in a democracy. It was a clear case of biting the finger that fed you.

He dwelt on political inanities like CNG buses (30 of which just launched), the LagosCalabar coastal highway, the Badagry-Sokoto highway—projects that are clearly a mirage, which will be used for campaign in years to come, but will never or hardly be achieved.

Mr President’s speech on the protest was a perfect example of red herring. Nothing meaningful was said to assuage the temper and quest of the people. He admitted that the removal of the fuel subsidy was a panful but choiceless option. It is not true that there is no option. One clear option is insisting on getting the refineries to work and produce refined products. That will stop the trouble

of importation of refined products and all its attendant financial consequences. For the sixth time, the Port Harcourt refinery has postponed its resumption of production of products. But because those in power directly and indirectly benefit from the regime of fuel importation, the same people ensure that the refineries never will work so their businesses of fuel importation (from Malta and other places) will continue to boom?

If it were not so, why did Tinubu’s speech not say a word about fixing the refineries orkicking out those frustrating it from working, despite several promises to that effect?

Why are the National Assembly lawmakers not interested in unravelling the owner of the Blending Plant in Malta?

When President Tinubu came with a cleansing typhoon that swept away CBN’s Godwin Emefiele, APC’s Abdullahi Adamu, EFCC’sAbdulrasheedBawa, etc., why was NNPC’s Abba Kyari spared? Is it because he has done very well and our oil and gas industry is healthy or that because he is good at closing foggy deals? As the substantive Petroleum minister himself, what idea/strategy does Tinubu have to rescue Nigeria from the grip of the notorious oil cabal?How can we explain the malfeasance in NNPC or even the Ajaokuta Steel Mill, which since the days of Shehu Shagari in the second republic, has refused to work, yet we keep pouring money into it whilst it has not produced any pellet of iron in over 40 years. Is Tinubu’s acquiescence a sign of compromise or inefficiency?

The solution is starring us in the face, but we chose to think of sending trucks of palliatives (often of bags of rice and millet) as if we are nit wits. Treating symptoms of a disease and refusing to tackle the disease itself.

Nigerians have demanded that the government should remove and crush the corruption inherent in the subsidy regime and allow Nigerians to enjoy the so-called subsidy, since that’s about the only thing they enjoy as oil-producing country. The price of petrol has even gone few notches higher, albeit silently.

But in the face of all these economic upheavals , the Council of States meeting which held earlier this week passed a vote of confidence on the Tinubu administration. Not sure any Nigerian is surprised. It explains why we are where we are as a people. Nigerians have demanded the reduction in cost of governance, but the Tinubu administration is yet expanding and deepening the cost, what with the recent (but needless) creation of the Ministry of Livestock. That means that the number of ministers will soon increase from the existing 48. How many Secretaries (ministers) are in the UK and even USA?. We are a butterfly trying to flutter like a bird. Does the President remember that each minister is entitled to three SUVs, 15 Special Advisers, and such opaque and

Shine at American University Graduation

The Convention Centre in Knoxville, the capital of the state of Tennessee, in the United States of America was packed full, that Thursday, June 13, 2024. The large and expansive hall, typical of American love for space, was literally bursting in its seam. It was like a United Nations Assembly: people from all nations—the white, the black, people of colour etc., all in different shapes and sizes, dorning a wide array of fashion, stretching from the casual to the very complex, typical of party aficionados. The pleasant summer weather outside the hall flavoured the flakes of the ceremony. The glitz and glamour of the celebrants was evidently strong. It was the graduation ceremony of South College, Knoxville, United State of America. It was a two-day ceremony. A total of 700 students were graduating in various programmes and from various departments. Remarkable was the school of Nursing. It had many Nigerians,

just as several Nigerians were even in the other departments, including some studying for “Organisational Leadership”. But of significance was the Doctoral graduates in the Nursing profession. They were five in all. While two of them are Black Americans, the other three graduands were Nigerians. All three of them are from Imo State. A day earlier, the doctoral students had been decorated with their licences, badges etc.

In an earlier award season, one of the Nigerian doctoral students, Mary Obiyo had won several awards of excellence including that of making the University’s President’s list (of excellence) in the summer of 2023. In a commendation plaque signed by Dr Laura Baker, the Dean of Academics in the institution, as well as Anne Petrella, the President of the institution, Obiyo was cited for “Academic Achievement”.

Obiyo, in her response, expressed gratitude

to God and her family for the support in getting to the top of her career.

“I have God and my family to thank for how far I have gone in this career which began in Nigeria”, Obiyo said, adding that “the opportunities provided by the American system are also a great enabler for anyone willing to put himself or herself to pursue his or her dream”.

Obiyo had served as a Nurse in Port Harcourt and Abuja correctional facilities before relocating to America to further her studies.Obiyo is currently practicing as a top-flight Nursing consultant in many health institutions in the United States of America. Another Nigerian, also from Imo State, DrIjeomaMboji, who also bagged a Ph.D in Nursing expressed gratitude to God for completing the programme and indicated her inclinaton to see how she can help the Nursing profession in Nigeria.

inexplicable allowances? Do the mathematics of the vehicular requirement for all the ministers alone.

With the unofficial existence of the Office of the First Lady, Office of the First Daughter, and Office of the First Son, all fitted with the enriched appurtenances of executive office, we can just imagine what it is costing the tax payers to sponsor these power arcades, while they tell us to be patient in tightening our belts, while their thoraxes are expanding.How can cost ofgovernance be reduced with all such reckless shenanigans?

The protesters had demanded the retention of the fuel subsidy, but Mr President was mute on this as in many other issues of importance. He said N570 billion has been given to the 36 states as proceeds from the subsidy removal. So what have the governors done with the over N570 billion? Has it not showed Mr President that the scheme is faulty and thepeople have not seen any benefit of the subsidy removal?

The huge cry for the curbing of corruption includes punishing those found wanting. But the Tinubu administration has continued with the lousy style of former President Muhammadu Buhari by seemingly ignoring those whose hands were found in the public till. Nigerians want to see fellows like HadiSirika former Aviation minister mindfully tried and jailed,and all the dirty sleaze of the Nigeria Air scam exposed and recovered, (hoping the judiciary will not drop the ball). Nigerians want to see Sadiya Umar Farouk tried and jailed for all the roguery that went on as she presided over the Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management ministry under former President Muhammadu Buhari, including claiming to have spent over N500 million feeding school children, in two states, whilethey were in their parents’ houses during the COVID 19 pandemic. All schools and public places were shut down, but the “dutiful”Sadiya Farouk still found her way to the homes of the school pupils and fed them there. Such a courageous liar!

Nigerians want to know what has happened to the former Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, accused of stealing N109 billion. One man! How much has been recovered from him? Where is the money? And why is he not in jail? There are many such cases of pillaging of the public treasury. After the matter has hit headlines a few times, we never hear of them anymore because newer cases soon come up and knock older ones into the archives of corruption miasma.

Pray, where are all the monies recovered from previous looters? Where are they? Nigerians never get to hear of such monies ever again. That’s why people talk about re-looting the recovered loot. How can a country ever grow and develop with these armies of clever thieves?

Imagine all the lives lost during the protests which turned violent in some northern states, imagine all the looting and vandalization of public and private property, imagine the disruption of the businesses of small and medium-scale enterprises, imagine the loss of man hours, imagine the bad image it gives the nation among the comity of nations….

The losses are a legion. But are they avoidable? Yes! If there was a cautious governance, and people-centric governance, all of these would have been avoided. If government was thoughtful, if it meant well and did well, we’d surely not be where we are. The ululation that a technocrat who “fixed and built Lagos” was now at the centre and will transform Nigeria in no time, has long died down as he, rather than transform the nation, has grossly deformed the economic and political pillars of the country.

Finally, let it be clear that nobody craved for a regime change, contrary to the pronouncement of Dele Alake, the Solid Minerial minister. Protests are not acts of insurrection. Those who procured and flew the Russian and Chinese flags, calling for military intervention should be dealt with in accordance with the law. But be it known that we must first blame mother hen for exposing the chicks before blaming the hawk that swooped on them. It is the rotten wood that invited maggot into the house. The lesson from all these cannot and should not be missed. All that Nigerians are asking for is a “Born Again” governance that spares a thought for the masses, not only the privileged elite

Tinubu

World leaders must re-boot global cooperation for today and tomorrow, writes ANTONIO GUTERRES

THE SUMMIT OF THE FUTURE

Final negotiations are underway in New York for this month’s Summit of the Future, where Heads of State will agree on reforms to the building blocks of global cooperation.

The United Nations has convened this unique Summit because of a stark fact: global problems are moving faster than the institutions designed to solve them.

We see this all around us. Ferocious conflicts and violence are inflicting terrible suffering; geopolitical divisions are rife; inequality and injustice are everywhere, corroding trust, compounding grievances, and feeding populism and extremism. The ageold challenges of poverty, hunger, discrimination, misogyny and racism are taking on new forms.

Meanwhile, we face new and existential threats, from runaway climate chaos and environmental degradation to technologies like Artificial Intelligence developing in an ethical and legal vacuum.

The Summit of the Future recognizes that the solutions to all these challenges are in our hands. But we need a systems update that only global leaders can deliver.

International decision-making is stuck in a time warp. Many global institutions and tools are a product of the 1940s – an era before globalization, before decolonization, before widespread recognition of universal human rights and gender equality, before humanity travelled into space – never mind cyberspace.

The victors of World War II still have pre-eminence in the UN Security Council while the entire continent of Africa lacks a permanent seat. The global financial architecture is heavily weighted against developing countries and fails to provide a safety net when they face difficulties, leaving t.hem drowning in debt, which drains money a.way from investments in their people.

And global institutions offer limited space for many of the major players in today’s world – from civil society to the private sector. Young people who will inherit the future are almost invisible, while the interests of future generations go unrepresented.

The message is clear: we cannot create a future fit for our grandchildren with a system built for our grandparents. The Summit of the Future will be an opportunity to re-boot multilateral collaboration fit for the 21st century.

The solutions we have proposed include a New Agenda for Peace focused on updating international institutions and tools to prevent and end conflicts, including the UN Security Council. The New Agenda for Peace calls for a renewed push to rid our world of nuclear arms and other Weapons of Mass Destruction; and for broadening the definition of security to encompass gender-based violence and gang violence. It takes future security threats into account, recognizing the changing nature of warfare and the risks of weaponizing new technologies. For example, we need a global agreement to outlaw so-called Lethal Autonomous Weapons that can take life-or-death decisions without human input.

Global financial institutions must reflect today’s world and be equipped to lead a more powerful response to today’s challenges – debt, sustainable development, cli-

mate action. That means concrete steps to tackle debt distress, increase the lending capacity of multilateral development banks, and change their business model so that developing countries have far more access to private finance at affordable rates. Without that finance, developing countries will not be able to tackle our greatest future threat: the climate crisis. They urgently need resources to transition from planet-wrecking fossil fuels to clean, renewable energy.

And as leaders highlighted last year, reforming the global financial architecture is also key to jump-starting desperately needed progress on the Sustainable Development Goals.

The Summit will also focus on new technologies with a global impact, seeking ways to close the digital divide and establish shared principles for an open, free and secure digital future for all.

Artificial Intelligence is a revolutionary technology with applications and risks we are only beginning to understand. We have put forward specific proposals for governments, together with tech companies, academia and civil society, to work on risk management frameworks for AI and on monitoring and mitigating its harms, as well as sharing its benefits. The governance of AI cannot be left to the rich; it requires that all countries participate, and the UN is ready to provide a platform to bring people together.

Human rights and gender equality are a common thread linking all these proposals. Global decision-making cannot be reformed without respect for all human rights and for cultural diversity, ensuring the full participation and leadership of women and girls. We are demanding renewed efforts to remove the historic barriers – legal, social and economic – that exclude women from power.

The peacebuilders of the 1940s created institutions that helped prevent World War III and ushered many countries from colonization to independence. But they would not recognize today’s global landscape.

The Summit of the Future is a chance to build more effective and inclusive institutions and tools for global cooperation, tuned to the 21st century and our multipolar world.

I urge leaders to seize it.

Guterres is Secretary-General of the United Nations

JONATHAN ABANG UGBAL argues that Solomon Dalung’s depiction of his successor in office as

a misfit is

unfortunate

THOSE WHO LIVE IN GLASS HOUSES…

Solomon Dalung, the former Minister of Youth and Sports, has spared no effort to whitewash his unenviable legacy. It is a consuming passion that he is beholden to because he erroneously believes that painting his predecessors in office in bad light will lead to his own redemption.

His scathing attacks on Sunday Dare, his immediate predecessor and most recently on the incumbent Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, are critical strategies from his infamous playbook.

It is no surprise that Dalung is wielding with relish, the sledge hammer handed over to him by the shambolic performance of Team Nigeria at the just concluded Paris Olympic Games to swing at the current Minister of Sports Development, Senator Enoh who at any rate, has taken full responsibility for this poor outing and promised a thorough and comprehensive review of our dreadful performance at the Olympics to forestall future occurrence.

Dalung is spewing insults and casting aspersions on the Minister in the false hope that the disastrous performance of Team Nigeria will somehow mitigate his own failings as Sports Minister. In other words, rather than fair comment from the standpoint of patriotism and as one who once occupied such an exalted office, the former minister sees his redemption in what has become a national failure. But by drawing from his playbook of bluster, insults, and vile propaganda in his attempt to take down the current minister, the former has albeit invariably invited a closer interrogation of his own tenure in office. After all ,he who comes to equity must, as a necessity, come with clean hands. Dalung's depiction of the current minister as a misfit and a stranger to sports is most unfortunate but immediately calls attention to his own pedigree when he was appointed a minister by Buhari in 2015. Before his appointment, he was a Legal Officer 11 with the Correctional Services with zero experience in sports administration.

As minister, Dalung's many gaffes was a source of constant embarrassment. At a news conference, he referred to Nigeria as the " United States of Nigeria," followed with other unprintable during his budget defence before the House of Representatives Committee in 2016.

Lest we forget, it was during his tenure that Nigeria was subjected to international ridicule by failing successively to qualify for Nations Cup, and in both the 2016 and 2018 editions, Nigeria was absent. In the 2016 Olympics, Nigeria got a bronze in football, which he can't even claim, with Mikel Obi coming out recently to state that he provided funding for the flight tickets of the team. But for Mikel Obi’s intervention, it's not in error to say the teams' chances of playing at the Olympics would have been jeopardised. This is testimony to the kind of leadership Dalung provided.

That's not all, as minister he neither paid the camp and competition allowances nor the winning bonuses to the Dream Team IV (Under23), the team that won the nation its only Olympic medal (bronze). At the moment, Senator John Owan Enoh, the sports minister, is currently treating and pushing for the payment of these bonuses .

Records show that Senator Enoh has been transparent, detailed, and up to date in payments of allowances , bonuses and grants to athletes since he assumed office. Now, it is his responsibility to clear debts owed under Dalung’s watch as Minister of Youths and Sports. His often touted democratisation of sports federations under his watch was a ruse, an unmitigated disaster which

unleashed crisis on the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN). The raging inferno he ignited resulted in in-fighting, chaos, and endless power tussle.

During his tenure, the National Stadium, Lagos, the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan became national monuments of decay and shame. By the time Dalung was leaving office after four years, his boast to reawaken 'the dry bones in the sporting facilities owned by the federal government laid in ruins, a befitting epitaph for a man who promised so much and yet delivered so little.

Under his watch, the International Athletics Associations Federation mistakenly transferred $135,000 to the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN). The ratification of this simple error became marred in recriminations as Dalung failed to deal with the issue decisively and instead resorted to blame game. He reneged on his initial promise to pay 50 per cent of the money in order to stop the world body, slamming a ban on the country, thereby fuelling the crisis even further. After four uneventful years, Dalung's unenviable legacy has already been settled. However, I am yet to understand how launching a withering attack on the current minister of sports will help his cause.

The current minister is just a year in office, but his progressive imprint is already beginning to be felt. In addition to sustaining private sector driven initiatives that he inherited, he has equally initiated a raft of progressive reforms of his own with grassroots sports development, infrastructure maintenance and upgrade, welfare of retired and active sports men and women and the rejuvenation of school sports as some of the highlights of his reforms.

Under the current minister, the concessioning of the National Stadium, Lagos, which he inherited is almost completed with the memo to FEC for final approval already signed off. How well he implements his W.A.I.F.A R policy and the enduring impact it makes in ushering in the transformation of Nigeria's sports sector.

There is no doubt that Nigeria's abysmal outing at the Olympics has cast a pall and overshadowed the ongoing silent revolution in the sports sector but the truth is that rather than dwell in agony over this disappointment, Nigerians should support the minister's plan to carry out a thorough and comprehensive review of our outing to forestall future occurrence.

Ugbal writes from Mbube, Cross River State

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

THE CHALLENGE OF AIR POLLUTION

Regulators should be alive to their responsibilities

In most Nigerian cities, vehicles with unacceptable emission standards clog the streets, oozing impurities unchecked. Majority of these are used vehicles close to end-of-life, meaning they are forbidden in the streets of the European and American cities from where they were exported to Nigeria. More of these vehicles are expected on the shores of the nation in the years ahead, as the developed world increases its switch to electric vehicles. Meanwhile, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) revealed two years ago that children below the age of five in Nigeria die needlessly of (outdoor) air pollution-related pneumonia and of household air pollution-related pneumonia. UNICEF’s figures put Nigeria as having the highest number of air pollution-related child pneumonia deaths in the world.

Lagos, the commercial nerve centre of the country is regarded as one of the world’s most polluted cities in terms of the air quality. But the situation is not better in many other cities across Nigeria. Available reports indicate that the average annual level of particulate matter in the country is several times higher than the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommended levels of concentration. According to WHO, “the contributing factors to pollution are a reliance on using solid fuels for cooking, burning waste and traffic pollution from very old cars".

of cause to effect, considering the rising cases of asthma, and respiratory diseases. Unfortunately, most Nigerians are unaware of the harmful effect of a polluted environment and how long-term exposure to it can lead to poor health and, eventually, death. The signs and symptoms of pneumonia, according to scientists, may include cough, fever, shortness of breath, sharp or stabbing chest pain, loss of appetite, low energy, and fatigue.

Contributing factors to pollution are a reliance on using solid fuels for cooking, burning waste and traffic pollution from very old cars

T H I S D AY

EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU

DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

Only recently, a report by Stakeholder Democracy Network (SDN), an international resource watchdog group, says Nigeria has some of the worst air pollution in the world, with dense clouds of choking soot hanging over gridlocked cities, leading to a rise in serious health conditions. Cities that the report listed as mostly affected are Port Harcourt, Aba, Onitsha, and Kaduna where poor air quality has reached crisis levels of pollution in recent years. There is irrefutable evidence

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI

DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO

TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Letters to the Editor

Air Pollution occurs due to many reasons, including excessive burning of fuel, a necessity of daily lives for cooking, driving and other industrial activities. Researchers also focus on the bad quality of fuel imported and used in the country, as well as the equally bad quality fuel refined illegally in the creeks of Port Harcourt and Bayelsa which, from investigation, is of higher quality than the imports. Regardless, the unsophisticated refining process adopted in the creeks sends up impurities into the atmosphere and this is driven by strong sea wind to where it can do damage to unsuspecting residents.

Nigeria’s air quality is expected to be governed by the National Environmental (Air Quality Control) Regulations, 2014. The purpose of these regulations, according to the government is to provide for improved control of the nation’s air quality to such an extent that would enhance the protection of flora and fauna, human health and other resources affected by air quality deteriorations. The regulation is expected to guarantee everyone’s right to clean air. But the government seems hesitant to enforce the regulations or lacks the political will to do so. A healthy environment has impact on the nation’s health bills. Yet the government has only paid lip service to the enforcement of environmental regulations and this neglect has possibly led to the prevalence of avoidable diseases and illnesses. That must change.

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

COMMODITY ASSOCIATIONS AND THE FOOD CRISIS

Today, Nigerians and the Nigerian government are alarmed by the food crisis the country is facing. According to the Cadre Harmonisé report, over 31.8 million Nigerians are suffering from acute food insecurity.

Reflecting back, how did Nigeria manage to avoid a food crisis during the COVID-19 pandemic?

What saved Nigeria and Nigerians from a food crisis during COVID-19 were the efforts of commodity associations through the Anchor Borrowers Programme (ABP). But how did the commodity associations achieve this? What are the roles and objectives of these associations? Many Nigerians would be interested in understanding that. Furthermore, what lessons can the current government learn from the methods employed by the commodity associations during the COVID-19 pandemic to prevent another food crisis?

Commodity associations in Nigeria play a crucial role in organizing and representing the interests of stakeholders in specific agricultural sectors. These associations are typically formed by producers, processors, marketers, and other stakeholders within a particular commodity value chain, such as rice, maize, cassava, cocoa, and palm oil. They advocate for

better policies, provide training and support, and contribute to the overall development of their respective sectors.

Commodity associations engage with government bodies and policymakers to advocate for favorable policies, subsidies, and regulations that benefit their members. They work to ensure that government interventions, such as subsidies or support programs, are effectively implemented.

These associations also provide training and capacity-building opportunities for their members, helping them adopt modern farming techniques, improve yields, and enhance product quality. Furthermore, they help their members gain better access to markets by facilitating connections with buyers, processors, and exporters. They also assist in negotiating better prices and terms of trade for their members.

Some commodity associations are involved in the bulk purchase and distribution of essential inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides to their members at subsidized rates. They often collaborate with research institutions to develop and promote improved crop varieties, pest control methods, and farming techniques. Additionally, commodity associations act as mediators between their members and other stakeholders.

On the other hand, the Anchor Borrowers' Programme (ABP) is an agricultural initiative launched by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in November 2015. It is designed to provide farm inputs, such as seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, to smallholder farmers to boost agricultural production. The program also facilitates access to credit, ensuring that farmers have the financial support needed to grow their crops.

Through participating financial institutions, the CBN disburses loans to farmers. The loans are often given in the form of farm inputs rather than cash, ensuring that funds are used for their intended purpose. Farmers are required to repay the loans in kind after harvesting their produce. The repayment is typically in the form of harvested produce, which is then sold by the CBN or designated agents to recover the loan value. The program targets a variety of crops, including rice, maize, and wheat. So, how did the commodity associations save Nigeria from a food crisis during the COVID-19 pandemic? And what lessons can be applied now to avoid plunging into an unmanageable food crisis?

Zayyad I. Muhammad, Abuja

L-R: Two National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Camp Directors, Nwodu Dominic FC/24B/4444 and Salihu Maryam FC/24B/5116; NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Yushau Dogara Ahmed; and Camp Director, Banjo Faridah FC/24B/3740, during General Ahmed’s visit to NYSC FCT Orientation Camp for the swearingin ceremony of the 2024 Batch ‘B’ Stream Two corps members in Kubwa, Abuja...recently

L-R: Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Ovation International, Chief Dele Momodu, and Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief, News Central TV, Kayode Akintemi, during a strategic content partnership agreement between Ovation International and News Central TV, held in Lagos...recently

L-R: Iyaloja of Ojodu Berger, Mrs. Anifose Kudirat; Deputy Director, Lagos State Environmental Service, Mrs. Ogendengbe T O Ogendengbe; Chairman, NURTW, Ikosi-Isheri branch, Mr. Balogun Adesina; Special Adviser to Ogun State Governor on Environment, Mr. Oluwadare Kehinde; General Manager, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, Dr. Tunde Ajayi; and Deputy Director, Environmental Service, Ojodu LCDA, Mr. Babayemi Oludare, during the public sensitisation campaign to ban open defecation on Lagos-Ibadan expressway, notably from OPIC to Berger to Otedola bridge, organised by Lagos and Ogun State Governments...recently

PHOTO: eTOP UKUTT

L-R: Member, Aureva Benin Club, Theodore Osas Ehannire Gobernador; Global Secretary General/ Administrator of the group, Dr. Juliet Wealth-Sakal; and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Edo State, Dr. Stanley Ehiarimwian, when the group had its pivotal meeting at the state government secretariat, Benincity, Edo State...recently

L-R: Some members of Leboku 2024 Festival, Pearl Willy Brutus, Mary Ime Ebri, and Success Usani Joseph, during the Leboku 2024 Festival (to celebrate the annual New Yam Festival of the Yakaa people) in Ugep, Cross Rivers State...recently

L-R: Comptrollers of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Tony Akuneme (Illela Border Command); Adamu Mahmoud (Katsina command); Mohammed Abubakar (Kano command); ACG Haliru Usman (Zone B, Kaduna); Sanni Ambursa (Kaduna Command); Hassan Ibrahim (Kano Training School); Haruna Zakirai (Jibya Border Command); and Yusuf Bage (Sokoto Command), during NIS Think-Tank summit set up by the ComptrollerGeneral to interface with NIS personnel nationwide in Kaduna...recently

ITU Insists on Proper Use of Radio-frequency Spectrum for Effective Global Regulation

Following the increasing demand for spectrum licenses from various countries of the world, Nigeria inclusive, the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), the United Nations specialised agency for regulating global Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs), has released an updated version of the ITU Radio Regulations, which is the international treaty governing the global use of radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits.

According to the global regulatory body, the released 2024 edition of the ITU Radio Regulations, which takes effect from January 1, 2025, is the result of a four-year process that culminated in

four weeks of negotiations during the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-23), hosted last year in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The ITU Radio Regulations govern the global use of radiofrequency spectrum and satellite orbits for all radio services, systems and applications, including fixed and mobile broadband, satellite systems, sound and TV broadcasting, radionavigation, meteorological monitoring and prediction, space research and earth exploration, amateur radio services and others.

Giving details of the regulatory document, ITU Secretary-General, Doreen Bogdan-Martin, said: “The 2024 edition of the Radio Regulations marks a significant

milestone in the world of technology.

“As technological progress advances and the demand for spectrum grows, the international treaty continues to evolve to accommodate new radiocommunication services and applications, minimize interference between services, and ensure equitable access to this essential resource.”

The treaty serves as the cornerstone of international radio frequency management, ensuring that spectrum allocations keep pace with the rapidly evolving technological landscape and meet the needs of modern communication systems.

Treaty provisions also direct how radio equipment and systems must operate to ensure efficient and

effective coexistence among various services worldwide and anywhere in space, optimising the usage of today’s increasingly crowded airwaves.

The 2024 Radio Regulations identifies new spectrum resources to support technological innovation, deepen global connectivity, increase access to and equitable use of space-based radio resources, and enhance safety at sea, in the air, and on land.

Director of the ITU Radiocommunication Bureau, Mario Maniewicz, said: “The updated Radio Regulations is the result of hard-won agreements reached at WRC-23 and a testament to the unwavering spirit of cooperation and compromise among all of our members to negotiate timely changes to the international treaty.

“The updated treaty provides a framework for national spectrum management that aligns with international standards and guarantees the stable, predictable regulatory environment that is essential for the development of innovative radiocommunication services for all.”

Global regulation of the radio spectrum began with the signing of the first International Radio Telegraph Convention in Berlin on November 3, 1906 after 30 states came together and agreed on key maritime communications and safety provisions and established ‘SOS’ as a globally recognised distress signal.

Since then, the Radio Regulations have evolved into a four-volume treaty of more than 2,000 pages. The treaty establishes the rights

and obligations of ITU’s 193 member states, Nigeria inclusive, and now covers more than 40 different radiocommunication services, spanning frequencies from 8.3 kilohertz (kHz) to 3000 gigahertz (GHz).

The ITU Radio Regulations facilitate equitable access to and rational use of the radio-frequency spectrum and geostationary satellite orbits, both globally shared and limited natural resources. It supports the efficient and effective operation of all radiocommunication services; and, as necessary, facilitates the introduction and regulation of new radiocommunication services and technologies.

How Replacement Cost Pricing is Hurting Nigerians, Economy

Raheem Akingbolu

A member, Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal, Sola Salako-Ajulo, has described the current price gouging rampaging various markets in Nigeria, as economic reality that affects every sector.

In a statement titled, “Price Hikes or Price Gouging?” a copy of which was made available to THISDAY, Salako-Ajulo, who is also a leading advocate for consumer protection and ethical business practices, agreed that the removal of subsidies on petroleum products, combined with volatile exchange rates, has led to a significant surge in the cost of living.

While pointing out that the impact

of inflation has been particularly severe in recent months, she made reference to the fact that sharp increments in the price of food items and transportation have placed immense pressure on consumers.

She said: “One of the most immediate consequences of the current inflationary pressures is the dramatic increase in the cost of essential goods, particularly food. For example, the price of a 50kg bag of rice, which was around N35,000 before the subsidy removal, has now surged to over N86,000 in many parts of the country, a clear 100 per cent increase. Similarly, a loaf of bread that previously cost N500 now costs N1,600 or more, depending on the location. That

is an over 200 per cent increase. Utilities like electricity have also seen about 200 per cent increase in prices under a confusing band service matrix. Nigerian consumers are seeing between 100-500 per cent price rise in cost of living, which has almost wiped out the middle class and is daily increasing the number of people now living in poverty. Food inflation is hovering around 30 per cent while wage increases are not catching up with the galloping inflation.”

Though the consumer advocate admitted that the subsidy removal and exchange rates volatility could account for the adjustment in cost of living, she pointed out that the speed of impact and the

angle of inflation Nigerians are experiencing appear to exceed the average rate expected from such economic adjustments.

She further said: “These price hikes are not merely reflective of increased production costs, they are also the result of many businesses preemptively adjusting prices to cover the anticipated higher costs of replenishing their stock, a practice known as replacement cost pricing.

“This approach, which may seem like a protective measure for businesses, has far-reaching and often detrimental effects on the economy. By increasing prices to reflect replacement costs, businesses inadvertently distort the market, leading to sudden and

sharp increases in the cost of living.

This has created an incongruence situation between the percentage increase in fuel prices and the overall inflation rate.

“It also directly affects the speed at which inflation appears in the market, which normally should be measured in months but which we are measuring in minutes, leaving the consumer with zero time to plan for adjustments to inflation.

Replacement Cost Pricing (RCP) effectively shifts the full burden of inflation on consumers, forcing them to bear the cost of future economic uncertainties.”

The federal commissioner opined that replacement cost pricing may appear as a necessary business

strategy, but she was quick to add that it often opens the door to price gouging—an exploitative practice where prices are inflated to levels far beyond what is necessary to cover costs and account for reasonable profit.

“Price gouging typically occurs during emergencies or periods of economic instability, such as the current inflationary period in Nigeria. It is particularly prevalent in essential goods like food, medicine, and fuel, where consumers have little choice but to pay exorbitant prices to meet their basic needs,” she explained.

Emma Okonji

L-R: Executive Director, Marine and Operations, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Olalekan Badmus; Executive Secretary/CEO of Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Pius Akutah; ComptrollerGeneral, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Mr Adewale Adeniyi; Personal Assistant to the President on Subnational Infrastructure (Office of the Vice President), Musaddiq Mustapha who represented Vice President Kashim Shettima; CEO, APM Terminals Nigeria, Mr Frederik Klinke; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Olufemi Oloruntola; Chief Operating Officer, APM Terminals, Olaf Gelhaussen; and Executive Director, Engineering and Technical Services of NPA, Ibrahim Abba Umar, during the inauguration of the $115 million APM Terminals West Africa Container Terminal (WACT) upgrade at Onne Port, Rivers State, yesterday

Shettima Inaugurates $115m Upgrade of APM Terminals W’Africa Container Terminal

Oluchi Chibuzor

Vice President Kashim Shettima yesterday inaugurated a comprehensive $115 million upgrade project at the West Africa Container Terminal (WACT) in Onne, Rivers State. This monumental investment underscores APM Terminals’ unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s economic growth and solidifies its position as a key trade hub in West Africa.

With the upgrade, APM Terminals reaffirms its role as a key player in lifting global trade and creating opportunities for communities across Nigeria and West Africa.

The inauguration ceremony was

attended by several dignitaries, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, represented by his Senior Adviser (Technical), Professor Babatunde Bolaji Bernard; Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Olufemi Oloruntola among others.

The Vice President, who was represented by the Personal Assistant to the President on Subnational Infrastructure (Office of the Vice President), Musaddiq Mustapha, commended APM Terminals for its huge investment in WACT, assured the company that the Federal

Government will continue to provide enabling environment for businesses to thrive. He said the $115 million investment in the WACT upgrade will further enhance service delivery at the port, and attract more vessels to the port.

“Nigeria is a country of significant opportunities. APM Terminals’ investment in WACT is a clear sign of the company’s strong commitment to developing ports that are a lifeline to global trade.” He added, “Nigeria will continue collaborating with APM Terminals in the long term to create an environment where businesses participating in global trade can thrive,” the Vice President said.

The upgrade project is a

testament to APM Terminals’ vision of lifting standards of efficiency, reliability, and local excellence in Nigeria. It encompasses a wideranging transformation, including extensive yard expansion, stateof-the-art equipment acquisition, and a modern office complex. New Mobile Harbour Cranes (MHC), Rubber Tyre Gantries (RTG), and advanced Cargo Handling Equipment (CHE) will significantly reduce turnaround time.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, who also commended APM Terminals for the huge investment in WACT, assured that the Ministry will continue to support terminal operators to modernise the port and reduce

UrbanID Set to Revolutionise Global Identity Management Systems

Stories by Emma Okonji

UrbanID, a technology solutions company with focus on implementing next generation digital identity systems to assist nations navigate the challenges, has reiterated its commitment to offer technology solutions that will assist countries to establish robust digital identity ecosystems.

The brain behind UrbanID, which offers tech solutions that are shaping digital identity ecosystems globally, is Nigerian-born Olatunji Durodola, who, for nearly three decades has made unmatched contributions to the tech industry.

“In a world where identity theft and protection of data are subjects of immense and intense debates and concern to nations, institutions, security agencies, the financial industry and corporates globally; UrbanID has set for itself the onerous task to ensure that its clients adopt digitalisation as a process, which eliminates the social barriers that prevent complete individual growth and equal participation of all citizens in a country’s political, economic and social structures,” says Durodola, founder of UrbanID. According to him, “UrbanID is proud to present state-of-the-art

digital identity solutions and products for the developing world, with specific emphasis on Africa and South-East Asia, focusing on their unique identity management challenges. In a world where a person’s identity needs to be secure, trusted and protected, UrbanID comes with over 30 years of experience in the mobile landscape and bears a passion for solving problems that only Africans know best to resolve.”

He added: “We are building the technology infrastructure of a robust and disruptive Digital Identity ecosystem for the world across borders with mutual recognition,

while offering solutions that are crafted in strict compliance with our mission to empower individuals, strengthen communities, and foster inclusive citizenship services through a secure and innovative digital identity ecosystem.” With its footprints well established both directly and through a couple of subsidiaries in countries like the UAE, the UK, Nigeria, Estonia, and Rwanda UrbanID prides itself as an IT company with a difference, which offers a wide range of exceptional services that cut across various sectors thereby enabling the global economy.

Google: Customs Gems in Gemini Will Enhance Image Generation

Microsoft has introduced the Custom Gems that will improved image generation with Imagen 3

Speaking about the introduction of Customs Gems, Director, Product Management, Gemini Experiences, Dave Citron, Senior said: “We’re rolling out new features that we previewed at Google I/O. Gems, a new feature that lets people customise Gemini to create their own personal Artificial Intelligence

(AI) experts on any topic they want, are now available for Gemini Advanced, Business and Enterprise users. “And our new image generation model, Imagen 3, is now available across Gemini, Gemini Advanced, Business and Enterprise.”

According to Citron, “Over the coming days, Gemini Advanced, Business and Enterprise subscribers can start creating and chatting with

Gems, the custom versions of Gemini first previewed at I/O.

“You can customise Gems to act as an expert on topics or refine them toward your specific goals. Simply write instructions for your Gem, give it a name, and then chat with it whenever you want. With Gems, you can create a team of experts to help you think through a challenging project, brainstorm ideas for an upcoming event, or write the

perfect caption for a social media post. Your Gem can also remember a detailed set of instructions to help you save time on tedious, repetitive or difficult tasks,” Citron said.

“Our design principles are clear: From start to finish, you remain in control of the creative process. If the initial image you get doesn’t meet your expectations, simply tell Gemini what you’d like to change and it’ll give you a new image.

Nigerian Women Tasked on Maximisation of Financial Opportunities

their financial resources.

This was the submission of the Head of Marketing, PZ Wilmar, Chioma Mbanugo, during her welcome remarks at the 5th edition of its annual August Meeting held in Lagos recently. Speaking on the theme: ‘Nourish to Flourish: Elevating Health and Wealth’, Mbanugo said the annual August Women meeting by

Mamador was not only a communal gathering but a notable platform to celebrate women for their roles and contribution to society. She described the meeting as a laudable gesture that attests to the power of togetherness.

“As a brand, Mamador is committed to the financial and physical well-being of Nigerian

women nationwide. The old saying that ‘Health is Wealth’ encapsulates our presence here and explains why we should prioritize our health while we try to build wealth. We appreciate everyone for joining us to celebrate Nigerian women who regardless of the limitations, or barriers are the epitome of diligence, resilience, and relentless quest for success,” she said.

the cost of doing business at the nation’s gateway.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, said the WACT upgrade will support the efforts of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to generate more revenue, facilitate trade and curtail the smuggling of harmful and dangerous goods into Nigeria.

The Managing Director of NPA, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, represented by the Executive Director Marine & Operations, Olalekan Badmus commented, “This project is a clear demonstration of our dedication to ensuring our eastern ports, such as Onne, play a more central role in our national maritime strategy. This will ultimately improve our national

maritime traffic. First and foremost, I will like to extend our profound gratitude and commendation to the management of West Africa Container Terminal for their substantial investment in this vital infrastructure.”

Chief Operating Officer of APM Terminals, Olaf Gelhausen, said, “This $115 million investment is a bold statement of our faith in Nigeria’s economic potential. As Africa’s largest economy and most populous nation, Nigeria stands on the brink of remarkable growth. We are proud to be catalysts in this journey, transforming WACT into a world-class facility that is lifting standards to drive trade and prosperity across West Africa.”

The Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA) has announced the next edition of the .NG Awards, set to take place in November 2024.

The annual event, now in its seventh year, continues to recognise and celebrate outstanding innovations on the .ng domain, reflecting NiRA’s commitment to fostering growth in Nigeria’s internet space.

This year’s theme: “Changemakers of 2024,” will spotlight entities and organisations that are not only driving growth on the .ng domain but are also integral to the development of Nigeria’s digital landscape. The awards will recognise

those whose innovative work has made significant contributions to the nation’s digital future.

In a statement signed by NiRA President, Mr. Adesola Akinsanya, he emphasised the importance of the .NG Awards, saying: “In this 7th edition of the .NG Awards, we are building on the remarkable growth achieved last year, which saw the highest number of nominations in the history of the awards. The final shortlist was a testament to the innovative contributions being made within the .ng domain and the broader Nigerian digital space. This year, we look forward to spotlighting and recognizing even more organizations for their outstanding work.”

Dangote Industries Limited has emerged as Nigeria’s ‘Most Valuable Brand’ in 2024 Most Valuable Brand Awards, by securing an impressive aggregate score of 89.6 per cent on the brand strength measurement index (BSM) conducted by ‘Top 50 Brands Nigeria’, as part of its comprehensive 2024 top brands perception assessment.

At the media briefing to announce the 2024 Top 50 Brands Nigeria in Lagos, the organisers said Dangote Industries Limited has once again solidified its position as Nigeria’s Most Valuable Brand, marking the seventh consecutive year it has held this prestigious title.

“As a formidable force driving growth and transformation across Africa, it continues to set the pace, demonstrating the strength and

potential of Nigerian home-grown brands on the global stage,” said the CEO, Top 50 Brands Nigeria, Taiwo Oluboyede.

Celebrating excellence and resilience of brands in Nigeria, Oluboyede said: “We are thrilled to present the 2024 edition of the rankings, an annual celebration of the most influential and valuable brands in the country. This year’s list is a testament to the resilience, innovation, and enduring relevance of brands that continue to shape Nigeria’s economy, particularly in challenging times.”

Dangote Industries is immediately followed by MTN Nigeria, which not only ranks second overall but also emerged as the Most Popular Brand in the country for the year, according to the Top-of-Mind (TOM) survey.

Stories by Raheem Akingbolu Mamador, a premium food brand in Nigeria in the vegetable oil and spread segments, has called on Nigerian women to give utmost priority to their wholesome health and maximise the opportunities available with

Agnes Ekebuike

Asamani: Project Management Central to Africa’s Greatness

Managing Director, Project Management Institute, sub-Saharan Africa, George Asamani, speaks on Project Management Job Trends 2024 Report and its relevance to Africa’s growth. Raheem Akingbolu presents the excerpts

Kindly give us an overview of the current state of project management in Africa?

Project management in Africa is in an exciting position. We are seeing rapid growth across various sectors, from infrastructure and energy to technology and agriculture. What is particularly encouraging is the increasing recognition of the value that professional project management brings to these initiatives. African nations are realizing that to achieve their development goals and visions for the future, they need skilled project managers who can effectively plan, execute, and deliver complex projects.

At the same time, we are facing unique challenges. The continent’s diverse economic landscape means that project management practices must often be adapted to local contexts. We also see a growing demand for project managers who can navigate the complexities of sustainability, digital transformation, and cross-border collaborations. PMI empowers communities across Africa by offering gold-standard certifications like PMP, PMI-CP, and CAPM, along with training and networking opportunities to strengthen the project management community.

In line with Africa’s energy reform and its potential for job creation, is there no opportunity that technology could risk the number of people needed in the sector?

When we consider Africa’s energy reform, it’s crucial to recognize its dual significance: not only does it address the environmental impact of fossil fuels, but it also confronts the challenge of finite resources. Fossil fuels are non-renewable, and although their depletion might be far in the future, it’s a reality we must prepare for.

Globally, the energy transition is vital for sustainability, affecting both the planet and humanity. In Africa, this transition is paramount due to existing energy shortages. While many African countries have made strides in increasing energy supply, demand continues to outpace availability. This necessitates closing the energy gap and focusing on renewable energy.

Several African nations are at the forefront of this shift. Senegal, an unlikely renewable energy hotspot, with oil and gas driving its forecasted 8.8 per cent GDP growth in 2024, aims to generate as much as 40% clean energy by 2030. Ghana’s $2 billion Ada Foah project is set to produce 1,000 megawatts of power by capturing tidal wave energy in the Gulf of Guinea. Even oil-rich Nigeria is calling for renewables to meet 60 per cent of the country’s energy demands by 2050. In South Africa, some 66GW of wind and solar projects are at various stages of development, with 18GW at an advanced stage.

These efforts present substantial opportunities for job creation. Across Africa, project managers are already playing a key role in these developments. However, the shift to renewable energy requires not only the creation of new jobs but also the retraining of professionals within the energy sector to ensure they possess the necessary skills in sustainability and renewable energy. Thus, the energy transition in Africa is not only about meeting energy demands but also about creating and transforming jobs through the adoption of innovative technologies.

What can you say about clean jobs outpacing those in the fossil fuels?

The statement that clean jobs are outpacing those in the fossil fuel sector marks a significant shift in the global energy landscape. Traditionally dominated by fossil fuels, the energy sector is now transitioning rapidly towards clean energy, driven by urgent post-pandemic measures and unprecedented financial support from governments. Over the past two years, clean energy investment has surged by 40%, creating a robust demand for workers in clean sectors. According to the 2023 World Energy Employment Report, clean energy jobs have risen to 35 million globally, surpassing fossil fuel employment, which has remained stagnant at 32 million jobs.

This growth in clean energy employment is not just a short-term trend but reflects a broader shift towards sustainability. Many of these new jobs are in construction and manufacturing, sectors that have seen significant expansion as the world moves towards a greener economy. Looking ahead, the demand for skilled professionals in the clean energy sector will only intensify, especially in regions like Africa, which needs to double its energy investment to achieve its development goals by 2030. Cultivating a certified pool of project professionals, particularly in project management, should be a strategic priority for

regions aiming for energy sufficiency. As modern technologies continue to reshape the construction industry and the broader energy sector, focusing on building a skilled and certified workforce will be crucial for driving successful outcomes in the global energy transition.

Sub-Saharan Africa has the fastest growing regions in the gaming industry. How is this creating jobs, looking at the scenarios in South Africa and Kenya?

Sub-Saharan Africa is experiencing rapid growth in the gaming industry, driven by a significant uptick in smartphone adoption, which is expected to reach 87 per cent by 2030. With a young population averaging about 19 years old, the gaming community in Africa has more than doubled to nearly 200 million in just five years. This surge in interest has positioned the region as one of the fastest-growing markets in the global gaming industry, projected to surpass $1 billion in 2024.

South Africa and Kenya are leading this charge, emerging as key players in the region’s gaming landscape. South Africa, in particular, stands out with an average revenue per user of up to $25 per year and accounted for approximately $266 million in video game spending last year. Although smaller in scale, Kenya is also seeing substantial growth, with increasing investment from venture capital firms like Bitkraft and Sony, further fuelling the sector’s expansion.

This booming industry is not just a source of entertainment but a significant driver of job creation across the continent.

The gaming sector is creating new job opportunities, particularly in programming, design, and project management. Structured project management methodologies, such as Agile or Scrum, are increasingly important in managing complex tasks, resources, and timelines to develop successful video games.

As the global gaming market is projected to reach over $500 billion by 2025, the role of skilled project managers will be critical in sustaining and advancing the interactive entertainment sector in Africa.

What are the job-creating sectors to watch in Africa, especially as it relates to tech, mining, renewables, and the expected impact?

Looking at the job-creating sectors in Africa, one can say that several industries stand out, notably technology, mining, and renewables. The technology sector, including the rapidly growing gaming industry, is creating significant new employment opportunities across the continent. Similarly, the renewable energy sector is booming due to the global shift from fossil fuels to clean energy. This transition requires upskilling existing professionals in sustainability and creating new roles that demand specialised skills, leading to substantial job creation.

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) could be a game-changer for the continent. Intra-African trade accounts for only about 14 per cent of total trade, significantly lower than other regions like Europe or North America. To make AfCFTA work effectively, there is a critical need to develop infrastructure—such as power, transport, and communication networks—to facilitate seamless trade and economic integration across the continent. This infrastructure development will, in turn, create jobs and drive economic growth.

Moreover, as sectors like technology and renewables benefit from AfCFTA, there will be an increased demand for competent project managers to deliver these projects efficiently and effectively. According to PMI’s Talent Gap Report, the world will need over 25 million project managers by the end of the decade, with Sub-Saharan Africa seeing the highest demand.

“Organisations are creating guidelines and best practices for prompt engineering. These resources help standardise approaches across teams, ensuring all users have a reference point for developing effective prompts. This standardisation helps maintain a consistent quality of outputs across different projects and departments.”

GenAl has contributed to the increased productivity and effectiveness of project managers according to the ‘First Movers’ Advantage. Can you speak on the the immediate benefits of adopting Generative AI for Project Management report?

GenAI has significantly contributed to project managers’ increased productivity and effectiveness in several keyways. Firstly, automation of routine tasks is a standout benefit. GenAI tools automate many administrative and repetitive tasks that typically consume a project manager’s time. By managing these duties, GenAI allows project managers to focus on more complex and strategic activities, enhancing their overall effectiveness and freeing up valuable time for decision-making and problem-solving.

In addition to automation, GenAI has greatly improved project planning. These AI tools can analyze vast amounts of data quickly and accurately, leading to more efficient and precise planning. This capability helps forecast potential issues, optimize resource allocation, and maintain project schedules and budgets. The result is a more streamlined planning process, reducing the likelihood of delays and cost overruns. Another critical area where GenAI has made an impact is stakeholder management. GenAI tools can assist in identifying and analysing stakeholder needs and interests, helping project managers craft more robust stakeholder engagement strategies. By providing data-driven insights, GenAI enables project managers to align stakeholder expectations with project goals better, ultimately leading to more successful project outcomes. Overall, GenAI has transformed how project managers operate, enabling them to work more efficiently, make better decisions, and manage projects more precisely.

The PMI Job Trends 2024 report mentions ‘power skills’ being strengthened by GenAl. Can you provide examples of how GenAl is boosting collaboration and creativity among high adopters?

The report highlights how GenAI is significantly enhancing essential ‘power skills’ among trailblazers (high adopters of GenAI), particularly in collaboration and creativity. It also improves team communication by offering capabilities like real-time note-taking and summarising discussions, ensuring all members understand project updates and changes.

In terms of boosting creativity, GenAI generates diverse ideas and solutions by drawing on extensive data sets, which can introduce innovative approaches that might not be immediately apparent. Furthermore, GenAI can provide cross-industry insights, fostering unique, creative solutions by applying lessons and ideas from various sectors. These enhancements in collaboration and creativity improve productivity and problem-solving and give Trailblazers a distinct competitive advantage, paving the way for these skills to become indispensable in modern project management practices.

How important is prompt engineering in leveraging the full potential of GenAl, and what steps are being taken to master the skill?

Prompt engineering is crucial in leveraging GenAI’s full potential as it directly affects the effectiveness and accuracy of the AI’s outputs. Prompt engineering involves crafting inputs (or ‘prompts’) that guide the AI to produce the desired outputs. This skill is essential because even the most advanced AI models depend heavily on the quality and specificity of their input to generate helpful and contextually appropriate responses.

Recognising the importance of prompt engineering, organisations are taking several steps to master this skill among their teams. Firstly, they are incorporating specific training modules focused on teaching the art and science of prompt engineering. These training sessions often include hands-on exercises that allow employees to experiment with different types of prompts, understand the nuances of language models, and see firsthand how variations in prompts can lead to vastly different outcomes. Additionally, organisations are creating guidelines and best practices for prompt engineering. These resources help standardise approaches across teams, ensuring all users have a reference point for developing effective prompts. This standardisation helps maintain a consistent quality of outputs across different projects and departments.

Asamani

Quartey: Direct Selling Model Will Enhance Nigeria’s Economy

Senior Legal Counsel, sub-Saharan Africa at QNET, Theodocia Naana Quartey, speaks about the technology behind the QNET’s direct selling model, and its commitment to boost the Nigerian market and economy. Emma Okonji presents the excerpts:

What is the significance of the product exhibition organised by QNET in Lekki, Lagos last week?

We have noticed that a lot of people know the company QNET but they are not very familiar with our lifestyle and wellness products.

This particular product exhibition is to open up our products to individuals, especially those in Lagos. I came to Lagos and I realised that clean water is an issue in some parts of Lagos and this has compelled people to question the source of the water before taking it. And so there is need for water purifier in Lagos, which is one of the products we are showcasing in Lagos.

However, like we said, people all over the world, use different gadgets, both for domestic use and personal use and some of the gadgets could be harmful to human health because some of them emit electromagnetic waves that could harm the human body. The gadgets are necessary evils, so we have to use them, but if a company has products that can keep people safe while using the harmful gadgets, I think it is something we should let everybody know about. So the significance of the product exhibition is to create the awareness that we have products that can keep people safe, while using gadgets that could be harmful to the human body.

Tell us about QNET

QNET is a lifestyle and wellness company, using the direct selling model of marketing. We have a wide range of products that we sell on our e-commerce platform, which means that all our products are sold solely online. You will not find any product of QNET in a retail shop, at least not yet. We have a network marketing arm, which ensures that individuals that are interested in building businesses out of our products, promote our products, and are able to earn commissions from product sales. The commissions come when they are able to promote products and promote further purchases. Commissions are made only when products are purchased by individuals who are introduced to the products of the company. QNET was established in 1998 in Hong Kong.

We currently have our headquarters in Hong Kong and our operational office in Malaysia. We operate in over 25 countries, and we have various partnership and agency agreements with several other companies.

Could you highlight some of the key activities and initiatives QNET has undertaken in Nigeria recently?

In recent times, we have engaged in product exhibitions. Last year, we had product exhibitions in Lagos and Abuja. The exhibitions brought to the fore, what the company is about, the product of the company, and many more. We have engaged in educational campaigns with several other institutions.

We currently have a running agreement with the Federal Ministry of Employment and Labour where we have educated some youth in the labour market on how to detect fake job offers from real ones, equipping them with the necessary knowledge about the market. Our company has a soft spot for the disadvantaged in the society. Through our Rythm Foundation, which is a corporate social responsibility initiative, we have engaged in FinGreen, which is our financial literacy education programme, targeted at empowering youths on various financial literacy skills to make them financially independent.

Can you tell us more about FinGreen?

FinGreen is a financial literacy programme where young people are equipped with financial literacy skills to be able to make some money for themselves and become financially independent. For the past two years, we have had these engagements with over 1,300 youth.

The beneficiaries of the financial literacy programme, who are now FinGreen ambassadors, are always celebrated on their graduation ceremonies where we charge them to remain good ambassadors of FinGreen, while training other Nigerians on financial literacy skills, through their various social media networks.

Currently, we are running the ‘Say No’ campaign, which is a campaign that seeks to prevent the proliferation of job and travel scams, telling people exactly what the company stands for and what it doesn’t stand for.

We have also carried out periodic donations during Ramadan celebration and more in various parts of the country.

Why is QNET doing all that?

We are doing all these because we love people. The founders of QNET have a soft spot for elevating youth from poverty. We are trying to move people from poverty into a state where they can fend for themselves and help raise others. Our Rythm actually means Raise Yourself to Help Mankind. So our founders found it absolutely necessary to show people, especially young people, how to lift themselves up from poverty and then make something good of themselves and then affect the entirety of the community.

You just talked about the ‘Say No’ campaign.

How many countries are you running the campaign and what has been the impact on people since the campaign started?

Currently, we are running the ‘Say No’ campaign in three countries. Just last month, we launched another campaign, ‘QNET Against Scam’, in Ghana.

The impact we have had so far is that we have now been able to engage stakeholders who have wider coverage like the International Organisation for Migration. We are also talking to the Ghana High Commission in Nigeria, and we are in talks with the Federal Ministry of Employment and Labour. What we are doing actually, is to protect the ordinary youth on the street who would hitherto have fallen victim to a scam by some individuals that are out there, seeking to swindle others.

Transblue has been QNET’s legal representative in Nigeria since 2022. How has the journey been so far?

The journey has been fantastic so far. Transblue has offered us a platform where we are able to reach the Nigerian market. Now, through their innovation and through their partnership, we have been able to reach the ordinary Nigerian.

They have given us ideas on how Nigeria works. Our partnership has made QNET a local company in Nigeria. Transblue has also ensured that taxes including VATs, are paid on time.

Transblue has also ensured that the issues of independent representatives on the ground are catered for on time. They have ensured the registration of all our products and product certificates. And this has been very helpful.

Can you tell us a bit about the QNET business model?

As I said earlier, we use the direct selling model, which in its simplest form, is word of mouth. We use spoken words from the mouth to promote QNET’s products.

If I use a QNET product like the eGuard, which is yet to be introduced into the Nigerian market, if I use this product, which protects me from radioactive waves, and I think it is fantastic, I will reach out to people and tell them that I have used the product and that the product is very efficient and extremely good. This is the direct selling model that QNET adopted and it has been very efficient. Direct selling model is the best selling model globally, and it is beneficial to all.

Aside benefiting from the efficacy of this product, people can earn good commission when the product is sold and purchased with their reference number. This is what the direct selling is all about, which is door to door business. Through this method, the products move from the manufacturer straight to the consumer cutting out all the middlemen that could attract additional cost. And then the network marketing aspect is where people are able to make money for purchasing and for introducing the products to be purchased by others.

QNET is unique from other direct selling businesses because is purely online. So, you will not find a QNET independent representative stocking up products to resell.

If anybody is introduced to the product, the person is able to purchase the product directly from QNET, and then QNET sends it to its stock office like Transblue, where the individual is able to pick up the products right from its source, whether from Germany, from Malaysia, from Hong Kong, or any other part of the world.

Still on direct selling method, research has proven that direct selling is the best method of selling products. Since you adopted the method, how has it impacted QNET’s business?

Let me talk about the direct selling industry in general. It has been in existence for over 100 years and it is the fastest growing method of sales globally. You know why? The reason is that anybody from all walks of life can sell the products. You can be a Banker or a Lawyer or a Fashion Designer and be engaged in direct selling. Whatever the occupation that people are into, they can still add direct selling to what they do.

The impact cannot be overemphasised. Buyers and end-users get their products directly from the manufacturer. It gives multiple streams of income to individuals. Anyone can do the direct selling irrespective of the educational background because it doesn’t require certain level of education. All you need is your keen sense of marketing and the ability to learn fast. If you are able to learn about the product and you are able to market the product, then direct selling is for you.

How is QNET leveraging technology to deliver its service?

All our products are highly technologically based. But what we have done to make it easy for individuals to participate in our business, was to develop the QNET app that allows people to interact easily with us. The QNET app allows users to have their business in their

pockets. With the app, the users can have everything they need as their tools to learn about the QNET products. Whatever information they need about QNET, such as the policies and procedures, including everything they need to know about QNET, are all embedded in the QNET app. People can go to the Apple store, and they can go to the app gallery on Huawei and they will find the QNET app there.

How does QNET envision its role in creating product awareness in Nigeria, using the direct selling method?

This is a start. We are starting with the introduction of our products, letting people know what our products do, and how our products can help them.

As we advance in our product awareness creation, we are relying on media to take the message out there, because we know very well that definitely questions are going to come from the public that desire to purchase and use our products. Transblue offices are accessible to everyone and as these things happen, and as what we are hoping for happens, we know that the products will spread far to reach out to more people over there. The ordinary Nigerian on the street will have access to our products and the products are everyday products. So, we envisage staying in Nigeria for a very long time. What message would you like to convey about QNET’s commitment to Nigerians?

The message is clear. We are committed to our Rythm. We are committed to raising ourselves to help mankind. Whatever it takes to help mankind, we will do it in Nigeria and in other countries where we operate. Whatever it takes to help the Nigerian market, we will do it. We are relying on our collaboration with everyone, with state agencies, including government at the federal level and we are hoping that the partnerships that we have established will open doors, and even bigger doors for Nigerians, especially the youth.

Quartey

Thursday September 5th, 2024

Thisday Afrinvest Index Down 0.5%

Thisday Afrinvest 40 index fell by 0.5% to print at 4,236.39 points due to price decline in GTCO ( 0.4%), ZENITH ( 2.3%), and ACCESSCORP ( 2.1%). Cumulatively, these stocks account for 15.3% of the index. Bears Resurface....ASI down 0.3%

Yesterday, the bourse halted its four day successive uptrend as losses in OANDO ( 10.0%), ZENITHBANK ( 2.4%), and UBA ( 2.3%) dragged the NGX ASI lower by 0.3% to 96,537.48 index points. Resultantly, YTD return dipped to 29.1% (previously 29.6%), while market capitalisation lost 0.3% to ₦55.5tn. Similarly, activity level waned as volume and value traded fell 17.7% and 21.4% to 389.3m units and ₦8.1bn, respectively.

Bearish Sector Performance

Performance across our coverage sectors was underwhelming as all six indices closed negative. Leading the laggards, the Insurance and Banking indices fell 1.3% and 0.9% respectively, due to a price decline in CORNEST( 6.0%), MANSARD ( 4.6%), ZENITHBANK ( 2.4%) and UBA ( 2.3%). Sell pressure on OANDO ( 10.0%), CONOIL ( 2.5%), DANGSUGAR ( 3.6%) and MAYBAKER ( 4.1%) dragged the Oil & Gas and Consumer Goods indices lower by 0.7% and 0.2%, sequentially. Likewise, the Industrial Goods and AFR ICT indices shed 2bps and 1bp accordingly, due to selloffs on WAPCO ( 0.4%), CUTIX ( 3.2%) and CWG ( 5.5%).

Outlook

Investor sentiment, as measured by market breadth, worsened to 0.19x (previously 0.02%) as 21 stocks advanced, 33 declined, while 64 closed flat. We anticipate the market to follow similar trend today, due to weak investor sentiment.

Bridgewater, Others Unveil Research on Economic Potential of Sub-Saharan Africa’s Growing Population

Oluchi Chibuzor

Bridgewater Associates, one of the world’s most renowned hedge funds and macroeconomic researchers, together with the international advocacy organisation Global Citizen, and the leading Pan-African investor and developer across the continent, Harith General Partners, have partnered to produce brand new research highlighting the economic potential of Sub-Saharan Africa’s rapidly expanding population.

The collaboration brings together decades of expertise in global economic analysis and advocacy to shed light on the region’s pivotal role in shaping the future global economy.

“With nearly fifty years of experience in mapping the intricate cause-and-effect relationships that drive global economies and

markets, Bridgewater Associates has long been at the forefront of economic forecasting. Their partnership with Global Citizen, the world’s leading advocacy organization known for its cultural and advocacy work partnering with entertainers and world leaders to call on governments and the private sector to take necessary action to end global extreme poverty, and Harith General Partners, one of the largest investors in African infrastructure, aims to provide insights that will inspire collective action from the world’s richest nations, the global private sector, and local governments in sub-Saharan Africa,” it said in a statement.

The new research identified that Sub-Saharan Africa is undergoing a significant demographic transformation that will have profound effects on

regional and global economies and geopolitics in the coming decades. It also stated that Sub-Saharan Africa is not a monolithic entity, “There is substantial variation among countries, each with unique development needs requiring tailored solutions.

“To change the region’s growth trajectory, it is essential to address infrastructure and human capital gaps. Increasing investment in these areas can create a virtuous cycle that drives further investment and growth. MDBs are crucial in supporting infrastructure and human development projects that the private sector may find too risky to finance. Private investment must play a more significant role in closing the financing gap. However, challenges such as high-perceived risks and underdeveloped capital markets currently hinder this potential.”

‘Employee Well-being Vital Business Strategy’

A recent gathering of stakeholders at the Colours of Well-being event, organised by Citisquare Africa, underscored the significance of employee well-being as a crucial business strategy.

Speakers at the event emphasised the far-reaching consequences of burnout on individuals, businesses, and the economy at large.

Managing Director of UAC, Oluyemi Oloyede, highlighted the societal pressure on women to excel in multiple roles, leading to increased stress levels and burnout. He noted that women are often expected to be perfect, juggling work, family, and personal responsibilities, without showing any signs of weakness.

Group Managing Director of Medbury Healthcare, Dr. Itunu Akinware, shared her personal experience with burnout, emphasising the importance of recognizing stress levels and seeking support. She encouraged attendees to prioritize their well-being and seek help when needed, rather than trying to cope alone.

The event also featured a keynote presentation by, Executive Director of the Institute of Counselling in Nigeria, Dr. Tolu Oko-Igaire who discussed the link between burnout and mental health. She provided practical strategies for managing burnout, including self-awareness, exercise, healthy habits, and seeking professional help when needed.

The convener of the event, Dr. Uche Nnama, emphasised

the importance of prioritising employee well-being, citing the event’s goal of promoting United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. He encouraged businesses to recognize the value of investing in employee well-being, not only for the benefit of their staff but also for the success and sustainability of their organizations.

The event attracted a diverse range of stakeholders, including dignitaries and High Networth Individuals from various fields, demonstrating the growing recognition of employee well-being as a vital business strategy.

By prioritising employee well-being, businesses can improve productivity and enhance overall success.

Bread Makers Reaffirm Commitment to Wholesome Products

Following the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) disassociation of itself from the rumour that bread makers are using unwholesome additives, the Premium Breadmakers Association of Nigeria (PBAN) has affirmed its commitment to upholding highest standards of bread production and assured members of the general public that its members adhere strictly to the highest standards of food safety and quality in the production of bread.

The Director General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, on

Tuesday debunked the claim that the agency has raised concern on the use of saccharine in baking bread. Adeyeye said: “NAFDAC wishes to provide clarification that the content of the video on avoiding bread in Nigeria does not reflect the observation of the agency made during a stakeholders engagement held on Aug.16 in Ibadan.”

The PBAN’s assurances came in the wake of recent video that went viral on the social media, which insinuated that all bread produced in Nigeria are laden with unwholesome baking ingredients and, therefore, unfit for consumption by Nigerians.

A public statement that was signed by the President of PBAN, Mr. Emmanuel Onuorah and the Public & Industrial Relations Officer of PBAN, Mr. Babalola Thomas, said, “as a reputable association, PBAN is deeply committed to upholding the integrity of the bread making industry in Nigeria.

“All our members strictly comply with the regulations and guidelines set forth by the NAFDAC and other relevant regulatory bodies. We ensure that every ingredient used in the baking process is safe, wholesome, and meets the highest quality standards.”

Accion MfB Appoints Ruehmer New Board Chairman

Sunday Ehigiator

Accion Microfinance Bank has announced the appointment of Christian Ruehmer as its new Board Chairman, effective April 18, 2024. This strategic move strengthens the bank’s governance and risk management framework, positioning it for continued innovation and excellence in the microfinance

sector.

According to a statement from the bank yesterday, Ruehmer, a globally recognized expert in risk management, investments, and treasury, brings over 25 years of experience shaping financial institutions in developing markets.

“As Board Chairman, Mr. Ruehmer will represent Accion Africa-Asia Investment

Company on the Board of Accion MfB. His proven track record of building resilient and profitable organizations makes him ideal to guide Accion MfB’s strategic direction.

“His expertise in navigating complex risk landscapes, and his deep understanding of the financial industry, make him ideal to guide Accion MfB’s strategic direction and ensure its long-term sustainability.

The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $87.33 a barrel on Monday, compared with $86.00 the previous Thursday, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference

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).

L-R: Director of Sales and Marketing, Eko Hotels and Suites, Iyadunni Gbadebo; General Manager, L’eola Hotels, a subsidiary of the Leadway Group, Lily Izevbigie; Co-founder and Managing Partner of Little Company Nigeria Limited, Mark Slade; and Moderator, Elizabeth Musa, at the just concluded Hotel Expo Nigeria 2024 held in Lagos ...recently

Mary Nnah

Dike Onwuamaeze

Agama: Digital Exchanges Innovation’ll Attract More Youths to Capital Market

Kayode Tokede

Director General, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, yesterday emphasised that the approvalin-principle granted to two crypto exchanges recently is in line with the commission’s desire to ensure that youths in Nigeria are given the opportunity to participate in the capital market.

Agama who stated this during a meeting in Abuja, said

that in line with the desire of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to engage with the youthful population in the country, it became important to create a structure that will enhance that participation of the youths and other Nigerians in the market.

The commission had last week granted approvals to Busha Digital Limited and Quidax Technologies Limited.

According to the SEC DG, “It is important that we act

accordingly, we are a country but we cannot be left out of the global phenomenon that is beginning to take shape. The SEC as a future looking institution is poised to making sure that we are in the league of countries that do what is needed.

“As much as possible, we are building talents to be able to deal with the challenges that these asset classes could bring to our shores. A lot of young Nigerians are fully

involved in it and we cannot shut the door against them, rather the intention of Mr. President is to have them inclusive in the capital market and that is why we are ensuring that there is regulation and no one is hurt at the end of the day. That’s our responsibility at the SEC by protecting investors and developing the market”.

Agama said the SEC is doing all of these cautiously to ensure these institutions do

not pose risks to the national economy and to citizens who are investors too.

He disclosed that the SEC’s programme on the digital assets exchanges comes from its virtual Assets Service Providers Regulation adding that in view of the nature of crypto exchanges and the entire industry, it was important to outline a regulation that allows the Commission to fully understand crypto exchanges and virtual financial assets

services providers. The SEC Boss said the idea was borne out of the initial Regulatory Incubation Programme of the SEC in its desire to understudy fintech platforms and products that are new to the market in order to be able to dimension the risks that are associated with these institutions and their products as clearly, the SEC’s primary responsibility is investor production and market development.

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF SEPTEMBER 4/24

HealtH & lifestyle

Improving Access to Oxygen Therapy for Primary Health Centres

To improve access to oxygen therapy, the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation recently partnered the Edo State Primary Health Care Development Agency, EDSPHCDA, which is responsible for delivering quality primary healthcare services in Edo State and HealthPort Limited, a health-tech company dedicated to improving access to quality medical care through digital solutions. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that this service will complement the foundation’s ongoing efforts to revitalise primary healthcare centres in the state under the Adopt-A-Healthcare-Facility-Programme

What is Oxygen therapy and why is it so important in healthcare? Also referred to as supplemental oxygen, it’s a form of medical treatment where oxygen is giving as a supplement to help those in need of it get oxygen their bodies need to function.

Either used in cases of hypoxemia (low blood oxygen levels), to maintain blood oxygen levels during anesthesia, or for those with lung diseases or breathing problems, the import of oxygen therapy to get their bodies need to function, cannot be overstated.

While this might not be a novel idea, however, access to such therapy has often been an impediment to underserved communities in Low and Middle Income Countries. Across the globe, investing in oxygen systems has proven to drastically reduce mortality and long term health defects.

Tripartite MoU for Primary Healthcare

It was on this premise that the AigImoukhuede Foundation, a philanthropic non-profit organisation dedicated to transforming public service delivery in Africa and advancing access to quality primary healthcare, recently entered into a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Edo State Primary Health Care Development Agency (EDSPHCDA) and HealthPort Limited.

The EDSPHCDA is the governing body responsible for the provision of primary healthcare services in Edo State, while HealthPort is a health-tech company committed to improving access to quality medical care through innovative digital solutions.

Improving Access to Oxygen Therapy for PHCs

This strategic partnership seeks to improve access to oxygen therapy across primary healthcare centres and other key facilities within Edo State.

The initiative, titled ‘Oxygen as a Service,’ will complement the Foundation’s ongoing efforts to revitalise primary healthcare centres (PHCs) in the state under the Adopt-AHealthcare-Facility-Programme (ADHFP).

According to Bukky Akinsemoyin, the foundation’s Director of Funding and Partnerships, “We are honoured to join forces with EDSPHCDA and HealthPort in this critical initiative. Our shared vision of enhancing access to quality primary healthcare forms

The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation is currently revitalising 18 PHCs under the ADHFP to deliver affordable and reliable healthcare services to vulnerable populations. The Oxygen initiative seamlessly aligns with our broader goal of promoting innovative healthcare solutions across Nigeria by leveraging private sector resources. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our efforts to elevate healthcare standards in the country

the bedrock of this collaboration.

“The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation is currently revitalising 18 PHCs under the ADHFP to deliver affordable and reliable healthcare services to vulnerable populations.

The Oxygen initiative seamlessly aligns with our broader goal of promoting innovative healthcare solutions across Nigeria by leveraging private sector resources. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our efforts to elevate healthcare standards in the country.”

According to her, this partnership aims to ensure that patients at the PHCs have seamless access to oxygen therapy as part of their medical care, thereby eliminating the need for long-distance travel to obtain such services. Additionally, the Foundation will collaborate with HealthPort to strengthen the operational capacity of the PHCs by providing specialised training for healthcare staff in the administration, management, and maintenance of oxygen plants.

Given that each partner in this collaboration will contribute their unique strengths, the EDSPHCDA will facilitate access to PHCs for the delivery of essential medical and non-medical services while HealthPort will oversee the implementation and life cycle of the project; and the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation will provide evidence-based technical expertise, advisory support, and strategic guidance to ensure the project’s

success.

For humanity, the signing of this MoU solidifies a robust partnership between the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, EDSPHCDA, and HealthPort, marking a significant step forward in the collective effort to improve access to quality primary healthcare in Edo State.

Modalities for Oxygen as Service Initiative

The MoU aligns with HealthPort’s innovative “Oxygen as a Service (Breathe)” initiative, which involves a collaborative effort to install Micro PSA plants, train healthcare staff, and establish a robust distribution system for medical oxygen.

The Foundation facilitated this collaboration between EDSPHCDA and HealthPort, as part of its commitment to fostering public-private partnerships for quality primary healthcare.

The “Oxygen as a Service (Breathe)” project complements the Foundation’s ongoing Adopt-A-Healthcare-FacilityProject (ADHFP), which focuses on revitalizing 18 primary healthcare centers to provide affordable and quality healthcare services to vulnerable populations. By integrating oxygen therapy into these revitalised facilities,

the Foundation aims to ensure that patients have easy access to comprehensive medical care.

The project will also enhance the capacity of healthcare staff in administering, managing, and maintaining oxygen plants. This will enable primary healthcare centres develop and strengthen their capabilities to meet the needs of their patients and deliver sustainable healthcare outcome. This collaborative effort represents a significant step towards improving healthcare access and outcomes in Edo State.

The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation

The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation is a public sector-focused philanthropic organisation founded by Aigboje and Ofovwe Aig-Imoukhuede to improve the lives of Africans through transformed public service delivery and increased access to quality primary healthcare.

The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation accomplishes its mission by supporting the reform initiatives of public sector entities, providing financing, consulting support, and capacity-building programmes and resources for the public sector workforce. The Foundation provides funding and strategic support to drive the work of affiliate organisations such as ABC Health, the Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN), the Nigerian Solidarity Support Fund (NSSF), and others.

Ofovwe and Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede

At the signing of the tripartite Memorandum of Understanding by the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation eith Edo State Primary Health Care Development Agency and HealthPort Limited, for access to Oxygen Therapy for PHCs

Survivors Urge FG to Address Proliferation of Fake Cancer Drugs

Esther Oluku

A group of cancer survivors, Network of People Impacted by Cancer in Nigeria (NePiCiN), has called on the Federal Government through the Ministry of Health to address the menace of proliferation of fake cancer treatment drugs in Nigeria.

The President NePiCiN, Mrs. Gloria Orji, explained that as a terminal illness, the adverse reactions and inactivity of fake drugs have the potential of causing the death of a patients hence the need for a more targeted approach to enable

survivors lead longer and healthier lives.

While fielding questions from journalists yesterday, she maintained that a major factor in the proliferation of fake drugs is the unavailability of drugs at the national oncology pharmacies which force patients to go to public pharmacies to buy.

Considering the enormous costs of these medications and the economic impact on an already vulnerable population, Orji advised the federal government should through its agencies look into the

elimination of middle men in the sale of these specialized drugs to put a permanent stop to its spread.

Also, she noted that as an action point towards ensuring progressive health of survivors, the government should make effort towards ensuring that original and safe medications are always available at national oncology pharmacies.

She said: “We are not just battling with the cost of drugs, we are talking about life here. Nobody gets a second chance and it’s quite appalling how this is going. Fake drugs

impact the patient as it does a lot of harm and no good.

“When you get a drug and find out it’s not working, they recommend a higher one and you spend more than you would ordinarily. I believe this problem happen because there are middle men who can be supplying you with the good ones but also mix the fake ones and one can’t hold them responsible because they also supply the good ones.

“I also believe that if the government put their foot down, they can get it right.

The National Health Insur-

L-R: Dr. Ngozi Onyia, MD, Paelon Memorial Hospital; Dr. Leke Oshunniyi, MD, AIICO Multishield Limited; Olayinka Subair, Country Manager Nigeria/Cluster Lead West Africa, Pfizer SSA; Njide Ndili, Vice President, Healthcare Federation of Nigeria; Abimbola Adebakin, Founder/CEO, Advantage Health Africa; Nicole Spieker, CEO, PharmAccess Foundation; Dr. Tinuola Akinbolagbe, MD/CEO, Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria; Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, FCIB, CON, Chairman Board of Directors, Access Holdings; Omobolanle Victor-Laniyan, Head, Sustainability, Access Corporation; Dr. Tayo Aduloju, CEO, Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG); Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, Vice-Chancellor, University of Lagos (UNILAG); Zakari Momodu, Projects Director, Aliko Dangote Foundation; Iyadunni Olubode, Director of Nigeria Programs, MSD for Mothers; Dr. Alero Roberts, Associate Professor, College of Medicine, UNILAG; and Kenneth Okolie, MD/CEO, SYNLAB Nigeria; at the 2024 PSHAN Annual Conference at Access Towers, Lagos, recently

Federal Lawmaker Seeks Urgent Reduction of Maternal, Neonatal Mortality

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health Secondary and Tertiary, Senator Ipalibo Harry Banigo has called for urgent action to address Nigeria’s alarming maternal and neonatal mortality rates.

The federal lawmaker made during a dialogue with female Commissioners of Health from across Nigeria, in Abuja .

She emphasised that Nigeria’s maternal mortality rate of 512 deaths per 100,000 live births and neonatal mortality rate of 39 deaths per 1,000 live births were unacceptable and required immediate attention.

The meeting, organised by the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Health (OASP-H), aimed to discuss issues around the health of women and children in

line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

As women leaders in health, Sen Banigo stressed their unique responsibility to save lives and improve healthcare outcomes. She urged Commissioners of Health across the country to work together to address these challenges and prioritise the health of women and children.

Banigo expressed her experience as Acting Commissioner of Health and Deputy Governor and highlight the importance of collaboration across all levels, including local governments, primary healthcare centers, states, and federal authorities. She encouraged the Commissioners to harness the strategic platform of their State Council of Health to drive improvement in health outcomes.

The Senator eulogies the

accomplished women who have shown commitment to transforming healthcare for women and children, and expressed confidence that the ideas shared, knowledge exchanged, and strategies developed would translate into real progress, ensuring the health of women and children is protected and prioritized.

According to her, “I was truly honored to be invited as a Special Guest of Honour at this crucial dialogue with our female Commissioners of Health from across Nigeria. Being surrounded by such accomplished women, all committed to transforming healthcare for our women and children, filled me with immense pride and optimism.

“To be candid, the challenges before us are enormous. Nigeria’s maternal mortality rate of 512 deaths per 100,000 live births

and neonatal mortality rate of 39 deaths per 1,000 live births are not statistics we can accept as the norm. These figures underscore the urgent need for coordinated action. As women leaders in health, we bear a unique responsibility to reverse these trends and save countless lives.”

She advised that “As Commissioners of Health, you hold a vital position. Even though the constitution delineates responsibilities between Local Governments and our primary healthcare centers, States and their secondary health services, and the Federal Government overseeing tertiary care, the reality is that the health outcomes of your state are your responsibility”.

She said as health authority in their various states, is essential for the Commissioners to understand that they are accountable for the entire spectrum of care.

ance Agency (NHIA) can be used to get these drugs from the source such that patients can source all drugs from the hospital and are not allowed to go outside. That is how it should be.

“Like at the national hospital, there is an oncology pharmacy. Why can’t it be stocked because it explains why people go out to get the fake drugs. These are policies that government should start thing about adopting.”

On his part, Mr. Dozie Akwarandu, a member of NePiCiN in his remark urged

the government to exercise the political will to ensure that policies around the regulation, control and circulation of drugs should be enforced to curtail this problem. According to him, agencies like NAFDAC, FCCPC and SON amongst others must work unanimously to checkmate the issue of fake drugs circulation from the source such that from the manufacturing, packaging, warehousing and supply are monitored and nipped in the bud.

Teacher with Kidney Failure Sends SOS to Tinubu, Oborevwori, Ned Nwoko, Others

The last six months have been traumatic for the family of Mrs. Rita Uche Oji, a teacher and businesswoman, who has been diagnosed with renal failure.

She has been rendered invalid by the ailment and she can no longer do anything without aid. She has been crying and begging God to rescue her from the hands of this disease that has been ravaging her.

Her family has exhausted all their resources towards her treatment and Mrs. Oji is seeking financial assistance from well-meaning Nigerians so that her life will not be cut short and she can contribute her quota to make the world a better place.

The woman, who spoke faintly in excruciating pain, told our correspondent, “I want to live. I know that I still have more than three decades to live, if only people can help me to do the kidney transplant, which will cost me N35 million, and my family cannot afford it.

“My husband is a civil servant who cannot afford such money. My family cannot afford the money either. We have sold everything, including landed property, but all that we have been able to raise ended in dialysis.”

As it is, she needs over N35 million to go for a kidney transplant in India to regain her health.

She has, therefore, sent a save-our-soul asking Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Senator Ned Nwoko, corporate organisations, Ubulu-Uku indigenes and all well-meaning Nigerians to come to her rescue.

Mrs. Oji, a native of UbuluUku in Aniocha- South Local Government Area of Delta State, needs urgent assistance,

financial support and prayers so that she will not die.

According to Mrs. Oji (nee Anene), who is now an outpatient of the Lagos State University Teaching. Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, Lagos, she is undergoing haemodialysis thrice a week, and will continue until she is able to raise the sum of N35,000,000 (thirty million naira) for kidney transplant.

On her hospital bed, Mrs. Oji said, “I wish to inform the good people of Nigeria that I am facing death because of lack of finance. My husband and my family have expended all we have to sustain me. I have been down since May, praying to God that succour would come, but it seems that nothing is changing. Except Nigerians help me and do not let me die. I am still very young and I know that God can use you people to make me live again. My being alive today shows that God wants me to live.

“The cost of staying alive is now way beyond my family’s means. I, therefore, seek your help, dear brothers and sisters, to surmount this terrible illness. Please, don’t let me die.

“I have been battling this chronic kidney failure since June 2023 and I have been placed on mandatory dialysis three times in the hospital a week, which costs N490,000, while a month costs N1.960 million. I am soliciting assistance from my Governor, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Senator Nwoko, well-meaning Deltans and all Nigerians to come to my rescue.

“This death will be avoided if only you people come to my aid. Please, you can support me with any amount through account number, Anene Rita Uche, Access Bank, 0700730340. Contact phone number, 08035727154. May God bless you as you come to my aid.

Abia Embarks on Comprehensive Upgrade of Sec Health Facilities in Umuahia, Water Sanitation Projects

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

After the initial renovation of the Specialist Hospital and Diagnostic Centre, and the Amachara General Hospital all in Umuahia, the government has embarked on “comprehensive upgrade” of the two secondary health facilities.

Commissioner for information, Prince Okey told journalists after the State Executive Council meeting that the goal in upgrading the hospitals was to enhance their capacity to handle medical cases that require

highly specialised expertise.

He listed the special areas of medical treatment to include internal medicine, minimal invasive surgery, cardiology, nephrology, neurology, surgical services, among others.

Kanu said that Governor Alex Otti has also given approval for recruitment of highly specialised medical professionals that would provide the needed specialist services in the various medical fields.

He explained that upgrading of the two secondary health facilities located in the capital city “is in furtherance to the ongoing reforms in the

health sector of the state”, adding that the hospitals “would be retrofitted”.

According to him, the Specialist Hospital and Diagnostic Centre would be retrofitted to offer all kinds of diagnostic and surgery services in a one-stop-shop.

Corroborating his information counterpart, the Commissioner for Health, Professor Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche, said that funds for the project and hiring of “high calibre specialists” has been approved by the governor.

He stated that the comprehensive upgrading of the health facilities involve

renovation of infrastructures, procurement and installation of state-of-the-art medical equipment and bringing in the required manpower.

Prof Uche, who assumed duties as health commissioner last week, said that Otti was desirous of providing the highest standard of healthcare services in Abia thereby reversing the health tourism trend in the state and Nigeria.

“In the succeeding days and weeks, some of these retrofitting and upgrade of services will become manifest,” Prof. Uche said, adding that Abia would become a centre of excellence

in various medical services.

To further improve the general health and hygienic condition of Abia residents, the SEC has also given the nod for the implementation of the Abia Integrated Water Sanitation and Hygiene Accelerated Programme.

Kanu said that the programme involved construction of solar-powered toilet facilities across the state, in line with global standards, as well as revamping of abandoned water facilities and water treatment plants.

While throwing more light on the programme, the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Mr

Ikechukwu Monday, said the programme would basically address water supply issues, which are critical to public health.

“When we took office, we assessed all the water facilities in the state and found that none of the 58 core water facilities was producing even a litre of water,” he said. Monday said that the course of implementing the three-phased programme, existing boreholes would be revived and converted to solar power to ensure constant water supply instead of relying on inconsistent power grid.

FunErAl prAyEr FOr mOthEr OF FOrmEr SEnAtOr BABA KAKA BAShir GArBAi...

Edo Guber Election: Obaseki, Others Storm

Agenebode for PDP as Hundreds Join Party

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The open field of Ogbaki Primary School, Agenebode, headquarters of Etsako East Local Government Area, on Wednesday turned a carnival ground as Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State led the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Asue Ighodalo and his running mate Osarodion Ogie Esq, in the September 21 governorship election, accompanied by top party chieftains to canvass votes.

Bouyed by the teeming crowd, Obaseki declared that Edo needs a very capable hand to pilot its affairs. He said given the level of suffering currently ravaging Nigeria today, it would be a big disservice to the state to elect somebody who is grossly incompetent and incapable of managing it.

He emphasised that a state like Edo, which is already enjoying good governance needs competent and capable hands to continue with the good works and that is why he brought Asue Ighodalo and Osarodion Ogie to continue the good work. In another related development, Governor Obaseki and his deputy, Marvellous Godwins Omobayo as well as other leaders and members of the Edo PDP took the party’s campaign to Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of the state, canvassing votes for the party’s candidate for the September 21 governorship election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo and his deputy, Osarodion Ogie.

The campaign trail also touched down at Etsako West Local Government Area, as the governor maintained that the PDP has the best candidate

in the election, urging the people to vote for credibility and competence.

Speaking to the jubilant crowd of party faithful and supporters, Obaseki said his government has pursued holistic reforms in education, agriculture, sports, technology, and health, among others.

He again warned that these gains and successes would be derailed if left in the hands of an unintelligent, inexperienced or incompetent person whose only aim in power is to share the common patrimony of the people among the political class.

Meanwhile, at the field of Ogbaki Primary School, Agenebode, Governor Obaseki got the crowd into a roaring laughter when he declared that: "Asue Ighodalo is not a push and start candidate."

He further assured the people that the foundation ceremony for the School of Agriculture (Fishery and Aqua Culture) which has been laid is sure to continue with a man like Asue Ighodalo. "He will continue with the project and complete it for the people of Etsako East," he said.

The governor went further to say that for more development to continue in Edo State, the people need a government of continuity and Asue Ighodalo and Osarodion Ogie are the best bet to do just that.

In his address, Ighodalo thanked the people for the show of love and support for both the party and his candidature.

He promised that if elected, all ongoing projects will be completed and more will be started.

Ighodalo said he will create wealth for the people from the riverine zone between Illushi in Esan South East

and Agenebode along the River Niger by developing the blue economy potential of the region. He charged the cheering crowd to come out en masse on September 21 to vote for the umbrella.

Earlier, the PDP Chairman in the local government, welcomed the party campaign team and the governor to

the local government.

He assured the candidate of their support and vote, noting that there will not be anything like intimidation and they are fully prepared to cage the lions and tigers on that day.

A chieftain of the party, High Chief Alaba Oshoguma, thanked the governor for delivering on his

The Katsina State Government and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) have procured 7,000 cartons of Ready-to-use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) and other supplementary food worth N400 million to tackle severe acute malnutrition bedeviling children in the state.

The UNICEF Country Representative, Cristian Mundauate, who disclosed this Wednesday while handing over the food supplements to the state government in Katsina, said the RUTF will provide life-saving assistance to 8,000 malnourished children under five years in the state.

promise to the people of the area and for bringing back school of agriculture to the local government, electricity, water and other ongoing projects. He assured the governor of their vote come September 21 as a thank you gesture.

Also speaking, Roseline Adomi, a leader of one of the formidable

Continues online support groups, also thanked the governor for performing grand breaking ceremony of the school of agriculture. She pointed out other projects and promise that their vote will be a thank you vote.

Group Urges Tinubu to Review NAHCON Act, Transfer Hajj Operation to Private Tours

The Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to transfer Hajj operations to private tour operators, describing the current NAHCON Act as obsolete that cannot stand the test of time.

The association made the call in a communique signed by its national president, Abdulateef Ekundayo, at the end of its zonal conference for the year 2024, held in Kano.

It said any attempt to review the NAHCON Act should capture the private sector initiative led by AHUON, and its members should have representations on the Board.

The communique also urged the Nigerian government to adopt modern Hajj management, particularly as envisioned by Vision 2030 reforms of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

AHUON agreed that the future

of Hajj belongs to the private tour operators as it’s obtainable in the other climes.

This year’s conference themed: “Hajj Reforms: The Position of AHUON” appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support to the Nigerian Pilgrims and urged his government to always extend such goodwill to Nigerian Pilgrims under the private tour operators.

In its communique: "The conference noted with concern the continued delay of NAHCON to close the books of 2024 Hajj, from the tour operators’ perspective. This includes refunds of all monies owed its members by the commission before the opening of a new bid for Hajj 2025.

"The conference found it appalling, the refusal of the NAHCON to respond to the association’s plea to intervene on the issue of epileptic Umrah visa regime from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj, " AHUON also called for a stay

Injects N400m to Tackle Malnutrition

She said the food supplements were purchased by UNICEF in collaboration with the Katsina State Government through the Child Nutrition Match Fund, as part of the UN agency’s commitment in taming severe acute malnutrition and other impediments beleaguering children in the state.

Mundauate said: “Today (Wednesday), we are delivering about 7,000 cartons of RUTF purchased by UNICEF and the Katsina State Government. These RUTFs will be used to attend and provide life-saving assistance to almost 8,000 children under five years who suffered severe acute malnutrition.

“They are the children that are so weak and about to die. Unfortunately,

many of them who have reached this state already had impaired their intellectual capacities for life long. So, we are saving them so that they can function as any other children who can grow and develop in normal conditions.”

While receiving the RUFT, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda said: “Katsina State has a very high number of malnourished children”, but the rapprochement between the state government and the United Nations Children's Fund would significantly improve children's health and eradicate the scourge in the state.

He said the state government and UNICEF have injected the N400 mil-

lion as matching funds to provide the needed nutrients to children between zero to five years, adding that addressing malnutrition at the tender age remained the cardinal objective of his administration.

According to him, “We are happy that UNICEF is matching the amount we put on ground to provide the needed nutrients to Katsina children below the age of five. That is the most critical period in life.

“If we are able to address the issue of malnutrition within that range (zero to five) we are saving lives. Katsina State Government has provided N200 million which UNICEF has equally matched with N200 million”.

of action on the Bidding for the 2025 Hajj license until NAHCON reconciles its accounts with the Tour Operators and pay all refunds outstanding, including the 2023 and 2024 caution deposits and those of services not rendered over the years.

Education Stakeholders Demand Reversal of Nigerian Ban on Benin, Togo Varsities’ Certificates

Funmi Ogundare

The Coalition of Stakeholders in Education (CSE), yesterday, appealed to the Nigerian government and the Federal Ministry of Education to reverse their recent decision to ban degree certificates from institutions in Benin Republic and Togo.

The group, comprising lecturers, parents, and students from these countries, argued that hardworking students who earned their degrees through legitimate means should not be penalized for the misconduct of a few.

Briefing journalists in Lagos, Gabriel Kona, President of the Nigerian Lecturers in Benin, expressed concern over inconsistencies in the Minister of Education's statements.

He pointed out that contrary to the minister’s claim, Benin Republic has eight public universities and 95 private universities accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, while Togo has more than three accredited universities.

This contradicts the Minister's assertion that only three institutions in Togo and five in Benin are recognized, he observed.

Kona also explained that the three-year degree programs offered in Benin Republic and Togo are equivalent to the four-year bachelor programs in Nigeria, thanks to the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), which is

used across Europe and applicable in Africa.

He added that Benin's educational policy allows instruction in English, making the language of instruction a non-issue.

He further criticised the minister’s decision to retroactively invalidate these certificates, calling it unjust. Kona queried: "Has the FME been misleading Nigerian students all these years? What happens to the money students paid for certificate evaluations? Why did the FME provide evaluations for these graduates over the past seven years?"

The president emphasised that addressing the ongoing crises in Africa's educational system requires a comprehensive approach rather than retroactive measures. He urged the Nigerian government, as a leading nation in sub-Saharan Africa, to play a pivotal role in revolutionising education in the region. He also called for collaboration between Nigeria, Benin, and Togo to address the issues collectively, noting that Nigerian students and their families are already distressed and confused by the situation.

"Studying abroad was never a crime until now. We need all parents, guardians, and concerned Nigerians, both at home and abroad, to appeal to our policymakers to find a more effective solution to the longstanding problems in the education sector," Kona added.

Francis Sardauna in Katsina

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

L-R: Former SGF, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe; Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum; Vice President Kashim Shettima and Shehu of Dikwa, Ibrahim Ibn Umar Elkanemi, were among thousands of dignitaries who attended the funeral prayer for the mother of the former senator representing Borno Central, Baba Kaka Bashir Garbai ...on Tuesday

RECEPTION IN HONOUR Of CIBN PRESIDENT...

L-R: Ag. Director Financial Policy and Regulation; Central Bank of Nigeria; Mr. John

and

Executive Vice Chairman FIC Professionals Network Plc;

Obi: I Have Received Barrage of Attacks for Reviling Canadian Igbo Lady’s Hate Speech

Appoints Yunusa interim head of Obidient Movement Worldwide

Chuks Okocha in Abuja Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has said he had received a “barrage of reactions” after condemning the actions of Amaka Patience Sunnberger, a Nigerian woman based in Canada, who threatened to poison Yoruba and Benin people in a viral video. Obi condemned such tribal and religious division while noting many people’s comments which tried to justify her actions.

Writing on his X account, Obi said, “Following my recent comment on the Nigerian woman living in Canada, who made very distasteful comments against her fellow Nigerians in Canada.

“While condemning such a level of tribal and religious division, I have

received a barrage of reactions from people, many of whom tried to justify their actions.

“Some explained that her comments were in reaction to earlier hateful comments made by another Nigerian and reportedly directed at

Rivers: Customs Seizes Drugs, Military Camouflage Worth N31.2bn

Declares emergency protocol on Onne seaport

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Mr. Bashir Adeniyi, has disclosed the seizure of illicit goods, including drugs and military camouflage worth N31.2billion by the Area 2 Command of the Service, Onne Port, in Rivers State.

other Nigerians of the Igbo ethnicity, which I also now condemn in the strongest terms.

“As I mentioned then, and still maintain now, tribal tension and religious division must not be allowed to grow among us. Such divisive and hateful comments and behaviours against one another should have no place among us.

united and peaceful nation, shall the New Nigeria stand. It is POssible.” Meanwhile, Obi has named Dr Yunusa Tanko as the Interim National Coordinator of his Obidient Movement worldwide. Before this new appointment, Tanko was the former Anambra State governor’s spokesman and media director of the defunct Labour Party Presidential Campaign Organisation. In 2015, the activist cum politician was the Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council before moving to National Conscience Party where he became the presidential candidate in 2019.

He said the seizures were made in strict compliance with customs laws, particularly concerning concealment, false declaration, and the importation of prohibited items.

Adeniyi, who expressed delight that trade facilitation was getting

The comptroller general disclosed this yesterday, at the Onne sea port in Eleme, while displaying the seized illegallysmuggled goods in 12 40-feet containers.

The Department of State Service (DSS), yesterday, explained its new media policy to the public, insisting that the less visible the service becomes in the media and public spaces, the more effective it will be in picking the needed and requisite intelligence to secure the country against subversive elements and tackle the growing insecurity across the federation.

The Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Department of State Services, Dr. Peter Afunanya, offered this explanation while addressing a press conference at the headquarters of the service in Abuja.

Announcing his exit as the spokesperson of the service, Afunanya said: "Beginnings also end. It's goodbye. It's good night and yet a good morning. I remain a Nigerian with love, loyalty, honour and glory. So, help me God".

He also stated that the new communication policy is in line with global best practices amongst covert policing institutions in the world.

Recall that the Director General,

Department of State Service (DSS), Oluwatosin Ajayi, while addressing personnel of the service on assumption of office on 28th August, 2024, pledged to refocus the service towards covertness and likelihood of studied silence over certain matters.

This means that the service will return to the culture of opaqueness in dealing the public, particularly the media, especially as it relates to information sharing.

The outgoing DSS spokesperson who had his last media engagement with reporters in Abuja, further explained that the service is working out new modalities of sharing information with the media.

He averred that the robust media engagement witnessed under his headship was no longer tenable as information can only be shared when it is extremely necessary.

Dr. Afunanya who was being redeployed back to core intelligence duty, shared with nostalgia his 10-year experience with journalists as the image maker of the service. He enjoined the media to cooperate with the service in the interest of national security and economic growth.

traction in Onne, said the repeated incidence of smuggling of illicit goods through the Port, was of grave concern to the nation's security.

He recalled that the policy thrust of President Bola Tinubu supported the re-energising of the business environment to drive faster import clearance and grow the capacity for exports.

The CGC explained that customs emphasis has been to promote initiatives that speaks to trade facilitation and economic development, expressing regret that criminal clements in the international supply chain are

exploiting the nation's pro-trade stance to commit atrocities bordering on national security breaches.

He, however, regretted that a few months after declaring state of emergency in Onne Port, the area command has seized another huge illegal drugs and other goods.

Noting that the Onne Port was increasingly being used as a destination for dangerous and illicit cargo, Adeniyi stressed that, "The scale and nature of these illegal importations pose a significant threat to our national security and the health of our citizens."

“We must remain one united nation, focused on solving the myriads of challenges facing us as a nation. We must unite against the further polarisation of our nation along tribal, religious and political lines, and focus on finding lasting solutions to the challenges of high insecurity, unbearable high cost of living and leadership failure that has continued to weigh us down.

“With faith in our nation, may we embrace unity and peace, so that we can achieve true progress, growth and development in our nation. On one

Obi, who announced the new appointment at an X Space engagement, explained that the choice of Tanko was agreed after consensus to zone the position to the North. The LP national leader also stressed that his track record and leadership qualities were also considered.

As part of renewed efforts to enhance economic cooperation between Nigeria and Ghana, the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA) and the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen business collaboration and boosting bilateral trade between the two countries.

The signing ceremony was held on the sidelines of the Diaspora Conference (DACON) in Ghana, an event focused on fostering connections between Africa and its Diaspora.

The MoU was signed at the GNCCI headquarters, where the President of NACCIMA, Dele Kelvin Oye, was officially received by the President of GNCCI, Clement Osei-Amoako, along with the Director-General of GNCCI, Mark

Badu-Aboagye.

The event was attended by several notable figures, including Victoria Akai, Chairperson of the Trade Fair Committees at NACCIMA; Warren Winston, a board member of the Global African Business Association (GABA), and Nkechi Akunyili, founder of Access View Africa based in Accra, Ghana, underscoring the importance of the agreement for the broader business communities of both nations.

This strategic partnership includes the annual exchange of schedules between NACCIMA and GNCCI, allowing for better synchronization of activities, events, and initiatives designed to enhance trade and business opportunities.

The MoU also emphasizes the need for stronger alliances within Anglophone Africa, with a particular focus on regional integration, business integrity, and the promotion of trade.

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen Christopher Musa, yesterday, told Katsina State people that security was everybody's responsibility.

He, therefore, called on the people to cooperate fully with the military and other security agencies in the state to address the growing security threats in not just the state but the geo-political zone.

Musa said this while on a visit to Katsina to assess the operational readiness of troops to address security challenges in the state.

Speaking at the Government House, Katsina, the CDS disclosed that he was in the state on the directive of president Bola Tinubu.

A statement by Acting Director, Defence Information, Brig Gen Tukur Gusau, stated that the CDS appreciated Governor Umar Radda, for his enormous support to the AFN and for providing a conducive atmosphere for troops to operate

Noting that he was in Katsina to assess Joint Operation Areas, the Defence Chief enjoined the troops to be more patriotic, committed, and exhibit professionalism in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.

He promised the troops of

improved welfare and provision of adequate equipment to arrest insecurity in the general area.

Radda, in his response, applauded the CDS for coming to asses security situation in the state with the aim of providing a lasting solution.

He assured the CDS of the state’s continuous support and partnership with the AFN towards arresting insecurity.

"The government is sensitising people on the need to cooperate with Armed Forces and other security agencies," said Radda, who added that the state would continue to demand more, while appealing for increased security presence in the southern part of the state.

While in Katsina, the Chief of Defence Staff also visited the Yaradua family house to condole with them over the demise of Hajia Binta Dada Yar'adua, the family’s matriarch and mother of late President Umaru Musa Yaradua.

He described her as a committed and humane woman of virtue, adding that the country would miss her contributions to the development of the nation.

The CDS prayed for the repose of her soul and called on the family to embrace and improve on her legacies.

Onoja;

Mrs. Christabel Onyejekwe; Technical Advisor to the President on Financial Inclusion; Dr Nurudeen Abubakar Zauro; President

Chairman of Council; the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN); Prof. Deji Olanrewaju; wife of President; Mrs. Remi Olanrewaju; and the former Managing Director and Regional Executive; Ecobank Nigeria Limited. Mr. Patrick Akinwuntan at the Reception in honor of Prof Deji Olanrewaju, President and Chairman of CIBN, held in Lagos….. yesterday

Linus Aleke in Abuja

COMMUNITY MEDICAL OUTREACH...

L-R: Site Medical Adviser, Agbara Factory, Unilever Nigeria, Dr. Oludare Adeyemi; Senior Medical Adviser, Unilever Nigeria, Dr.Taiwo Akinoso; The Alagbara of Agbara Kingdom

Lukman Jaiyeola Agunbiade; Manufacturing Director, Unilever Nigeria, Mr.Abayomi Alli; and Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainable Business; Unilever Nigeria; Godfrey Adejumoh, during a community medical outreach organised by Unilever Nigeria at Agbara, Ogun State…recently

PDP NWC in Crucial Meeting over NEC’s Directive to Replace Ayu on September 25

Orders completion of congresses in Ogun, Abia, Kano, Benue, A’Ibom, silent on Rivers

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Barring any further changes within the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the party would hold on September 25 to consider a directive to properly replace its suspended former national chairman, Iyorchia Ayu.

This was contained in a circular by the National Organising Secretary of the party, Hon. Umar Bature.

According to the circular for the meeting, the holding of the PDP NEC meeting is as a result of the completion of all state congresses in the states where there are vacancies in the state executive Council.

By the circular, all appeals to the state congresses held last week were expected to hold today, September 5, 2024.

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP would hold on September 12 to prepare for the holding of the NEC meeting

The first NEC meeting of the party took place on April 18 2024 and mandated the NWC to prepare grounds for a NEC meeting on August 18 to elect a replacement for Ayu, who officially withdrew his suit against the PDP on April 15.

But the entire arrangements changed due to the lesser hajj, which majority of the members attended.

Though the appeals to the congresses are expected to hold today, September 5, there are still complex situations over the congresses, especially in Rivers and Benue States as well as other states

In Rivers State, the status of the Congress is still on unknown as a court has stopped the holding of the congresses pending the resolution of the court case instituted against the Rivers State Congress.

At yesterday's meeting of the NWC, the party ordered that the congresses in states like in Abia, Ebonyi, Benue, Ogun, Kano and Akwa Ibom State, where the congresses were successfully not completed should be revisited and completed.

THISDAY, however, gathered that at NWC meeting, Rivers was not mentioned, despite the directive by the PDP governors that the Rivers State governor, Siminalayi Fubara should have control of the state leadership of the party.

Though a state congress in Port Harcourt took place on Saturday, not withstanding the directive of a court order against the congress.

A High Court sitting in Port

Harcourt, Rivers State, had restrained the PDP and the party’s NEC from gathering or holding any congress in the state.

The High Court in Port Harcourt had restrained their agents from gathering anywhere in the 319 wards of the 23 local government areas in the state.

Presiding Judge, Justice Charles

Wali, in a judgement order, restrained the PDP National Chairman, Iliya Damagum and National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu from holding the Congress.

Wali also gave an interim injunction restraining the party agents from gathering anywhere in Rivers to hold Ward, LGA, or state congress pending the hearing and determination of suit

T I nu B u: A TTA ck on Yo B e c ow A r

"The turmoil extends to the south as well, where the disquiet wrought by Boko Haram and the unsettling political discord threatens the nation’s peace.

"Amidst these grave challenges, the federal government preoccupies itself with stifling dissent, resorting to draconian measures, such as imposing death sentences on protesters.

"The atrocity in Yobe is a stark testament to the failure of the current security framework, demanding immediate and comprehensive reform.

"My heart goes out to the victims of these horrific attacks, and I fervently implore the Tinubu administration to demonstrate a heightened commitment to safeguarding life and property across the nation."

on New Media, Abdulrahman Bundi, condemned the attack, while urging everyone to unite in the fight against insecurity in the North-east.

He stated, “In times like these, we must come together as a community to support one another. My heart goes out to the families, who have lost loved ones and to those who have been affected by this senseless act of violence. If we come together, in sha Allah, we will overcome this challenge.

“I pray to Almighty Allah to accept the souls of those who lost their lives and forestall the reoccurrence of such tragic incidents in future.”

no: PHC/2400/CS/2024 before him.

Also a High Court sitting in Gboko, Benue State, had restrained the PDP from conducting the forthcoming congress scheduled for Saturday, August 10, 2024, in six local governments.

This was as concerned Benue PDP stakeholders, yesterday, commended the party for suspending

the area.

He said nine persons were killed while one was critically injured, adding that the incident has created yet another security tension in the area.

ACF Seeks Unconventional Approaches to Security, Says Current Measures Unyielding

Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) called on the federal government to consider other strategies, including unconventional measures, in addressing the security challenges in the north.

the immediate past Governor of the state, Samuel Ortom, and three others from the party in the state

However, the restraining order was signed by Justice J. M. Ayua in a motion exparte brought before the court. The applicants in the suit were Senator Orker Jev, Terseer Tsumba, Aondoyina Grace, Tergun Tsegba, and 13 others.

“The current approaches to fighting the insurgents and bandits are not yielding the desired results. Other measures, even unconventional ones, need to be considered and tried.

“Our vision is to transform Lagos into a global manufacturing hub, where high-quality, made-in-Lagos products are exported to every corner of the globe.”

Also in his goodwill message, Governor of Kano State, Engr. Abba Kabir, represented by the Special Adviser, State Affairs, Usman Bala Muhammad, emphasised strategic advantages in economic diversification in non-oil exports.

In his words, “Our strength begins with agriculture, which has been the cornerstone of our economy for decades. Kano’s agricultural sector has a strong base that we are leveraging for diversification. However, diversification is not just about increasing crop yields; it is about adding value.

“Through strategic investments in agro-processing, we are converting raw agricultural products into finished goods, creating jobs, and enhancing local consumption.

“By aligning our export diversification strategies with global market trends and standards, and leveraging opportunities such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), we can significantly

expand Nigeria’s non-oil exports to African markets and beyond.”

Speaking on diversification, Governor of Zamfara State, Dr. Dauda Lawal, represented by the Commissioner of Finance, Abdullahi Bello Auta, urged stakeholders to explore other untapped areas for export.

According to him, “One major important sector which contributes to non-oil export which is not harnessed and which is giving us a lot of trouble simply because it is not organised is the mining sector.

“I can tell you with all sincerity and courage that once we are talking of mineral resources in Nigeria, Zamfara state is the hub. There is no single solid mineral that you can talk of that you cannot find here in abundance and in good quality.”

Zenith Bank launched the NonOil Export Seminar in 2015 as an initiative to deepen the discourse on promoting the non-oil export business in Nigeria, and remains committed to promoting the non-oil export sector in Nigeria by identifying emerging opportunities that help stimulate non-oil exports and developing robust financial products as well AT ZenITH BAnk TrADe SemInAr, STAkeHolDerS ADvocATe IncreASeD InveSTmenTS In

Chairman of Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Yahaya, in a press statement, described the attack as a senseless act of violence that had caused immense grief to the affected families and communities.

Yahaya commended the security forces for their efforts against the remnants of criminal groups, but emphasised the need for intensified efforts to track down and apprehend those responsible for the attack.

“This brutal act must not go unpunished. I call on security agencies to double their efforts and ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice,” Yahaya stated.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the northern governors to supporting efforts aimed at restoring peace and security in the region, stressing the importance of collective action to prevent such tragedies from recurring.

The governor extended the forum’s sympathies to the bereaved families and the government of Yobe State, and praying for the repose of the souls of the deceased and wishing the injured speedy recovery.

Director-General, Press Affairs, Gombe Government House, Ismaila Misilli, signed the statement.

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, expressed his sympathies to Buni, the victims and their families.

Zulum, whose statement was signed by his Senior Special Assistant

Zulum, who is also Chairman of North East Governors Forum, expressed sadness that such an attack happened when the region had attained a significant level of peace.

He assured that governments in the North-east zone would not be deterred and would work with security agencies to restore normalcy.

Gunmen Kill Seven in Fresh Plateau Attacks

No fewer than seven persons were killed on Tuesday night in attacks on Kwatas and Daffo communities of Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The attacks also left one person severely injured.

Special Adviser to Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Brig-Gen. Gakji Shipi (rtd), told newsmen on Wednesday in Jos that the two communities were attacked simultaneously, leaving seven persons dead.

Gakji, who is also the coordinator of Operation Rainbow, a state-owned security outfit, said, “So far, seven people have been confirmed killed while others sustained varying degrees of injuries.

“At the moment, normalcy has returned to the areas, but we are still on the trail of those behind this dastardly act and we will not allow them to get away with it.”

A resident of the area, Danladi Malau, explained that the attacks took place in the communities about 8pm, shortly after the people had retired to their homes from the market in

In a communique issued yesterday at the end of a meeting of its Board of Trustees (BoT) in Kaduna, the forum said the current approaches in the fight against insurgents and bandits were not yielding the desired results.

The meeting attended by many prominent northerners was presided by Chairman of ACF’s BoT, Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu.

The communique read by the spokesperson of the forum, Professor Tukur Mohammed-Baba, stated that there appeared to be no end in sight to the security challenges, as measures adopted by the authorities had so far failed to yield the desired results.

The communique stated, “Members agreed that at the moment, there is nothing troubling Northern Nigeria more than the lack of security of lives and property.

“The North is today ravaged by elevated forms of banditry, Boko Haram and other insurgencies. The menace of drug trafficking and abuse is steadily rising.

“Not surprisingly, food production is becoming increasingly difficult, as farmlands are abandoned and the farmers are getting either killed or fleeing to the IDP camps.

“There does not appear to be an end in sight to these crisis as the mitigation measures taken by the authorities have so far failed to yield the desired results.

“Under the circumstances, the meeting resolved to make the following recommendations: whatever it takes, the security crisis in Northern Nigeria must end; and end quickly. Our survival depends on it!

“Nigeria is facing a moral crisis for failing to protect its citizens, who cannot bear arms but are left at the mercy of well-armed, cruel and blood thirsty renegades and barbarians that continue to have free access to deadly arms. This is a matter that requires very urgent thoughts and review.” The communique advocated community driven models of defence, such as the Civilian JTF, already in operation in several parts of the country, including in the Boko-Haramravaged North-east of Nigeria. It said similar or modified models of security management should be authorised in other parts of the country, adding that high cost of living, driven by severe food shortages and the rising prices of electricity and fuel energy, had compounded the challenges of insecurity and violent crimes.

It called on the government do all within its powers to mitigate the effect of these problems.

The forum also identified corruption at all levels as the key driver of bad governance and the social and economic crisis plaguing the country, and called on the authorities to “wage an all-out war against corruption without further delay”.

According to the communique, “After reviewing current agitations and calls for a review of Nigeria's 1999 Constitution as well as the restructuring of the administrative structure of Nigeria, the meeting resolved to dispel any impression that the North was shy, afraid of or averse to any such proposals. It is false and misguided.

“The meeting further resolved to put all and sundry on notice that Northern Nigeria is willing to consider ALL proposals on constitutional review that may be put on the table; now or in the future.

“If and when the occasion arises, the North will surely use whatever is available to it in pursuit of its legitimate interests.”

(Olute III), HRH Oba

PNG GAS ISO CERTIFICATION...

L-R: Member, PNG Gas Board of Directors, Kazeem Raimi; Manager, Bureau Veritas, Mrs. Adenike Akinbote; Managing Director, Bureau Veritas, Mr. Jean-Michel Perret; Chairman, PNG Gas, Mr. John Anim, and Managing Director, PNG Gas, Mr. Gabriel Ilenreh, during the presentation of ISO Integrated Management System Certificates to PNG Gas, in Lagos... recently

Pe T rol Pr I ce H I ke: PDP, lA bour u n I on S , Afen I fere, c S oS f ume, lA mb AST f G he should be courageous enough to let the world know whether the president gave the labour leaders one hour to meet and resolve to either accept and allow an increase or accept N62,000."

It said labour leaders decided to meet outside the villa and to report in a week, but when they came back, they were blunt and rejected the offer.

Equally, TUC asked the federal government to rescind the decision on the recent increases in the pump price of petrol and electricity tariff.

It asked the federal government to reverse the decision and take steps to rebuild confidence among the citizens.

In a statement signed by its President, Festus Osifo, the union stressed that the sudden price hike represented "a blatant disregard for the welfare of the Nigerian people, particularly the working class who bear the brunt of such decisions.

"The sudden hike in fuel and electricity costs will only exacerbate these challenges, leading to further hardship and potential social unrest.

"We urge the government to immediately rescind these decisions, promote policies that will strengthen the naira, and take decisive steps to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians."

TUC stated that it received the news of the petrol price hike with great contestation and grave concern. It added that the burden of the price increase was huge and would affect all facets of the citizen’s social-economic life.

"In addition, we are deeply troubled by the further hike in electricity tariffs to 250 per cent, a service that is essential for the survival of the poorest in our society," it stated.

The union said the timing and magnitude of the increases, in the absence of any meaningful social security measures, demonstrated a lack of empathy and understanding of the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians.

Afenifere Calls for Immediate Reversal

Afenifere called on the federal government to immediately order NNPCL to reverse the increase in petrol pump price.

Afenifere, in a statement signed by its spokesman, Jare Ajayi, asserted that Nigerians were currently going through a lot of challenges as a result of the biting socio-economic crunch and the attendant hardships.

It said, ironically, the announcement of its debt to foreign suppliers came not long after the national oil company announced that it made N3.3 trillion net profit in its 2023

Audited Financial Statement.

Afenifere said with the latest increase in the price of fuel, the cost of fuel in Nigeria had risen by 460 per cent in 15 months.

Afenifere wondered why a firm that declared profit running into trillions of naira could, almost in the same breath, claim that it was indebted to the tune of nearly $7 billion.

“Why not pay off the debt from the available fund before declaring it as profit?” it queried.

Afenifere said, “It is, therefore, a wrong time to come up with any policy that will increase the undesirable challenges Nigerians are going through presently.

“Failure by the NNPCL to reverse the latest increment in fuel price will rub off negatively on some policies of Tinubu administration to ease things for the citizens. Policies, such as the Students Loan Scheme and Consumer Credit Scheme that are just taking off.”

The statement said the oil company seemed to be making Nigerians pay for its inefficiency.

According to Afenifere, “It is common knowledge that the cost and availability of energy, such as petrol, gas, electricity, diesel and kerosene are major factors, not only in production and services ,but also on the quality of well-being that Nigerians can enjoy.

“Hikes in prices of these energy sources have astronomically increased the costs of services and commodities, reduced the disposal incomes of average Nigerians, and heightened their health risk.

“The combination of all these are making a daily living an onerous task for the majority of the citizens. Because millions of the Nigerians had been described as being ‘multidimensionally poor’, the recent hike in costs of fuel and electricity are uploading the number of people in that category phenomenally.”

ActionAid Nigeria condemned the hike in pump price of petroleum products, demanding immediate action from the government on economic reform

The non-governmental organisation said increasing the minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000 would never bring succour from economic hardship to Nigerians as it only amounted to treating eczema instead of leprosy.

ActionAid, in a statement yesterday, signed by its Country Director, Andrew Mamedu, said, “The federal government must prioritise the welfare of Nigerian citizens over revenue generation and provide a comprehensive plan to protect vulnerable citizens and support small businesses within 48 hours. This plan must include measures to mitigate the impact of high fuel prices on the poor and vulnerable.”

Mamedu lamented, “Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, the removal of fuel subsidies has led to a harsh economic reality for many Nigerians. Despite efforts to recover, the federal government's decision to allow fuel prices to surge again has worsened the situation, leading to a ripple effect on the economy.

“In May 2023, just before President Tinubu's inauguration, petrol prices were already high at N185 per litre, causing widespread discontent among Nigerians due to the accompanying high cost of goods. However, on his first day in office, fuel prices

skyrocketed to N500 per litre, leading to a sharp surge in the prices of essential commodities.

“Since then, fuel prices have continued to rise steadily. By August 2023, it reached N626.70 and continued to fluctuate, surmounting N668.3 in January 2024 and N770.54 in July 2024. As of September 2024, it has increased again to a staggering N897 per litre, which greatly worsens the situation for many Nigerians.”

Mamedu stated further, “ActionAid Nigeria strongly condemns this development, which will push millions of Nigerians deeper into poverty. We demand transparency in fuel pricing, including a clear breakdown of costs and revenues associated with fuel imports, refining, and distribution.

“The federal government must provide a detailed explanation of the fuel pricing mechanism to ensure accountability and trust.

“Concurrently, the federal government must implement a comprehensive economic reform plan as soon as possible, including measures to diversify the economy, increase foreign exchange earnings, and stabilise the naira.”

NACAT also condemned what it termed the insensitivity of government to the suffering of the masses, describing its policies as a thorn in the flesh of Nigerians.

It said the decision to hike fuel price, with the economy already in a parlous state, was "a betrayal of trust".

A statement by the civil society organisation said the hike in pump price of petrol was a breach of the agreement reached with labour.

It stated, "It is with rude shock that we received the recent surreptitious, abrupt and unconscionable hike in the price of petrol.

"As an organisation that promotes good governance, transparency, rule of law, and sustenance of the security and wellbeing of Nigerians in the project of nation building, we see this latest increase, coming on the heels of the relentless economic torment inflicted on Nigerians by the current administration, as nothing short of a betrayal of the public trust.

“It is an egregious affront to the collective well-being of the Nigerian people, who have already been subjected to untold hardship by a series of failed policies.

"The government’s cavalier attitude towards the suffering of the masses is deeply troubling and unacceptable.

“We are appalled by revelations from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) that this hike in fuel prices directly contradicts the understanding reached with the government regarding the N70,000 minimum wage."

The statement signed by Director, Operations, Stanley Ugagbe, said NLC made it clear that the decision to accept the N70,000 minimum wage was predicated on the promise that PMS prices would remain stable.

NACAT said, "As a leading anticorruption and trafficking body, we state clearly that corruption thrives where poverty prevails. We know

very well that with the increment of fuel, everything in the country will immediately skyrocket in prices and this will give room to civil servants as well as public office holders to steal more to cover up the cost of things.

"This government has seemingly forgotten that it was a culmination of such bad policies and the resulting hardship that fuelled the recent nationwide #EndBadGovernance protests.

"Under the APC government, Nigerians have been subjected to an endless cycle of troubles and afflictions. The biblical analogy is not lost on us—this is akin to King Rehoboam’s infamous declaration that he would scourge the Israelites with scorpions, a decision that ultimately led to the division of the kingdom. In a similar vein, this government’s continued oppressive policies threaten to divide and devastate the very fabric of our nation."

LCCI:

Removal of Petrol Subsidy Presents Significant Challenges to Nigerians and Businesses

LCCI stated that the removal of petrol subsidy in a manner that caused a sharp hike in the pump price would present significant challenges to Nigerians and businesses.

Director General of LCCI, Dr. Chinyere Almona, in a statement, however, maintained that the current petrol subsidy was unsustainable and the burden of the shortfall had accumulated to a debt of N10 trillion.

Almona stressed, “Completely removing it and subjecting Nigerians to a significant fuel price hike presents significant challenges.

“A steep price hike would likely trigger widespread price increases, potentially reversing the recent easing in inflation seen in July and leading to another surge in inflation rates. Balancing the need for fiscal responsibility with the economic impact on citizens is a complex task for the government.”

LCCI added that the impact of the latest hike in petrol price on businesses “will be severe, with fuel prices affecting supply and logistics, power generation, transportation, and factory operations.

“The cost of doing business will skyrocket, prices of goods will rise, and some firms may shut down due to low demand in the face of weakening consumer purchasing power. Of course, this will be followed by job losses.”

The chamber stated that even though the “situation is critical, when considered against the background of NNPC, which owes suppliers about $6 billion, the operation of the Dangote Refinery, which now produces fuel and diesel for sale, offers a glimmer of hope.

“This game-changing intervention could restore some stability to the oil and gas sector, which has been grappling with significant distortions this year.”

It advocated, “Supporting the

development of additional local refineries to process our crude for local consumption and potential export across Africa is the way forward.

“This long-term strategy is crucial for the stability and growth of our economy.

“As an immediate intervention, it would be beneficial for the Port Harcourt Refinery to commence operations alongside production from the Dangote Refinery.

“Given the current challenges with importing refined fuel, relying on local production may be the most viable option at this time.

“We recommend sustaining local supplies, with the expectation that demand will eventually align with supply, leading to equilibrium pricing across various sources.”

NACCIMA Expresses Concern

NACCIMA, in a statement by its National President, Dele Oye, called on the federal government to engage in constructive dialogue with relevant stakeholders, including the organised private sector and labour unions, to address the concerns raised about the price increase and its potential effect on the economy.

The statement said, “NACCIMA expresses concerns over the recent increase in the pump price of petrol to over N800 per litre at NNPC filling stations across the country.

“While we understand the complex factors that can influence fuel prices, such as global oil market dynamics and exchange rate fluctuations, we are troubled by the lack of prior notice and clear explanations provided by the government and the NNPC regarding this development.

“The timing of this price hike is particularly concerning, as it has the potential to further exacerbate the impact on businesses and consumers, especially the vulnerable segments of the population and those on fixed incomes, who are still adjusting to the recent increase in the national minimum wage.”

Oye stated, “We are particularly interested in understanding the reported conditions that may have been agreed upon during the minimum wage negotiations, and how the current development aligns with those understandings.

Maintaining trust and credibility in the government’s economic policies is crucial for fostering a conducive business environment and promoting inclusive growth.

“Furthermore, we urge the authorities to provide clarity on the NNPC's financial reporting, which has seen conflicting statements about the company's profitability and financial obligations.

Transparency and accountability within the state-owned oil company are essential for building public confidence.”

He added, “NACCIMA remains committed to working collaboratively with the government and other stakeholders to find sustainable solutions that balance the needs

of businesses, consumers, and the broader Nigerian economy. We believe that open dialogue and a shared commitment to the nation's prosperity are key to navigating these complex challenges.”

Chairman, Energy Transition Group, Nigerian Gas Association, and CEO of Cabtree, Olabode Sowunmi, yesterday, provided a detailed analysis of the situation.

Speaking on “The Morning Show” on ARISE NEWS Channel, the broadcast arm of THISDAY, Sowunmi emphasised that crude oil pricing, as a globally traded commodity, had always been determined by a range of economic fundamentals.

“Crude oil is a commodity with uniform pricing globally, which means its price will generally fall within a certain range around the world,” Sowunmi explained.

He stated that costs associated with refining were similarly standardised, leading to relatively consistent petrol prices globally.

However, Sowunmi highlighted the effect of Nigeria's fluctuating currency on petrol prices, pointing out that "the day the naira falls against the dollar, the price of petrol changes accordingly”.

He criticised the government's historical lack of political will to adjust petrol prices in line with these fluctuations, which often led to the implementation of subsidies.

Sowunmi also underscored the role of local refineries, particularly the Dangote Refinery, in potentially stabilising prices.

He said, “The advantage of local refineries, like Dangote's, lies in their ability to purchase crude oil in naira, avoiding the pressures of procuring dollars.”

That, in turn, obligated the refinery to price its products in naira, which could offer some insulation from the volatility of international currency markets, Sowunmi added.

Despite these potential benefits, Sowunmi expressed uncertainty about whether the Dangote refinery's production would fully meet Nigeria’s demand for refined products.

He pointed out that until Dangote's operations were fully monitored, particularly the tracking of every truck leaving the refinery, the actual daily consumption of petroleum products in Nigeria would remain unclear.

Sowunmi also addressed the economic realities facing the Dangote refinery, stating that it is a business that must remain profitable.

“Dangote is a business person with shareholders; he’s not going to run the refinery at a loss. They will price their products competitively and in a way that ensures profitability,” he said.

Furthermore, Sowunmi highlighted the issue of potential monopoly, citing the Federal Consumer Protection Act, which defines any business with over 40 per cent market share as a monopoly. He suggested that while monopolies were typically frowned upon in free markets due to historical reasons, the situation with Dangote could require careful regulation to prevent market distortions.

Gamin G Week

Edited by nseobonG okon-ekonG |

The Impact of First-ever African Esports Championship on Esports in Africa

sidney esiri writes that the first-ever African Esports Championship in Casablanca, Morocco, marked a pivotal moment between August 17 and 21. It was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of African talent, resilience, and potential in the global gaming arena

Esports, by its very nature, transcends borders and languages. The African Esports Championship brought together teams from across the continent, united by a shared passion for gaming. It was a powerful reminder that despite our diverse cultures, languages, and histories, we share common interests that can bring us together in ways we never imagined.

For the first time, African gamers had a platform that was truly ours—an event that celebrated our unique identity and gave us the opportunity to showcase our talents on a stage that the world was watching. This unity was not only felt among the players but also among the fans, who rallied behind their respective teams with an enthusiasm that was infectious. The Championship proved that esports can be a force for unity, bringing together people from different backgrounds under a common banner.

showCasing afriCan talent

One of the most significant impacts of the African Esports Championship was its ability to highlight the immense talent that exists within Africa. For years, African gamers have faced numerous challenges, from limited access to high-quality internet and gaming equipment

to a lack of institutional support. Despite these hurdles, the Championship revealed that African gamers are not only capable of competing at a high level but are also ready to make their mark on the global stage.

The performances we witnessed in Casablanca were nothing short of inspiring. Teams from Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, Kenya, and other nations showcased incredible skill, strategy, and sportsmanship. These players demonstrated that with the right support and opportunities, African gamers can compete with the best in the world.

This Championship was a clear signal to the global esports community that Africa is not just a participant but a contender.

Catalysing growth and investment

The success of the African Esports Championship has the potential to be a major catalyst for growth and investment in the African esports’ ecosystem. The visibility that this event brought to the continent will likely attract more attention from global esports organisations, sponsors, and investors. For years, Africa has been seen as an emerging market with untapped potential, and this Championship has provided a glimpse of what is possible.

As a result, we can expect to see increased investment in infrastructure, training facilities, and

grassroots initiatives that will help nurture the next generation of African esports talent. This is not just about building better players; it’s about creating an entire ecosystem that supports and sustains the growth of esports in Africa. The Championship has laid the groundwork for a future where African esports can thrive, not just locally but globally.

inspiring the next generation

Perhaps the most lasting impact of the African Esports Championship will be its influence on the next generation of African gamers. For young gamers across the continent, seeing their peers compete on an international stage is a powerful source of inspiration. It shows them that a career in esports is not just a dream but a viable path.

This Championship has the potential to ignite a new wave of interest in esports among African youth. With the right guidance and support, we could see a surge in participation, not just in playing games but in the broader esports industry. From game development to event management and content creation, the opportunities are vast, and the potential is enormous.

a bright future ahead

The first-ever African Esports Championship was a watershed moment for esports in

Africa. It was a celebration of what we have achieved so far and a preview of what the future holds. The event has sparked a sense of pride and optimism within the African esports’ community, and it has shown the world that Africa is ready to take its place in the global esports landscape.

As we look ahead, it is essential that we build on the momentum generated by this Championship. We must continue to invest in our players, infrastructure, and communities to ensure that African esports reach its full potential. The journey is just beginning, and I am excited to see where it takes us.

Esports in Africa is not just growing; it’s flourishing. The African Esports Championship was the first step in a long and exciting journey, and I am proud to be part of it. Together, we will continue to elevate African esports to new heights and inspire a generation of gamers who will shape the future of our continent.

• Dr. Sidney Esiri, also known as Dr SID, is the CEO Kon10, as well as the Technical and Tournaments Director of the Nigerian Esports Federation and a leading figure in the African esports’ community. With a passion for gaming and a vision for the future, he is dedicated to advancing esports in Africa and beyond.

Africa’s Burgeoning Industry Attracts Major Tech Firms

Africa’s gaming industry is set to cross $1 billion in revenue this year. Rapid growth, driven by a young population, improved internet access, and more smartphones, has attracted major tech companies like Microsoft, Sony and Disney to invest in the sector.

The video game market in Africa has shown promising growth, from $862 million in revenue in 2022 to a projected $1 billion in 2024, an 8.7 per cent increase, according to the Newzoo games analytics company.

Ebenezer Gasonoo, also known as Nomak when playing games, has been playing online since the 1990s. He said there was a time when game developers did not recognise African players, and when he tried to sign up and listed his home country as Ghana, he was told the game didn’t support it, and he would have to find another one to play.

“The first 10 years of active video gaming in Africa was bad,” he said. “I

think with the boom of online systems and the boom of Africa getting into video games, you see certain games are geared toward the world but now they include Africa, and that’s very nice to see.”

An Africa game industry report says the number of gamers in sub-Saharan Africa has grown from 77 million in 2015 to 186 million in 2021. Ninety-five percent of gamers play on their mobile phones.

According to survey company Geopoll, for the majority, gaming is seen as a primary source of entertainment, relaxation and a remedy for boredom, with 73 per cent playing for fun and 64 per cent for stress relief.

African game developer Daniel Macharia of Kenya has been creating video games since 2015.

Macharia developed Nairobbery, an actionadventure game where players navigate the city and encounter challenges inspired by real-life scenarios. They also explore iconic landmarks and hidden places in an exciting narrative

that weaves local folklore and urban tales.

He said the game also features running battles between police and protesters, which is a common scene in many African countries, including Kenya. He said the two main characters are college students, and in some levels of the game, they face off against police.

“There was some kind of parallel serendipity that was happening there where the game was starting to mirror real life,” Macharia said. “That was just more validation that I chose to go the right way.”

According to the Voice of America (VOA), the gaming sector is attracting funding from Microsoft, Disney and Sony, raising millions of dollars to develop more games and scale game consumption across the continent.

Jay Shapiro, chairman of the Pan African Gaming Group, said Africa attracts investments with its untapped storytelling potential.

“Africa has a heritage of thousands of years of stories and legends that have never been heard in a lot of the world,” he said. “So, this

new interest is giving voice to a lot of creators across the continent to share those stories. And I think that’s really powerful. And creating games where Africans can see themselves reflected in the game, which historically has never happened in the industry.”

Eyram Tawia, a Ghanaian game developer, said video games can help preserve African traditions.

“Video games also offer a medium to preserve culture for the long term that can be packaged and distributed globally with just one click across app stores if we keep producing local content,” Tawia said.

“This is going to create a lot of revenue for the African continent.”

Recent investments, game camps and conferences in some African countries are helping to reduce the financial challenges faced by video game developers. The events support game development and education, making it easier for developers to create games and learn new skills.

National Lottery Trust Fund, EFCC Renew Partnership to Strengthen Lottery Industry

The National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have renewed their partnership to strengthen the lottery industry in Nigeria.

During a visit to the EFCC headquarters, NLTF Executive Secretary, Comrade Tosin Adeyanju, thanked the anti-graft agency for recovering over N9 billion for the NLTF. He urged the EFCC to sustain its efforts in ensuring that all gaming companies remit their

dues, which will enable the NLTF to achieve its mandates.

The NLTF executive secretary emphasised that timely remittances by gaming companies are crucial in enabling the NLTF to fulfil its mandate of promoting good causes

National Lottery Trust Fund Partners 2ET Media to Combat Fake News

The National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF) has partnered with 2et Media Network Ltd to premiere a movie titled “When Wolves Cry”, aimed at combating the menace of fake news. The movie, scheduled to premiere at the UN House today, Thursday August 29, highlights the side effects of fake news and its impact on society. As part of its mandate to promote art and culture, the NLTF is leveraging

the power of art to address social issues, including fake news. “When Wolves Cry” is a testament to the NLTF’s commitment to using art as a tool for social change.

In a meeting with the 2et Media Network Ltd team, led by Emmanuel Eyaba, NLTF Executive Secretary Comrade Tosin Adeyanju commended the group for their initiative, stating that the movie aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s efforts to combat misinformation.

“The movie ‘When Wolves Cry’ couldn’t

have come at a better time,” Adeyanju said. “By partnering with 2et Media Network Ltd, we are supporting the administration’s efforts to promote media literacy and critical thinking.

The movie aims to educate Nigerians on how to identify and reject fake news, promoting a more informed and engaged citizenry.

The premiere is expected to be a milestone event in the fight against fake news in Nigeria.

and supporting national development. He noted that through the remittances, the NLTF will be able to assist President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in providing critical support for various sectors, including education, water, healthcare, sport, vulnerable Nigerians and disaster management, thereby improving the lives of Nigerians.

EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede congratulated the NLTF Executive Secretary on his appointment and commended the NLTF’s efforts. He assured the delegation of enhanced collaboration in debt recovery, stating that it is the EFCC’s statutory obligation to do so. Olukoyede emphasized that all recovered funds go to the relevant agencies and that the EFCC will continue to work on its mandate. He advised the executive secretary to always do the right thing because someone else will review his activities tomorrow.

The partnership aims to promote transparency and accountability in the lottery industry, ensuring that all stakeholders comply with regulations and remit their dues. This collaboration will also support the NLTF’s initiatives to contribute to national development and the spreading of Good Causes across Nigeria.

Adeyanju (left) and Olukayode

MTN-SPONSORED MEDIA INNOVATION PROGRAMME…

L-R: Public Relations Manager, MTN Nigeria, Dr. Lakinbofa Goodluck; Senior Manager, External Relations, MTN Nigeria, Funso Aina; Programme Head, African Governance and Diplomacy, South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), Steven Gruzd, and Director, Professional Education, School of Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University, Prof. Isaac-Ogugua Ezechukwu, during the study tour of the MTN-sponsored Media Innovation Programme at SAIIA in University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa…yesterday

Police Parade Notorious Car Theft Syndicate, Others in Ondo

Fidelis David in akure

Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, Ondo State Command, have arrested four suspects who specialise in car snatching and robbery in the state.

The state Commissioner of Police, Abayomi Oladipo, while parading members of the syndicate alongside other suspects at the Command’s headquarters in Akure, said the arrests were part of the significant strides the Force made in the fight against crime in the state in August.

who specialize in inter-state car snatching, adding that through intelligence gathering, they were arrested in Ogun State where they usually take the stolen

Precisely, Oladipo said the car snatching suspects are members of a four-man gang

Fuel Hike: Keke Riders, Traders Stage Protest in Delta

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

Hundreds of Keke riders and market women stormed the popular Enerhen junction in Warri South Local Government area of Delta State yesterday protesting against sudden hike in fuel prices.

Fuel prices suddenly rose from N1,000 to between N1,100 and N1,200 in most fuel stations while others locked up against customers but allegedly selling to black marketers who in turn sells at N1300 to N1400 per litre.

The protesters, who gathered at Enerhen junction, carried placards

reading thus “The increase in fuel prices is affecting our livelihood”; “President Tinubu, Pls intervene in the price of fuel” “Tinubu should bring down the price of fuel” amongst others. With the placards and chanting slogans, the protesters expressed frustration and anger over government’s decision to officially increase fuel prices to N1,100 per litre. They maintained that this has worsened their economic struggles and urged President Bola Tinubu to take immediate action to address the situation and provide relief to Nigerians.

Eno Mourns Death of Two Journalists in A’Ibom

Okon Bassey in uyo

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has expressed shock over the sudden death of two journalists of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Patience John and Esther Ukpe.

The governor in a statement issued yesterday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Ekerete Udoh, described their demise as a huge loss to the journalism profession in the state.

The governor acknowledged the contributions of the two deceased journalists in

disseminating the ARISE Agenda of his administration, noting that they will be sorely missed.

Governor Eno extended his heartfelt sympathies to the families of the departed journalists, members of the ctate Council of the NUJ and National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ).

According to him, “The late Patience John of the Akwa Ibom Broadcasting Corporation, AKBC TV Service, was an integral part of the Press Corps in my office, and was noted as a diligent and hardworking professional.

Chinese Wellness Firm Expands to Nigeria

Shenzhen Vigor Technology Group, a prominent Chinese wellness company, is expanding its footprint with its launch in Nigeria. Vigor said in a statement that under the leadership of Chairman Sun Xiao Long, it has built a strong reputation for its focus on health and well-being.

Founded in 1999 Vigor offers an extensive range of products across three main categories: health management, beauty management, and lifestyle management. The company boasts over 130 products, all based on traditional Chinese medicine, aimed at fostering a healthy and joyful lifestyle.

The company said that to

enhance its reach, it has introduced sales network platform in Nigeria, designed to broaden its customer base and promote its vision of well-being.

“As part of this expansion, Vigor has rolled out various incentives for its marketers. These include cash prizes, all-expense-paid trips to Seychelles , China and car awards. These rewards are intended to drive engagement and spread the message of healthy living,” the company said.

“Vigor has also been recognised with Direct Selling Licence No 039 by the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China, positioning it as the 38th direct selling enterprise in the country.

‘

vehicles to sell, and that seven vehicles were recovered while efforts are on to get others.

According to him, “On July 11, 2024, a petition was received

at the Command detailing a daring armed robbery. A Toyota Corolla, a Tecno POP 5 phone, and N1.5 million in cash were stolen at gunpoint. Our Special

Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit, using advanced intelligence, traced the perpetrators of the crime to Ogun State, where some suspects were arrested.

Good Trade, Diplomatic Ngeria, S’Africa Relations ‘ll Pull Continent Up’

Chiemelie EzeobiinJohannesburg, southafrica

Good trade, diplomatic and bilateral relations between Nigeria and South Africa have been identified by an independent international public policy think tank, as

some of the key drivers that would pull the continent up to take its place in the comity of nations.

Programme Head, African Governance and Diplomacy, South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), Steven Gruzd, made this

disclosure in a meeting with the third cohort of the MTNsponsored Media Innovation Programme (MIP) at the SAIIA, University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg.

While speaking on “Assessing the Nigeria- South African Bilateral Relations and the Gains

and the Losses”, Gruzd said: “If South Africa and Nigeria are working together; if the relations are strong; if there is good trade; and if there is good diplomatic relations, it really makes a difference and it really can pull up the rest of the continent.”

Northern Govs Decry Mafa Attack, Commiserate with Victims’ Families, Yobe

Segun Awofadeji in Gombe

The Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Muhammadu Yahaya, has expressed deep disgust over the tragic loss of lives in Mafa, Tarmuwa Local Government Area of Yobe State.

Kogi

Governor Yahaya strongly condemned the heinous attack, describing it as a senseless act of violence that has caused untold grief to the affected families and communities. This is contained in a statement issued by DirectorGeneral (Press Affairs), Government House, Gombe, Ismaila Uba Misilli, and made available to journalists yesterday.

While commending the security forces for their continued efforts against the remnants of the degraded criminals, he emphasised the urgent need for them to intensify efforts in tracking down and apprehending those responsible for this atrocity, as well as others across different regions.

According to the statement, “This brutal act must not go unpunished. I call on security agencies to double their efforts and ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice.”

Gov Warns against Diversion of Fertilizers, Exclusion of Genuine Farmers

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has warned the government officials against diversion, inequitable distribution and exclusion of genuine farmers from distribution of the fertilizers to enable them boost food production in the state.

The governor vowed to deal decisively with anyone involved in any act of sabotage in the ongoing distribution of the fertilizer across the state.

Ododo gave the warning while speaking at the flag-off of the distribution of over 20 trucks of fertilizer to farmers

across 21 local government areas of the state

He reiterated his commitment to the development of the agriculture sector in the state, describing the occasion as a fulfilling moment for him as a leader committed to serving the state in the best interest of the people.

The governor said: “Let me warn everyone here today that this must not be politicised. It must go to the real farmers only. “I will be intentional in tracking these bags of fertilizer to ensure they are in the right places in the right quantity, at the right time and in the right hands of our dear farmers.”

Katsina, UNICEF Inject N400m to Tackle Malnutrition

Francis Sardauna in Katsina

The Katsina State Government and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have procured 7,000 cartons of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) and other supplementary food worth N400 million to

tackle severe acute malnutrition bedevilling children in the state.

The UNICEF Country Representative, Cristian Mundauate, who disclosed this yesterday while handing over the food supplements to the state government in Katsina, said the RUTF would provide

Accident: Ekiti Pledges

Gbenga Sodeinde in ado ekiti

To permanently checkmate the incidences of recurrent auto-crashes causing deaths of innocent citizens, the Ekiti State Government has pledged its commitment to speedy relocation of the Iworoko Ekiti Central Market in Irepodun/Ifelodun

life-saving assistance to 8,000 malnourished children under five years in the state.

She said the food supplements were purchased by UNICEF in collaboration with the Katsina State Government through the Child Nutrition Match Fund, as part of the UN agency’s commitment in taming severe acute malnutrition and other impediments beleaguering children in the state.

Mundauate said: “Today (Wednesday), we are delivering about 7,000 cartons of RUTF purchased by UNICEF and the Katsina State Government.”

Speedy Action on Relocation of Iworoko Market

Local Government Area of the state.

In the same fashion, the government also promised to expedite action on the installation of a new Alaworoko that had been vacant since 2019, following the demise of Oba Aladejana, to attract development to the town.

The Ekiti State Deputy

Governor, Chief Monisade Afuye, made the pledge yesterday while receiving stakeholders from the community led by the Regent, Princess Aladejana, who paid a courtesy visit to her office in Ado Ekiti, the state capital.

Afuye, in a statement issued by her Special Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje, lamented

the recurrent cases of killings of traders and other citizens at Iworoko Market, due to persistent vehicular accident, saying such sordid scenarios will be reversed.

The deputy governor disclosed that the state Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, is incurably committed to safeguard the lives of the people.

RKK Group Commits to Strengthening Workplace Safety Standards

OnyebuchiEzigboinabuja

In a bid to further strengthen her health and safety practices, RKK Group, a leading technology solution provider, has commenced the training and standardization of its operations.

The group, known for its expertise across sectors including Construction, Renewable Energy, Information Technology, and Agriculture, said that it is working towards attaining ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, and ISO 45001:2018 certifications within the next one month.

The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) , an agency mandated to regulate and enforce workplace safety standards recently roll out measures to get employers of labour, especially those in the private to comply with the International Labour Organisation standards on occupational health and safety.

“Speaking at the commencement of a training workshop in Abuja yesterday, the Group Chief Executive Officer of RKK Group, Aderemi Rasheed Kilaso, said the requirements for certifications are expected to be met within the next few weeks.

CHIEMELE EZEOBI

Osimhen Unveiled at Galatasaray, to Wear Jersey Number 45

Turkish League giants confirm Osimhen to earn €6million for loan spell

Nigerian international, Victor Osimhen, accompanied by his agent Roberto Calenda, on Wednesday completed his sensational loan transfer to Turkish giants Galatasaray.

Soccernigeria.co.ng reports Osimhen’s agent, Calenda, who was reported to have had a soured relationship with this striker following unfulfilled transfer moves this summer window, was seen side-by-side with the Nigerian as he signed the dotted lines to make the loan transfer from SSC Napoli official.

This deal was facilitated by the agent George Gardi.

It was also learnt that Osimhen’s childhood idol, Didier Drogba, played a big role in pushing the Super Eagles star to the Gala. Drogba, who played for Gala,

told Osimhen on the phone:” If you received an offer from Galatasaray, don’t think twice, go straight away.”

This was reported by the Italian medium Gazzetta dello Sport.

In the meantime, a top Turkish journalist, Yagiz Sabuncuoglu, has reported that no breakup clause in Osimhen’s contract with Galatasaray allows him to quit the club in the January window.

The official announcement by Galatasaray has since clarified this issue.

In a statement via their official X social media handle, Galatasaray SK of Turkey announced that they have completed a loan move for Osimhen from SSC Napoli.

A straight loan, with no buy option/obligation, means that the Nigerian cannot leave the club in January, and has to see out the

whole season in Turkey.

A

Iheanacho, Maduka in camp Only Osimhen left to arrive today

Super Eagles Caretaker Coach, Augustine Eguavoen, has demanded commitment to get the results against Benin and Rwanda in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.

‘Cerezo’ is in his fourth stint as Super Eagles coach.

“All I ask for is the commitment from everybody towards the same goals and objectives,” Eguavoen urged.

“I have been called to salvage the situation. I didn’t press for it, it just happened.

“And as the technical director, it falls under my responsibility.

“Football gave me everything I have today. So, I have to give back to it.”

Meanwhile, the Super Eagles stepped up their buildup for the match against Benin yesterday evening as they trained behind closed doors inside the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. Meanwhile, Sevilla's new striker, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Udinese safe hands, Maduka Okoye were the latest Super Eagles stars to hit training camp for the 2025 AFCON qualifiers. Iheanacho and Maduka landed in Uyo on Wednesday afternoon.

Only Victor Osimhen who was unveiled by Galatasaray yesterday in Turkey is the only player left to complete Super Eagles full roster at the Uyo camp.

upon

Lookman, Mbappe, Yamal, 27 Others Make Ballon d’Or Shortlist

Femi Solaja with agency report

Super Eagles and Atalanta FC forward, Ademola Lookman, has been confirmed as one of the nominees for this year’s Ballon d'Or 2024 prestigious football award which will come next month.

The silver medal winner with Nigeria at the last AFCON 2023 tournament in Côte d’Ivoire last February is the only African player on the nomination shortlist. This could also be a pathway for the pacy winger to win the ‘African

Footballer of the Year’ award, which will also be held later in the year.

Aside from Lookman, others on the list include; Jude Bellingham who had a brilliant season for both club and country in the year under review.

The Real Madrid superstar, won La Liga and the Champions League before reaching the Euro 2024 final with England, while Lookman’s bragging right stems from his brilliant performance with Atalanta not just in the domestic scene but also his hattrick that saw the Italian side

winning the Europa Cup against Bayern Leverkusen last May.

Several Premier League stars have also been included on the 30-man shortlist. They include the Manchester City quartet of Ruben Dias, Phil Foden, Erling Haaland and Rodri.

Bukayo Saka of Arsenal also made list same as William Saliba, Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard. Aston

Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez is up for both the top award and the goalkeeping gong.

Manchester City have also been

nominated for the Men's club of the Year award after winning a fifth consecutive Premier League crown. They will battle Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, Girona, and Bayer Leverkusen for the award.

Lauren James, Lauren Hemp, Lucy Bronze and Khadija Shaw are all included on the shortlist for the women's award.

Manchester United youngsters Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho have both been nominated for the Kopa Trophy alongside Euro 2024 winner Lamine Yamal.

Sports Minister Describes Nworgu’s ParaPowerlifting Silver as Inspiring, Heartwarming

Nigeria’s Sports Minister, Senator John Owan Enoh, has described the silver medal won by Esther Ogechi Nworgu in the women’s 41Kg powerlifting event of the ongoing Paris 2024 Paralympic Games as outstanding performance, heartwarming and Inspiring.

Nworgu who set two new world records on the way to winning the precious silver medal was defeated by China's Zhe Cui who set a new PR record of 119kg as against the 118kg lifted by the Nigerian.

“It is with immense pride that I, on behalf of our dear President,

along with the bronze medal won by Mariam Eniola Bolaji in the Para Badminton event earlier remain a source of pride and inspiration.

“Your outstanding performance and the performance of Mariam Eniola Bolaji who had earlier clinched our country's first medal and creating

history in the process, for herself, our country and the African continent, being the first African player, male or female to win a badminton medal at either the Olympic and Paralympic Games; remain a source of pride and inspiration,” observed the sports minister.

Senator Enoh therefore believes these two performances “will inspire our other athletes yet to compete in their various sports to strive for gold and by so doing, secure a prominent place for themselves in the annals of Nigeria's sports immortals.

Victor

and his club

SSCN Napoli SPA regarding the free temporary transfer of the player.

a post on social media yesterday.

Beach Sambo Championships

Following an impressive performance at the 18th African Sambo Championship in Egypt, Nigeria is set to compete at the World Beach Sambo Championships organized by the International Sambo Federation (FIAS) in Casablanca, Morocco, from September 7 to 8.

At the continental tournament in Egypt, Nigeria made a significant impact, securing five medals over the three-day event held at the Cairo International Stadium. However, due to a lack of funds, the Sambo Association Nigeria (SAN) managed to finance only one of its athletes, Charity Jatau—a gold medallist at the African Games and World Championships—to participate in the global tournament in Morocco.

Initially, Jatau, Fatima Ogbonyomi, and James Chegwam were confirmed for the championships, with the Sambo Association Nigeria (SAN) working diligently to ensure their participation.

According to SAN President Loveth Howell, Nigeria’s inclusion in the World Beach Sambo Championships is a testament to their strong showing in Egypt.

“We are excited that Nigeria is

gaining prominence in Sambo in Africa. This invitation to the World Beach Sambo Championships in Morocco gives us another opportunity to showcase our talents. We hope to perform well in Morocco, which will help increase the sport’s popularity in Nigeria,” Howell said. Vice President of SAN, Sheriff Hammed, sees this as another chance for Nigeria to demonstrate its potential in Sambo. The athletes are already preparing for the championships in Benin, Edo State. “We are not just going to participate; we aim to make our presence felt with a strong performance, just as we did in Egypt and at the last African Games in Ghana, where we won medals,” Hammed added. The World Beach Sambo Championships will be held on Ain Diab beach, located on the Atlantic coast in Casablanca. Competitions will include individual and team events, with medals awarded in the following weight categories: Men: 58 kg, 71 kg, 88 kg, +88 kg; Women: 50 kg, 59 kg, 72 kg, +72 kg; and Mixed Teams: Women: 72 kg, +72 kg; Men: 71 kg, 88 kg, +88 kg.

With preparations for the inaugural edition underway, Varsity Cup, the pioneer of inclusivity in Nigeria’s collegiate sports as Nigeria’s first annual national university football competition for men’s and women’s teams has confirmed several top universities to host its matches for the 2024 Men’s Football season.

In line with the mission of Varsity Cup to build a platform for the country’s brightest student-athletes to thrive, this season will be hosted by some of Nigeria’s most prestigious and competitive universities, including the University of Ilorin, the University of Benin, and the University of Lagos, among others.

The organizers of the Varsity Cup have gone to great lengths to ensure that this competition sets a new standard in Nigeria’s

collegiate sports, as the Championship is expected to not only boost the profiles of the participating athletes but also to foster unity and healthy competition among Nigerian universities.

The host varsities, having scaled a comprehensive selection process, expressed their enthusiasm and readiness to provide accessibility to their facilities and all support services including medical, security and student bodies, thereby creating unforgettable firework experiences for all players, officials and fans.

Dubbed “The Champions League of Nigerian Universities”, Varsity Cup Men’s Football 2024 will feature some of the country’s best 10 university teams in 26 thrilling football matches across the geopolitical zones in Nigeria.

in the summer of 2025.

“An agreement has been reached with professional football player

James Osimhen

The football player will be paid a net seasonal wage of 6,000,000 Euros for the 2024-2025 season. It is announced to the public with respect,” Galatasaray confirmed in

reduced release clause of 75 million Euros has now been agreed

by the two parties (Osimhen and Napoli), which makes it easier for clubs interested in his signature

Victor Osimhen (left) and his agent, Roberto Calenda, at the unveiling of the Nigerian superstar at Turkish club Galatasaray...yesterday

L-R: Nigerian Esther Ogechi Nworgu (silver); China’s Zhe Cui (gold) and Lara de Lima of Brazil (bronze) on the podium for the presentation of medals in the 41Kg Para Powerlifting event of the ongoing Paris 2024 Paralympic Games in France...yesterday

Joe Ajaero to Nigerians

“When we told government that it’s approach to resolving the fuel subsidy contradictions was patently faulty and would not last, its front row cheer leaders sneered at us, saying we did not understand basic economics...Now that the chickens have come to roost, we were right in our suspicions. However, we want to let Nigerians know that the clandestine/surreptitious increase in the pump price of PMS is the first among the equally sinister policies government has up its sleeve”—NLCPresident,followinghikeinfuelpricesacrossthecountry.

Hajiya Dada: A Matriarch Departs

Our movement was fairly routine. We would fly into Katsina Airport from Abuja and drive straight to the presidential lodge. But on this occasion, the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua changed the protocol. “Please drive straight to my mother’s place. I came purposely to see her.” Prior to that day, only the ADC, Mustapha Onoyiveta, CSO, Yusuf Tilde, SA Domestic, Hamza Nadada, PLO, Habu Habib, Chief Physician, Salisu Banye and Alhaji Inuwa Baba (the only ‘Senator’ with a global constituency) went with the president whenever he visited his mother. That occasion provided the first opportunity to meet Hajiya Dada, and I noticed something as we took turns to greet her. Though there were a few chairs in the room for visitors, the late president took his seat on the floor beside her mattress. Before we left them alone, I witnessed how the power dynamics in Nigeria had changed as Yar’Adua attended to his mother in awe. When he eventually came out of the room, he held a jug I was told contained fura da nono, a special delicacy she always made for him.

I arrived back to Abuja on Monday from China and was not feeling too well when the news broke that Hajiya Dada had passed. But I was determined to pay her my last respects by attending the burial slated for 1.30PM on Tuesday. I must therefore express my appreciation to the former Governor of Gombe State, Senator Danjuma Goje who provided a space for me on the aircraft that took him, his former Kebbi counterpart, Senator Adamu Aliero and Professor Modibbo Ahmed to Katsina. And I was impressed that Vice President Kashim Shettima, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party presidential candidate in the last election, Mr Peter Obi, as well as former Senate President Ahmad Lawan, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe and many other important dignitaries defied the slight rain to attend the prayers on the football field of Katsina Township stadium.

Beyond the usual stories you hear about mothers of influential children, I really did not know Hajiya Dada. So, apart from Baba, Nadada, Banye and Tilde whom she had known before her son became president, the only other person close to her among us was Mustapha. It started from an innocuous incident. On one occasion the president visited her, we were outside when a family member came to call Mustapha. What we later learnt was that Hajiya Dada had asked the president, “Where is that soldier who usually stands behind you?”. It was no surprise that Mustapha arrived Katsina on Tuesday with former First Lady, Hajia Turai and is still there with the family to join the third day prayers today.

In every sense, the late Hajiya Dada bore similarities to the late Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy of the United States. Mrs Kennedy died in 1995 at age 104. Hajiya Dada died at age 102. Mrs Kennedy was married to a top politician who chaired the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and was US Ambassador to the United Kingdom. Hajiya Dada’s husband was also a politician, administrator and Minister of Lagos Affairs during Nigeria’s First Republic. Mrs Kennedy had nine children, including a US President who died in office and two senators who also died in office, all during her lifetime. Hajiya Dada also had nine children, among them a former number two man in Nigeria, Major General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua and his younger brother, Umaru who died as president—both in her lifetime. Perhaps because of their longevity,

both Mrs Kennedy and Hajia Dada also lost other children while alive. Fortunately for Hajiya Dada, she left behind Hajiya Habi, Mallam Sule, Hajiya Hafisatu and Senator Audu Musa Yar’Adua. And of course, she is also survived by Murtala Shehu Yar’Adua, a former Minister of State for Defence, among many grandchildren. But the essential similarity between Mrs Kennedy and Hajiya Dada is that they raised

extraordinarily successful children and suffered more than their share of tragedy. Even though both families were privileged, one could see the critical roles played by the matriarchs. This much was captured by Mrs Kennedy in her 1974 autobiography, ‘Times to Remember’, where she explained her role in bringing up her children to be who they were. “I looked on child rearing not only as a work of love and duty

but as a profession that was fully as interesting and challenging as any honorable profession in the world and one that demanded the best I could bring to it,” she wrote as a testimony to her influence. “What greater aspiration and challenge are there for a mother than the hope of raising a great son or daughter?”

Hajiya Dada was noted by many as an exceedingly spiritual woman whose guidance was sought by her sons throughout their lives. But she was also known for her uncommon special attention to detail, especially regarding them. The Director General of the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Ms Jacquline Farris once shared a story with me. “When Umaru (the late president) took me to condole with Hajia Dada after Shehu died in December 1997, she went into her room and brought out his school uniform after hearing about my plan for the exhibition hall,” she said. “That she had kept it in her room all those years and knew exactly where she kept it amazed me.” And on the day that Hajia Dada visited the Centre, many people panicked when they couldn’t locate her whereabouts. “We later found her at the exhibition hall, alone”, evidently absorbing the environment while reliving the memories of her departed son.

Hajiya Dada left no memoir, but I believe she could say the same thing about her efforts in raising her children to who they were in Nigeria, just as Mrs Kennedy did. And there could have been no greater testimony than the number of people who gathered in Katsina on Tuesday for her burial. Most of them may never have met Hajiya Dada in person. Even some of us who had met her could not boast of any special relationship with her. We were there in Katsina simply to honour her illustrious children—a worthy legacy to her life.

May God grant her eternal rest.

But Where We Wan Go?

It is not the kind of argument a government official should be making but we live in a country where people say all kinds of things. “If NNPC imports PMS and sells to marketers at perhaps N600 or below, there’s no way that smuggling can stop,” the Minister of State for Petroleum, Heineken Lokpobiri said last week while arguing that the only antidote to fuel smuggling across Nigerian borders is to sell the commodity above the landing cost in a tacit admission of failure of critical institutions. “When smugglers are taking the products outside the country, even if you put all the policemen on the road, they are Nigerians; you and I know the answer.”

When the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) responded on Tuesday by jerking up the pump prices of fuel by about 50 percent, Lokpobiri became angry that Nigerians would hold the federal government to account on the issue. He would not even take responsibility for his own declaration a few days earlier. “We categorically condemn these claims as baseless, malicious, and a deliberate attempt to incite public discontent,” he said in response to reports on the pump price. “Such a claim is entirely devoid of truth and should be recognised as an intentional effort to mislead the public. It must be stressed that NNPCL operates as an independent entity under the Companies and Allied Matters Act, with a fully empowered Board of Directors.”

It is not only Lokpobiri who takes Nigerians for fools on this matter of subsidy. Several other operatives

of the current administration have also decided to adopt the same lie: The federal government has nothing to do with the pump price, it is the NNPCL. But Lokpobiri is adding insult to injury with his CAMA tales. Meanwhile, it is not a secret that I endorse removal of fuel subsidy. It is an argument I have canvassed for more than two decades and my position on it has not changed. But implementing fuel subsidy removal at the same time as floating the Naira has proved to be a dangerous combination for the economy. Now things have gone haywire. We are in a serious economic crisis. The situation may have been exacerbated by the arrogance and thoughtlessness with which the Tinubu administration handled critical issues, but the problems preceded them. The challenge is that to get out of the mess, we require short-term, medium-term and long-term solutions. Part of the long-term solutions must include how to tackle the menace of a growing but largely unproductive population. I am aware that some don’t like to hear this but it’s an issue we must deal with. In 1960, the United Kingdom from where we secured our independence had a population of 52.2 million people whereas Nigeria was then inhabited by 45.14 million people. Today, the UK is 69 million, an increase of about 14 percent over a period of 64 years. Meanwhile, the population of Nigeria today is put at 229 million, an increase of about 500 percent! And we are talking of people with little or no access to education, healthcare and other basics of life.

However, that is not the issue for today as we seek to tackle the current challenge. In his 1923 work, ‘TheTractonMonetaryReform’, English economist and philosopher, John Maynard Keynes, made a profound statement though not often referenced in full. “The long run is a misleading guide to current affairs. In the long run we are all dead,” Keynes wrote but most people often leave out the next lines. “Economists set themselves too easy, too useless a task if in tempestuous seasons they can only tell us that when the storm is past the ocean is flat again.” It is not that Keynes could not appreciate the benefits of long-term planning. On the contrary, his thesis actually supports that. What he is saying is that you must survive today before you can envision tomorrow. That is a message for those who are formulating policies for this administration. Yesterday, I was listening to a radio call-in programme in the vehicle and many callers were expressing their frustration about the high cost of living which would be compounded by the hike in fuel price. The picture of deprivation painted by many was just too harrowing. One caller summed it up by repeatedly chanting, “Where we wango?Wherewewango?Wherewewango?” Most Nigerians are now at their tethers end. And they need solutions to their pressing challenges. Deploying the Sani Abacha tactics of intimidation, coercion and other forms of repression provide no solution. Beyond mismanaging expectations, I hope those in power today are not also poor students of history.