FRIDAY 20TH SEPTEMBER 2024

Tells manufacturers to keep dialoguing with CBN on unsettled FX forward contracts MAN: Unsettled FX forwards behind losses being booked by big manufacturers Dangote tells FG to support local manufacturing, investment Rewane: FG should write off DISCOs’ indebtedness

Dike

Onwuamaeze Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale

Edun, declared yesterday in Lagos that the federal government had exited funding of its financial responsibilities through Ways and Means.

Edun said the government was putting in place a world-class treasury and liability management system that would take Nigeria to where it should

be in terms of financial management.

The minister spoke at the 2024 Access Corporate Forum, with the theme, “Nigeria’s Economic Rebirth:

and Implications.” He stated that evidence from data had shown that President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms had started

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US: Why Nigeria, Other Countries

Tinubu: We're Building Robust Financial System, Business-friendly Economy for Foreign Direct Investment

As Coca-Cola pledges to invest $1bn in Nigeria over five years creating a robust financial system and business-friendly economy that will attract more foreign direct investment. Tinubu stated this on Thursday in

In Race for Edo Governorship, Six Trends to Watch Out For

Government declares today work-free INEC warns parties against illegal campaigns Jonathan charges INEC, security officers to maintain neutrality, sues for peace PSC urges officers on election duty to be strict in enforcing electoral laws

However, there are six key trends to watch out for in tomorrow’s election as they are likely to shape the outcome of the governorship election.

All is set for tomorrow’s governorship election in Edo State, as campaigns ended yesterday, according to the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Edo State Government has also declared today, Friday, September 20, a work-free day in the state to enable workers and other electorate travel to their voting areas ahead of the exercise.

The number one trend is: The Olumide Akpata factor.

The question of whose votes will be taken way is critical to the outcome of the election. In other words, will Akpata take votes away from the PDP or the APC? It is important to note that whoever he hurts the most may lose and he could sneak

TINUBU MEETS COCA COLA...

R-L: President Bola Ahmed

Chuks Okocha, Adedayo Akinwale, Sunday Aborisade, Linus Aleke in Abuja, Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City and Chinedu Eze in Lagos

Officer,

John Murphy, and Chairman of Nigerian Bottling Company, Ambassador Segun Apata. Tinubu commended Coca-Cola

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has declared that his government is committed to

INTERACTIVE MEETING WITH UNIT HEADS...

L-R: Chief of Staff to the Delta State Governor, Hon. Johnson Erijo; Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu; Deputy Governor, Sir

of Service, Sir

Onyeme;

Bayoko; Chairman, Civil Service Commission, Mrs. Roseline Amioku; and Senior Political Adviser to the governor, Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo,

the governor's interactive meeting with permanent secretaries, directors and heads of parastatals at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba...yesterday

Bagudu: With Tinubu’s Planned Trillion-dollar Economy, Nigeria Can End Japa Syndrome

BANC

Onyebuchi Ezigbo

says irregular migration fuelled by poverty, instability

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, has said the realisation of President Bola Tinubu administration’s trilliondollar economy target would drastically reduce the problem of irregular migration, popularly known as Japa syndrome in Nigeria. Bagudu spoke yesterday in Abuja at an anti-migration summit organised by a non-governmental organisation, Blacks Ancestral Native Communities (BANC).

policies and programmes targeted at boosting the economy and creating employment.

He said the present administration was making efforts to curtail irregular migration by Nigerians through

FG Plans Low-key 64th Independence Day Anniversary Celebration to Reflect Economic Hardship

Olawale Ajimotokan

The federal government has said that the 64th Independence Anniversary celebration will be modest to reflect the trying phase the nation is undergoing.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, disclosed this yesterday when he inaugurated the Inter- Ministerial Committee tasked with organising the activities to mark the 2024 Independence Day Celebration. Akume, who is the chairman of the committee, was represented at the occasion by the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman.

The SGF noted that the event would present government an opportunity to showcase its scorecard to Nigerians within more than one year of being in office to reposition Nigeria through its reform initiatives to deliver the dividends of democracy.

He said the 64th Independence Anniversary celebration will commence with a World Press Conference on September 26. Other scheduled activities to mark

the national event include: Juma’at Service, September 27; Church Service, September 29; while the President’s address to the nation and the 64th Independence Day Parade will hold on October 1.

The membership of the interministerial committee comprises Minister Budget and Economic Planning and his counterparts from Ministries of Information and National Orientation, Interior, Foreign Affairs and the Federal Capital Territory.

Others are Special Adviser to the President, Policy and Coordination, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Social Events and the Inspector-General of Police.

The rest are the National Security Adviser, Director-General, Department of State Services; Commander, Guards Brigade; Permanent Secretary, General Services Office (Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation); Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health and Permanent Secretary, Political and Economic Affairs Office (Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation).

The minister said most of the policy measures being pursued by the federal government were meant to support the country's aspiration to attain higher economic goals.

Bagudu said the federal government realised the urgent need to advance the economy to an enviable level, where it could support Nigeria’s leadership status as the pride of Africa.

He said, "A two trillion-dollar economy will support the correction of all of what we are here talking about – irregular migration or the Japa syndrome in Nigeria. Nigeria is not seeking to end migration by her citizens, but to ensure that people

only migrate out of choice, not by compulsion."

Bagudu said irregular migration had a lot of unintended negative outcomes, adding that human trafficking and drug peddling are some of the ills that irregular migration has put the youth into.

He said the country's demographic advantage could serve as an opportunity to support regular migration, but advised those seeking to migrate to ensure proper documentation and careful choices regarding the nature jobs they were going to do in their destination countries.

Bagudu said the federal government was currently empowering the Nigerian youth through many youthfriendly policies and programmes.

Earlier, the guest speaker, Professor Patrick Lumumba, a respected Kenyan lawyer, activist, and commentator, said if Nigeria wanted to be respected across Africa and beyond, it must seek to attain a $2 trillion economy, and not just cerebrate and flaunt the attainment of $500 billion.

Lumumba lambasted African leaders, who attended the recent China-Africa Investment Summit held in Beijing, for wasting scarce resources on large entourage and luxurious acquisition during the trip.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer of BANC, Dr. Chibuzor Onyema, said in order to make irregular migration less attractive, the government must first address the root causes, the issues that pushed

people to leave their home countries in such desperate conditions. Onyema stated, "These causes include poverty, unemployment, lack of access to quality education, political instability, and insecurity. “Governments and leaders at all levels must prioritise creating an environment where young people can prosper and build fulfilling lives within their own countries."

Chairman of BANC, Sani Bako, said the group will work through research, advocacy, and community engagement to see how it could prevent human trafficking and exploitation.

Bako stated that BANC will support migrant integration and inclusion, and promote policy reforms and international cooperation.

FG Vetting Second Batch Application for N5b Creative Fund

Says $617m IDICE programme is game changer for creative industry

The federal government has disclosed that it is currently vetting the second batch of applications for the N5 billion creative fund, in partnership with Providus Bank.

The government said full implementation of the $617 million IDICE programme would change the country’s creative sector.

Special Assistant to the President on Digital and Creative Economy, Mr. Fegho Umunubo, made the assertions yesterday in Lagos, in his address at the American Business Council's investment forum.

Umunubo stated that as the sector evolved and flourished, it was necessary to foster an enabling environment that would support the creative talents

and entrepreneurial endeavours of the Nigerian youth.

He said skills acquisition remained one of the valuable empowerment initiatives, especially within the country’s creative space. He added that his office was driving various initiatives to train over 60,000 individuals aged between 18 and 45 in fashion, film, and arts across different states in Nigeria.

According to Umunubo, “Recognising the paramount significance of access to finance as a pivotal challenge for the creative industry, Federal Government successfully established the N5 billion creative fund, in partnership with Providus Bank, dedicated to supporting creatives in Nigeria.

"N1.5 billion has already been disbursed to some creatives under the first batch and we are currently

vetting the applications under the second batch.”

Umunubo stressed, “Despite its current contribution of $5 billion to the economy, the Nigerian creative industry is poised for further expansion, with its various sub-sectors at different stages of development.

"This presents an opportunity for increased investment, innovation, and collaboration to unlock the full potential of the creative economy in Nigeria.”

The presidential aide said by investing in skills development, infrastructure, and creative enterprises, Nigeria could harness the full transformative power of its creative economy, and drive sustainable growth and prosperity for the country.

Olele said, “But more importantly, we have an opportunity to ramp up our economy just through this and to see where some of these investments are and to be able to channel them appropriately to this area.”

She stressed the significance of a more cohesive outlook towards investment and funding, and emphasised how "we can have a one-stop shop where anyone who is keen to invest or who wants to invest will say, okay, I have my investment in this sector, I want to invest in this sector, where are the potential areas?

Sylvester Idowu

A Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Sunny Onuesoke, has criticised the role of Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) as a middleman in the supply chain of petroleum products from Dangote Refinery to marketers.

The former Delta State gubernatorial aspirant of the party made the statement yesterday in response to the fuel pump price released by NNPC for Dangote Refinery products.

He expressed his expectation that Dangote Refinery should sell

petroleum products directly to major or independent marketers without NNPC’s involvement.

Onuesoke, who is chairman of DAS Energy Services Limited, Udu near Warri, stated that the interference of NNPC in the supply chain of Dangote Refinery products would inevitably contribute to price increases in the country.

He recalled that NNPC has been operational for the past 20 years without producing fuel.

Onuesoke added that it was disheartening that the same organisation, whose refineries cannot produce

fuel, is now interfering in how an independent refinery sells its products to marketers.

Consequently, he called on the federal government to sack the Managing Director of NNPC, Mr. Mele Kyari, and reorganise the company due to its inefficiency in fulfilling its role for the benefit of Nigerians.

“The only organisation in Nigeria that is practically invisible is the NNPC. Is it wrong for Dangote to establish a refinery and sell petroleum products directly to major or independent marketers without NNPC acting as a middleman?

“What value does NNPC add by becoming a middleman between Dangote Refinery and major marketers? NNPC has been functioning for over 20 years without producing oil. We want to know what NNPC’s role is in a privately owned refinery like Dangote’s.

“Why are they insisting that Dangote Refinery sells its products through them to marketers?” he questioned.

Onuesoke argued that in developed countries, refineries sell directly to marketers, unlike in Nigeria, where refineries sell to NNPC.

According to him, “In alignment with the current administration's vision to position Nigeria as a global investment hub by accelerating diversification through creative arts and innovation, the federal government has set forth a strategic focus on driving human capital development, providing essential infrastructure, and facilitating access to finance within the creative ecosystem.

“The $617million IDICE programme will become a game changer in the creative industry when the implementation starts properly. The programme aims to provide the following: capacity development, provision of Infrastructure support for all the sub sectors of the creative industry and access to Finance for Creatives across the country.”

Earlier, Chief Executive Officer of the American Business Council, Ms. Margaret Olele, said the council realised that the sector could drive the influence of Nigerian culture across the continent, hence, the forum.

“And so you are able to have a clear matchmaking. That is one role we want to play and we want to play the role that we can have some strategic matchmaking through fundee and funders to ramp up the creative sector. That is really the essence of this project that we are doing."

USAID/Nigeria Senior Trade and Investment Adviser, Ms. Evelyn Rekia Ayivor, stated that Nigeria was wellpositioned to become a major player in the creative global economy. However, Ayivor said to fully unlock the potential of the sector, the country must address critical challenges that still hindered growth, like access to finance, gaps in infrastructure, intellectual property protection, and the need for more trained professionals across the creative value chain.

She stated, “This is why today’s discussion is so important. It is not just about identifying opportunities, but about finding solutions – solutions that will strengthen the creative sector’s capacity, attract sustainable investment, and ensure that Nigerian creatives can compete not just regionally, but globally.”

Oluchi Chibuzor

Monday

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori; Head

Reginald

during

PRESENTATION OF REPORT ON IMPLEMENTATION OF LIVESTOCK REFORMS...

Co-chairman, Presidential Committee on Implementation of Livestock Reforms, Prof. Attahiru Jega (L) presenting the report of the committee

Abuja... yesterday

Informa Markets Puts Funding of Nigeria's $360bn Energy Transition Plan in Spotlight

Peter Uzoho

Organisers of the Nigeria Energy Exhibition and Conference, Informa Markets, yesterday, said stakeholders, including policy makers, industry players, and investors from within and outside the country, were set to brainstorm on funding and implementation of the country's $360 billon energy transition plan at this year's edition of the annual summit. Exhibition Director, Energy Portfolio in charge of Middle East and Africa at Informa Markets, Mr. Ade Yesufu, stated this in a statement to herald this year's Nigeria Energy Exhibition and Conference, scheduled to hold in Lagos from October 15 to 17,

with the theme, "Breaking Barriers in the New Energy Era: Clean, Reliable and Sustainable."

The federal government had estimated that about $10 billion would be needed annually to achieve Nigeria's energy transition by 2060, amounting to $360 billion in 36 years.

Yesufu stated that Nigeria and West

Africa were at a pivotal moment in their energy journey, where the focus was not only on increasing access but also on transitioning to cleaner, more sustainable power solutions.

Even with vast natural resources, he stated that the region had struggled to attract investment opportunities, which was critical to reducing energy poverty.

Shettima: Regulatory Agencies Must Eliminate Overlaps, Align with Tinubu’s Agenda

Assures FG will streamline systems to facilitate ease of doing business

Vice President Kashim Shettima yesterday charged regulatory agencies to eliminate overlaps and align their actions with President Bola Tinubu's agenda for economic growth and improved ease of doing business in Nigeria.

Shettima said the current administration remained committed to streamlining the regulatory environment in Nigeria. He stressed that this was crucial in driving the coordination, transparency and global competitiveness required for the country's economic transformation.

The vice president gave the advice at State House, Abuja, during the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) Regulators' Forum to build an effective Regulatory Impact Framework (RIA) for Nigeria.

He emphasised that the administration’s journey towards a “regulatory system built on trust, consistency, and collaboration is ongoing, and it is a journey that requires" all and sundry to remain committed.

The vice president implored the government regulators to be willing to reinvent processes and innovate, in order to guide Nigeria towards a

future that will position it to thrive, rather than being economically disadvantaged.

He stated, “Our duty to the private sector is clear: to listen, process their concerns, and develop solutions that drive growth. In recent months, there have been pockets of complaints regarding certain directives from our regulatory agencies.

“I have personally intervened on several occasions to ensure we are not hampered by conflict, but instead move forward with unity and purpose.”

Underscoring the importance of streamlining the regulatory system, Shettima said the success of the forum did not solely depend on stakeholders’ ability to collaborate, share knowledge, and align our regulatory actions with the broader national agenda.

“It also depends on our capacity to recognise and address criticisms and shortcomings, while striving for a nation that does not feel like a battlefield for businesses, but a place where investors can thrive without fear of unnecessary hurdles,” he added

Shettima charged the regulators to heed Tinubu’s call to action, stating that the president envisions a country where regulatory excellence drives

economic growth, attracts investment, and ultimately improves the quality of life for all citizens.

He said, “Time and again, President Tinubu has reassured the business community of his commitment to easing any bottlenecks they may encounter, and each regulator here must adopt the same mind-set in their dealings with private enterprises.

“The work of PEBEC, particularly through initiatives, like the Regulatory Reform Accelerator, has been pivotal in reducing the obstacles faced by

businesses.

“Today’s forum offers an unparalleled opportunity to address these issues head-on and chart a new course towards regulatory cohesion. This is not merely an event – it is a defining moment for us to reflect on the duties we owe our nation."

On the task ahead, Shettima urged participants at the meeting to recognise the gravity of their role as regulators.

Yesufu added that the Nigeria Energy Exhibition and Conference had consistently brought together key players to drive collaboration and innovation.

He said, "This year, we are placing a strong focus on powering energy transition in West Africa, which underscores our commitment to advancing practical solutions that address the region's energy challenges, while supporting its green energy future."

For the 2024 edition, Yesufu revealed that Nigeria Energy launched the Energy-X Contest as a premier endeavour aimed at nurturing and empowering exceptional students and young Africans in the realm of innovation, especially in the energy industry.

As part of the initiative, Yesufu explained that a specialised incubation programme was curated with the mission to create a dynamic ecosystem where young entrepreneurs were equipped with the skills, network, and support to build successful ventures that positively impacted society.

He stated, "The Nigeria Energy Exhibition and Conference will showcase the entire energy value chain, from cutting-edge generation and transmission advancements to ground-breaking solutions in renewables and energy efficiency.

"The conference would discuss key

topics, including sustainable power generation with emphasis on balancing profitability and environmental Impact."

Yesufu said the conversation at the conference will be around investing in tomorrow and navigating the $360 billion energy transition, which was the blueprints for the country's energy future.

He said the discussion of the foregoing will dovetail into giving insights on gazetting Nigeria's Energy Vision, including financing, policy, and Innovation, the key ingredients for catalysing Nigeria's conventional utility-scale projects ecosystem.

Yesufu explained that exploring the potential of hydrogen to accelerate West Africa's transition to a clean and sustainable energy future will also be discussed at the meeting.

As part of the highlights of the upcoming event, Yesufu said the Nigeria Energy Leadership Summit will play a crucial role within the West African power market, gathering the most relevant stakeholders in the sector to deliberate on viable pathways to achieving the sub-region's energy transition ambition.

According to him, the 11th edition will showcase some of the most innovative companies in power generation, transmission, distribution, renewable energy, and energy management from within and outside the country.

Employee Compensation: NSITF to Ensure Coverage for Casual Construction Workers

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) yesterday requested the establishment of a joint taskforce with the Federation of Construction Industry (FOCI) to ensure that all casual workers in the sector are covered by the Employees Compensation Scheme (ECS).

Delivering a keynote address at the

68 Annual General Meeting of the Federation in Abuja, the Managing Director of the NSITF, Oluwaseun Faleye frowned upon the situation where thousands of casual workers in the construction industry are left outside the coverage of the ECS with the attendant consequence of abandonment in the event of workplace accidents or death.

In a statement signed by the

General Manager, Corporate Affairs Nwachukwu Godson, the MD described the situation as direly anti-worker, which poses a huge risk to the foundation of safety in the world of work.

He said: “I want to bring your attention to an issue that requires our immediate and collective action, and that is the coverage of casual workers under the ECS.

“Currently, our practice ensures that contract staff are covered by the ECS. But what about our casual workers? These individuals face the same risks, breathe the same dust, and contribute equally to the progress of our projects. “Yet, they stand outside the protective umbrella of our scheme. This disparity is not just unfair; it's a risk to the very foundations of safety we're trying to build.

to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, at the Presidential Villa

PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI.

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

STANDING COMMITTEE MEETING OF THE ANGLICAN CHURCH...

L-R:

Jega: In Short Term, Ranching, Open Grazing Should Co-exist to Resolve Farmers/Pastoralists Conflict

Presidential committee on livestock development submits report to Tinubu

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

The Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee has recommended the adoption of both ranching and open grazing, at least in the short term, to halt the recurring clashes between farmers and pastoralists across the country.

Making this suggestion on Thursday evening was Co-Chairman of the committee, Professor Attahiru Jega, while addressing newsmen after his committee submitted a 152-page inception report to President Bola Tinubu at State House, Abuja.

Jega spoke in the company of three other members of the committee, Professor Eustace Iyayi, Dr Winnie Lai-Solarin, and Professor Placid Njoku, explained that abandoning traditional pastoral activities overnight was impracticable, given the large number of people engaged in such activities.

According to him, abandoning pastoralism abruptly for ranching without consideration for those huge population who have their lives built around the system, would not be advisable.

Jega stated that the committee's long-term objective was to promote intensive livestock production through ranching. But he said achieving this goal required a gradual transition, accommodating both ranching and open grazing for a period, adding that this incremental approach aims to eventually phase out extensive pastoralism.

Jega, a former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), attributed past

challenges and politicisation of the issue to the tendency to seek a single, simplistic solution.

He advocated a nuanced approach, considering incremental positive changes within a specific timeframe.

According to him, "It's a combination of both. It's not an 'either or' situation. You cannot wake up tomorrow and all you have is ranching because you have already have quite a large chunk of population in traditional pastoral activities, what do you do with them, it's not either nor, but any solution that has to be developed now has to be a combination of both.

"Why we are promoting long-term objective is that we now have intensive live livestock production, that is a long-term objective, but you know you cannot wake one day and have that, you have to develop policies and frameworks that can accommodate both for a period of time while increasingly the objective is to have intensive livestock production, not to have extensive in the nature of pastoralism that we have now.

"I think some of the challenges we have had in the past, and which also led to politicisation of the issues, is we are quick to develop a single frame of mind with regard to what the solution is, but in a complicated situation like we have, you have to really think in terms of incremental positive changes, but you must have a time frame within which this should be achieved."

On the report submitted to the president, the committee, comprising 23 professionals, developed recommendations to unlock the potential

of Nigeria's livestock sector.

Jega said the report detailed several achievable targeted indicators within a 10-year time frame that would inform reforms in the livestock sector of Nigeria, adding that it addresses 12 terms of reference and includes 22 objectives and 3,146 targeted indicators.

Key recommendations included establishing a Federal Ministry of Livestock Development with specific structures and functions.

He further said the committee believed focused implementation could lead to significant improvements within 10 years, benefiting job creation, economic growth, and potential exports.

Jega also said the president had shown full support for the committee's efforts, which also aimed to mitigate

conflicts related to pastoralists and nomadic herders.

He stated, "As many of you may recall, Mr. President inaugurated this committee on the 9th of July, and the committee began work immediately after inauguration, and we have now been able to produce what we call an Inception Report, which contains very wide ranging recommendations as to how our country can tap the potentials of the livestock sector, in terms of opening up the value-chain in this sector and ensuring that by so doing, we develop all sectors in the value-chains to enhance economic growth and development, create jobs, and also ensure that we are not only able to bring about food, feed and nutrition security, but we are also able

to significantly begin to export many of the products that are associated with this sector.

"We believe that there has been a neglect of this sector for a very long time and we are very happy that Mr. President has recognised the need to redress this neglect and has invited us to contribute to finding ways and the means of unlocking the opportunities in this sector.

"So I'm very pleased to say that today we presented an inception report to Mr. President and it's a document of about 152 pages, divided into five sectors. In this report, we were able to address 12 terms of reference that were given to us as a committee, and we were able to develop 22 clear objectives of what the reform effort

Continues online in the livestock sector should entail. "We've been able to make very specific recommendations on each of these issue areas. In addition to that, we were also able to identify achievable targeted indicators, about 3,146 of them, and we believe that by pursuing these and actualising them, there is no doubt that within a reasonable time frame, in fact, we believe with a focused attention and the effort in implementation, maximum within a period of 10 years, we would be able to actually, remarkably, see improvements in virtually all aspects of the livestock sector; from the large animals to the small ruminants.”

Contractors Blame Regulatory Overbearance, Funding Gaps, Others for Lull

James Emejo in Abuja

President, Federation of Construction Industry (FOCI), Chief Vincent Barrah, yesterday, stated that lack of adequate funding and regulatory excesses were major problems hampering the growth of the construction sector.

Speaking at the association’s 68th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Abuja, Barrah also blamed regulatory overbearance on the part of the Federal Ministry of Works for the lack of ample construction activities on federal roads.

in Road Construction Nationwide

He accused the Minister of Works, Senator. David Umahi, of operating contrary to the Standard Conditions of Contracts (SCC).

Barrah said projects awarded many years ago were not yet completed due to lack of funds.

He said the delay in the duration of project execution had been impacted by inflationary trends that necessitated Variation of Prices (VOP) to take care of current price of materials as periodically published by the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) as well as the Materials Price

Index published by Federation of Construction Industry (FOCI).

He said the VOP remained a major sticking point between the minister and contractors, as the former had failed to appreciate the need for price adjustment.

He said most contractors were merely on site without any activities as a result of the disagreement with the ministry.

Barrah added that projects were not completed on time due to funding gaps, thereby yielding to inflation.

The FOCI president said, "The

British Firm to Build $5m E-Waste, Battery Recycling Plant in Ogun

James Sowole in Abeokuta

A British Company, Hinckley Recycling Ltd, is set to establish a $5million Electronic and Battery recycling firm in Ogun State.

The multi-million dollar investment, was facilitated by OGUN INVEST, which has the governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, as its chairman. The company when completed, according to its promoters, would create jobs for the youths of the state, help to rid the environment of electronic wastes and enhance knowledge and technology transfer.

The details about the company, was revealed at a news conference jointly addressed by the British High Commissioner, Mr. Richard Montgomery, Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Investment in Ogun State, Adebola Shofela, his Environment Ministry counterpart, Ola Oresanya and the Special Special

Adviser/Deputy Director-General OGUN INVEST, Ms. Sola Arobieke.

Briefing journalists on the company in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, the Managing Director of Hinckley Recycling, Adrian Clews, said the company would come to Ogun with the latest technology in electronic waste recycling.

He said apart from creating direct and indirect jobs for the residents of the state, particularly, the youth, Clews said the firm, would make the environment safe from electronics waste pollution.

He stressed that the company would continue to partner with the Ogun State government in its efforts to ensure green environment, job creation and technology transfer.

Briefing the Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun in his office earlier, the British High Commissioner, Richard Montgomery, said that when the company becomes operational, it would be the best in Africa.

"My brief visit to this state is about the deal put together for recycling, which is moving out of Lagos State and establishing a new plant here for recycling e-waste.

“The Ogun Invest and the Director General, Lands are working to ensure the deal comes off the line, and I am glad to be here to join the final conversation. I think that will bring new technology and new jobs to the State.

"The battery we will be manufacturing in Ogun State will be the first of its kind in Africa, and we will make the state the leader in battery recycling in Africa.

"For the first time, it is now possible to recycle the cell back into chemical form in Africa and export the black mass, which contains the minerals inside the battery, to make new batteries.

"It is really exciting that we received support from Ogun Invest, and officials from the Bureau of

Lands confirmed the Certificate of Occupancy. We can say that the investment will be about five million dollars, and we want Ogun State to be the place where this industry can grow," the High Commissioner said.

He noted that his country would like to participate in energy, technology, tertiary education, agricultural processing, and also explore how to find more United Kingdom-linked companies to invest in the state, adding that discussions are ongoing with the state team on how to proceed in the coming year.

Montgomery hinted that their visit to the state was partly to review the progress being made in Ogun as the industrial hub of the nation and how the State has fared in the areas of infrastructure and creating a conducive environment for business to thrive.

The High Commissioner noted that his country was not only interested in what the state has

achieved in the last five years but is also trying to identify business opportunities for his government and his country's companies to invest in.

He stated that the British International Investment, a financial development institution, has invested in one of the major cashew processing and export companies, adding that his country is ready to offer technical assistance to the state’s mass transit system, which is currently being test-run.

Responding, Governor Abiodun noted that the state has a large expanse of land suitable for the cultivation of food and cash crops, just as large deposits of limestone and other minerals are found in the State.

He said the state is home to numerous manufacturing companies and has the biggest industrial park as a result of the gas pipelines from the Niger Delta that crisscross the length and breadth of the state.

condition of roads are usually bad during the rainy season, but this year has gotten worse because most construction companies are not actively working on their sites due to major challenges the companies are having with the ministry of works."

He added, "The challenges are the recent various policy pronouncements by the ministry, which are not in line with the Standard Conditions of Contracts (SCC).

"The dictation or imposition of contract prices by the ministry of works is not acceptable because it is not in line with the SCC.

"Ignoring economic realities and necessary realistic updates of unit rates on existing contracts, and ignoring VOP as well. When you ignore these indices, how can the companies work?"

Among other things, the FOCI president said non-contractual termination of contracts by the ministry due to its inability to fund projects was unacceptable, adding that "Standard Conditions of Contract should apply."

Barrah explained, "We wrote a letter to the Honourable Minister, Senator David Umahi, and had meetings with him twice. We also wrote to the Ministry of Justice and the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) for their intervention. Till date, all efforts by FOCI to resolve these issues have not yielded the desired result.

"The result is the continued worsening of conditions of roads in the country and, of course, layingoff of workers because you cannot continue to retain and pay workers when you are not working and the works you have done, certified works, are not paid."

Chancellor, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Odein Ajumogobia; Dean of the Church, Archbishop Blessing Enyindah; wife of the Primate of All Nigeria, Mrs. Angela Ndukuba; Primate of All Nigeria, Most Revd. Henry Ndukuba; governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah; Archbishop of Enugu Province, Rt. Revd. Sosthenes Ikechukwu Eze; and the host/Bishop of Nike Diocese, Rt. Revd. Onyeka Onyia during the 2024 Standing Committee Meeting of the Anglican Church in Enugu ... yesterday

US: Why Nigeria, Other Countries Must Be Equipped

Emmanuel

Addeh in Abuja

The United States government has said that Nigeria and the world in general should be equipped with knowledge of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to be able to mitigate the risks its uses pose, especially during elections.

Speaking during a digital press briefing on the review of the: “Global Inclusivity and AI-Africa Conference” as well as its responsible use, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of African Affairs, Joy Basu, stated that while it was great to grab the opportunities provided by the use of AI, the world must also learn to reduce its negative impact.

“Many of us know the risks that are both applicable in Africa but also in the United States. There’s a lot of humility we have about understanding that none of us can control these risks alone and that it will really be a global conversation.

“You also have a number of risks particularly around elections. This is a year where so many countries are voting, including our own, and we all have to be aware of those risks.

“Regardless of the ways in which the risks manifest, one key mitigating solution that was discussed is ensuring that our populations are AI-equipped and are AI-ready and that they have not only the skills to take advantage of an AI workforce, but they have the critical thinking skills to be able to assess truth from fiction and disinformation and understand what those risks are and the way that they interact with AI,” Basu said.

She added that there was also a robust conversation throughout the conference about these various concerns as well as about the lack of certain kinds of data and languages and making sure these AI models are built in ways that are inclusive.

However, the DAS argued that the

to Mitigate

best defence remain the ‘two ears of all our citizens’, explaining that the United States has invested so much over the last few decades and will continue to, in the future, invest in African people.

She highlighted that this will involve investing in access to education so that people will not only be protected against some of the harms that come, but also bring their brilliance and their innovation to make sure that AI is deployed in the most positive way.

Also speaking, the Acting Special Envoy for Critical and Emerging Technology, Dr Seth Center, said the US was partnering Africa on an approach to global inclusivity and artificial intelligence to make sure that the new technology is developed in ways that are safe, secure, and trustworthy.

He explained that it was also important to ensure that the US and Africa mitigate the risks and seize the opportunities together that

come with AI.

AI-related Risks

Center stated that the goal was to make sure to develop the AI governance frameworks necessary to enable access to its use and to continue to support initiatives that expand access to AI tools and education in Nigeria, the region, and across the continent.

He also spoke on the need to explore the kind of application of AI for the most relevant use cases in sectors like agriculture and health that can help drive economies and prosperity.

Describing AI as a unique global technology, he pointed out that the world was in the midst of an intense period of focus already being driven by innovators – the private sector start-ups and researchers.

“And we now have this question of, what are we going to do together to shape the AI future to benefit our societies and strengthen our respective democracies and increase prosperity? And I think all of us recognise that this

EDUN: FG HAS EXITED WAYS, MEANS FINANCING, SAYS ECONOMIC REFORMS BEARING FRUIT

Plc, Mr. Roosevelt Ogbonna, explained that the forum was meant to ensure that the public had a clear policy direction regarding the government and its plan for businesses by giving them insight into economic realities and opportunities.

President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, told the corporate forum that it was necessary for government to truly support local manufacturing, saying this is more effective than travelling abroad to beg for foreign investments.

Managing Director of Financial Derivatives Company Limited (FDC), Mr. Bismarck Rewane, who was a co-lead speaker during the forum, advised the federal government to write off existing indebtedness of the Distribution Companies (DISCOs), sustain the power sector reforms, and seek cost effective electricity tariffs

Edun said, “We have exited Ways and Means. What does that mean? It means that the government, when it has to pay domestic debt service or foreign debt service, does not go to the central bank to debit the consolidated revenue fund of the government, which means just printing the money.

“But more importantly, we are putting in place, with the backing and support of Mr. President, a

world-class treasury and liability management system that will take this country to where it should be in terms of financial management.”

Commenting on the ongoing economic reforms being implemented by the federal government since May 29, 2023, Edu said, “The reforms, from evidence from the data and details that are available to us, are yielding fruits.” He stressed that “the economy is beginning to turn the corner, as we are all witnesses to the improved macroeconomic stability, such as stable exchange rates, improving government revenues, positive and increasing trade balances, current account balances and a total reconfiguration and revamping of government revenues”. The minister declared that successful delivery of government’s economic stabilisation plan would reinforce the gains being recorded from the reform measures.

He said the plan included the mobilisation of 360,000 farmers to cultivate 360,000 hectares of land that would yield an estimated harvest of 1.4 million metric tonnes of maize, wheat, and cassava because “we must produce the food that we eat”.

He added that the government was providing support and relief to manufacturers through fiscal measures, and disclosed that the

economic management team would be reconvened soon, as the government was preparing a document that would put together its economic plan.

According to him, the government aims to reduce the number of taxes businesses are paying to a single digit.

Edun stated, “The rationale is this: 90 per cent or so of the tax revenues that arrive in the government coffers comes from less than 10 taxes.

“There is an ongoing work to bring down the rate of corporate income tax as we are trying to encourage investments in order to grow the economy.

“There will be exemption from VAT for foods, pharmaceuticals, and health products, whereas taxes on luxury items will be adjusted upwards.”

Responding on the controversy trailing the refusal of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to honour its foreign exchange (FX) forward contract obligations to manufacturers, the coordinating minister of the economy advised Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) to keep dialoguing with the CBN for smooth resolution of the matter.

Edun said, “There is a related matter that MAN raised that has to do

with backlog of unpaid transactions regarding the supply of FX.

“My colleague (Governor of CBN) in the management of monetary policy in a coordinated manner is unfortunately not here and he is the best person to reply on monetary policy matters.

“However, what I will say is that we understand that the central bank is the counterparty to that issue and whatever the issues are, dialogue and continued consultation is really the best answer.”

He also stated that consumer credit was coming to support purchase of manufactured products, which would be a boom for the manufacturing sector.

The minister added that in the nearest future, Nigerians would be provided with near single digit interest rate on 25-year mortgages to ignite the construction sector.

Dangote emphasised the need for government to truly support local manufacturing in the country. He said this was more effective than travelling abroad to beg for foreign investment.

Dangote stated, “What attracts foreign investment is domestic investment. No domestic investments, no foreign investments! So, we have to make sure that we support our domestic investors.

IN RACE FOR EDO GOVERNORSHIP, SIX TRENDS TO WATCH OUT FOR

in as a result.

The second trend is: The place of Peter Obi.

With the Labour Party playing up its national leader, Obi, President Bola Tinubu might have been dragged into the race, too. This is because in backing Akpata, an Obi win, will be a springboard for him to challenge Tinubu/APC in 2027. To that extent, Tinubu is not taking it lightly. And the power of the federal might and its incumbency has joined the race. Added to that, Labour made a direct pitch to Edo voters that if they vote Akpata, Obi will likely be president in 2027.

Trend number three is:

The ‘Edo no be Lagos’ slogan of Obaseki.

Unfortunately, the slogan, which seemed to have worked immensely during Obaseki’s re-election bid might become his Achilles’ heel now. It just might be payback time, as again Tinubu joins the race with federal incumbency to support APC's Okphebolo

The fourth key trend in tomorrow’s election is: The Oba of Benin, Omo N'Oba N'Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II factor.

Fighting the Oba by Obaseki could also be another unpleasant payback for the outgoing governor and his party, the PDP. This trend cannot be overemphasised given the influence of the monarch. Again, Asue Ighodalo is inheriting Obaseki's biggest political enemy.

If the Oba roars tonight through town criers in the villages, the voters may follow his direction

The fifth trend is: The enduring strength and power of incumbency of the governor at the grassroots.

This factor is directly proportional to running on his record. As the incumbent, he comes with a lot of grounds. With the power incumbency at the state level, Obaseki has the ground game, crucial to any electoral victory: Teachers, civil servants and the local government apparatchik. Therefore, the election is his to lose. However he faces an uphill battle with the federal might, with INEC, police and army if they choose to go partisan.

This brings us to the sixth and final trend: Which is the role of the critical institutions in the electoral process.

For instance, will INEC, the police and the army be neutral? Allegations of biases are already swirling. It is a litmus test for INEC and others as Edo projects Nigeria to the world tomorrow.

Will these institutions be checkmated by local and international election observers? Will INEC be free and fair and put its reputation further at risk at a time it should be building back better? And will BVAS work or will it be compromised? Will the election be free and fair?

Meanwhile, ahead of the election tomorrow, INEC has warned political parties to eschew illegal campaigning,

as campaigns ended at midnight yesterday, September 19.

Labour Party (LP) said the involvement of its presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, in the governorship campaign of Mr. Olumide Akpata, was borne out of his desire to promote democracy and development in Edo State.

At the same time, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, Kogi Central, described the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the election, Asue Ighodalo, as possessing impeccable academic qualifications and experience to provide the requisite leadership to develop the state.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan sued for peace, while charging state institutions involved in managing the election process to create a level-playing field to ensure a free and fair exercise.

That was as the Police Service Commission (PSC) charged officers on election duty to be civil and smart, but strict in enforcing the electoral laws.

In a statement, yesterday, Secretary to the Edo State Government, Joseph Eboigbe, reassured the people that security measures had been provided to ensure a free, fair, and credible election.

The statement read, “It is hereby announced for the information of the general public that the Edo State Government has declared Friday, September 20, a work-free day in Edo State.

“This is to enable workers and other electorate travel to their voting areas ahead of the September 21 governorship election in the state.

“Government wishes everyone journey mercies and reassures that security measures have been provided to ensure a free, fair and credible

inflection point has two pieces to it.

“The first is a recognition that fundamentally, whether at a regional level or a global level, we are not on track to achieve what all of us believe are the most important components of the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and we have an opportunity to use this new technology to accelerate many of the goals – perhaps up to 80 per cent.

“And what was most striking in terms of the conversations that we had in this conference, and I think a real launchpad for action, is the excitement and optimism around the opportunity to use AI on top of a larger digital revolution to accelerate progress on all of these goals.

“So what we hope to do fundamentally in bringing together a regional conversation. Number two is to make sure that we’re connecting those start-ups and entrepreneurs to a larger ecosystem of private sector actors

“I went to two places on Wednesday and I was a bit angry. I wanted to eat snacks and all the biscuits that I was given in these two different places were made in China, which is wrong.

“If we are consuming made in China biscuits, it means that we are actually creating jobs in China and creating poverty here.

“So we need to have proper support for domestic industries. We must give the SMEs all the support to survive against all these dumping.”

Rewane, a co-lead speaker at the forum, projected that Nigeria’s economy would hit $400 billion in 2026, from its current size of $368 billion, to become the second largest economy in Africa.

However, Rewane advised the government to cancel existing indebtedness of the DISCOs, sustain the power sector reforms, and strive for cost effective electricity tariffs.

He added that the pump price of petrol would go higher before coming down in 2026.

According to Rewane, “We (Nigeria) spent N3.5 trillion bailing out banks. We spent another trillion bailing out state governments. For God’s sake it is time to spend some money to bail out the DISCOs and have meters.

“This will enhance power supply, improve telecoms performance, the entire country grows and everyone is happy.”

election.”

INEC to Parties: No Illegal Campaigns

INEC warned political parties that all campaigns ended at midnight yesterday. National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee of the commission, Sam Olumekun, in a statement, urged parties, candidates, and their supporters to take note of the provisions of the law

Continued on page 28

Rewane warned that Nigeria would be doomed if investments were not made in telecoms infrastructure.

He said, “If Airtel, Glo and MTN shut down their systems, there will be no e-transactions in the financial and aviation sectors; no INEC’s elections, no BVAS and people will riot immediately.”

Rewane added that Nigeria was faced with a growth problem rather than revenue problem.

“You can collect all the revenues you can in the world, but it will get you nowhere,” he said, add-

who can really provide launchpads.

“And then number three, I think, is to take the governance conversation to the next level. What’s significant is many of the countries in Africa are developing their own respective national AI strategies right now.

ing, “Revenue is necessary but not sufficient. Growth is both necessary and more sufficient.

“Growth is a function of investment and you must treat your investors well by not what you say but by what you do.”

In his own contribution during the corporate forum, Director General of MAN, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, pointed out that successive governments in the country had declared their intention to grow domestic production, but failed to show adequate interest in the growth of the manufacturing sector.

Ajayi-Kadir said, “There is always intention to grow the sector, but at the end of the day, it is either lack of total commitment to put policy into action or that the sector is crowded out in terms of priorities.

‘So, the manufacturing sector in Nigeria has continued to perform at less than 50 per cent of its install capacity.”

The MAN director-general added, “There is still the issue of the unsettled $2.4 billion FX Forwards contract that the CBN, for inexplicable reasons, is still holding. Most of our big industries are declaring losses and some of these losses are traceable to this issue of not honouring FX Forwards contracts.”

Similarly, Director General of Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Dr. Chinyere Almona, said the plight of the SMEs should keep the finance minister awake at night because some of the policies of the government were stifling businesses. “Sometimes the policies are great, but their implementations are zero,” Almona said.

Professor of Capital Market, Professor Uche Uwaleke, said right instruments were not being deployed in the country’s debt market.

Uwaleke pointed out that the Sukkuk bond for infrastructure development constituted less than two per cent of the federal government’s debt structure.

TINUBU: WE'RE BUILDING ROBUST FINANCIAL SYSTEM, BUSINESSFRIENDLY ECONOMY FOR FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT

investment opportunities that had employed over 3,000 people across nine production facilities.

According to the president, "We are business-friendly, and as I said at my inauguration, we must create an environment of easy-in and easy-out for businesses.

''We are building a financial system where you can invest, re-invest, and repatriate all your dividends. I have a firm belief in that."

Tinubu told the delegation that private sector partnerships, which sustained investments, were central to his government's far-reaching reforms to improve the business environment.

He pledged that his government would continue to partner with Coca-Cola to expand investment in Nigeria and address environmental issues, including climate change.

''The size of this country is enormous in Africa, and the consumption capacity of Nigeria

is expanding daily,'' Tinubu added. He commended the company for scaling up skills development and community initiatives as part of its corporate social responsibility.

Speaking earlier, while presenting an overview of Coca-Cola’s business in Nigeria, Murphy stated that the company generated N320 billion annually through nearly 300,000 customers and contributed almost N90 billion in revenue to the Nigerian government.

He said, "We are very proud of the growth of the business over a long period and its impact on the daily lives of many Nigerians.

“Beyond the financial impacts, we are also very committed to supporting the communities, and over the last number of years, we've had a special focus on several areas in the world of sustainability, water packaging and others."

Chief Executive Officer of CocaCola Hellenic Bottling Company, Mr Zoran Bogdanovic, explained

that the company’s confidence in the Nigerian government’s policies had encouraged it to make the $1 billion investment pledge. Bogdanovic said, ''Mr President, in your inaugural address, we were very pleased to hear of your invitation for foreign investors to invest and your assurance that foreign businesses can repatriate dividends and profits.

“That assurance gives us the confidence to continue our investments. Since 2013, we have invested $ 1.5 billion in Nigeria in capacity expansion, transformation of our supply chain infrastructure capabilities, training, and development.

''I am very pleased to announce that, with a predictable and enabling environment in place, we plan to invest an additional $1 billion over the next five years. ''We believe Nigeria’s potential is tremendous, and we are committed to working with the government to realise this potential."

Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of African Affairs, Joy Basu,

OPENING OF MEDICS PARTNERS MULTI SPECIALIST HOSPITAL...

Appeal Court Permits FG, Onnoghen to Settle Alleged Unlawful Sack Dispute Out of Court

Adjourns till November 4

A three-member panel of justices of the Court of Appeal in Abuja, on Thursday permitted the federal government and former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Walter Onnoghen, to resolve the dispute surrounding his sack outside of the court.

The administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari had in 2019, suspended Onnoghen from office, paving the way for his arraignment and subsequent trial on alleged false declaration of assets at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT).

The tribunal later convicted Onnoghen, had his assets forfeited and

barred from holding public office.

Although, the former CJN had immediately approached the appellate court to challenge his suspension and subsequent prosecution, hearing in the appeal did not commence until recently.

At Thursday's proceedings, although Chief G. U. K. Igwe, SAN announced appearance for Onnoghen, however, Chief James Ogwu Onoja, SAN, who argued the appeal, informed the court that parties have been having "several meetings" since the last court's sitting, towards resolving the issue out of the court.

Onoja therefore prayed the panel to adjourn the appeal for another

one month for parties to reach an agreement. His submission was corroborated by Mr. Tijani Gazali, SAN, lawyer representing the federal government.

Responding, Justice J. O. Oyewole, who led the three-member panel, while commending parties for efforts at resolving the issue directed that parties file a term of settlement in the event of an agreement.

He however, adjourned till November 4, for hearing.

At the last proceedings on August 20, the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, had informed the appellate court that the office was yet to take possession of the case file of

Onnoghen, from the former lawyer handling the case.

When the matter was called, Onnoghen's lawyer, Chief Chris Uche, SAN, had informed the court of his readiness for hearing but, Gazali SAN, noted that the respondent was not because it was yet to take possession of the case file from a private lawyer, who prosecuted on behalf of the federal government.

According to the senior lawyer, the trial of the former CJN was contracted to a Kano-based private lawyer, Aliyu Umar SAN, who is now late.

Gazali therefore appealed to the court to grant an adjournment to en-

Global Rights, CISLAC, SERAP, RULAAC, Others Decry Govt Clamp Down on Dissenting Voices

Linus Aleke in Abuja Global Rights, Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC), Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), Femi Falana Chamber, BudgIT Foundation, CLEEN Foundation, and over 60 others, have condemned in strong terms the efforts of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to suppress dissent among citizens, restrict civil society, and undermine Nigeria’s civic environment.

The consortium of civil society organizations also noted that this troubling trend raised serious questions about the state of democracy and human rights in Nigeria, as it appeared to be a deliberate strategy aimed at stifling dissent and curtailing the voices of those who dare to challenge the status quo.

A statement by the civil society groups said the actions of the government in this regard seem to be a calculated response to the growing discontent among the populace, which has been fueled by widespread corruption, extravagant spending by those in power, and the implementation of policies that are increasingly detrimental to the well-being of ordinary Nigerians.

These policies, they said have not only exacerbated the existing socio-economic challenges but have also contributed to a climate of fear and repression, where legitimate grievances are met with force rather

than dialogue.

According to the statement: "The undersigned civil society organizations are seriously disturbed by the alarming and troubling rate with which the ruling All-Progressive Congress (APC) government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has resorted to utilizing Nigeria's security agencies as instruments of harassment, intimidation, and suppression against Labour groups and vocal civil society organizations (CSOs).

"The actions taken by the government in recent weeks have raised serious concerns about the state of democracy and human rights in our nation. It is alarming to witness the increasing measures aimed at stifling voices that challenge the status quo, as well as the systematic targeting of organizations and individuals who advocate for transparency, accountability, and social justice".

Urging prompt rectification of the numerous errors made in the past months, which have not only eroded public trust but have also created an atmosphere of fear and repression, the consortium said, "It is imperative that the government acknowledges these missteps and takes immediate action to restore the rights and freedoms that are the cornerstone of a democratic society".

This, they said includes the retraction of any policies or actions that unjustly limit the ability of citizens to express their opinions, assemble peacefully, and engage in meaningful dialogue with their government.

The consortium said that the

Nigerian government must direct its agencies and departments to implement a human rights-centered approach when addressing dissent, particularly during protests.

The statement said: "A fundamental principle of the democratic framework we claim to uphold is the allowance of dissenting opinions. The callous and unwarranted harassment of civic actors like Omoyele Sowore should end. Nigerians should not be harassed because they choose to exercise their right to freedom of expression in a manner that the government finds unpalatable".

They called on President Tinubu to initiate a dialogue involving civil society organizations, media representatives, and professional groups in Nigeria, while cautioning that neglecting the responsibilities will only exacerbate the struggles of Nigerians, who are already burdened by a severely mismanaged economy.

"The period characterized by the oppressive measures of dictatorship ended in 1999. Such an era is not endorsed by Nigeria's constitution and fails to meet the aspirations of the Nigerian populace, thereby lacking legitimacy," the group concluded.

able the government to approach the chambers of the late private lawyer to retrieve necessary documents to respond to the appeal.

According to him, virtually all the processes served on the AGF in 2019 were taken to a private lawyer.

Besides, Gazali said that the matter was being looked into from another perspective with a view to working out an amicable resolution of issues in dispute by the new AGF.

Responding, Uche pointed out

to the court that some documents were actually served on the AGF office and acknowledged.

Uche appealed to the Court to allow him to move an application for an accelerated hearing, which was granted since there was no objection from the federal government.

Justice C. I. Jombo Ofo, who presided over the matter, granted an accelerated hearing and subsequently fixed September 19, for the hearing of the appeal.

President Bola Tinubu will not attend the 79th United Nations General Assembly session in New York this year.

Rather, Vice President Kashim Shettima will lead Nigeria's delegation to the annual summit next week.

In a statement issued on Thursday by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President has thus directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to lead Nigeria's delegation.

According to the release, President Tinubu, who returned to the country last Sunday after his trip to China

and the United Kingdom, wants to focus on domestic issues and address some of the country's challenges, especially after the recent devastating flooding.

At UNGA 79, Shettima will deliver Nigeria's national statement to the General Assembly, attend important sideline events, and hold bilateral meetings.

The high-level General Debate themed "Leaving no one behind: Acting together for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development and Human Dignity for Present and Future Generations," will run from Tuesday, September 24, through Saturday, September 28, 2024.

Confront Road Traffic Crashes, FRSC Boss Charges Stakeholders

The Corps Marshall, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed Thursday in Abuja called on all stakeholders in the transportation sector to tackle head-on the phenomenon of road traffic crashes across the country.

To this end, the Corps Marshall and various stakeholders have agreed to roll out a blue print by Friday to address the carnages on the Nigeria road.

Shehu noted that in recognition of the need for urgent action against these prevailing challenges, there is need for collective decision.

During a press briefing Shehu said that the challenges are a threat to na-

tional health campaign and pursuant to the strategic imperatives, the Corps is focused on utilising round table meetings to generate ideas towards reducing fatalities and injuries from road crashes to the barest minimum.

According to him, "It will interest you to know that the cost of road crashes in terms of injuries and fatalities in a country like ours far outweighs the total foreign assistance made available for the country's road safety infrastructure development.

"Over the years, road transport in Nigeria has witnessed tremendous development as could be seen in the increased number of road networks, automobile sophistication and upsurge in human socio-economic activities carried out on the road.

“Ironically, while government continues to do its best to provide and maintain transport facilities in accordance with global best practices, some road users, especially drivers have continued to make mockery of this concerted efforts by exhibiting high level of recklessness on the road.

"Despite measures taken by FRSC through the Road Transport Safety Standardisation Scheme (RTSSS) which was launched in September, 2008 to address the chaos associated with fleet operations in the country, it appears much needs to be done.

“It has therefore become necessary to engage the fleet operators on minimum safety standards through training and retraining of drivers."

Continuing, Shehu hinted that he

was compelled to state that the spate of the crashes recently recorded was however very disturbing, stating that every step must be taken to avert continued future occurrences.

"It is against this backdrop that I have directed Commanding Officers to ensure round the clock enforcement of traffic offences so as to mitigate these excesses. A special patrol operation will be instituted and enforcement will be carried out nationwide.

"I wish to restate that the management of the Corps has already taken measures towards creating a safer monitoring environment by ensuring that the goals of the United Nations Decade of Action for road safety 20212030 are implemented," Shehu said.

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Medics Partners Multi Specialist, Akin Eso; Elegushi of the Ikate Elegushi Kingdom, Oba Saheed Elegushi; and Chief Medical Director, Medics Partners Mult specialist, Dr. Busola Ayelowo-Eso, during the Opening of Medics Partners Multi Specialist Hospital in Victoria Island, Lagos... on Wednesday

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

Alex Enumah in Abuja

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

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‘President’ll Soon Rejig His Cabinet to Accommodate Plateau’

Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State in this recent interview in Jos, the state capital, speaks on several pressing national issues including his relationship with President Bola Tinubu and the forthcoming local government election in the state. Seriki Adinoyi brings excerpts:

What has been the story since you came on board as Governor of Plateau State?

You know that governance continues daily. It keeps improving; it’s like a football club, every season, you see clubs buying new players because they need to improve the competitiveness of the squad.

I am happy with my squad; but I’m always looking for ways of improvement. As soon as we find ways in which we can improve, we will bring in the best hands that can be recruited.

Recently, you suspended two of your commissioners. When that was done through your Director of Press, you didn’t tell the world why you did it. May we know why it was done?

Well, let me say that we suspended them in order to reinforce discipline within the cabinet. Where we see some bit of lacklustre disposition, we try to rein them in and make sure people sit up to their responsibilities. We can’t for political reasons, allow anything and everything to go. But I am sure those we suspended have learnt their lessons; and we will keep reviewing those suspensions.

There was an appointment you made recently which generated a lot of fuzz. I’m sure you saw the reactions even from the Jamaatu Nasri Islam about a Senior Special Assistant on Indigenous Muslims. There seems to be too much of hues and cries. I don’t know if you want to explain anything in that light?

I really don’t like generating storms out of tea cups. It’s not necessary. I didn’t create the idea of “Indigenous Muslims”. I met it on ground as governor. It has been in existence, and even registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission as indigenous muslims.

I don’t know what motivated them; but they are definitely a defined group within our space. And so I didn’t create them. I only said, “Okay, look, you guys exist, let’s see how you can relate better with government”. That’s all we did. Therefore, I don’t see why anybody should deny them the right of existence. Some of them are Berom, some of them are Mwaghavul, some of them are Ngas, and others are Tarok. They want their own identity. And there is freedom of association guaranteed under the constitution. So there is no need to deny anybody that right. So, we simply recognised what is in existence. We didn’t create it. What we have done in trying to recognize the various groups is to give everybody a sense of inclusion: so that we don’t just throw something at the large group and some people within that group feel disenfranchised, feel disentitled, and feel not included. That is why you can see for the first time in the history of Plateau we recognised different groupings and gave them a channel of relating with government. We are running on this mantra of inclusion, equity, and fairness to all. Now, if you are getting your own, don’t deny somebody the opportunity to get his own. That’s all we are saying.

It appears you have a smooth relationship with Mr. President; to the extent it is feared that you may want to possibly jump ship someday. Are you thinking in that direction?

First of all, let me appreciate Mr. President for accepting me and opening his arms of fellowship to me. After all, he is the father of the nation. For instance, as the Governor of Plateau State, I cannot discriminate against any Plateau citizen. And so, for me to have that access to Mr. President, I believe it’s for the good of Plateau people.

Let me say this, I’m a PDP man to the core. My politics has always been dictated by God and the people. And I know that Plateau people own PDP. They see it as their own. If tomorrow Plateau people tell me to move, I’ll move. But if they tell me we want you to stay where you are, that’s where I will stay. So, I will always

move with the people. Let me assure the people about this; I will always move with the people. I relate well with Mr. President; but I don’t forget where I come from.

Just a few days ago, the APC stakeholders on the Plateau met. Since you have this

good relationship with the President, do you have any information to give us in the light that Plateau has been without a minister for a very long time, even though you don’t belong to the APC?

The federal cabinet is a right, as enshrined in our constitution. And I’ve had to engage

Mr. President on this. He has asked me to be patient. He is trying to re-jig his government and certainly has not forgotten about Plateau. He is considering a lot of options. Of course, we will keep engaging him on this matter. Presently, the National Assembly is on recess - the Senate, particularly. I’m sure that when they resume, we are likely to hear something positive in this regard.

The local government elections are just a few days away. You have repeatedly said you created a space where it would be a level playing ground for everybody. The people don’t believe that what you’re saying is going to happen. Your party had some bit of stormy ride in the primaries. The other party seemed to be very quiet. They did their primaries and everything went on smoothly. Did they do primaries? They didn’t do primaries. I can tell you that for free. Let them challenge me hereafter. Let them tell us where they did primaries. They didn’t do primaries for governorship. Names were just written; they didn’t do for local government elections either. But let me say this, we are going to prove to Nigerians that Plateau is a model in terms of conducting local government elections. We are bringing International Observers to observe our local government elections. The reason APC is participating is because we have provided a level playing field. You remember the shameful local government elections conducted in 2021 where they excluded the PDP on very frivolous and scandalous basis, which was decided in the Government House, not even by PLASIEC.

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

Tinubu and Challenges of Visionary Leadership

Keem Abdul writes that President Bola Tinubu will do well to before long rejig his cabinet to incorporate technocrats who will share same ideas with him towards implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda of his administration.

There’s a famous Hollywood movie titled, ‘The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Runner.’ Based on a short story of that title by the English writer, Alan Sillitoe, it talks about delinquent young man who takes to long-distance running in order to free himself from the pressures and expectations of his society – and especially of the peer pressure which has so often led him into trouble with the law. Sillitoe gives his character the ability to achieve his purpose without the pressures of a team – hence the use of the term, ‘loneliness.’

Leadership, too, is a marathon and an awfully lonely business – especially if you’re a visionary with your eyes fixed on the bigger picture and you’re willing to sacrifice instant gratification for long-term and ultimately lasting gain. It’s a lonely business if you have decided not to be a people-pleaser, prone to being blown here and there by the often changing winds of popular opinion – and even more so if you’re at the head of a team comprising members who are not completely on board with your vision.

Recent media stories making the rounds, to the effect that President Bola Tinubu is on the verge of a major cabinet shake-up that would effectively rid his cabinet of certain ministers who have been described in various quarters as ‘dead woods’ and ‘square pegs in round holes’, etc, seems to suggest that the President has come to the understanding that though these appointees may have had their uses in the past – especially in helping get him elected to office, and in respect of other services – they were no longer fit for

purpose. This may have nothing whatsoever with their competence or lack thereof (as some of them have enjoyed sterling careers in the public or private sectors) but all to do with whether their understanding of the mandate they received from the President was in tandem with the mandate he received from the Nigerian people.

When he ran for President in 2023, the Tinubu campaign team proposed a far-reaching agenda encompassing all the sectors of the Nigerian economy – and proffered profound solutions to the challenges bedeviling each of these sectors. The Renewed Hope Manifesto, as it was called, made it clear that for the Nigerian economy and indeed its entirely polity to move forward, tough decisions would be made; it also made it clear that it was better to

endure temporary hardship today in order to secure the brighter future of our dreams. In the tension between what we Want Now, and what we Need The Most, the Renewed Hope Manifesto suggested that Nigerians choose the latter.

Needless to say, the implementation of some of the reforms driving that vision, upon the success of the Tinubu/Shettima ticket at the polls and the President’s assumption of office, has brought no small amount of hardship to millions of Nigerian households. From the abrupt abolition of the fuel subsidy regime, to the unification of the exchange rate regime, to drastic increases in tariffs for electricity and other services as well as the upward review of the country’s tax profile, the Tinubu reforms have hit wallets really hard – prompting a bitter backlash from certain quarters, including civil society organizations. Industrial action and public protests have trailed the impact of these reforms and policy decisions. The minimum wage strike by the country’s two main labour unions, and the #EndBadGovernance protests that rocked several Nigerian towns and cities, are two examples. In the face of the fierce winds of opposition assailing him on every side, however, one cannot but note how the President has soldiered on regardless, in his determination to see that these reforms bear fruit in the shortest possible time.

-Abdul writes from Lagos.

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L-R: Ajasa Awuse of Onigbongbo Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oluwasegun Adeyemi; Elegbeda of Egbeda Kingdom, HRM Oba Ahmed Aremu Kareem (Laka I); Chairman/CEO, Midstream Group, Alhaji Abdul Alabi; his wife, Nabo; Olupo of Ajase lpo, HRM Ismail Bolaji Mohammad Yahaya (Atoloye Alebiosu); and Alaaye of Orisunbare Land, HRM Oba Akeeb Adebowale, during the official opening of Jamacous Luxury Hotel and Suites in Lekki,Lagos...recently PHOTO: ABIODUN AJALA

L-R: Executive Director, Business Development, AXA Mansard Health, Adeola Adebanjo; CDA Chairman, Alhaji Otunbade Nurudeen; COO, AXA Mansard Health, Dr. Jadesola Idowu; and Head of Marketing AXA Mansard, Olusesan Ogunyooye, during the AXA Mansard community development outreach in Abule Oja, Lagos... recently

L-R: Special Guest Speaker/former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo; author of the book/ former Editor of The Punch Newspaper, Mr. Adedayo Oketola; and cleric, Pastor (Mrs.) Esther Abimbola Ajayi, during the inaugural lecture and launching of a book ‘Nigerian ICT Evolution Through a Journalists Lens’, held in Lagos...recently P HOTO: MUBO PETERS

L-R: Director of Marketing, Airtel Nigeria, Ismail Adeshina; Director, Corporate Communications and Corporate Social Responsibility, Airtel Nigeria, Adefemi Adeniran; Director-General/Chief Executive Officer, NIMC, Abisoye Coker-Odusote; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Carl Cruz; and Information Technology Director, Airtel Nigeria, Kemi Ariyo; during the courtesy visit of NIMC to Airtel Nigeria headquarters in Lagos...recently

L-R: Children of the deceased, Mr. Oladapo Oduleye, John Oduleye, Mrs. Abimbola Ilenpe (née Oduleye), Mrs. Oluremi Akojenu (née Oduleye); Dean, the Cathedral Church of St Jude, Venerable Olusegun Ajayi; the children of the deceased, Mr. Abayomi Oduleye and Mr. Olayinka Oduleye, during the 50th remembrance anniversary for late Pa John Adebayo Oduleye, held in Lagos...recently

The Timi of Edeland, Oba Munirudeen Adesola Lawal (left), and Osun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Bunmi Jenyo during the ongoing 2024 Osun State industrial investment summit held at the Olagunsoye Oyinlola Multipurpose Hall, Uniosun, Osogbo in Osun State...recently

Ned Nwoko’s attack on the Delta State governor is unfortunate, argues ONYEAMECHI CHUKWUMA

ON HIS OWN SUNNY PATH

Nigeria’s Plan A is to make Nigeria work, contends JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA

THIS IS NIGERIA’S PLAN B

The Council of Young African Leaders (CYAL) founded by Divine Muragijimana and Okenfe Lebarty invited me to speak at their annual City University of New York Young African Leadership Symposium in 2012. At that meeting, a speaker told the audience that they had to leave the U.S. and return to Africa. It was a call to patriotism, or so he thought. I thought the speaker meant well, but I felt they were wrong.

I told the audience that patriotism could not be limited by national borders. I said, “borders are artificial because when the world was created, there were no borders”. I went on to tell them that they must stay committed to home; starting businesses with people they could trust, making donations to projects and programmes and even starting their own projects.

Okenfe recently opened the Lebarty American Leadership Academy in Benin, Nigeria. I remember also saying that if perhaps after several years things were not working for anyone in the audience, it was not a bad idea to return home, to see if they could be luckier. My point was that going home just for the sake of going home was not a good idea. Send money home, I said. People back home will appreciate the person abroad who sends them money than the ones they see every day that can’t change their economic conditions.

That was over a decade ago when, even though like the many years before it, migration was a normal thing. It is far off from these days of japa and the perception that it is a new reality. The ubiquity of social media often biases us into thinking some things are new or more prevalent than they used to be. Then and now, I still believe that those who prefer to explore opportunities abroad are doing the right thing for themselves and their family. Patriotism is sweeter when you are successful.

It takes a lot of faith and sacrifice to leave one’s home land. I experienced something in London days ago that further emphasised to me why I’d never live abroad, outside of short visits, and other long visit commitments. This Caucasian lady and a girl who appeared to be her daughter were in the lift. She was going to press their floor but decided not to when I entered. I could see her hand dilly-dally over the keys. I understood the situation. I simply pressed my floor anyway. It turned out we were going to the same floor because she didn’t press any key again. When we arrived, I normally would let others step out first, but this time I knew I had to go out before them, otherwise things could get even creepier. Now, it could just be that they’d have expressed the same fear if I was a white male. I don’t know that. It’s also possible that the fear they expressed had nothing to do with me. But I am never going to be in such situations and not think it’s because I am a Black man.

In July, I had another weird experience in D.C. of all places. I do not have enough space to narrate that. I am always thinking, maybe it’s just me overthinking things. I put that down to all the shootings and killings in America. But I am also always aware these things happen when I am outside Africa. I am fine with these experiences when I am traveling. I certainly don’t want to live a life where I am constantly negotiating my right to be in ordinary spaces. I don’t take any of it personal.

People aren’t inherently wicked or trying to other you. We’ve been fed so much unwholesome stuff; we see things that aren’t sometimes there. That includes me. I just can’t

imagine that my everyday life would be to stay conscious of being othered by others. That’s why I find comfort in living in Africa. Because that part of my consciousness never gets triggered. As much as these things don’t matter, they matter.

This is one of the reasons why I respect those who must navigate and endure these experiences. I saw a video of a woman saying if someone handed her 20,000 pounds, she’d make her way back to Nigeria.

It is a pointer to the fact that the economic opportunities may not even measure up to the inconvenience for some people.

This really is why whilst leaving the country may be an individual’s Plan B, Nigeria’s Plan A is to make Nigeria work. Nigeria’s plan B is to ensure Plan A is a reality. We cannot as a country build a world where our people feel like they have no other choice but to live abroad. The ultrapatriotic say things like, “if abroad no work make dem come back home,” but the truth is, we haven’t made home a viable option.

In a world where many cannot hold more than one truth in their heads, this could be seen as one thing rather than a simple explanation of some nuances surrounding the japa phenomenon. Life is hard at home, it is not easy abroad but amidst all the racism and its other elements, there are indeed more opportunities in the countries preferred by most Nigerian migrants. We need not live in denial of that.

Once we see things for what they are, we can start addressing them. A good place to start is a sense of intentionality. If we are committed to the traveling experience of most visitors to Nigeria — a lot of them, Nigerian first-time visitors to their homeland and returning citizens — we will address the anomalies at our airports. Addressing insecurity may be complex, but what quadratic equation is required to align our entry and exit protocols with what obtains elsewhere? These little things are what makes one wonder; if we can’t address the things that don’t require budgetary allocation, why should one believe if we had money, we would fix the ones that need these allocations? Money ain’t (always) a thing.

Omojuwa is chief strategist, Alpha Reach/BGX Publishing

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

State governors should protect their territories by going after criminals

Governors have very compelling reasons to ask for the decentralisation of the Nigeria Police Force as currently constituted

T H I S D AY

EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU

DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU

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

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

LETTERS

POLITY

Why APC Will Sweep Sokoto LGA Poll

As the 21 September 2024 Sokoto State Local Government Areas’ election holds, Louis Achi puts the exercise on the scale, against the backdrop of Governor Ahmed Aliyu and the State Electoral umpire’s firm commitment to a free, fair and credible elections and PDP’s boycott

The unassuming, amiable Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto of Sokoto State has repeatedly assured the people of Sokoto State and indeed Nigerians of his administration’s commitment to conducting a free, fair, and credible election in the state’s 21st September 2024 local government elections. The first evidence of that intention was the retention of the members of the Sokoto State Independent Commission (SOSIEC) appointed by former Governor Aminu Tambuwal.

But for reasons best known to the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) which despite assurances threatened boycott of the election and ultimately opted out of the important poll due to a quirky fear that the Sokoto State Independent Electoral Commission (SOSIEC) which its leader appointed cannot be trusted to conduct a credible election.

Notwithstanding that the members of the body were appointed by former Governor Aminu Tambuwal, the fact that Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto is a firm rule-of-law stickler, he refused to dissolve them like other governors who took over from the opposition did.

How could the Aminu Tambuwal-led PDP in the stated disown their appointees? Is the former governor indirectly telling the world that the 27th March 2021 elections which the PDP won hands down didn’t reflect the will of the people and that he feared same treatment despite the assurances by the governor?

Leaning on his unblemished and proven credentials as a strong believer in rule of law and democrat, the governor has severally urged the PDP to reconsider its curious decision to boycott the LGAs’ poll but in vain. Governor Aliyu Sokoto again pushed this appeal recently while addressing a large crowd of All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters from eight local governments in the Sokoto East Senatorial Zone, at Goronyo at the flag-off of the party campaign ahead of the LGAs’ poll in the state.

Hear Governor Ahmad Sokoto: “The leaders of the Sokoto Independent Electoral Commission were appointed by the previous PDP administration of Governor Aminu Tambuwal and I have not altered that structure. I wonder why the PDP is afraid of participating in the elections that would be organised by SOSIEC that they appointed.”

For good measure, Governor Aliyu Sokoto further assured the opposition in the state that SOSIEC, under his administration, would conduct free, fair, and credible local government elections unlike what the PDP did in 2021. “I had a meeting

GovernorAhmedAliyuSokoto

with the Chairman of SOSIEC, and he assured me of the commitment of the members to conduct a transparent election and that whoever wins will be declared the winner because that’s the will of the people” the governor affirmed.

Having been widely perceived as a victim of electoral fraud in the 2019 governorship elections it’s not surprising that the governor has shown willingness to respect the will of the Sokoto State people. He equally has demonstrated amazing political skills by ensuring that he delivered on his campaign promises.

The Sokoto State voters are expected to come out in large numbers and vote for the candidates of their choice. The APC candidates who despite the withdrawal of the PDP have continued to campaign for their votes deserve to be rewarded

so that working with the APC-led state government, they can ensure the continuation of people-oriented projects in the state. The emerging consensus is that the current administration has performed well in all sectors of development.

As Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, the respected APC leader in the state at the various campaign rallies has said, politics is about serving the people and the incoming elected officials must work with Governor Aliyu Sokoto to continue the urgent task of transforming the state. The eight years of Aminu Tambuwal was no doubt a disaster.

Wamakko’s words: “Mr. Governor, we are very proud of you. You have made significant progress in all sectors of development in the state. Please continue the good work and am sure the new chairmen would work with you to change the story of our state”.

It’s gladdening to know that SOSIEC is determined to conduct a credible election especially as the governor wants the right thing done. The people of Sokoto State are watching and would want the commission to match its reassurances to conduct credible local government elections in the 244 political wards and 3,991 polling units across the state, with actions on Saturday.

The engagement between the Commission, and all the registered 18 political parties in its effort to ensure credible polls, led to the agreement of September 21 for the polls with no fewer than 15 political parties registering their interest in the polls is commendable.

The USAID Nigeria-State Accountability, Transparency and Effectiveness (State2State) activity, that discussed issues that can cause conflict and how best to handle such matters according to SOSIEC has proved beneficial. SIEC has a responsibility to correct the failures of the last local government elections of 2021 which the PDP had won, despite the mere 342 votes between Aminu Tambuwal and Governor Ahmad Sokoto. It’s significantly regrettable that the PDP boycotted the elections.

But why did PDP opt for boycott of the LGAs’ poll, especially given the fact that it was the PDP that constituted the current SOSIEC? What really is the main opposition party’s beef with LGAs’ election? Alhaji Bello Aliyu Goronyo, Chairman of the PDP in Sokoto had initially expressed doubts about participating in the poll due to what he called unresolved security issues in 14 of the state’s 23 local government areas.

He had also insisted that SOSIEC must address what he called “significant concerns” before raising almost on a daily basis, issues it wanted addressed.

From “issues of significant concern” Alhaji Bello Aliyu Goronyo, went on to criticize the Sokoto State Independent Electoral Commission (SOSIEC) for requiring parties to buy nomination forms before primary elections. He had also problem with SOSIEC’s decision not to use the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).

Responding to PDP’s shrill criticism, SOSIEC Chairman Alhaji Aliyu Sulaiman confirmed the commission’s decision to forgo BVAS, citing controversial experiences from the 2023 elections. “We resolved not to use BIVAS to avoid unnecessary controversies. It’s not mandatory,” Sulaiman stated, noting that the PDP had not purchased any nomination forms by the deadline, unlike other parties. It wasn’t surprising that PDP eventually chickened out of the LGAs poll. The emerging political consensus is that the PDP had clearly seen the handwriting on the wall, hence its decision boycott the September 21 election.

Significantly, since the PDP was upstaged in the 2023 governorship election by APC’s Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto they opted for confrontation and campaign of calumny against the governor. “I took over the mantle of leadership of Sokoto State without working documents. I mean there was no handover notes for me to work with. I started as a total fresher,” an obviously miffed Governor Aliyu told THISDAY. THISDAY checks revealed the immediate past administration of Aminu Tambuwal left what many see as a deliberate confusion to entrap the successor administration. The Aminu Tambuwal administration left huge unpaid pension and gratuities, delayed salaries and uncompleted projects.

But it would appear they didn’t count on the nimble governance nous and political gravitas of youthful Governor Aliyu who deployed a stern focus to leapfrog the mines laid on his course and has now birthed a new progressive direction for Sokoto State.

More, Governor Ahmed Aliyu long before the Supreme Court judgment had embraced Local Government Area autonomy as one of his 9-point governance agenda. He instigated changes in the local government law to increase the tenure of the chairmen and councilors from two to three years. This puts Governor Aliyu and the APC in even more populist position to sweep the poll.

As it were, since the main opposition PDP had not purchased the requisite nomination forms by the deadline set by SOSIEC, like other parties have done according to the Commission chairman Sulaiman, then it’s obvious they are effectively out of contention in the September 21 LGAs election in Sokoto State.

TCN Announces Repair of 13 Electricity Towers

Destroyed by Vandals along Ahoada-Yenagoa Line

Bayelsa to deploy tech surveillance to protect facilities

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) yesterday announced that it

had successfully repaired and erected 13 out of the 16 towers destroyed by vandals along the Ahoada-Yenagoa 132kV transmission line.

The General Manager, Port Harcourt Region, Emmanuel Akpa, revealed this during a meeting with the Secretary to the State Government

in Bayelsa State, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei as well as members of the State House of Assembly, a statement in Abuja by the organisation said.

Iwuanyanwu for Burial November 1

Ohanaeze says late elder statesman was a patriot, great Igbo leader Urges FG to immortalise him, burial committee to visit Tinubu

Ndubuisi Francis and Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The remains of the late elder statesman, businessman, politician, philanthropist and former President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Iwuanyanwu, will be interred on November 1, at his Atta, Ikeduru, hometown in Imo State.

The National Burial Committee chaired by Senator Ben Obi made the disclosure at a press conference in Abuja, yesterday, where activities lined up to herald the final burial rites of the late publisher of Champion Newspapers were unveiled.

Iwuanyanwu died on July 25, 2024.

He was aged 82. The crowded press conference, which was attended by prominent Nigerians from all walks of life, especially from the South-east, where the deceased hailed from, provided a platform for many to eulogise Iwuanyanwu, described as a colossus, who carved a niche for himself in virtually all strata of the society.

Senator Obi said: “Our message today is to convey the dates for the burial of the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.Iwuanyanwu has impacted positively in every aspect of endeavour in this country,” he said.

Obi said the National Burial Committee will work with well-meaning

Nigerians leaders, including the Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma and the federal government in order to give the late patriot a befitting burial.

“Lagos day of tributes, Wednesday 16th October 2024 at Eko Hotels and Convention Centre. Abuja day of Tributes, Friday 18th October, 2024 at the National Ecumenical Centre.

“Enugu day of tributes, Saturday 26th October with a brief stop at Ohanaeze headquarters, 7 Parkland GRA, Enugu,while the main event will hold at the Okpara Square.

“Owerri Service of Songs, Tuesday 29th October 2024. Commendation Service on 1st November in Owerri and Imo day of burial on Friday, 1st November 2024. Further details will

be communicated in due course,” Obi said.

Responding to a question on whether or not the federal government would participate in the burial of the late statesman and possible plans by the government at the centre to immortalise him, Obi said the committee was planning to visit President Bola Tinubu to formally inform him about the demise of the late Ohanaeze leader as well as avail him of the details of his funeral.

“We will be visiting President Tinubu to formally announce to him details of his transition and I am sure the president knows all that Chief Iwuanyanwu had done and he will do the needful,” he said.

The TCN official lamented the spate of vandalism of the company’s installations nationwide, noting that between July and August alone, 16 towers were destroyed within the Port Harcourt region. According to him, TCN’s project implementation process in the area had been greatly hampered due to the nefarious acts of vandalism.

He further said: “We’re pained that this act has put the good people of Bayelsa into untold hardship and has equally plunged TCN into huge financial debt. In my 33 years of service, I have never seen this kind of colossal damage. It should be a national concern.

“Although vandalism is recorded across the country, the rate in this area is alarming,” Akpa was quoted as saying.

While calling for increased collaboration to tackle the issue, he added that community leaders should be given a marching order by the state government to take responsibility to prevent such activities in their communities.

He also appealed to the government of Bayelsa to decisively address the issue to forestall future occurrence.

On his part, the Assistant General Manager, Port Harcourt sub-region, Benneth Ezemobi hinted that TCN had engaged a local vigilante group at Ahoada to secure the ongoing job and that they already apprehended two vandals tampering with the newly rebuilt tower members, even as repairs were ongoing.

He reiterated the need to properly secure the areas to enable the smooth completion of the job so that bulk power supply can be restored to Bayelsa state.

Responding, the SSG in Bayelsa, Ayawei, expressed the state’s commitment to deploying heavy security personnel to the areas prone to vandalism within the state as well as implementing a technology-based surveillance to safeguard the towers. Ayawei noted that the government had accepted to support the procurement of internet cameras to cover hot spots, noting that power was too critical, and that without

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Oil Marketers, Airlines Confirm Improved Supply of Aviation Fuel as Operators Increase Aircraft Capacity

Chinedu Eze

Oil marketers and airline operators have confirmed the steady supply of aviation fuel, known as Jet A1, since Dangote refinery started supply of the product to local consumers, even though the prices of the product have increased.

It was learnt that the cost of aviation fuel in Lagos is between N1,230 and N1,240 per litre, N1, 265 per litre in Abuja and N1, 290 per litre in Kano, which are higher than the cost of the same product earlier this year at N900 per litre in Lagos.

The CEO of Cleanserve Energy, an oil marketing company, and former Managing Director of Arik Air, Chris Ndulue, told THISDAY

that the supply of the product had been more reliable, as it is coming from the Dangote facility, envisaging there will be no future scarcity of the product, except if there are hiccups in crude supply.

According to him, there is no doubt about the high capacity of Dangote Refinery, noting that such local supply has brought sanity in the market, to enhance quality control.

“We are now getting supply from Dangote Refinery. So, there is reliability in the supply and the prices start from N1, 230 in Lagos, but increases due to transportation cost as they move the product to other parts of the country. The Jet A1 is available only in Lagos from where the product is supplied to

every part of the country. The Dangote Refinery can supply Jet A1to the whole of West Africa. It is not easy to articulate the size of the refinery projects, despite criticisms.

“I can say that there is improved quality; although the quality is supposed to be the same, but it is easy to maintain a new machine.

Supplies from local refinery have also brought sanity to the market because it is easier to enforce quality control now,” he said.

Ndulue also stated that there would be minimal contamination of the product with local supply because when it was being imported it moves from the vessels to primary and secondary depots and other storage system and in the process

the product gets contaminated, if not properly handled.

It was learnt that airfares may have come down relatively compared to two months ago when the price was higher.

Available information revealed that tickets could cost as low as N87, 000 in Aero Contractors, if purchased three weeks ahead. Other airlines sell a bit higher than Aero Contractors, which sells the cheapest currently.

“Price of tickets depend on when you buy but I can say that the fares have come down a bit because you can get tickets from N87, 000 to N113, 000 in Aero Contractors and in other airlines you can get from N92, 000 to N126, 000 and in business class, Aero sells from N170, 000 to N190,

000, but other airlines sell higher,” a protocol officer at MMA2, terminal in Lagos told THISDAY.

Checks revealed that some airlines have increased capacity in terms of aircraft acquisition. Airlines such as Ibom Air, Value Jet, Aero Contractors and Air Peace have added more equipment. This, experts said, may have helped to bring down the airfares.

“We have passed the lowest point in terms of capacity. The lowest was in June/July. Some airlines have added more aircraft. Ibom Air added another A220, Aero Contractors added two additional aircraft; so are ValueJet and Air Peace. Hopefully, Ibom Air will add two more aircraft before December,” disclosed senior

official of one of the major airlines. THISDAY gathered that Air Peace would add two additional Boeing B777, four Boeing 737-800 NGbefore December and there has been a boost in their fleet currently. They are also expecting Embraer E175 and E190 in the coming months. In a recent interview with Aviation Correspondents, the Chief Executive Officer/Founder of CITA Aviation Fuelling Company Limited, Dr. Thomas Ogungbangbe, noted that until the Dangote Refinery started refining aviation fuel, Nigeria has been importing the product, even when the refineries owned by government were working.

Licensed customs agents in the country have called on the federal government to utilise maritime fund for the purpose of its establishment, which is to develop and implement shipping and maritime infrastructure for Indigenous Maritime Operators (IMO) as contained in the Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Act.

The agents stated this in a petition addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu tagged, “The Urgent Need to Implement Shipping and Maritime

Infrstructure With the Maritime Fund for Indigenous Operators as Contained in Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency Act. 17 of 2007.”

The agents in the petition signed by the National President of the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA), the umbrella body of clearing agents in Nigeria, Mr Lucky Amiwero, stressed the need for the government to develop and promote Shipping and Maritime Infrastructure such as, Transportation, bounded warehouses and equipment for

effective cargo delivery system, “by the Importers-Exporters/ Licensed Customs Agents (LCA) who are the main contributors of the 3 per cent freight earnings of inbound and outbound cargoes.

“The development and promotion, will create effective cargo delivery system, thereby making our ports efficient in cargo turn around time, it will create employment and build capacity for enhance cargo delivery system in Nigeria Ports.”

They added, “The Maritime Infrastructure for Indigenous Operators prescribed in Section

22-(k) states, ‘Develop and implement policies and programs which will facilitate the growth of local capacity in ownership, manning and construction of ships and other Maritime infrastructure.’

The shipping infrastructure for Indigenous operators is prescribed in section 39-(2): states, the agency shall develop and implement policies and measures to promote Indigenous ownership of ship and shipping infrastructure.”

Infrastructure, the agents said, includes a variety of systems, “it is the basic facilities and system

serving a country, region, community or other area, and encompasses the services and facilities necessary for its economy households and firms to function, composed of public and private infrastructures.

“Infrastructure is often categorized as hard or soft, hard infrastructure is the tangible and physical, which include Transportation, bonded warehouse and equipment etc, while soft infrastructure is the service required to maintain the economic health, and social needs of the nation.

It is also, clearly defined in Section 36 of the interpretation of Infrastructure

Concession Regulatory Commission (Establishment) Act No 18 of 2005.B The agents added that the maritime Fund under section 16-(2)-(a) provides 25 per cent of its revenue to the maritime fund adding that the maritime fund was established under section 17-(1). “The Money under Section 17-(4) is to promote the development of indigenous Shipping and shipping Infrastructure in Nigeria. The beneficiaries of the Maritime fund under section (4) of this Section shall be Nigerian Citizens and Companies,” they explained.

Eromosele Abiodun

L-R: Group Head, Marketing & Corporate Communication, FirstBank, Folake Ani-Mumuney; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, FirstBank, Olusegun Alebiosu; President/ Chairman of Council, Chartered institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Prof. Pius Deji Olanrewaju; Chairman, UBA Group and Heir s Holdings, Tony Elumelu; Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, United Bank for Africa Plc, Oliver Alawuba; Registrar/Chief Executive, CIBN, Akin Morakinyo a nd Past President, CIBN, Dr Uche Olowu at  the CIBN17th Annual Conference in Abuja… recently

NIS Commended for Reducing Cost of Visa on Arrival

Stories by Chinedu Eze

Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has significantly reduced visa on arrival fees in order to encourage tourism and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

The organisers of Akwaaba African Travel Market, which started the campaign for the reduction of the fees, commended the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John and the Comptroller General of NIS, Mrs. Kemi Nanna Nandap, for the reduction in fees.

Akwaaba African Travel Market Organiser, Ambassador IkechiUko,

while commending them said as a direct beneficiary of improved inbound tourism access ‘I say thank you’ on behalf tourism practitioners and others who joined in the advocacy to get it reviewed we are very grateful. Uko said he admired the prompt resolution of the visa issues by he Federal Government.

“I had made a post about my frustrations with visa for my delegates coming from all over Africa. I had complained that online visa on arrival was very expensive and the Nigerian Embassies in East Africa were not giving visas forcing everyone to go online. Some

people shared my post with the Minister of Tourism and she called me to find out the details. After explaining the situation to her she promised to engage her colleague the Minister of Interior. I am happy to say that between the Ministers of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Tourism Lola Ade-John and the Comptroller General of Immigration, Kemi Nanna Nandap they resolved the issues. My first delegates are arriving now and I am happy that resolution is not just for my event. The new measures will be applied across board to all African visitors to Nigeria,” Uko said.

AIR WATCH

Mixed Reactions as Ebonyi Joins Airport, Airline Bandwagon

Hub

Minister Harps on Nigeria’s Strategic Position as Africa’s Aviation

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development of Nigeria, Festus Keyamo, has emphasised Nigeria’s unique geographical advantage in becoming the central hub for air transportation in Africa.

He made this known when he addressed the global aviation community at the International Route Development Conference, themed: “Network Cargo 2024 in Moscow, Russia.”

The conference, focused on

enhancing global partnerships through the highest standards of freight forwarding services, attracted transport ministers and industry leaders from across the world, all seeking to establish efficient and competitive cargo routes.

During his keynote speech, the Aviation Minister said: “Geographically, we are in the best position to be the real hub of Africa. If you look at the map, we

are equidistant to South America across the Atlantic, to Europe, and to Asia. We are about 6 to 7 hours to Doha, Dubai, and Brazil. With our population, we have the dream to develop a real hub for Africa.”

Keyamo further highlighted Nigeria’s untapped aviation potential, citing the significant volume of international traffic originating from the country. However, much of this traffic is currently serviced by foreign airlines.

Flood Threat: NDDC Builds Six Multi-purpose Emergency Shelters

Arthur Eriye

The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Samuel Ogbuku, has disclosed that the Commission is building six multi-purpose emergency shelters in Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers states for the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), in the event of flood in the Niger Delta region.

Ogbuku, who spoke during a press conference at the NDDC headquarters in Port Harcourt, said the commission was taking proactive steps to ameliorate the impact of

the perennial flood in the region. The NDDC boss observed that the project was conceived as a response to the frequent flooding challenges faced by Niger Deltans.

He noted that facilities at the emergency shelter would include essential amenities such as a school, hospital, cafeteria, police post, and recreation centre, which would provide comprehensive support to the communities in times of distress.

He explained: “We have six of these facilities currently under construction in Otuokpoti and Odi, in Bayelsa State, while the

ones in Delta State are being built in Patani and Ozoro and another two in Rivers State.”

Speaking on the NDDC Youth Internship Scheme, Ogbuku affirmed that entrepreneurial and skills enhancement were key components for unlocking the potentials of the youths in the Niger Delta region.

He said that the objective was to get the youths to acquire meaningful and self-sustaining skills that would improve their lives, support their families and communities, and thus, ensure peace in the Niger Delta region.

Agboarumi Appointed Chairman of NIPR Aviation Hub Committee

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has announced the appointment of Basil Agboarumi as the Chairman of the Management Committee for its newly established ‘NIPR Aviation Hub.’

The appointment, approved by the NIPR Governing Council, was confirmed following the Council’s 115th meeting held on Saturday, August 24, 2024.

Agboarumi brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the

role, having previously served as Managing Director of Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) PLC, one of the leading players in Nigeria’s aviation industry.

He also held the position of Executive Director, Corporate and Governmental Affairs at leading conglomerate, SIFAX Group, where he oversee key corporate communications and industry engagement strategies. The distinguished career in

the aviation sector makes him a well-considered choice for the Chairmanship, reflecting the trust NIPR has in his ability to lead this pivotal initiative.

The NIPR Aviation Hub will be operated as an enterprise, with a Management Committee comprising five to seven members. This initiative reflects NIPR’s commitment to driving excellence within the aviation industry and supporting the role of public relations in the sector.

Avanti, IHS Nigeria Win at Universal Broadband Award

Chinedu Eze

Many Nigerians, especially those conversant with air transport in Nigeria have criticised the decision of many state governors investing in airport development. They see it as misplaced priority because there are always more critical projects that will benefit majority of the citizens of the state.

Most often they cite provision of potable water, healthcare system, education and road infrastructure. Such criticism is germane when it is considered that many state governors who hitherto invested in airport infrastructure seemingly wasted the funds expended because today either the airport is abandoned or it is grossly underutilised.

Exasperated with the continuous financial demands of such airports, some of the state governments had begged the federal government to give approval so that the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) could take over the management of the airports.

However, investing in airports cannot be fully written off or condemned because some state governments have utilised their facilities well. For example, the Delta State government built an airport in Asaba, at the nose of the major commercial centre in the South East, Onitsha. That airport has been busy from the day it became operational. Anambra State government is currently building hub of businesses at the Chinua Achebe International Cargo Airport, Umueri, with the help of private investors.

Also, Akwa Ibom State built an airport and it has been busy ever since it was unveiled. The state government went further to establish an airline, which is the second biggest carrier after Air Peace. Not only that; the state government also built Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility, which when opened will become the largest maintenance facility for aviation industry in West and Central Africa.

Some aviation industry observers are of the view that the state governments that built some of these airports are nudged to do so for selfish reasons: to have airports that would serve their purpose because in some of those states, majority of the citizens are literally traumatised economically that they will never be able to afford air travel. So, the government operates aircraft charter services to bring top officials to and from the airport to other destinations in Nigeria. The facility is there for their purpose.

Meanwhile, THISDAY investigations revealed that the Ebonyi State government has not only established an airport; it may have also ordered for three Embraer E170 aircraft, which obviously indicates that it wants to operate an airline, thus taking a cue from the Akwa Ibom State government. This may have caused the state government huge amount of money and sustainability of such project is precarious.

State government. According to him, when Ebonyi airport begins operations it will lower passenger traffic in Enugu, “because most of the passengers who travel through Enugu airport now are either going to Ebonyi or Itigidi or Ogoja in Cross River State and even from Benue near Ebonyi State. All these travellers will divert to Ebonyi airport when it starts operation. Enugu airport runway is in bad shape and currently they suffer low load factor,” the insider said.

He also said that because of the airport in Ebonyi many investors, especially Chinese who want to invest in agriculture and mining have indicated interest to come to Ebonyi State and this will trigger other businesses. He also said that because of the deterioration of Enugu airport runway, the Ebonyi airport would have a head start from Enugu when it would be inevitably closed for rehabilitation, noting that those who chose to travel from Ebonyi would be reluctant to go back to Enugu anytime it is reopened.

The Ebonyi airport runway was shut down for rehabilitation because it did not meet the requirements of a standard airport runway. THISDAY learnt that the runway has rigid pavement due to horizontal expansion system with sealant built like a normal road. So, with mid temperature, the sealant on the pavement will dissolve and cause Foreign Object Debris (FOD) on the runway; hence, the decision to resurface it, which has been done.

The insider sees a huge potential of the airport to airlift perishables and other cargo produce from Benue, Cross River and Ebonyi states.

“In terms of security, the airport has central CCTV. Every critical equipment has been installed or is about to be completed because all the contracts for these had been awarded and all the payments made, from the control tower to installation of airfield lighting to high quality fire tenders and it is the only airport so far that has emergency operations cetnre, a facility they are trying to install at the Lagos airport. It is also the only airport in Nigeria that has five cargo warehouses inside the terminal. In addition, the airport has massive energy supporting equipment, which is secondary power supply. They are five 1000 KVA generators and equivalent capacity in solar farms,” the source said.

Travel expert and Coordinator of AviaCargo Committee of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Ambassador Ikechi Uko, told THISDAY that the airport remained a smart one but when the committee visited, the members identified some gaps in the cargo facility.

Group Business Editor

Eromosele Abiodun

Deputy Business Editor

Chinedu Eze

Comms/e-Business Editor

Emma Okonji

Asst. Editor, Energy

Emmanuel Addeh

Asst. Editor, Money Market

Nume Ekeghe

Correspondents

KayodeTokede(CapitalMarkets)

James Emejo (Finance)

Ebere Nwoji (Insurance)

Reporter

Peter Uzoho (Energy)

Global multi-orbit satellite provider, Avanti Communications, and IHS Nigeria, part of the IHS Holding Limited group, have been recognised for their work in connecting rural Nigeria at the 2024 World Space Business Awards.

Each year at World Space Business Week, Novaspace, a merger of Euroconsult and SpaceTec Partners, award the most forward-thinking businesses and innovations contributing to the future of the global space sector.

CEO, IHS Nigeria, Mohamad Darwish, said: “We are deeply honored to receive this award, recognizing our commitment to innovation and social responsibility in expanding global connectivity. As one of the largest independent

tower companies globally, IHS Towers is dedicated to helping bridge the digital divide, particularly in Nigeria, where we operate more than 16,000 towers..”

CEO at Avanti, Kyle Whitehill, said: “The mission to provide cost-effective, reliable, and sustainable internet solutions is more than a professional endeavour; it is a mission we each carry personally at Avanti. Access to the internet is not a luxury, it is a necessity. It opens doors to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and global connectivity. For too long, the remote and hard-to-reach regions of Africa have been left in the dark, disconnected from the boundless potential connectivity brings.”

But an insider revealed to THISDAY that there could be a lot of goodies coming from Ebonyi State in terms of airport development and air transport. According to the insider, Ebonyi State government has completed a plan, which has been ratified by the state assembly, to establish an airline. This plan is yet to be subjected to the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) process of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), which will take a while.

“But the state government is desirous of establishing an airline as quickly as possible and on the interim, they are talking to Air Peace and United Nigeria Airlines to start flight service to the airport. The name of the airline is Ebonyi Air. The governor, it was learnt, is working on acquiring the airplanes.

“After the acquisition they will prepare for certification. The AOC will take up to 10 months,” a source said.

On the face value, many Nigerians familiar with air transport in the South East believe that the potential travelling public by air from Ebonyi may not justify scheduled flight service from the airport due to low patronage but this was debunked by the insider who is a seasoned aviator and also very close to the Ebony

“We observed some gaps when we came and I hope they have corrected them. What they built is a passenger airport, but they have to correct those gaps in other to have seamless processing of cargo for freighting,” he said.

However, a social critic in the state, Mr. Abia Onyike, who did not condemn the airport, told THISDAY that the former governor of the state, David Umahi, recklessly spent the state’s resources on elephant projects that did not benefit the majority of the people, alleging that the former governor claimed he spent N47 billion on the airport but the actual expenditure was about N12 billion. “So, Umahi should account for the remaining money. He should resign as Minister and testify on what he used the remaining money to do,” Onyike said.

But a Senior Special Adviser, Media to Umahi, when he was governor, dismissed the allegation and told THISDAY that with the meagre resources Ebonyi State had, “it takes a prudent man like Umahi to transform the infrastructure of the state as he did with the little resources available when he was governor. He is one in a million.”

Although critics may not see a profitable venture in the decision of Ebonyi State government to establish an airline, but it becomes onus on the state government to prove its critics wrong.

Worrisome Drop in Manufacturing Contribution to GDP

The poor showing of the manufacturing sector in the recently released report of the Nigeria’s GDP by the National Bureau of Statistics has raised concern over the fortunes of the sector, writes Dike Onwuamaeze

The Nigerian manufacturing sector is passing through one of its most difficult times. The current reforms of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, especially the libralisation of the foreign exchange rate, the introduction of high electricity tariffs for industrialists that the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) described as one of the highest in the world, and the manner the removal of petrol subsidy is being implemented is not giving any respite to firms in the manufacturing sector.

Moreover, the sector is reeling under high inflationary and interest rates, which are currently ... respectively.

The corollary of these militating factors amongst others is the poor performance of the operator in the sector. In July 2024, the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, revealed that the FIRS might not be able to collect taxes from manufacturers in the next 10 years as “all manufacturing entity in Nigeria declared a total of N1.7 trillion losses.

“It concerns the government because by our law, we will not be able to collect any taxes from them until they recover all those losses, till next 10 years, five years. Even when they make a profit next year, they will tell you they have losses they are carrying forward.”

Now, the latest report of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has revealed that Nigeria’s manufacturing sector’s contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) declined in the first two quarters of 2024 by 20.95 per cent when compared with the same period in 2023.

The report showed that the sector’s contribution to GDP dropped from 16.04 per cent in Q4 2023 to 12.68 per cent in Q2 2024.

The manufacturing sector’s nominal GDP growth in the second quarter of 2024 was recorded at 1.91 per cent year-on-year. This represented a significant decline of 27.99 per cent points compared to the 29.90 per cent growth recorded in the corresponding period of 2023.

The real GDP growth in the manufacturing sector also reflects the sector’s ongoing struggles. In Q1 2024, real GDP growth for the manufacturing sector was 1.49 per cent year-on-year, a slight improvement over the previous quarter, with a contribution to overall GDP of 9.98 per cent. However, by Q2 2024, real GDP growth had further declined to 1.28 per cent, which is lower than both the growth recorded in Q2 2023 and the preceding quarter.

NACCIMA Reacts

The National President of National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Mr. Dele Kelvin Oye, told THISDAY that he came to the conclusion that the significant contraction of the sector’s contribution to GDP is a cause for concern because the manufacturing industry is a crucial driver of economic growth, job creation, and industrial development.

Oye believed that several factors contributed to the shrinking of the manufacturing sector’s GDP contribution. These factors include persistent challenges with the availability and cost of key inputs such as raw materials, energy (electricity and fuel), and foreign exchange. Others are weak domestic demand due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, high inflation, and declining consumer purchasing power.

He further noted that insufficient and aging industrial infrastructure; including poor transportation networks and unreliable power supply are among the factors responsible for the sector’s declining performance.

Oye also identified, “unfavorable macroeconomic policies, including restrictive trade measures and inconsistent fiscal and monetary policies” as well as “increasing production costs

and diminished competitiveness of Nigerian manufacturers vis-à-vis imports and regional competitors” among the factors.

Oye expressed concern that contraction in the manufacturing sector’s GDP contribution would have significant implications for both investment and employment in the Nigerian economy.

According to him, it would reduce investor confidence in the manufacturing industry and hamper the much-needed expansion and modernisation.

He said: “Layoffs, reduced working hours, and higher unemployment as companies struggle to maintain operations and profitability.

“Potential decline in foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows, as investors seek more favourable manufacturing destinations.”

A former Professor of Economics and Public Policy, University of Uyo, Professor Akpan Hogan Ekpo, contended that the manufacturing sector has never contributed more than 15 per cent to GDP since 1963.

Ekpo believed that until the sector would begin to contribute at least 40 per cent to GDP, the economy would remain at the primary stage of development.

He blamed lack of political will to implement sound policies on the sector as well as the misuse of the oil sector with emphasis on exporting crude rather than linking the sector to petrochemical, pharmaceutical and agricultural subsectors for Nigeria’s poor economic development.

“In addition the cost of manufacturing is rather too high given the cost of running generators, neglect of the small and mediumsized enterprises and failure to exploit the global value chain, inadequate incentives to attract FDI, macroeconomic instability, lack of access to forex and security challenges. What we call manufacturing is packaging, assembling and bottling. Because of lack of adequate investment, you have sluggish and/low growth resulting in high rates of unemployment. Hence the economy is producing below potential,” he noted.

He said that government should implement “the policies and recommendations put forward by MAN as well as those of small and medium-sized business association.

“For example relax the conditions for assessing forex and fix the power sector as well as reducing the tax burden.”

NECA Addresses Challenges

The Director General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Mr. Adewle-Smatt Oyerinde, traced the root cause of the sector’s declining performance to high-cost operating environment that is driven by unfavourable macroeconomic conditions.

Oyerinde attributed the distortion and declining performance in the manufacturing sector to government policies, particularly the FX liberalisation policy.

He argued that this policy is ill-suited for an economy and business environment heavily dependent on imports, as it has led to increased borrowing costs and escalating import prices for raw materials and machinery.

Oyerinde highlighted that the unfavourable exchange rate of approximately N1600/US$, coupled with a staggering inflation rate of 33.60 per cent, has led to a significant increase in interest rates, reaching 26.75 per cent.

Nigeria, AfDB to Collaborate in Food Security, Sustainable Economic Growth

Ndubuisi Francis

The federal government and the African Development Bank (AfDB) have commenced discussions on areas of collaboration, including initiatives to strengthen food security, the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) project, and other strategic engagements aimed at promoting sustainable economic growth and development in Nigeria.

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, yesterday met with a high-level delegation from the Pan-African bank

in Abuja, according to a statement issued by the the Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Finance, Mohammed Manga. The AfDB delegation to the meeting was led by its Director for Nigeria, Dr. Abdul Kamara.

“The minister highlighted the critical role of AfDB’s funding and technical expertise as Nigeria approaches a pivotal harvest season, which is essential for the country’s food security and economic stability,” the statement said.

Speaking earlier, the leader of the delegation, Kamara, commended President Bola

Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms, emphasising their importance in tackling Nigeria’s pressing economic challenges.

He also expressed deep sympathy on behalf of the AfDB President, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, on the recent flooding in Maiduguri, Borno State, assuring the minister of the bank’s readiness to provide support in addressing the aftermath of the disaster.

Representatives from both the African Development Bank and the Ministry of Finance attended the meeting, including Linda Amadi, Orison Amu, George N.S, and Onyoh Ajibola.

CashToken Empowers Customers with the Cash Rewards

CashToken Rewards Africa is transforming the rewards landscape in Nigeria with its groundbreaking loyalty solution that offers customers real, tangible cash rewards.

Unlike traditional reward programs that tie customers to points, vouchers, or discounts, CashToken empowers Nigerians with immediate cash rewards and the chance to win life-changing prizes.

CEO of CashToken Rewards Africa, Chief Lai Labode emphasized the company’s mission to offer

Nigerians greater value for their everyday spending. He stated, “CashToken is designed to give Nigerians what they truly deserve— cash rewards that they can control.

“We believe that every Naira spent should have the potential to bring even more value to our customers’ lives. Whether it’s N6 or N3,000,000, our goal is to make every transaction count. This is what sets CashToken apart from traditional rewards programs. We’re not just building customer loyalty;

we’re building a system that puts cash directly in the hands of Nigerians.”

The Chief Commercial Officer of CashToken Rewards Africa, Stella Oshorinde shared the company’s vision: “We’ve always believed that when it comes to customer rewards, cash stands above all else. For too long, Nigerian consumers have been limited by rewards systems that require them to spend within a business. With CashToken, we offer something different—cash that customers can use however they choose.”

FCMB, Tulsi Chanrai Restore V ision for 150,000

First City Monument Bank (FCMB), in partnership with the Tulsi Chanrai Foundation (TCF), has restored the vision of about 150,000 visually impaired Nigerians in Kebbi State through its long-running Priceless Gift of Sight initiative. Since 2009, the programme has provided free eye tests, optical services, and surgeries, transforming lives across all 21 local government areas in the state, ensuring that many regain their sight and lead more productive lives.

At a recent outreach event in Birnin-Kebbi, marking the 15th anniversary of the initiative, the wife of Kebbi State Governor Hajiya Nafisa Idris expressed deep appreciation

for FCMB’s long-standing efforts in combating avoidable blindness.

“We are grateful to FCMB and Tulsi Chanrai for their support in restoring sight to thousands of people suffering from cataracts and other eye defects. By doing this, you have restored hope and empowered individuals to lead productive lives,” she said.

Group Head of Corporate Affairs at First City Monument Bank, Diran Olojo, emphasised the Bank’s dedication to creating an inclusive and sustainable society through initiatives like the Priceless Gift of Sight.

“This programme is about empowerment and inclusivity.

in Kebbi State

Since 2009, over 400,000 Nigerians in Kebbi, Cross River, Ogun, Imo, Abuja, Katsina, and Adamawa states have benefitted. Our partnership with Tulsi Chanrai has helped prevent avoidable blindness, allowing many to regain their vision and reclaim their lives,” Olojo stated.

One of the beneficiaries, Muhammad Maganda, shared his emotional journey of overcoming blindness and returning to farming after a successful surgery. “I was going blind and felt helpless. Thanks to this initiative, I regained my sight and can now work again. I am forever grateful to FCMB and the doctors,” Maganda said.

CSR: Julius Berger Excites Abuja School for Poorest Hous eholds

Leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc in fulfilment of its commitment to progressively sustain its Corporate Social Responsibility, CSR objectives Wednesday donated sundry educational materials to Abuja’s school for children from poorest households.

The items ranging from stateof-the-art laboratory equipment, 20ft well-refurbished containers made suitable for staff room and laboratory, 200 back packs, 2,000 notebooks, copies of the literature book, What Sunny saw in the sun and 50 pieces of mosquito nets, to KNOSK N100 A-Day Charity Secondary School, Kuje.

The exercise elicited excitement and effusive gratitude from beneficiaries even as they had kind words for

Julius Berger. Before the items were officially handed over to the proprietors of the school, the leader of Team Julius Berger to the occasion and the company’s Head of Corporate Communications, Mr. James Agama told the staff and students that, “in deliberately giving to operational communities, Julius Berger always seeks to underscore the importance of such communities to its operations. It is a cardinal aspect of our corporate belief that any effort made to uplift communities around our operational environments is not wasted but puts a smile in the faces of the beneficiaries.”

He added that the ideals and policies that guide the operations of KNOSK N100 A-Day Charity Secondary School, Kuje

are commendable and worth supporting, Agama urged the school and students to use the items donated to further the educational and knowledge goals of the students.

Responding, co-founder of the school, Mr. Kingsley Bangwell said, the school was designed for children from poorest households whose parents can’t afford to send them to government schools.

He said, “The importance of education and a conducive learning environment cannot be overemphasized. The donations from Julius Berger are really something of great joy and credible impact in the lives of our children. First, we have been in dire need of a science laboratory for the longest time.”

following: 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),

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

Kayode Tokede

Veritas Kapital Declares 1,101% Growth in Net Profit to N2.33bn

Kayode Tokede

Veritas Kapital Assurance Plc, has declared an astounding N2.33 billion net profit for the 2023 fiscal year, about 1,101per cent increase from N193.93 million for the 2022 financial year.

The Chairman of Veritas Kapital’s Board of Directors, Mr Nahim Ibraheem disclosed this at the company’s 47th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held recently in Abuja.

According to him, the performance was a reflection of the company’s unwavering commitment to enhancing shareholders’ value and revolutionising its business offerings and brands to deliver a consummate customer experience.

“During the year under review, your company also remained resilient by recording 67 per cent growth in Gross Premium to N7.298 billion from N4.369 billion in 2022.

“Insurance revenue also grew

PRICES FOR

by 41 percent to N7.1 billion in 2023 from N5.04 billion in 2022.

“Also showcasing resilience, the company’s Profit Before Tax (PBT) grew to N2.417 billion in 2023 from N221.5 million in 2022, a growth rate of 991 percent,” he explained.

However, the Chairman said negative global and domestic economic realities where some challenges the leadership of the company had to contend with in steering affairs of the company during the period.

“Dubbed the year of resilience by analysts and economic observers alike, the growth of global economy in 2023 was indeed nothing short of miraculous, as elevated inflation and other aggressive headwinds diminished global economic growth.

“In the domestic economy, a keyword that continued to make the rounds in policy, business and consumer circles in 2023 was inflation.

“High inflation in 2023,ac-

cording to analysts, was largely precipitated by the sweeping market reforms being implemented by the current administration since transition to new government in May 2023.

“From domestic standpoint, removal of fuel subsidy, which caused the price of petrol to rise by 220 percent in November 2023, as well as the depreciation of the Naira by over 50 per cent also contributed to it.

“Despite the limitation in consumer spending, the Nigerian

insurance sector continued to showcase its resilience.

“According to the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), the industry crossed the N1 trillion premium forecast in full-year 2023, compared to N726 billion recorded in 2022, a growth of 27 per cent,” he said.

Also, the Managing Director of Veritas Kapital Assurance, Dr. Adaobi Nwakuche expressed profound satisfaction with the company’s performance within the period.

TRADED ASOF SEPTEMBER 19/24

Thabo Mbeki: An Unrelenting Force in Quest for African Renaissance, Pan-Africanism

Whether he is supporting the achievement of Africa’s Renaissance through the promotion of democracy, good governance, human rights and regional integration through his non-governmental organisation, the Thabo Mbeki Foundation or he is shaping the continent’s political landscape one country at a time, Thabo Mvuyelwa Mbeki is known as one of the fathers of Pan-Africanism. The second democratic president of South Africa and an African Icon, recently played host to the third cohort of the MTN-sponsored Media Innovation Programme, who were on a study tour to South Africa. He fielded questions from Chiemelie Ezeobi and some other fellows on need for seamless African borders; insecurity and coups in West Africa, as well as the role of the media in projecting the continent better

Undoubtedly, the third cohort of the MTN-sponsored Media Innovation Programme (MIP) had a carefully curated itinerary during their recent study tour to South Africa. From certificate workshops at the University of Johannesburg to visits to the South African Broadcasting Station; South African International Affairs; tour of MTN Group head office and the innovation laboratory, the goal to foster media innovation and development was actualised.

However, one particular meeting stood out for them. They had an hour of interface with the revered African icon and one of the fathers of Pan-Africanism, Thabo Mvuyelwa Mbeki, the second democratic president of South Africa, at his foundation in Johannesburg. Sandwiched between Mr. Maz Boqwana and Mr. Lukhanyo Neer, the CEO and COO of the Thabo Mbeki Foundation, respectively, he fielded questions from the fellows whose visit was one of the criteria of the six-month long programme sponsored by MTN to foster innovation and development, as well as transform and empower media practitioners to better tell stories that needed to be told.

The MIP fellows were led by the quartet of Dominic Khumalo, Senior Manager for Strategic Public Affairs at MTN South Africa; Senior Manager, External Relations, MTN Nigeria, Funso Aina; Dr. Lakinbofa Goodluck, Public Relations Manager at MTN Nigeria; and Director of Professional Education at School of Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University, Chief Isaac Ogugua-Ezechukwu, with support from PAU’s Samsideen Akano.

Need for Seamless Border for the African Continent

In response to this reporter’s question on the difficulty in ensuring movement of persons and services through a seamless border in the African continent, despite the offerings of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, he said part of the problem is a decline in commitment to Pan-Africanism in the continent.

“The sense of a strong Pan-Africanism among the political leadership has receded. So when you raise the matter about the matter of movement of Africans amongst themselves, you are talking to people who no longer have that sense of PanAfricanism or common belonging. It’s a problem.”

He said it’s a battle to convince people to adopt a system which encourages in-direction among the Africans, not to exclude people, but to include.

“Politically, what happened on the continent is a regression from the kind of pan-Africanist commitment that we had with other earlier leaders on the continent, and the weakening of that resolve has negative consequences like this one of people tightening visa regulations so that it becomes very difficult to cross borders. It’s a larger political problem and how you address it is to address the larger political problems.

“The point that was being made earlier about the relationship among the artists, Nigerian, South African artists (an earlier conversation of how Nigerian and South African artists have been collaborating), and what they are able to do, was correct. In a sense, we need to look at that to say, I know the Nigerian business people for many years have been very keen to have established a similar relationship with South African business, and have not been terribly successful in exciting sufficiency in South Africa, apart from MTN and these others, sufficient of the South African view among the business community to respond to the kind of enthusiasm that was on the Nigerian side about this.

“ I think if you went from sector to sector, it would be the same. And maybe that’s what we need to do, if these various communities in both countries engage each other in the way that artists are saying artists have engaged one another. Maybe that might help to make it easier for people to communicate and move because they’ve established a particular kind of relationship.

“It’s really difficult about getting people to understand that the matter about movement- that the freer the movement among the Africans, the better for everybody. It’s easier to market these ideas not that these ones are coming to take our jobs, so keep them out.”

Managing Identity Differences and Diversity

On how he managed the identity differences and diversity of South Africa when he was president and his advice for leaders of today, he gave instructive examples including that of Tanzania that eliminated the language divide and brought its citizens under one identity.

Noting that it was a very political thing in management of diversity, he said it’s because it’s central to the survival of all of the African states. “There is no African state which is not characterised by the diversity of its population now. And so if you want to keep this country together, this is one country, one nation, as it were, so it’s got to be a conscious political decision.

“For instance, the one outstanding example in this regard is Tanzania.

Because before we got to Tanzania, when it was Tanganyika, they took very important decisions under Julius Nyerere. One of them was about language that everybody must speak Kiswahili. So everybody speaks Kiswahili. So it doesn’t matter whatever your language, your own mother tongue is, the second is the second language.

“The second thing the abolition of the institution of chieftainship. So there’s no chief of this tribe. Nyerere knew to build one nation out of these tanganyigans, two things you must do- no loyalty to a tribal chief, and no separation among us because of language, and it’s worked.”

He noted that even though some politicians had tried to resurrect this matter about tribal identity in order to advance their political futures, he said fortunately, the notion that they were all Tanzanians and not identified by any other thing was strong enough to defeat that motive.

“That’s why I’m saying it’s a political decision here. South Africa is very fortunate in that respect, because you know the diamonds were first discovered in the 19th century and right from its beginning, attracted people from Southern Africa, from as far as field, as Angola did come here, and so on. And then, of course, gold mining comes a bit later.

The consequence of that is that even domestically, you have a lot of movement of people, the way the social economic development results”.

Still on South Africa, he said the formation of the African National Congress in 1912 had one of its principal slogans to bury the demon of tribalism. So since the beginning of the 20th century, they had a political organisation whose task was to make sure that all of this algorithm come together.

He said it got to a point where in the African community, their national leader was always the president of the ANC and this applied to even those who were not members of the ANC. “What I am trying to say to you is that the way this country developed was such that diversity didn’t serve as a point of division. But that’s a peculiar South African experience, but elsewhere on the continent, it requires a political decision, to say we are this diverse society.

“How to make sure that the unity in diversity becomes important, that’s a political decision. So that’s a challenge. We all have to make sure that at least that kind of understanding on the continent persists. If it doesn’t, then you are faced all the time with weak states that are in conflict.”

African Reconnaissance

Speaking on African Reconnaissance, his inaugural chair at the African Union and what the next decade will be for the African vision, he said even though there were initial contention about the location and name for the AU, the sentiments for its establishment remain unchanged.

Lamenting that there has been regression with regards to those programs they had earlier instituted, he said it was because of the distancing of people from this notion and vision of Pan-Africanism, which was fed also by this weakness.

“We’re talking about the AU Commission, which should have been the body institution on the continent, which would be driving this perspective of African Unity every day, full time, but they are not doing that. The programs are still there, but I think weakened, and we need to revisit them, to reinvent, reinvigorate, but I think in the context of a strengthened commitment to The African perspective.”

Coups and Insecurity in West Africa

On insecurity and increasing cases of coups in West Africa, Mbeki recalled that when they were tasked by the AU to engage Cote D’Ivoire, one of the things that stood out was the bad agreement with France, which was having a French military base in Abidjan manned by a French commander with a mandate to look after the national security interests of both of Cote d’Ivoire and France.

He said the consequence was that the commander of the French troops would always take over the radio and television without recourse to the president or the independence agreement of the country whenever he felt that his national security interest was under threat.

He said such actions are what these young soldiers in Francophone West Africa are rebelling against. Citing the case of Thomas Sankara as a hero, he said they are rebelling against continuing the colonial relations that continue to exist so that they can genuinely say this country is truly independent.

Mbeki said part of what happens is that when a president is elected in some countries, it’s very much in the pockets of the French. “So the soldiers in rebelling against Neo colonialism, they will also rebel against this political representative of French colonialism in their country. So you get your military coups, and you might protest democracy, but me, I would applaud an anti-colonial stance by the soldiers, that’s what is happening in West Africa. It’s a political rebellion against an old France African relationship.”

While stressing that such coups can be avoided, he however posited that it’s a correct thing to rebel against French Neo colonialism. “How the the matter of the restoration of democracy is handled is something that indeed can be discussed. I don’t think those soldiers are instinctively antidemocratic, but they are addressing a different problem, and it’s a real problem”.

Role of the Media in Pan-Africanism

Speaking to the heart of the matter -the reason why MTN sponsored the MIP experience for media practitioners, Mbeki said: “I would imagine that before we become media people, we are Africans first. I think generally the African people across the continent have certain objectives upon themselves, the notion of African Unity. We are one people, maybe different languages and so on, but we say we shared the common a common destiny.

“So let’s work together. What does the media do to encourage that sentiment? And I think it’s related to how do we report ourselves to ourselves? I think your visit is important. The African media needs to know Africa, not to be informed about Africa by somebody else in order to report accurately about the continent- the bad and the good. I mean, when we talk about the renaissance of the continent, that will resonate across borders, a rebirth of our continent, so they know a new continent, born afresh, no longer conflict, no longer poverty, no longer any of these negative things.

Stressing that the media has a very important role to develop that kind of consciousness in the continent, he however said the continent needs to move forward with regard to these matters, free movement of people, better cooperation. “If we want to develop, we can’t develop on our own. It must be mutual, and I can only develop because you are also developing. So how do we cooperate? The media has the possibility and the strength to encourage this common sentiment, common consciousness across our border, so that at least the population, the people, this billion and a half, however many we are, are in a common direction, broadly. It becomes possible then to resolve the issues of interstate relations.”

Shaping the Political Landscape through the Thabo Mbeki Foundation

Like the axiom would say, “retired but not tired”, this cliche firmly represents Mbeki’s life at the moment. Asides the role he plays in shaping the political landscape in Africa, he has through his non-governmental organisation, The Thabo Mbeki Foundation, been supporting the achievement of Africa’s Renaissance through the promotion of democracy, good governance, human rights and regional integration.

Established in 2010, the foundation seeks to foster a culture of critical thinking and intellectual engagement among African leaders, scholars and citizens on issues of continental and global importance.

When the MIP fellows finally managed to let him go for another engagement, it wasn’t because they had a choice. As was succinctly captured by Dr. Lakinbofa, “if it were possible, we would stay here and listen to you till daybreak”. It was an assertion that resonated across the room as the inspiring conversations had stirred up the quest for a better Africa in the fellows as the African Icon relieved some of the battles they fought for the continent.

Mbeki

NBCC SHARING EXPERIENCE SERIES...

of

(NBCC),

LG Autonomy: Akpabio Says Senate will Amend Constitution to Make Supreme Court Verdict Implementable

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has said the Senate will tinker with the constitution to allow for implementation of the Supreme Court judgement on local government autonomy.

Akpabio, according to a statement by his Special Assistant Media, Jackson Udom, made the pronouncement yesterday when he received a delegation from the Akwa Ibom State chapter of All Progressives Congress (APC).

His guests were the loyalists of the erstwhile Interim National Secretary of the party, Senator John James Akpanudoedehe.

Akpabio was quoted as saying in the statement, "I thank President Bola Tinubu for looking for a way to bring the all needed autonomy to the local governments through the intervention of the Supreme Court.

“The senate, under my leadership, will tinker with the constitution to ensure that the judgement is fully implemented without any loopholes for manipulation by the practitioners."

It would be recalled that the senate, shortly before its members proceeded on the current long vacation, passed for first reading, a bill for the establishment of the National Independent Local Government Electoral Commission

The proposed legislation, which was sponsored by Senator Sani Musa (APC, Niger East), was aimed at saddling the commission with the responsibility of conducting elections for the 774 local governments in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

It was titled, “Local Government Independent Electoral Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB. 531).”

The commission shall consist of a chairperson and six commissioners, appointed by the president and

confirmed by the senate, according to the bill.

Akpanudoedehe, a former APC scribe, had defected to the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), after losing out in the leadership of the party.

Akpabio said he was ready to accommodate his guests in all the party activities in the state.

He said, "The only thing that is permanent in life is change. Before my coming into the APC, the party

never won even a councillorship seat in the state and I came into the party in 2018, the then leaders of the party saw me as an enemy.

"During the 2019 elections, the APC worked against the APC. We had the best chance to have won the governorship and other elections in the state, but the then leaders refused to see it from that angle.

"I joined the APC so that we would be linked to the centre and I thank God today that that dream finally

came to pass in 2023.

“I am today the President of the Senate, through the grace of God Almighty, the support of President Bola Tinubu and my distinguished colleagues, who elected me.

"God knew that I meant well for our people, so he elevated me to the position of the President of the Senate.

“When you raise people, your hands remain up and when you bring people down, your hands will also be down. So, follow person wey

know road.

"On behalf of the party leadership, I welcome you back. I am happy that you have all returned to the party, where you belonged. Now that you are back, May God bless you and grant the progressive desires of your hearts."

Speaking on behalf of the returnees, Eteubong Alex Umoh, Obong Kufre Akpan and Mrs. Roseline Eyang said they did not leave the party when their leaders defected to NNPP.

Umoh said, “We never left the APC. We never joined any other party, because we know you as the leader of the party in the state.

“We all recognise the President of the Senate as our leader in the state. We refused to be weapons of war in the hands of anybody against you and the party leadership.

"We are happy that we are all here today. There is no division in the APC because we are now one united family."

NCC Rallies Stakeholders over 6GHz Spectrum for WiFi, Mobile Telecoms Deployment

Emma Okonji and Agnes Ekebuike

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) yesterday held a stakeholder consultative forum in Lagos to address the use of 6GHz spectrum for the deployment of Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) and International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) in Nigeria.

The need to shift to 6GHz spectrum, according to NCC, is as a result of the over-use of the current 5GHz and 2.4GHz spectrum bands that are being used for Wi-Fi 5 deployment that are becoming overwhelmed due to increase in demand for capacity.

The vast majority of home internet traffic is connected to the end-user through Wi-Fi, just as Wi-Fi is essential for handling large amounts of data and simultaneously connecting large numbers of devices with improved reliability, higher data throughput, and lower latencies.

Addressing the stakeholders’ forum, the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC,

Dr. Aminu Maida, who was represented by the Executive Commissioner, Technical Services at NCC, Abraham Oshadami, said: “In line with global best practices, we sincerely believe that our actions must be guided by decisions that take into cognisance the inputs from all stakeholders in the industry.

“The 6GHz band, spanning from 5925 MHz to 7125 MHz, offers a substantial increase in available spectrum, which is crucial for supporting the growing demand for high-speed internet and advanced applications Wi-Fi plays a crucial role in the distribution of fixed broadband connectivity in homes, offices, and various other environments.”

He however said the 5GHz and 2.4GHz that are being used for Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi 5) at the moment, were becoming overwhelmed due to an increase in demand for capacity, adding that it is imperative to identify other frequency bands to complement the 5GHz and 2.4GHz.

“The recently concluded 2023 World

Radio communications Conference (WRC-23) allocated the 6GHz band for Wi-Fi and IMT applications with different recommendations on how to use the band,” Maida further said.

In his welcome address, the Acting Head, Spectrum Administration at NCC, Atiku Lawal, said with the overcrowded airwaves currently limiting the potential of Wi-Fi in the 2.4GHz and 5GHz, it would not be a surprise that more than 70 countries have already acted, or are considering acting, to open the 6GHz band for unlicensed Wi-Fi use.

“Depending upon the country’s implementation plan, the decision will provide two to three times the quantum of spectrum available today, resulting in the ability to implement 80MHz and 160 MHz channels being available for the new Wi-Fi 6 standard, ideal to support digital transformation efforts and use cases like high definition video and X Reality (XR),” Lawal said.

In his keynote address, the President of the Association of Telecoms

Borno Sponsors 180 on Postgraduate Studies to Malaysia, India

Michael Olugbode in

The Borno State Government has sponsored 180 students for higher education in Malaysia and India. Among the beneficiaries are 12 PhD and 53 master's degree students who will study at Sharda University, India as well as another 12 PhD and 73 candidates for Integral University, India. Twenty-nine other beneficiaries are masters and PhD candidates who will pursue advanced studies at different universities in Malaysia. During a ceremonial send-forth event held at the Government House in Maiduguri on Thursday, Governor Babagana Zulum urged the beneficiaries to be dedicated to their studies.

He said: “We expect each of you to exhibit a strong dedication to your studies and, in the future, to any professional roles you assume. Your dedication is crucial to ensuring that the benefits of your education directly contribute to the development and progress of Borno State.

"We trust that you will honour this responsibility and use the knowledge and skills you gain to make a positive impact on our society.” Zulum, while congratulating the beneficiaries, noted that an additional sum of about USD 150 had been approved monthly to cater for their upkeeps.

He said: “At this juncture, I wish to congratulate you on your success.

However, I must also remind you that the government has invested significantly in your training. As mentioned earlier, nearly N2 billion will be spent annually on your tuition alone.

"Additionally, I have directed that a monthly allowance of 150 USD be provided for your upkeep. It is important to note that with great opportunities come great responsibilities.

Zulum also promised automatic employment for the beneficiaries of the scholarship after completing their studies.

The governor noted that on their return, some of the beneficiaries would be offered to teach at various tertiary institutions in Borno.

He said: “Those of you pursuing master's degrees, where possible, try as much as possible to obtain your PhD. On this note, I want to direct the Ministry of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation to liaise with the tertiary institutions in the state and see the possibility of recruiting some of today's beneficiaries so that they will immediately resume duty on their return.”

Earlier, the Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Engr Lawan Abba Wakilbe, had explained that the 180 beneficiaries were to pursue courses in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in India and Malaysia.

Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), Tony Izuagbe Emoekpere, said forum brought about a significant opportunity to advance Nigeria’s position in the world of emerging technologies.

“As stakeholders, it is our shared responsibility to ensure that the decisions taken at the forum will benefit not only our industry, but also the people of Nigeria by enabling greater

connectivity, more inclusive growth and enhanced digital innovation,” Emoekpere said.

Chairman, Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo, who was represented by the Executive Secretary of ALTON, Gbolahan Awonugu, said: “We need to do the needful in proving necessary support for the sector.

Laleye Dipo in Minna

The Niger State Government, under its land reclamation programme, is to reclaim 100 hectares of land and will empower 100 youths and women, each, for the realization of the project.

Governor Mohammed Umaru

Bago disclosed this in a message to the flag-off of the distribution of 10 tractors for the land reclamation project, an event which took place at the Abdulkhadir Kure University in Minna the state capital on Thursday.

Governor Bago said the 100 youths would be engaged in the establishment of plant nurseries while the 100 women would be involved in seedlings production.

The governor explained that the land reclamation programme "will support our initiative to develop multisectoral approaches for desertification control and landscape management in the state, thereby improving community resilience and enhance livelihoods of our rural communities".

The governor, represented by his deputy, Comrade Yakubu Garba, also announced that government

Women

under the ACReSAL programme, a World Bank initiative will sink 100 boreholes in the 25 local governments in the state

"To improve water and sanitation in our communities, 100 boreholes shall be drilled across the 25 local government areas of the state," he said, adding that the first phase will cover Abdulkadir Kure University Minna, and seven communities of Kpanduko in Bosso, Baidna in Paikoro, Kaliko in Wushishi, Labozhi in Mokwa, Agaie, and Bida Local Government Areas, while others will follow in due course".

Bago appreciated the collaboration the state had enjoyed from the World Bank, and assured that "our government will continue to honour its part of the engagement by prompt payment of counterpart funds".

The Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed Kolo, commended ACReSAL's response "to the unique challenges being faced by the semi-arid regions of northern Nigeria, including erratic rainfall, soil degradation and extreme weather patterns".

Abuja

L-R: Chairman Members' Business Support Services Committee Nigerian-British Chamber

Commerce

Joe Dada; Chairman Programmes Committee, Tajudeen Ahmed; President/Chairman of Council, Ray Atelly; Deputy President, Akin Osuntoki; Member Programmes Committee, Jumoke Koleoso, and Chairman Education & Schools Group, Seyi Adeyemi, during NBCC's 2024 Sharing Experience Series 2.0 held in Lagos…recently

LAUNCH OF AFRICA YOUTH EMPLOYMENT CLOCK IN NIGERIA...

L-R: Vice President of Strategic Engagements, World Data Lab, Dr. Reshma Sheoraj; Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Atiku Bagudu; Minister of Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha; Country Director Nigeria, Mastercard Foundation, Rosy Fynn; and Lead Strategic Engagements, World Data Lab, Mr. Tim Timbiti, at the launch of the Africa Youth Employment Clock in Nigeria to drive inclusive African labour markets and strategic decision-making for labor ecosystem stakeholders held in Abuja ... recently

Economy: Current Reforms Necessary to Reposition Nation’s Growth, Says Hamzat

Sanwo-olu hails deputy at 60 Flooding: Lagos prioritises environmental cleanliness

FG denies rumour of imminent Goronyo Dam collapse AbdulRazaq identifies non readiness of residents to abide with setbacks

Hammed Shittu Segun

James Onuminya

Innocent

Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, yesterday, said the current economic reforms being undertaken by the federal government were necessary to reposition the country for growth.

The deputy governor, who stated this at a special prayer session organised by the state government to mark his 60th birthday at Community Central Mosque, Alausa, urged Nigerians to be patient with President Bola Tinubu as he takes bold steps to embark on wholistic reforms to revamp the economy.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who hailed his deputy, however, said contrary to beliefs in some quarters that he and his deputy would not be able to work together, they have

both worked perfectly as a team to transform the state without rancour.

Meanwhile, as meteorological agencies continues to alert the nation of possible flooding, the Lagos State Government has urged residents and business owners to prioritise environmental cleanliness in order to prevent spread of all forms of diseases as a result of the flooding.

Also, the federal government has dismissed the rumours of imminent collapse of Goronyo Dam, calling on residents of the community not to entertain any fear.

At the same time, the Kwara State Governor and Chairman Nigeria's Governors Forum (NGF), Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has identified the non-readiness of the people in the country to abide with setbacks as the major factors causing flooding in the country.

However, Hamzat, who told

Get Serious, Stop Farce

Surrounding Yahaya Bello’s Case, HURIWA Tells EFCC

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), yesterday, advised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to get serious in its handling of the high-profile case involving former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello.

HURIWA expressed deep dissatisfaction with the confusion and mixed signals surrounding Bello’s visit to the EFCC headquarters, condemning the agency’s lack of clarity, coordination, and seriousness in addressing the matter.

In a statement by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA which observed that Bello, who had been declared wanted by the EFCC for alleged involvement in a N80.2 billion money laundering case, reportedly paid a visit to the agency’s office in Abuja.

It lamented that conflicting reports from the EFCC and the former governor's media team muddled the situation, raising questions about the agency's

competence and the integrity of its anti-corruption efforts.

HURIWA said the rights group had in the light of the contradictions, launched a scathing critique of EFCC's handling of the situation, describing it as a "charade" and calling for immediate reforms within the agency.

The human rights group argued that the confusion surrounding Yahaya Bello's case exemplified the broader dysfunction within Nigeria’s anti-corruption institutions, which it believed had become increasingly entangled in political theatrics rather than focusing on the actual business of combating graft.

“This hide-and-seek game with Yahaya Bello is nothing short of a coordinated farce and an unpardonable gimmick. It is absolutely unacceptable.

“The EFCC must stop this charade and get serious with the enforcement of Nigeria’s anti-graft laws, or else the entire management must be uprooted if the country is to have any hope of waging a decisive war on corruption," the statement read in part.

Nigerians to expect the gains from the current pains and ensure that the country did not disintegrate, lauded Sanwo-Olu for his “dedication to the state, brotherliness, thoroughness and passion for the job.

“Just about two days ago, Mr. Governor was still telling me that Femi, that fourth mainland Bridge project must be done. The passion he brings to the jobs, to the state is uncommon,” he said.

Hamzat explained that the passion and hard work has seen the Lagos, a sub-national government executing big projects like the rail line projects only done by national governments.

In his goodwill message, SanwoOlu in the prayer session attended by political bigwigs, traditional rulers, frontline clergymen and members of the state’s executive council paid glowing tributes to his deputy and described Hamzat as a very hard working, dependable and loyal deputy.

He said Hamzat’s administrative acumen, erudition and dint of hard work had been noticed by all and sundry including his colleague governors, saying the bond between him and his deputy had transcended the current offices they occupy.

“Somebody called me one time and said Lagos State Deputy Governor is the most intelligent deputy governor in Nigeria right now, and I agreed with him,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu prayed that God

would continue to grant Hamzat more grace to serve the people of Lagos in particular and the entire Nigerian citizens as a whole.

Religious leaders also showered encomiums on Hamzat, describing him as a humble person, a courageous man, and someone, who fears God.

Flooding: Lagos Prioritises Environmental Cleanliness

The Lagos State Government has urged residents and businesses to prioritise environmental cleanliness in order to prevent the spread of all forms of diseases as a result of the flooding.

Special Adviser on Environment, Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, made this plea at the commemoration of the year 2024 World Clean-up Day advocacy/ Sensitization programme held at Bada Community in the Oshodi/ Isolo Local Government Area, even as he encouraged residents to voluntarily continue with the exercise.

He described the event as a global exercise with the 2024 Theme: "Make room for life" underscoring the fact that residents should inculcate the habit and make it a way of life by cleaning up their environment always and refrain from blaming the government once it rains and flash flood occurs.

"Good Sanitation practices is not an individual responsibility but a collective responsibility for everyone to

take action; Residents cannot continue to accuse the government whereas residents continually dump their waste in drainages," he said.

FG: Goronyo Dam Not Collapsing

The federal government, has dismissed the rumours of imminent collapse of Goronyo Dam, calling on residents of the community not to entertain any fear.

The Minister of State for Water Resources, Bello Goronyo, stated this while speaking with newsmen shortly after his visit to the Dam.

Goronyo described the story of the imminent collapse as the imagination of some mischievous people without any iota of truth whatsoever.

"I was in Goronyo Dam today together with some of the officials of Sokoto-Rima River Basin, where we went to see things again. I am glad to say it that the Dam is intact, good and with no problem whatsoever.

"The Dam was designed to accommodate about 942 million cubic meters of water and as at today, the water level there is just about 685 million cubic meters of water.

"As at today, that Dam can still accommodate over 200 million cubic meters of water. I was not told, but went there by myself.

"There is no cause for any alarm about the Dam, I don't know where

the report of imminent collapse of the Dam comes from, so I called on everyone to remain calm.

"Similar rumour was made sometimes about Dandikowa Dam but when we got there, it was discovered to be a rumour and fake," he added.

Flooding: AbdulRazaq Identifies Non-readinessPeople’s to Abide with Setback Laws

Kwara State Governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has identified the non-readiness of people in the country to abide with setbacks as the major factors causing flooding in the country.

The governor made the remark at Bode Saadu town in Moro Local Government Council Area of the state, yesterday, during his sympathy visit to the residents of the town following a recent downpour that overran the Arinun Bridge and initially submerged many houses in the area.

He said the state government would ensure the people of the state observed setbacks in order to bring new lease of life to the residents. The governor, however, appealed to residents of the state to always steer clear of setbacks, adding: “One of the major challenges we have nationwide is people not observing setbacks.

NCAA Introduces Portal to Address Passengers’ Complaints

Keyamo directs aviation authority to refund air ticket costs in 24 hours

Chinedu Eze

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has unveiled its Consumer Protection Portal, an initiative aimed at addressing passengers’ complaints in their interface with airlines and aviation agencies.

The introduction of the NCAA Consumer Protection Portal marks a significant step towards creating platform for interface between airlines, NCAA and air travellers in accordance with international practices and standards.

In his speech at the event, the acting Director General of the NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo, disclosed that introduction of the portal aligned with the broader national agenda, fulfilling the mandates of both the Minister’s

five-point agenda and President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Upon my assumption of office, I had two clear mandates: to uphold these agendas by strengthening the NCAA’s role in the industry, particularly focusing on supporting local airline businesses while enforcing international standards,” Najomo stated.

As part of the NCAA’s ongoing efforts to improve consumer protection, Najomo said the new portal will play a pivotal role in ensuring that air travellers are better informed and empowered to address grievances.

The portal offers a comprehensive platform where passengers can lodge complaints, access real-time data on airline performance, and monitor punctuality and on-time operations of airlines.

“This portal is not merely a digital space; it is a beacon of transparency and accountability. In today’s evolving marketplace, consumers face many challenges, from being unaware of their rights to dealing with poor services or unfair practices.

“The NCAA Consumer Protection Portal is our proactive response to these issues, providing a robust system to protect and empower consumers,” he stated. NCAA said the portal also serves as a valuable resource for the aviation industry, offering data and tools for research and development, and contributing to informed decisionmaking that can ultimately improve service delivery.

Najomo expressed gratitude to the NCAA team, particularly the 207 dedicated Consumer Protection

Officers stationed across 23 airports in Nigeria, who work tirelessly to resolve passenger grievances. He also acknowledged the support of key stakeholders and partners who played an integral role in bringing the project to fruition.

“Together, we are not just launching a portal; we are igniting a renewed movement for change,” he added.

The acting Director General urged all stakeholders to spread awareness of the portal and encourage consumers to utilise it effectively. Meanwhile, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has directed the NCAA to within the next 24 hours refund air travellers the cost of tickets they recently purchased from airlines that were suspended for safety concerns.

Alex Enumah

GLAZIA MAGAZINE SOIREE IN MAYFAIR...

L-R: Founder of It Takes A Village Collective (ITAV), Chloe Davies; Editor-in-Chief

PDP BoT Meets Party's Senators, House Members, Advocates Peaceful NEC Meeting

Seeks peaceful resolution of Rivers crisis Adeleke stands by party’s constitution in

The Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), yesterday, in line with its series of meetings, held a closed-door meeting with the Senators and House of Representatives members of the party.

The BoT had Tuesday had a meeting with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. It is scheduled to have another meeting with governors of the party later.

Yesterday's meeting with the

National Assembly members took place at the Legacy office of the party. The meeting was presided over by the BoT members.

It was gathered that the series of meeting have been ahead of the October 25 National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party, where a new national chairman might be elected to replace the acting national chairman, Amb. Illya Damagum.

The PDP has faced internal strife since the lead-up to the 2023 elections. Party stakeholders have criticised

Damagum for failing to take decisive steps to reform the party.

The situation worsened when Wike, persisted in his criticism of Rivers State Governor, Sim Fubara, and the PDP Governors’ Forum regarding the party’s structure.

THISDAY reported that PDP BoT Chairman, Adolphus Nwabara; Secretary, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, and other members held a closed-door meeting with Wike in Abuja on Tuesday. Additionally, the BoT met with the Chairman of the PDP Governors’

Forum and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, in the state capital on Wednesday.

The meeting between the National Assembly Caucus and the BoT took place at the PDP office, Legacy House, in Abuja.

Along with Nwabara and Makarfi, the meeting also had Senate Deputy Minority Leader, Lere Oyewumi, House of Representatives Minority Whip, Hon. Ali Isa JC, and Hon. Pastor Ojema Ojotu, in attendance.

THISDAY learned that the BoT

IN RACE FOR EDO GOVERNORSHIP, SIX TRENDS TO WATCH OUT FOR

and ensure compliance.

Olumekun stated, “The commission wishes to remind political parties that in line with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, and item 12 of the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2024 Edo State Governorship election, all campaigns by political parties end at midnight today, Thursday 19th September 2024.

“It is, therefore, illegal for any political party in Edo State to engage in rallies, processions or media campaigns from midnight today. These prohibitions, including sanctions, are provided for in Section 96 of the Electoral Act 2022.

“Similarly, on Election Day, Saturday, 21st September 2024, parties, candidates and their supporters should not appear at the polling units in their campaign attires or carry any campaign materials with them.”

Obi Defends Support for LP’s Akpata

Labour Party (LP) said Obi’s involvement in the governorship campaign of the party’s candidate, Olumide Akpata, was borne out of his desire to promote democracy and development in Edo State. Obi, who was responding to attacks from some of his adversaries, had urged INEC, the defence headquarters, and other security operatives to ensure a level playing ground for free and fair election. He said he “found Akpata a square peg in a square hole.”

The full statement read, “The attention of Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR) has been drawn to a circulating article in the media space accusing our principal, Peter Obi, of hypocrisy for supporting the Labour Party gubernatorial candidate in Edo State, Barr. Olumide Akpata.

“The campaigning by Obi for the Labour Party flag bearer in the upcoming Saturday’s governorship election in Edo State has effectively changed the narrative in the state and is leading opponents to the mischief of trying to divert attention from the issues.

“Obi’s adversaries have, instead of focusing on the issues that drive

the election, are trying to change the conversation by attacking Obi for supporting his party candidate that he found suitable for the job.

“They anchored their criticism on Obi supporting Bar Akpata because his zone is not supposed to produce the next governor and that Obi is going against his long-standing principles on power rotation.

“But what they failed to understand is that Obi’s stand on zoning remains, but the Labour Party in Edo even under the leadership of an Edo State indigene then did not zone their gubernatorial seat to any area in particular, and delegates that elected Akpata were strictly only Edo people from all the local government areas, including Edo central because they found him suited for their desires for the state.

“Obi does not trade competence and reputation for zoning, and as a democrat, he will always respect the position of the majority, especially if it’s anchored on the track record of the candidate.

“Akpata, by his age and antecedents, appeals to the youths as having the energy and mentality for the job.”

Senator Explains Why Ighodalo Must Win

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, Kogi Central, has described the PDP candidate in Saturday’s governorship election in Edo State, Asue Ighodalo, as possessing impeccable academic qualifications and experience to provide the required leadership to develop the state if elected.

Akpoti-Uduaghan had earlier in the week held rallies in various parts of Akoko-Edo areas of the state to rally support for Ighodalo, and his running mate, Omorodion Ogie, in the Saturday poll, where she urged Edo residents to vote for them.

A statement by Akpoti-Uduaghan’s media aide, Arogbonlo Israel, said the senator at the rallies in Igarra, Lampese and Ibillo in Akoko-Edo, on Sunday, appealed to the Ebira people and other tribes to support PDP, ensuring continued dividend of democracy in the state.

"I care about you and trust you'll

make the right choice on Saturday the 21st day of September 2024; Vote PDP," she emphasised.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, according to the statement said, “Asue Ighodalo is a distinguished Nigerian politician and businessman, renowned for his unwavering commitment to the development of Edo.”

Jonathan Sues for Peace, Charges INEC, Security Personnel to Maintain Neutrality

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday, chargedstate institutions involved in managing the election process to create a level-playing field to ensure free and fair polling, even as he sued for peace.

Jonathan, who made this known in a statement, urged political actors and stakeholders to work towards deepening the nation's democracy by prioritising the peace and security of Edo.

In the statement by his media adviser, Ikechukwu Eze, the former president emphasised that the Edo election “places a moral burden on state agencies, especially the police and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to rise to their constitutional responsibilities as independent arbiters in our democratic process.”

For democracy to endure, Jonathan noted that “elections must be devoid of all forms of manipulation and state institutions have the obligation to guarantee peaceful, credible and transparent elections.”

He further charged the election management body to live up to expectations as an unbiased umpire and inspire confidence in all actors through a transparent voting process.

“There is no doubt that loss of confidence in an election encourages political disputes, social unrests, voter apathy, increased polarisation and other far-reaching consequences that could undermine development and democratic consolidation.

“As citizens of voting age in Edo State, go to the polls for the governorship election on Saturday, September 21, 2024, I call on all political actors

and stakeholders to work towards deepening the nation's democracy by prioritizing peace and security of the state.

“Politicians must pursue their interests within the confines of the law and refrain from activities that could undermine the peace and stability of the state.

“It is encouraging that civil rule has endured in the Fourth Republic for 25 years but we should remind our people that democracy loses its value when citizens cannot exercise their political choices in a free and fair atmosphere.

“In the interest of peace and the integrity of our electoral process, I urge the electoral management body and security agencies to be professional and neutral in discharging their responsibilities.”

PSC Urges Officers on Election Duties to Be Strict in Enforcing Electoral Laws

The Police Service Commission (PSC), yesterday, charged police officers on election duties to be civil, smart but strict in enforcing the electoral laws.

The commission also said as lead agency in internal security, which included security of election, the police in Edo elections should exhibit strong leadership qualities expected of them.

A statement by Head Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, said the Commission would discipline any police officer, who failed to conduct himself in a manner deserving of his office, adding that the success or failure of the election depends on the effectiveness of the police officers on duty.

He said the commission will also reward officers, who exhibit exemplary conduct during the elections.

Ani said the Police Service Commission Staff Monitoring Team had started arriving in Edo to monitor the conduct of police officers during election.

He disclosed that the Commission's team would be led by a commissioner in the commission, DIG Taiwo Lakanu rtd, revealing that the staff monitoring team would operate from the three senatorial districts and would hold

convened the meeting to assess the sentiment of the PDP caucus in the National Assembly regarding the party’s challenges and suggest recommendations for resolving the issues.

Speaking with newsmen after the meeting, Wabara said, "As you see us here, it is evident that the party is peaceful."

All attempts to speak with members of National Assembly that attended the meeting proved abortive as some said they were under instruction not to speak to the media

the police accountable for their actions or inactions before, during and after the election.

PDP Charges Voters to Treat APC Riggers, Thugs as Criminals

The PDP has charged the people of Edo to come out enmasse to vote in the Saturday, governorship election and treat any person, who attempts to disrupt, manipulate or rig the poll as a criminal.

The PDP also charged the people of Edo State to defend themselves by confronting and resisting any attempt by fake security personnel who were reportedly being deployed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to abduct innocent citizens, snatch ballot boxes and disrupt the election.

In a statement by the National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the party said that the PDP directive was further predicated on alleged plans by the APC to garb its thugs allegedly imported from Imo and Kogi States with fake police and military uniforms to infiltrate the security agencies and unleash violence on innocent citizens before and on election day.

Against this backdrop, the PDP called on the Inspector General of Police and the INEC to provide designated identification badges to police and other security personnel assigned to specific Polling Units so as to prevent infiltration by APC fake security operatives.

Restating that it stood for peace, it added: “However, our party and the people of Edo State will use every legitimate means available in a democratic resistance to protect our democracy and ensure that nobody subverts the will of the people at the poll.

"Our party also restates that any APC thug that attempts to cause crisis or snatch ballot box in this election will surely face the wrath of the people and the law," it stated.

Esan Group Urges Peaceful Election

The Association of Esan Professionals

Apart from seeking a peaceful resolution within the party, THISDAY gathered that the party wanted to ensure a peaceful resolution of the face-off between Wike and Fubara to the extent that the PDP traditions of ensuring that governors are leaders of the party in the states is entrenched. Meanwhile, the Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has clarified his position on the raging PDP leadership crisis, declaring that he stood by the relevant provisions of the PDP Constitution.

(AEP), a non-partisan organisation, has appealed to the people of Edo State to shun violence and conduct themselves peacefully at the Saturday gubernatorial poll.

President of AEP, Mr . Henry Egbiki, made this appeal in Lagos, yesterday, following recent media reports of violence in some parts of the state with regard to the election. He advised Edo people in general to come out on Saturday and cast their votes peacefully for the candidates of their choice.

He further advised the good people of Edo state, the political parties and their candidates to counsel their supporters and agents to maintain peace and avoid violence and any situation that could engender bloodshed during the election.

The AEP President urged them to have the fear of God and never take governance as a do or die affair.

Secondus Throws Weight Behind Ighodalo

A former National Chairman of the PDP, Uche Secondus, has thrown his weight behind the PDP gubernatorial standard bearer in Saturday’s governorship election in Edo State, Asue Ighodalo.

Secondus said in a statement in Abuja that the PDP standard bearer is clearly a stand-out candidate for the position with his wealth of experience in the management of man and material.

The former PDP boss urged Edo voters to come out in their numbers to cast their votes for the best candidate, who will take Edo to the next level. Secondus admonished critical stakeholders involved in the conduct of the election to be transparent and just bearing in mind the bigger consequences of a marred election to democracy.

He said the country was going through a horrific situation already resulting from APC’s misrule and could not afford further strains arising from flawed elections, and therefore called on the INEC to use the Edo election and try to remedy its battered image.

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

of GLAZIA Magazine and Managing Partner, GLG Communications, Omawumi Ogbe; and Chief Catalyst, OLCA Coaching Limited, Dr. Lanre Olusola, at the GLAZIA Magazine Soiree in Mayfair, London in the United Kingdom…recently

OLOJO FESTIVAL PRESS CONFERENCE...

L-R: Chief Administrator, Olojo Festival, Otunba Ayo Olumoko; Chief Executive Officer, Yemkem International Limited, Dr. Akintunde Ayeni; Ooni of lfe, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi(Ojaja ll), and Osun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Ojo Abiodun Fafa, during a press briefing on the forthcoming 2024 Olojo Festival in lle-lfe, Osun State...yesterday.

FG Threatens to Seal Defaulting Organisation Defrauding Consumers

Oluchi Chibuzor

The federal government through the Department of Weights and Measures, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI), has threatened to seal organisations found defrauding consumers through weights and instruments in trade transactions across the country. The warning is coming in view

of escalating cost of goods and services across the country while ensuring that Nigerians get the value for their money.

Speaking at an annual audit inspection across some selected companies in Lagos, the Director, Weights and Measures, FMITI, Dr. Olajide Adesuyi, stressed that the current administration is working to ensure that consumers are not exploited.

Crisis Looms as IYC SecretaryGeneral Rejects Suspension

Blessing Ibunge inPortHarcourt

The Secretary-General of the Ijaw Youths Council (IYC) Worldwide, Nangi Obu, has rejected his suspension by some members of the council’s executive committee led by Jonathan Lokpobiri, younger brother to the Minister of State for Petroleum, Oil, Heineken Lokpobiri. Lokpobiri and some of his executive members had announced the suspension of Obu after blaming him for the bloodshed that marred the IYC Eastern Zonal election at Abuloma, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

About five Ijaw youths were allegedly killed and many others

injured and maimed as two rival groups clashed during the zonal poll. But Obu, who broke his silence on the issue, described his suspension as dead on arrival explaining that Jonathan and others had no constitutional rights to remove him.

“They have no right to sit and suspend me because I am not an employee of Jonathan. Our constitution does not give them such latitude,” he said.

He described the killings of innocent Ijaw youths during the election as unfortunate, terrible and avoidable and blamed the bloodbath on what he referred to as Jonathan’s alleged attempt to impose candidates.

Ooni Stresses Importance of Olojo Festival

Yinka KolawoleinOsogbo

Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye

Ogunwusi, yesterday described Olojo festival as the strongest Yoruba heritage that is creditably natural.

Ooni, who also offered special prayers for the development of the country in all ramifications while heralding this year Olojo festival at a press conference in his palace, also called for development partnership from corporate organisations and well meaning Nigerians for the development of the yearly festival.

The fellow of the security institute stressed that with the escalating cost of goods in the country, the government is concerned about the consumers and wants to make sure that they get value for their money.

According to him, “With the escalating cost of materials and products the government wants to make sure that if you are buying 10 liters in a particular place, that money you are paying should be commensurate with what you are

getting from that place. So when we find any defaulting organisation we seal immediately. Yes, we seal immediately and then we make sure that they comply.”

“And I want you to understand the fact that annual surveillance of

Weight and Measures is extremely critical to maintaining accuracy and consistency in trade activities, Industrial and scientific applications. So, under this, the government is concerned about the protection of the consumers.

Ndukuba: New Constitution, Only Legacy Tinubu Should Leave for Nigeria

Sunday Ehigiator

The leadership of Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion Primate Henry Ndukuba has told President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that the only legacy he would leave for the country “is to lay a solid foundation for Democratic Governance for the country” by giving it a new constitution. Speaking at the 19th Standing Committee Meeting of the church, organised recently, Ndukuba emphasised that a new constitution would address xenophobic agitations and nagging national issues.

According to him, a new Constitution would consider the concerns already expressed at the sovereign national conferences and the calls for restructuring of Nigeria and warned, as “Shying away from doing this will amount to postponing the Doomsday.”

Delivering his presidential address at the 19th Standing Committee Meeting of the church at St Andrew’s Basilica, titled, ‘Nigeria is beset with several nagging issues’, Ndukuba said: “The Constitution would address the root causes of the xenophobic agitation of the citizens.

Fight with Courage to Defend Nigeria, CAS to Graduating NDA Cadets

Linus Aleke in Abuja

According to him, “Yoruba race remains the largest race worldwide with the Olojo festival as the strongest heritage which is creditably natural.”

Others significant, Ooni emphasised its commemorates the creation of the world according to Yoruba mythology and pays homage to Oduduwa, the progenitor of the Yoruba race.

The Olojo festival is a vibrant celebration that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Ife, a in southwestern Nigeria and Yoruba race at large.

Ooni, who spoke on the ‘Spiritual Significance of Olojo Festival’, noted that the festival holds immense spiritual importance for the people of Ife and Yoruba race worldwide.

Kano Dissolves LGAs Mgt Committees

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Yusuf, has dissolved the Interim Management Committees of all the 44 local government areas of the state.

In a statement issued by the governor’s Spokesperson, Sanusi Bature, said the governor announced the dissolution of the Committees during a valedictory meeting with members of the committees in Kano.

Yusuf appreciated the outgoing Interim Management Committees members for their commitment in steering the affairs of the local governments for half a year and assisted the state government in the implementation of its policies and programmes at the grassroots level.

He assured them that Kano State Government will continue to reckon with and carry them along in the state engagements for the benefit of people of Kano.

He also enjoined the cadets to be determined to make a difference, not only through bravery in battle but also by mastery of the tools and innovations that are reshaping modern warfare.

Abubakar gave this charge to

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has tasked graduating cadets of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) to be ready to meet the high expectations of the Armed Forces of Nigeria by bracing up to play their part towards resolving contemporary security challenges.

the cadets in his remarks as the Special Guest of Honour at the NDA 2024 Beating of the Retreat and Prize Giving Ceremony which held at the NDA Parade Ground, Afaka. A statement by Deputy Director, Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Group Captain Kabiru Ali said the CAS reminded the graduating cadets of 71 Regular Course and Direct Short Service Course 28 Army and 32 Air Force, that considerable resources had been invested into building their capacity and shaping their character development through quality military training and a sound academic foundation.

Paul Chukwuma Campaign Council Raises the Alarm over Insecurity in Anambra

David-Chyddy Eleke inAwka

The Campaign Council of Sir Paul Chukwuma, a governorship aspirant of All Progressives Congress (APC) for next year’s governorship election in Anambra, has raised the alarm over the level of insecurity in the state.

The council blamed the state governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo for the insecurity in the state, saying its principal, Paul Chukwuma would tackle it when he wins the election.

The Director General of the council, Hon Ifeanyi Ibezi, at a press conference yesterday in Awka

told journalists that the insecurity in the state has become alarming, and that it forms part of why Anambra should elect Chukwuma as a replacement for the incumbent.

Ibezi said: “Paul Chukwuma will be contesting for the governorship of Anambra in next year’s election. Security is part of his manifesto and you know what is happening in Anambra today.

“Insecurity in Anambra has become so high, killings, kidnapping everyday. You also know there is a dearth of infrastructure in Anambra State, and these are the things Chukwuma will be addressing as governor.

Kogi Urges Residents Living in Flood Prone Areas to Move, Activates 42 IDP Camps

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

Ahead of the impending floods in Kogi State, the state government has urged those living in the flood plains to move to higher ground for safety to avoid disasters such as loss of lives and property.

This followed the persistent warnings by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) that Kogi and other states may experience flooding as a result of more rainfall and the likelihood of releasing water from dams within and outside the country.

The government called on the chairmen of the 9 prone local government areas , Kogi , Lokoja , Ajaokuta,, Ofu, Idah Ibaji, Igalamela, Bassa and Omala to be proactive ahead of the impending flooding.

As part of efforts to mitigate the effects of the floods in the state, the state government

disclosed that it has established 42 IDP camps across eight local government areas with nine flood-prone areas. The stakeholders have also taken proactive measures to convene emergency meetings to prevent flood disasters in the state.

Expert Urges Effective Collaboration to Tackle Malnutrition in W/Africa

KemiOlaitaninIbadan

The President and Founder, West African Society of Parenteral and Enternal Nutrition (WASPEN), Dr. Teresa Pounds, has called for deeper understanding among public and health care professionals in countries

in the West Africa region towards addressing malnutrition. She made the call at a virtual press conference held as part of activities lined up for this year’s Malnutrition Week Awareness that will end today (Friday).

Participants at the press conference

include Project Director, WASPEN, Tevin Klein; Coordinator, WASPEN in Plateau State, Ghinsel Nanret Blessing; Ojei Sarat Onyebuka, Naruka Solomon Yakubu, Dr. CNN Nwako, Dr. Bilikisu Mojirola Amuda -Oladeji, Akhigbe Evelyn Omolegho and Dr. Ritbul Jacob, who are all

members of WASPEN. Pounds stressed that the time has come for countries in the region to focus on malnutrition in hospitals and that the crucial initiative to confront malnutrition was launched by the American Society for Parental and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) in 2012.

Seplat Energy JV Offers Free Eye Treatment Services in Imo

Amby UnezeinOwerri

Seplat Energy, in partnership with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), has once again demonstrated its leadership in corporate social investment through the successful deployment of the 2024 edition

of its flagship healthcare initiative, ‘Eye Can See’, in Imo State.

The programme which lasted for five days involved delivering critical free eye care services, screenings, surgeries, and distribution of eyeglasses to thousands of underserved residents, reaffirming the JV’s unwavering commitment

to improving healthcare access in its host communities.

The flag-off of the ‘Eye Can See’ programme in the State took place on September 19, 2024, at Full Moon Hotel in Owerri, marking a significant milestone in Seplat’s long-standing legacy of impactful healthcare outreach, which began in 2012.

Speaking at the flag-off, Ibi-Ada Itotoi, Managing Director, Eastern Asset, Seplat Energy, represented by Emmanuel Otokhine, Base Manager, Eastern Asset, Seplat Energy, emphasised the company’s dedication to holistic people and community development.

ABIODUN AJALA

MARKING WORLD OZONE DAY...…

L-R: Head, Human Resources, Top Steel Nigeria Limited, Mr. Fola Ajibolade; Director, Environmental Sustainability Unit, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) Mrs. Adedayo Adebayo; General Manager, LASEPA, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi; National President, Nigerian Association of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Practitioners (NARAP), Mr. John Akhabue;Representative of the Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Mr. Adeniran Ademola; and Director, Alimosho 3 Zonal Office, LASEPA, Mr. Kayode Bello, at the World Ozone day celebration organised in Lagos ...recently

‘Benue Ready for Possible Flooding’

’Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has declared the state’s proactive stance on potential flooding, emphasising that the state is well-prepared to mitigate risks.

Alia stated this yesterday while speaking to newsmen at the State House, Abuja, after meeting with President Bola Tinubu. He expressed the state’s readiness for possible floods, a recurring issue in the region.

The governor sought to dispel concerns about the state’s readiness for possible floods by highlighting the administration’s focus on preventive measures rather than reactive planning.

He also clarified that rather than merely contemplating actions, the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) is fully equipped to handle any flood-related challenges.

Alia also mentioned ongoing discussions about dredging the river and exploring various options before seeking federal government’s support.

According to him, “I didn’t say we are thinking on what to do when the floods come we are not thinking, we are prepared,

we are creating awareness to all our people, maybe why you mentioned of that is the fact that I had said the river requires dredging.

“So before the dredging there a number of things on the table, exploring to see which of the best options Before the federal government comes in to support us.

“So for the record we’re not just waiting we have A SEMA an emergency management team they have the capacity to take charge of all this and they are already quite armed, we pray that the flood doesn’t come in but if it does you know we are definitely equal to the task.”

The governor acknowledged the persistent issue of residents living in flood-prone areas along waterways and outlined a twopronged approach of appealing to these individuals while also emphasizing the risks associated with their choices.

“When you find such people, what do you do? You appeal to them, and if it doesn’t work by appeal, when it happens to them, then risk,” Alia explained.

Commenting on the recent Supreme Court decision on local government autonomy, Alia

also responded to allegations of candidates imposition ahead of the October 5, 2024 local government elections in the state.

He defended the nomination

process, describing it as transparent and inclusive.

“What we did was to engage in a direct process,” Alia explained, stating that hardworking APC members were supported for

nominations.

The governor emphasised the fairness of the process, acknowledging that while there might be some dissatisfaction, efforts were made to give

Group Urges Kwara to Open Idiagbon Flyover

Hammed ShittuinIlorin

After three years of General Tunde Idiagbon Flyover project in Kwara State, Kwara Concerned Group(KCG) yesterday tasked the state government to open the multi-billion flyover for public use.

The flyover was embarked on by the state Governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, three years ago to ease the movement of students of the University of Ilorin and other residents of the state at Tanke area of Ilorin, the state capital.

Though, there were reported

issues on the flyover, it was later re-awarded to another contractor for updating on the bridge after two contractors had handled the project. But, the flyover was subsequently completed but yet to be officially inaugurated for public use.

However, speaking at a press

everyone a voice.

“I wouldn’t try to toy with the reputation I built with my name and personality,” Alia asserted, reaffirming his commitment to transparency.

for Public Use

conference in Ilorin, the chairman of the KCG stated that: “It is worrisome that the state government has committed public funds on this flyover and awarded it to three different contractors for completion but it has not been opened for public use for over three years.”

UBA Targets $20tn Assets, One Billion Customers in Next 75 Years

Charles Ajunwa

As part of its strategic projections into the future, the United Bank for Africa (UBA) has set targets of realising $20 trillion and one billion customers in the next 75 years.

The Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of

the United Bank for Africa, Mr. Oliver Alawuba, disclosed this yesterday at the unveiling of the “UBA Wall Tribe” and “UBA Time Capsule” held in Lagos. Alawuba, who was accompanied by some board members, Executive Directors, Senior Executives of UBA across all the countries, said that UBA

in the next 75 years would be dominant in over 100 countries of the world, adding that in the next 75 years UBA would be the the bank that will link Africans to the world and the world to Africa.

“Today, we are about $20 billion total assets. In the next 75, UBA will be $20 trillion.

Today, we have over 40 million customers. In the next 75 years, UBA will be 1 billion customers across the world. Today, we are present in about 24 countries. In the next 75 years, UBA will be present and dominant in over 100 countries. Yes, we are dominant in few countries today.

NECO 2024: 60.55% Secure above Five Credits

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

A total number of 828,284 candidates, representing 60.55 percent have secured five credits, including Mathematics and English in the 2024 National Examinations Council (NECO) examinations.

The Registrar of NECO, Professor Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi, made this known while briefing journalists at the NECO headquarters yesterday in Minna, Niger State.

Prof. Wushishi disclosed that a total of 1,376,423 candidates, representing 706,950 males and 669,473 females, registered for the examination.

The NECO boss gave a further breakdown of the results as: “Number of candidates that sat is 1,367,736 representing 702,112 Males and 665,624 females.

“Number of candidates with five credits and above, including English and Mathematics, is 828,284, representing 60.55 percent.

“Number of candidates with five credits and above, irrespective of English and Mathematics is 1,147,597, representing 83.90percent.”

APRCN Honours Olatunji with UN Ambassadorial Award

Ayodeji Ake

Music maestro , award winning recording artist, songwriter and producer with global and international impact in music, Opeyemi Olatunji a.k.a YemyTpx has been awarded the prestigious United Nations Eminent Ambassador Award by the Advanced Peace and Reconciliation Centre of Nigeria (APRCN).

APRCN, while announcing the award, said YemyTpx has not just only impacted his immediate community ,environment and entertainment industry through music but has also used his gifts, voice and platform to promote peace and unity worldwide.

“Through his creative music works and groundbreaking achievements, Opeyemi has brought people from diverse cultural,ethnic and racial backgrounds together, fostering collaboration and celebrating the richness of global culture and impact .

“Aside his musical achievements, Yemis devotion to philanthropy and advocacy for social causes and Global Peace has left an evergreen and unforgettable mark on the world, influencing others all over the world to join his quest of seeing a world without boundaries,poverty,war and racial discrimination making a positive impact,” it said.

Mefor Assumes Duty as Anambra Information Commissioner

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

The new Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, has assumed duty after his swearing-in two days ago by the state Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo.

Mefor, an academic, public

intellectual and media trainer, was last Tuesday screened by the Anambra State House of Assembly and later sworn in at the state Government House as a replacement for Mr. Paul Nwosu who was sacked the same day.

In a meeting with members

of Correspondents’ Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Anambra State Council, Mefor said it was worrisome that despite the numerous achievements of the governor, only few are seen in the media.

He promised to work with journalists to ensure that the

works of the governor and the policies of his government are reported adequately.

The commissioner said: “The governor has a solid blueprint for Anambra State growth, but I believe that his achievements have not been fully reported in the media.

Eko Revenue Plus Summit Confirms October Date

The highly anticipated Eko Revenue Plus Summit (ERPS), originally scheduled for September 25 to 26, 2024, will now take place on October 22 and 23, 2024 in Lagos. This change, according to the organisers, has been made to accommodate the participation of

a wider range of stakeholders and to ensure that the summit meets its objectives of delivering cutting-edge solutions to unlock new sources of revenue for Lagos State.

In a statement yesterday, the Headline Sponsor, Wema Bank, and Co-sponsor, AlphaBeta, remain

committed to supporting this significant event, which is set to be a landmark in public-private sector collaborations for the State’s financial future. Their sponsorship underscores the importance of creating sustainable partnerships to drive innovation in revenue

generation for Lagos. Commenting, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Modo Ante, Joko Okupe, the organisers of the summit, in collaboration with the Lagos State Government said:“By leveraging technology and innovation.

Super Eagles Maintain 39th Spot in September FIFA Ranking

Duro Ikhazuagbe

The Super Eagles maintained their 39th spot on the September FIFA Ranking released on Thursday afternoon world football governing body. The three-time African champions dropped one place to now be ranked in the sixth in the continental ranking behind African football powers Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, Côte d’Ivoire, and Tunisia. Ranked behind Nigeria in the

African Top 10 include, Algeria, Cameroon, Mali, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In the period under review, Super Eagles defeated Benin Republic 3-0 in an AFCON 2025 qualifier in Uyo and were held goalless in Kigali by Rwanda. Nigeria saw a marginal drop in points, losing 0.91, taking them from 1498.93 to 1498.02. Super Eagles 2026 World Cup qualifying group rivals, South Africa are ranked outside the Top 10 in the 11th spot while Nigeria’s

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Super Eagles forwards, Ademola Lookman and Victor Boniface fired blanked for their respective clubs in the first round matches of the UEFA Champions League last night.

In the earlier kickoff, Boniface failed to replicate his Bundesliga form as his Bayer Leverkusen hammered Feyenoord 4-0 away in the Dutch city. Boniface was replaced after 62 minutes.

In Italy, Lookman also failed to find the back of the net against visiting Arsenal. The game ended goalless with the Gunners hoping to pick all points in north London.

It was not all gloom for Nigerian players last night as George Ilenikhena snatched a big win for Monaco against Barcelona.

French player Maghnes Akliouche

snatched the led for Monaco barely 16 minutes into the clash with the Catalans. But teenager Lamine Yamal restored parity in 28th minute.

But Ilenikhena got the winner in the 59th minute for Monaco’s perfect start to their UEFA Champions League campaign. He cashed on a defensive catastrophe to fire the goal in his Champions League debut game.

RESULTS

Feyenoord 0-4 Leverkusen

C’Zvezda 1-2 Benfica

Atalanta 0-0 Arsenal

Monaco 2-1 Barcelona

Atlético 2-1 RB Leipzig

Brest 2-1 Sturm Graz

Organisers Pledge Fun Filled 2024 Nigeria Cup

As preparations for 2024 Nigeria Cup Golf Tournament gathers momentum, organisers of this year’s edition have promised a fun-filled week-long competition for sponsors and participants.

Speaking at a pre-event press briefing on Wednesday, Chairman, 2024 Nigeria Cup Organising Committee, George Etomi, said the spirit of harmony through recreation which the club is known for will be the focus of this year’s competition, adding that every member of the Ikoyi Club community will take part in this year’s edition.

According to him, 2024 Nigeria Cup will officially tee off on Saturday with kid golfers taking turn on the course while Sunday, October 22, has been reserved for a segment of the competition tagged ‘Golf for Good Event’.

On Monday, Caddies will have their way on the golf course before

lady golfers will play on Tuesday.

A special Nigeria Cup Kitty has been fixed for Wednesday, September 25th.

N1million is expected to be won by the best player in the professional category while the second placed among professional golfer will go home with N750, 000.00. The sum of N500, 000 00 is up for grab for the second runner-up in the professional category.

“On Thursday, the organising committee will host Sponsors, Guests and Veteran golfers. Saturday, September 28th is the grand finale and the day a new Nigeria Cup winner will be crowned.” Etomi who said all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure the competition goes as planned, thanked sponsors for their support for Nigeria Cup.

Mike Makinde, who shots 67-net in last year’s edition, is the tournament’s defending champion.

subregional arch rivals Black Stars of Ghana are ranked in lowly 14th spot. The Ghanaians are having a bad patch following their AFCON 2025 qualifying round defeat by Angola

and draw to Niger Republic. At the global level, there was no change in the Top 10 as Argentina are holding to the top spot, with France, Spain, England, Brazil,

Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, Colombia, and Italy occupying the places.

Nigeria will have a busy time ahead next month as the Super

The two finalists for the 2024 edition of the 1XBET Community Football Championship emerged yesterday after the two pulsating semifinal matches that ended in shootouts at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Lagos Island. Gunners Link FC who defeated Emaljus FC 6-5 in a nail-bitting encounter after regulation time deadlocked goalless, will face giant-killing FC Bethel in the 1XBET Cup final slated for next Thursday September 26, 2024 at the same venue.

To reach the final, FC Bethel who in the quarter finals sent packing defending champions SBL FC, also survived the semifinal shootouts with favorites Emiloju FC 4-3. Regulation time also ended goalless like the first semifinal played earlier.

With improved mouthwatering N20 million prize money at stake in this edition, the final match slated for next Thursday promises to be the anticlimax of the 2024 tournament.

The two losing semifinalists will battle for the third place consolation prize earlier before Gunners Link and FC Bethel take to the field for the final game.

Meanwhile, the sponsors of the championship, 1XBET and the organisers, Match International Limited, have perfected plans for a memorable final day of the 2024 edition.

Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba

Hosts Delta State has won the 8th edition of the National Youth Games (NYG), with a total of 111 medals comprising of 46 gold, 31 silver and 34 bronze, at the end of competition yesterday.

Lagos State emerged second with a total of 65 medals, made up of 26 gold, 20 silver and 19 bronze, while Edo State was third with 18 gold, 13 silver and 28 bronze, totalling 59 medals.

With this victory, Delta has maintained its supremacy in youth sports in the country, being the only state

Nigeria Chase ICC U19 Women T20 World Cup Ticket to Rwanda

The Nigeria Cricket Federation has announced her team for the forthcoming ICC U19 Women T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier scheduled to kick off in Kigali, Rwanda, on Sunday, September 22nd, 2024.

Piety Lucky, Nigeria’s teenage Cricket Star, and a prominent member of the bronze- winning women’s team at the African Games in March 2024, will captain the Nigerian side. According to the General Manager of the federation, Emeka Igwilo, the Nigerian team was camped in Benin, Edo State for over a month with the technical crew at the HighPerformance Center in the state.

“The young ladies representing the

country are some of the best talents in their ranks, and with the level of preparations they were exposed to, we are confident they would put up a good performance at the event,” observed the NCF General Manager. Other members of the Nigerian squad include; Agboya Peculiar, Adekunle Shola, Amusa Kehinde, Akhigbe Anointed, Ude Lilian, Chukwuonye Christabel, Peace Usen, Bassey Deborah, Eguakun Omosigho, Igbinedion Victory, Inyene Ubong, Memeh Naomi, and Oguai Beauty. Nigeria is grouped with Zimbabwe, Tanzania, and Malawi in Group ‘B’, while host Rwanda will battle Namibia, Kenya, and Uganda in

Group A’.

Nigeria will open the chase for the sole African World Cup ticket at the event with a tie against Tanzania on Sunday, September 22nd. They will follow up with a Zimbabwean encounter on Monday, September 23rd, before a final group game on Wednesday, September 25th, against division two winners Malawi.

The top two teams from the roundrobin will qualify for a semifinal place, which will be held alongside the finals on Saturday, September 28th, and Sunday, September 29th.

All the games will be hosted at the twin pitches of the Gahanga Cricket Stadium in Kigali.

that has won the annual tournament since inception 11 years ago.

Delta State, which also hosted the games in 2023, will host two more editions of the competition.

Apart from Rivers State that was absent, 35 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) participated in the games which started on 9th September, 2024 with President Bola Tinubu formally declaring the games open.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the games yesterday at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, Governor

Sheriff Oborevwori reiterated his administration's commitment to the development of sports and sporting infrastructure in the state in order to promote sports education and create an avenue for youths to thrive.

The governor who was represented at the occasion by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, noted that the state's commitment to the development of sports infrastructure was advised by the fact that games underscore the power of sports to unite and promote friendship.

Oborevwori said, "As we bring

the games to a close, let us continue to nurture our young talents, invest in grassroots sports development and provide opportunity for our youths to excel.

"Here in Delta State, we are committed to developing as well as promoting sports, education, and creating a platform for our youths to thrive.

"I charge you all to continue to earnestly crave for excellence as you grow to become ambassadors of our nation and to inspire others with your achievements.”

Eagles battle Libya back-to-back in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers. The next FIFA rankings are due to be released on October 24, 2024

George Illenikhena became the youngest goal scorer in the Champions League at 18 years and 34 days as he grabbed the winner in Monaco's 2-1 defeat of Barcelona... last night

L-R: Vice Chairman, Ikoyi Club 1938, Rauf Ladipo, Chairman Ikoyi Club 1938, Tafa Zibiri-Aliu, Similolu Adeyinka; Deputy General Manager Corporate Services, First E&P, Vice Captain and Co-Vice Chairman 2024 Nigeria Cup Orgaming Committee Babatunde Oni, Korede DamilolaAdeniyi ED South, The Alternate Bank at 2024 Nigeria Cup press briefing... on Wednesday

MISSILE

Gov Mohammed to APC

“We discussed extensively on the PDP, the legacy establishing the PDP in terms of its historical significance, the reshaping of national development...By the time the PDP emerges from the present situation, we will be ready, to take over the leadership of the country in 2027. We will then build on the massive development of 16 years obstructed by the wasteful years of the ruling APC” --BauchiStateGovernor,andChairman,PDP Governors’Forum,SenatorBalaMohammed,strategisesahead,flaystherulingparty.

AKIN OSUNTOKUN

Between Obasanjo, Ribadu and The President

In the event of a random sampling of n the event of a random sampling of Nigerian public opinion leaders, the probability is that former President Olusegun Obasanjo will be judged the best of all those who have had the privilege of holding the office of President (or as Obasanjo naysayers would say) the one eyed man in the land of the blind. It is also fair to say that, more than his colleagues, he has benefited from a better education and training in the school of Nigerian leadership. some of them, inadvertently. It is a platitude to call him a man of destiny. None has had a more fulsome harvest of providential interventions. He typifies the saying that opportunity plus preparedness is equal to luck (Opportunity+Preparedness =Luck)

An early pointer to his charmed life trajectory was the prophetic foresight of the then Military Governor of the Northern Region, Colonel Hassan Usman Katsina. In the thick of the July 1966 crisis, Obasanjo had to leave Kaduna in a hurry – there was the fear that the safety of military officers of Southern origin was no longer guaranteed. Katsina then assigned two armoured vehicles to secure his journey to the airport and warned that Obasanjo must come to no harm because Nigeria was going to need him in the future. Four years later he was on hand to receive the surrender of the secessionist Biafra army at the end of the civil war in January 1970 (as General Officer Commander of the victorious Third Marine Commando). He and the late General Murtala Mohammed were the nationalist godfathers of the July 1975 coup that ousted General Yakubu Gowon. Obasanjo thereafter became the deputy to Mohammed in his capacity as military head of state. After the accident of the abortive February 13th 1976 coup in which Mohammed was killed, he was a shoeing into the vacuum created by the assassination of his principal. He was ordained to barely escape getting killed in the coup by fortuitous circumstances. It so happened that on the same day, he had altered his daily routine to accommodate the christening of General Olu Bajowa’s baby to whom he was godfather. Furthermore, General Dumuje was mistaken for him and was accordingly rained with bullets but he survived.

All along in his career, he deliberately cultivated the trust and confidence of the dominant conservative wing of the Northern political establishment. There were rumours to the effect that he was the godfather of the best known Northern elite pressure group, Kaduna mafia. In the subsequent coup of December 1983, the leading conspirators had requested him to pick up the baton he left behind in October 1979 but he declined. You will recall the Mohammed Buhari junta routinely self identified as an offshoot of the Murtala-Obasanjo regime.

As head of state, Obasanjo burnished his lustre and appeal with the successful implementation of a military disengagement from power and transition of political power to civil democratic rule programme. He thereafter commenced another life stream as a burgeoning World statesman.Today, he is the chairman of the committee of former Presidents. Not to talk of the martyrdom effect of the adversity he endured at the murderous caprice of the rogue military dictator, General Sani Abacha. For that matter what used to be the dark spot of his political career, the third term gambit, appears to have transmuted into a missed opportunity in the popular imagination.

It is a reflection of his productive and disciplined life that he went on to acquire a doctorate degree in theology, immediately after his eight years presidency. Exasperated at the repeated failures of his successors, he had pointedly asked me to propose a way out of the mess Nigeria has found itself. He enjoyed utilising me as proxy for the

Obafemi Awolowo political school of thought with which he was often at cross purposes. He enjoined me to speak freely without regard to his well known stump speeches.

Obasanjo belongs to a category of Nigerian leaders especially those of military background who are generally disdainful of ‘restructuring’ as reflected in his dismissive refrain that what Nigeria needs is a “restructuring of the mind”. This attitude is typical of the status quo stalwarts who are instinctively suspicious of any suggestion of decentralisation as the only realistic response to the lapse of Nigeria into interminable political and governance abyss. As probable panacea for what ails Nigeria my default position essentially boils down to an advocacy for the restoration of federalism as against reducing the political problem of Nigeria to the absence of ‘good leadership’.

So how do we conjure this good leadership? If we had been searching for this elusive good leadership for the better part of post-independence Nigeria, shouldn’t we get realistic and retrace our footsteps from where we sprayed into the wrong turn. If we were lucky enough to get good leadership occasionally, how do we ensure that the magic does not depart our shores again?.

The emergence of good leaders or bad leaders is random and not predictable unlike the permanence and certainty of the mediation of impersonal constitutional structure. Properly understood, the constitution is the product of our collective wisdom, whose applicability is the irreducible minimum of our coexistence. Moreso for a country that is prone to dysfunction. The futility of predicating the viability of Nigeria on the hope for good leadership has been the sad story of the fourth republic.

Democracy is particularly notorious in its blindness to virtue and optimal outcome of elections. Otherwise Donald Trump would not have been elected American president seven years ago. And no truth has been better said than the quip of Obasanjo that “the best candidate may not win the election” in the 1979 presidential election. Winston Churchill once said that: “democracy is the worst form of government – except for all the others that have been tried.”

What is within our capacity to determine is the constitutional structure that is responsive to our foundational challenges. A viable constitutional order

anticipates the worst case scenario of a destructive leadership, hence its inherent imposition of limitations and constraints on the capacity of bad leadership to damage society. It is analogous to taking out an insurance cover for your properties. Science proceeds from the assumption of worst case scenario not the wishful thinking of anticipating good leadership. It is in the assumption of this scientific logic that federalism was formulated as response to Nigeria’s peculiarities and vision. The most debilitating source of Nigeria’s political instability and crisis since 1966 was the military rule enabled over centralisation of powers hence the self prescription of decentralisation.

Nowhere is it truer than Nigeria that federalism is tragedy ‘as it is intended as a response mechanism to political conflict not an optimal strategy. It is a suboptimal compromise in the effort to defuse real and potential situations of conflict and ensure that such situations do not degenerate into less attractive possibilities’1 The optimal strategy would have been for Nigeria not to be amalgamated in the first place.These were my ruminations and I suspect I might have moved a needle in his disposition towards devolution and decentralisation of powers.

Within the cosmopolitan ambience of the Obasanjo Presidential court would be found the constellation of Nuhu Ribadu and peers from across the nooks and crannies of Nigeria. We worked and lived like a political family of happy warriors. Ribadu was particularly close to Obasanjo. And in the post-Obasanjo era, we endure different degrees of withdrawal syndrome but who would have thought Nigeria would equally suffer a withdrawal syndrome to the extent of wishing that the third term bid had succeeded. His all encompassing role as the National Security Adviser has weighed heavily on him in an important respect-serving to bridge the gap between his principal, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Obasanjo. Understandably, he was not happy that Obasanjo did not attend the last council of state meeting in Abuja. We more or less spent the last Christmas break in Lagos to set in motion the process of thawing the frosty relationship between both of them.

So far as I know, the only encounter between the former President and the incumbent was the occasion of the inauguration ceremony of the

‘reelected’ Governor of Imo state, Hope Uzordinma. In a buoyant mood Tinubu had warmed up to Obasanjo and said aloud he was coming to see the former President. Obasanjo said that what he most appreciated was the waiver of the protocol that no flight takes off when the president is waiting to board his flight. Surprisingly, the camaraderie was blacked out in newspaper reports the following day. If you add two plus two, it is easy to conclude that some people (in Tinubu’s caucus) have a vested interest in the perpetuation of the cold war between the two.

Inevitably, the absence of Obasanjo at the council of state meeting was the kernel of our discussion the last time I saw Nuhu. He found it unacceptable that the former President would generously give of his time and energy to help distressed countries and ignore Nigeria. My position is that a newly elected President should have honoured his predecessors with at least a courtesy telephone call once he resumes office. This is good etiquette, moreso in the Yoruba culture especially if the incumbent is the younger party. I was surprised to see that an acclaimed master of political pragmatism could not transcend personal reservation in such a situation of realpolitik.

I issued a press statement on the itinerary of Obasanjo on Sunday which consisted of his ceremonial visits to Benin to felicitate with Chief Gabriel Igbinedion on his 90th birthday and from there went to Minna on a compensatory retroactive birthday felicitations. He was not in Nigeria on the actual birthday of President Ibrahim Babangida on August 17th. The statement was intended to put the itinerary in its true perspective as against the insinuation of ulterior motive couched in reports such as this “it was further learnt that, at the residence of General Babangida (rtd), another former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), and former National Security Adviser (NSA), General Aliyu Gusau (rtd), were also waiting for Former President Obasanjo”. By now, it is common knowledge that Abdulsalami and Babangida are close neighbours and close friends in the retirement residence in Minna. And both of them are personally close to Obasanjo including General Aliyu Gusau. All of whom were his mentees.The news would have been that these friends stayed away when Obasanjo came calling.