MONDAY 23TH SEPTEMBER 2024

Exchange Rate, Inflation, Energy Prices, Others in Focus as MPC Reconvenes Today

Analysts predict hold on monetary policy instruments

APC Apparatchik Overwhelms Obaseki, INEC Returns Okpebholo as Edo State Governor

Akpabio leads 10 governors, leaders in massive show of strength Governor-elect thanks Edo people Outgoing governor calls for calm, vows to seek justice in court How APC made poll referendum on Obaseki Tinubu, Buhari, Barau congratulate winner PDPbacks Fintiri, insists its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, is winner Observers raise concern about commission’s transparency in collation, fault process

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Florence Otedola, popularly known

Cuppy and daughter of Nigeria’s billionaire businessman, Femi Otedola, at the weekend made

Tinubu Orders Security, Law Enforcement Agencies to Crackdown on Cybercriminals, Transnational Car Thieves

Lauds EFCC for returning $180,300, 53-worth vehicles to Canada Affirms govt's commitment to tackling money laundering, cybercrime, other financial crimes

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has assured that Nigeria will continue to work with its international partners to ensure that cyber criminals and organised crime groups involved in transnational car thefts are deprived of the benefits of their illegal activities.

To this end, he has directed security and law enforcement agencies including the Economic

and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to intensify efforts in cracking down on individuals in possession of and trafficking in stolen vehicles.

The President, according to a release issued on Sunday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, noted that one of the most effective

tools available to law enforcement agencies is depriving criminals of the proceeds from their illicit activities.

He acknowledged the recent handover of 53 vehicles and $180,300 by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), on behalf of two Canadian citizens who were victims of cybercrimes perpetrated by Nigerian nationals.

While expressing concern over the involvement of transnational organised criminal groups in exporting stolen vehicles to Nigeria, President Tinubu commended the Commission for collaborating with partners to ensure a coordinated and professional repose to this menace.

The President further directed all relevant agencies, particularly the anti-corruption agencies, to

protect Nigeria's economic and financial integrity from organised crime infiltration.

He also demanded that the value of seized and confiscated moveable assets be preserved for the state, society, and victims in line with existing legislation and international conventions.

The President strongly affirmed that, "Nigeria is not a destination for stolen vehicles and a haven for illicit wealth from foreign

countries."

President Tinubu affirmed that his administration remains committed to tackling money laundering, cybercrime, and other financial crimes.

Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Sunday Aborisade, Linus Aleke in Abuja, Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City and Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

The political machine of the All Progressives Congress (APC), weekend, overwhelmed Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State in the September 21 governorship election, and returned the candidate of the party, Monday Okpebholo, as the new governor of the state.

Okpebholo scored 291, 667 votes in 11 local governments to beat his arch rival, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who polled 247, 274 in seven local government areas as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Over all, APC scored 56 per cent of the total votes cast, while PDP pulled off 35 per cent, and the Labour Party, whose candidate, Olumide Akpata, came a distant third, had 9 per cent of votes cast.

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, had led about 10 governors of the APC and other leaders of the party, in a massive show of strength, leaving nothing to chance in ensuring victory for their party.

But Obaseki, has sued for calm, and promised supporters of the party and their candidate, Asue Ighodalo, that he would seek justice in court.

Curiously, the APC success was largely made possible by making the election a referendum on Obaseki, who was believed to have many running battles at the same time, a critical factor said to have contributed to his party’s defeat.

That said, President Bola Tinubu, has congratulated Okpebholo on his victory at the polls.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari, too, has greeted the APC candidate for "this prized, historic electoral victory."

confidence in Tinubu.

Yet, the PDP, has said it stood by the results garnered by its polling agents across the state and echoed by the Chairman of the Edo PDP National Campaign Council, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State, which indicated that the party’s candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, won the election.

Equally, the Edo State chapter of the party, has protested the results collation process by INEC, accusing the commission of manufacturing votes, entering an unjust inflation of APC votes and deduction of PDP votes.

At the same time, members of the party in Kwara State, have embarked on a peaceful protest against the conduct and outcome of the last Saturday’s local government council polls in the state.

This was as Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP), has advised INEC to maintain neutrality and ensure the sanctity of the electoral process in Edo State.

In the same breath, a coalition of civil society organisations (CSOs) accredited to observe the Edo governorship election, has raised concerns over the transparency of the collation process.

The PDP asserted that the rush, venom and hauling of insults with which the APC attacked Fintiri only confirmed the party’s violent desperation to cover its manipulations and steal the mandate freely given to Ighodalo by the people of Edo.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force has immediately activated the post-election security strategy as the Edo 2024 Governorship Elections gradually winds to an end.

Declaring Okpebholo winner, INEC Chief Returning Officer, Faruq Adamu Kuta, said having satisfied the requirements and having scored the highest number of votes, Okpebholo was returned as governor of Edo State

said, anchored the session themed: “The Summit of the Future – Youth Actions Day” at the event. With tremendous progress achieved since her last appearance at the Assembly, the talented DJ opened the Youth Action Day at this year’s United Nations General Assembly.

proceedings.

“My name is Florence Ifeoluwa Otedola, but you can call me Cuppy. I'm repping a country called Nigeria, in case you've heard of it. I'm a DJ, philanthropist, but also your moderator.

On his part, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, said the APC victory was a vote of

“But it feels like I'm more your co-host, because today is all about you. It's all about you. Now, someone once told me, it's not about your ‘what’, but it's about your ‘why’. So why are we here? We believe that youth need to be able to take action. APC

(MPR), the benchmark interest rate, currently at 26.75 per cent, has made borrowing from commercial banks more expensive, particularly for manufacturers.

The recent easing in inflation offers hope that the apex bank may reconsider its contractionary monetary policy stance to cut interest rate, but new concerns from rising energy costs and Naira's weakness may dash expectations.

Analysts who spoke to THISDAY in separate interviews, however, predicted that the MPC was likely to retain its policy instruments at current levels.

At its last MPC meeting in July, the CBN resolved to raise MPR by 50 basis points to 26.75 per cent from 26.25 per cent.

The committee also adjusted the asymmetric corridor around the MPR to +500/-100 from +100/- 300 basis points.

It however, retained the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) of Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) at 45 per

Continued on page 34

cent and Merchant Banks at 14 per cent, as well as retain the Liquidity Ratio (LR) at 30 per cent.

This is the fourth time in a row that the central had raised interest since February.

The analysts further advised against further hike, urging the committee to rather hold policy tool at their current levels.

Nigeria’s first Professor of Capital Market/pioneer President, Capital Market Academics of Nigeria, Prof. Uche Uwaleke, told THISDAY that MPC will likely hold the policy rates at their current levels.

He said, "This is against the backdrop of the fact that headline inflation moderated in July and August. Also, the US Fed Reserve has started cutting interest rate with the Bank of England and European Central Bank likely to follow suit.

"My advice to the MPC is to completely pause the rate hikes in view of their adverse impact on economic growth and employment in an economy that is struggling

In a display of her influence and charisma, DJ Cuppy managed to get the entire Assembly chanting together during her keynote session, electrifying the room and bringing a fresh, youthful energy to the

with stagflation.

"I think it is time the MPC began to explore unorthodox measures for controlling money supply as opposed to the current approach of undue reliance on the Monetary Policy Rate."

Managing Director/Chief Executive, Dignity Finance and Investment Limited, Dr. Chijioke Ekechukwu, also predicted a retention of MPR, while harping on the need to stimulate the economy.

He said, "This is arising from the easing off of the inflation rate. Money in circulation appears to be within control, so further tightening will not be necessary.

"It is time to stimulate and steer up the financial system by loosening the monetary policy. The current fuel price hike, which has created more hardship in the country, should not be worsened by further tightening.

"So, retaining the current MPR will be plausible and appropriate."

In the same vein, Managing Director/Chief Executive, SD&D

Capital Management Limited, Mr. Idakolo Gbolade, said judging from current inflation figures, MPC may decide to increase MPR slightly so as to further strengthen the gains of decision implemented so far.

He, nonetheless, predicted a hold on policy instruments.

Gbolade said, "The inflationary trend eased for two months in a row, however the effect has not been felt in reality. The economy is not improving even as inflation is reducing.

"The MPC judging from inflation figures might decide to increase MPR slightly so as to further strengthen the gains of present MPC decision so far.

"MPC needs to look at other economic drivers like the exchange rate, energy and insecurity before taking decisions to increase the MPR.

"My expectation from the MPC meeting will be to hold the MPR and take further measures at ensuring other factors affecting the economy is addressed."

“We believe in leadership that brings everyone to the table. And that's why I'm just so proud to be here. My favourite Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) is definitely 4: “Opportunity for Everyone to Get Quality Education”

“And at my foundation, the Cuppy Foundation, I'm so proud because we provide funds for African students. So throughout today, this opening ceremony, I'd love you to get involved in the conversation,” she told an excited audience.

She later closed the event with a powerful musical performance that left a lasting impression.

In a delightful twist that captivated the audience, DJ Cuppy casually hinted at her future ambitions during the opening session, playfully suggesting that she might one day become Nigeria’s first female president.

Her bold remark immediately sparked excitement as the room buzzed with energy over the possibility of such a future leader stirred the crowd’s imagination.

The real magic, however, unfolded later in the evening during the closing session. Just before DJ Cuppy took to the stage for her much-anticipated set, the UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, responded to Cuppy’s earlier comment.

With her characteristic wit and charm, Amina Mohammed said: “You told me you wanted to be Nigeria’s first female president, and what did I say? After me,” she teased, sending the audience into fits of laughter.

The light-hearted yet powerful

exchange between the two trailblazing women spoke volumes about the rising tide of female leadership in Nigeria and across the globe.

Cuppy’s aspirations, alongside Amina’s encouragement, the statement said, symbolised the growing momentum behind women’s leadership in Nigeria, inspiring the next generation to aim for the highest levels of influence and power.

The 2024 ‘UNGA Summit of the Future’ successfully drew global attention to the actions required to achieve the SDGs by 2030. With young people comprising a significant portion of the world’s population, their participation in addressing global challenges remains vital to ensuring a prosperous future for all.

Beyond the social and philanthropic circles, Cuppy is also very cerebral, starting her academic pursuit in 2014 with a degree in business and economics from King’s College, London and then following it up with her first Master’s in the field of Music Business from New York University in 2015 and her second Master's in African Studies in 2022.

In March 2023, Cuppy announced that she had completed another Master’s programme at the University of Oxford in England, United Kingdom, becoming the Gelato singer’s third Master’s degree. Recently, she announced on her social media handles, that she had gone back to school for her fourth academic degree, this time at the London School of Economics.

SHOWCASING PRIVATE ARTWORKS...

L-R: Public Policy Specialist, Lanre Shasore; Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Coronation Group, Ngozi Akinyele; Chairman, Prestige Assurance Plc, Funmi Oyetunji; Chairman, Coronation Group Limited, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; Consultant and former CEO of NGX Regulation, Tinuade Awe; Curator and Cultural convener, Ugoma Ebilah; Corporate Finance Executive, Sola Carrena; and Director, United African Insurance Brokers, Dolores Odogwu-Edgal, at the Coronation Art gallery exhibition where impressive collection of works curated from the private collections of 13 distinguished female art collectors were showcased, in Lagos…recently

Coronation Art Gallery Celebrates African Art, Women Empowerment

Emma Okonji

Coronation Group, a leading financial services conglomerate, recently hosted an extraordinary celebration of African creativity and cultural heritage at the Coronation Art Gallery Exhibition, where it showcased an impressive collection of works curated from the private collections of 13 distinguished female art collectors. The exhibition is part of

Coronation’s ongoing mission to foster gender inclusivity and cultural appreciation, while showcasing the convergence of art, wealth, and sustainability.

The groundbreaking exhibition was graced by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, whose presence underscored the critical role that art plays not only in cultural preservation but also as a multidimensional asset class

with the potential to drive wealth creation and socio-economic development.

Among the prominent attendees were Chairman of Coronation Group, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede CFR; Chairman of Aluko & Oyebode, Gbenga Oyebode MFR; Chairman of Eko Electricity Distribution Company, Dere Otubu, and Chairman, First Ally Capital, Femi Okunsanya.

The curated selection of

remarkable artworks from the collections of Funmi Oyetunji, Dolores Odogwu-Edgal, Tinuade Awe, Grace Osime, Sola Carrena, Nwakaego Boyo, Lanre Shasore, Bimpe Nkontchou, Dudun Peterside, Freda Isingoma, Toyin Odulate and Adia Sowho, offered a diverse glimpse into African creativity.

Each piece, thoughtfully arranged by renowned curator Ugoma Ebilah, reflected the unique

Vandals Destroy Gombe-Damaturu-Maiduguri Power Line, Cut Off Two States

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

For the umpteenth time this year, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) yesterday announced that vandals had again attacked the Gombe-Damaturu-Maiduguri 330kV transmission line.

The line has for over a year come under incessant attacks by terrorists in the North-east who had continued to destroy it after several repairs by the transmission company.

According to the company, the latest incident has not only thrown the entire Yobe state capital, Damaturu into total darkness, but

had also impacted neighbouring Maiduguri in Borno state.

“The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) hereby states that its tower No T372, along Gombe -Damaturu-Maiduguri 330kV transmission line was brought down by vandals on Saturday, 21st September 2024, at about 1:44am.

“This development has thrown the whole of Damaturu, the capital of Yobe State, up to Maiduguri in Borno State out of power supply.

“This time, the vandals cut off all four tower footing, resulting in the collapse of tower T372 along the Gombe-Damaturu-Maiduguri

section, which was discovered by TCN's linesmen deployed on emergency patrol.

“Following this destructive attack, effort is ongoing by TCN's engineers in the interim, to back feed Damaturu through a 33kV transmission line from Potiskum, while Maiduguri town will be fed from the Maiduguri Emergency Power Plant (MEPP),” the TCN stated in a statement signed by its General Manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah.

Meanwhile, the transmission company stated that work will commence immediately to dismantle and evacuate the collapsed tower

for reconstruction and restoration of the transmission line.

“TCN frowns at the incessant attack on our collective national assets and enjoin citizens to be vigilant in protecting these assets and also to report suspicious activities or persons around our transmission infrastructure to law enforcement agents or TCN offices in that vicinity .

“TCN is committed to a quick restoration of bulk power to the affected areas and will expedite reconstruction work on the tower to ensure that it is completed as soon as possible,” the commission added.

Federal University of Agriculture Set to Take Off in Bayelsa

The new Federal University of Agriculture, in Basambiri, Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State is set to take off soon with renovation work almost completed at the first major federal project in the oil rich council. This disclosure was during a visit by the principal officers of the newly approved university led by its Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing board, Senator John Brambaifa and Vice Chancellor, Prof. Reginald Keremah, at the weekend.

Prior to the visit, the governing council and principal officers of the newly approved university had a crucial meeting with the Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri where steps towards the commencement of activities at the institution was

taken.

Keremah who spoke after the closed-door meeting, said the meeting with the governor was successful as key issues were discussed, particularly regarding the university’s take-off site in Bassambiri.

He said discussions culminated in a successful resolution, with the governor expressing his administration's full support for the timely and seamless establishment of the institution.

Keremah said the visit marked a significant milestone as the university moves closer to its goal of becoming a leading agricultural education and research hub in the region.

Also speaking, the governor reiterated the importance of the institution to Bayelsa state’s development, highlighting its

potential to drive agricultural innovation and enhance economic growth.

In addition to the meeting with the governor, the governing council also held its inaugural meeting which focused on addressing the immediate challenges that come with setting up a new institution, including infrastructural needs, staffing, and community engagement.

According to the pro-chancellor, Brambaifa, the council discussed the issues extensively and outlined practical solutions to ensure a smooth and effective take-off for the university.

He said: “We are confident that with the commitment of the council and the support of all stakeholders, the Federal University of Agriculture, Bassambiri, will soon become a centre of excellence in agricultural

education and research.

“We are moving swiftly to ensure that the take-off happens seamlessly and that the institution becomes fully operational in the shortest possible time."

The week culminated in a tour of the university's proposed take-off site in Bassambri, Nembe, where ongoing renovation works on existing structures were inspected.

The delegation, led by Brambaifa was warmly received by the chiefs, elders, and people of Bassambiri.

During the visit, the community expressed their commitment to working hand-in-hand with the governing council to ensure the successful take-off of the university.

Speaking on behalf of the community, a prominent chief in the community assured the council of Bassambri’s full cooperation.

perspectives and passions of the collectors while celebrating the breadth and vibrancy of African art across genres. Inspired by the vision of Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, the Coronation Art Gallery seeks to democratise access to art, with a strong focus on nurturing a deep love and appreciation for African art and culture.

Chief Marketing and Communications Officer of Coronation Group, Ngozi Akinyele, said: “As part of Coronation’s sustainability agenda, we are deeply committed to embedding gender inclusivity in all our initiatives. This exhibition underscores our dedication to amplifying women’s voices while promoting responsible cultural practices.”

According to her, “We are incredibly proud to have collaborated with such extraordinary women for

this exhibition. Through this initiative, we hope to inspire future generations of art lovers, collectors, and creators to engage with African art and its powerful role in shaping our collective future.”

MD/CEO of Coronation Trustees, Yemi Sadiku, noted during the event that while Coronation Group continues to broaden access to sustainable wealth creation, its Art Gallery would open the doors to Africa's rich artistic heritage, making it more accessible to the public.

These complementary missions help build a legacy of shared prosperity, where wealth and creativity flourish together for the benefit of future generations.

“The gallery exhibition remains open to the public, offering a unique opportunity for all to explore and appreciate the incredible works on display,” Sadiku further said.

$50m Arewa Tech Fund to Foster Economic Growth in Northern Nigeria

Mary Nnah

In a move to propel innovation and human capital development in northern Nigeria, Arewa Tech Fest has unveiled the Arewa Tech Fund, a $50 million initiative.

Spearheaded by former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the ambitious project promised to transform the region's economic landscape.

A press release made available to THISDAY stated that the Arewa Tech Fund will focus on financing tech-driven solutions, start-ups, and ventures, with the ultimate goal of driving economic growth, creating jobs, and cultivating a thriving digital ecosystem.

The fund will empower young innovators, tech entrepreneurs, and SMEs to flourish in today's digital economy by providing critical capital and resources, the statement said.

According to El-Rufai, "The Arewa Tech Fund represents a significant step towards harnessing the potential of our youth and fostering a culture of innovation that will benefit northern Nigeria and have a far-reaching impact

across the nation."

The fund will prioritise initiatives in education, healthcare, and agriculture, ensuring technological advancements directly contribute to improving the quality of life in Northern Nigeria. This will involve developing innovative solutions to improve access to quality education, leveraging technology to enhance healthcare services and outcomes, and implementing tech-driven solutions to boost agricultural productivity.

The fund's official launch was slated for September 25-26, during the Arewa Tech Fest in Kano.

The statement said the initiative aligned with the festival's theme, "Empowering Innovation for Economic Growth," highlighting the importance of partnerships between the private sector, government, and tech ecosystems to accelerate development in the region.

It said with the Arewa Tech Fund, northern Nigeria was poised for a technological revolution, empowering the next generation of tech leaders and innovators to drive sustainable growth and improve the quality of life for all.

Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

AKPABIO LEADS SENATORS TO CONGRATULATE OKPEBHOLO...

L-R: President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Senate Whip, Onyekachi Nweboyin; Edo All Progressives' Congress (APC) governorship hopeful, Monday Okpebholo; Senator Asuquo Ekpeyong and Deputy governor of Edo State, Comrade Phillip Shaibu, celebrating the victory of the APC at the governorship election, in Benin City. ... yesterday

WFP:

3.1m Acutely

Food Insecure People in Nigeria, Highest Number Globally

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

No fewer than 31. 8 million people in Nigeria are acutely food insecure, the highest number globally, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has said.

Compared to the 2023 lean season, 28 per cent more people faced acute food insecurity this year – 4.8 million people in the North-east and 6.2 million people in the North-west, WFP said.

Citing the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) dashboard, in its "WFP Nigeria: Situation Report #82 -19 September 2024," the organisation said 1,075,485 people had been affected by flooding countrywide, with the highest prevalence in the North-east and North-west.

WFP stated, "The floods have also destroyed 442,790 hectares of crop

and increasing malnutrition rates in the North-east and North-west states.

"The number of severely and moderately malnourished children admitted at treatment facilities has on average increased by 41 per cent and 70 per cent respectively compared to 2023.

"Persisting macroeconomic crisis with food inflation near the 30-year record. Prices of staple foods like maize, millet, sorghum and beans averaging between 100-300 per cent beyond last year prices across surveyed markets.

"To complement the flood response by the government, WFP is providing hot meals in the temporary camps set up for flood affected people, reaching 77,698 people with hot meals across the four camps within 3 days.

"Beyond the flood response,

Economic Hardship: FG Should Redirect Its Priorities, Says Sam Amadi

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

A former Chairman of Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Sam Amadi has said that the present administration should redirect its priority in order to ameliorate the current economic hardship.

Amadi stated this at the weekend in Abuja during the FOSAD Lecture Series 01, with the theme: '’Historical truths about Igbos in the Diaspora: Facts and Fiction'’, organised by Forum of South East Academic Doctors (FOSAD).

He said: "Some sectors are more important than others. For example, if you're dealing with acute poverty today, the former Head of State, General Abdulsalam talked about the hardship that cannot be solved with palliatives.

"What that means is that you have to refocus the national budget to address sectors that drive up consumption for most of your people.

"The problem in Nigeria today is not about increasing salaries, people are making mistakes. It's a race to nowhere. If you increase salaries by 50,000 and 20 percent increase in cost of fuel, you're negative, your salary has been reduced actually.

“So, these are the areas the government should focus on, healthcare, education, how to reduce cost of food stuff, provide roads, rail.”

Amadi added that there was no justification for depriving Nigerians in Diaspora from voting during the general election.

He said: "I think it's a very inexcusable omission in any case deliberate. I know in the last constitutional reform the proposal was there to allow for diaspora voting and unfortunately at the final count, either from the State or from the National Assembly they deleted it out.

"But let me say it clearly that during the last regime towards the end, when there was so much economic crisis, the Governor of Central Bank pleaded with the Diaspora people to send in more money.

"If you look at Diasporans remittance it's probably more than 50 percent of foreign investment coming into this country, basically if you look at the inflow in terms of forex, it's mostly from the Diaspora.

"So, I think there is no justification for Diasporans not voting, for three reasons. One, their responsibilities have shown not just in financial transfers, but also in providing ideas, participating in politics. You see the results in the last election on both PDP, APC and Labour Party, they were very strong.”

On his part, FOSAD Secretary General, Dr. Uzor Ngoladi said the organisation is interested in not only Igbos at home but Igbos in the Diaspora. According to him, “we are engaged in most activities to ensure that Igbos industriousness, that entrepreneurship is brought back home to the land of your birth.

WFP is delivering assistance to 1.6 million people in September across the North-east and northwest for emergency assistance and resilience building.”

The UN agency said, "The main driver of food insecurity in Nigeria is the continued conflict in the North-east and the escalating clashes in the North-west and North-central, which disrupts

livelihood activities, limits access to income-generating activities, drives population displacement and constrains sustainable food production.

"Inflation has skyrocketed and is not decreasing as expected with the start of the current harvest."

According to the WFP, the severe floods since July 2024 have increased displacement and worsened the

challenges to food security.

WFP said its Advanced Disaster Analysis and Mapping (ADAM) reported 1.9 million hectares of flooded areas, including 442,000 hectares of crops destroyed ahead of the harvest.

It stated, "The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) reports that over half a million people have been displaced by

flooding in the North-east and North-west states.

"This is in addition to over 3.6 million internally displaced people in the North-east and North-west as of June 2024.

"Malnutrition rates in northern Nigeria are exceeding lean season projections due to disease prevalence, high recurring displacements, and access constraints."

Global Economic Growth Projected

Slowing to 2.9% in 2024, from 3.1% in 2023

Global economic growth is projected to slow marginally to 2.9 per cent in 2024 and 2025, down from 3.1 per cent in 2023, according to a new report released by the Institute of International Finance (IIF).

IIF, a global association of the finance industry, said, "Geopolitical tensions remain elevated, shaped by ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, the protracted war between Russia and Ukraine, and a noticeable cooling in relations between Western democracies and China.

"These developments are occurring simultaneously, adding layers of complexity and uncertainty to the global landscape. In such a

volatile environment, political events gain heightened importance."

IIF said the US general election in November stood out as the most significant political event of the year on a global scale, as its outcome could have "far-reaching" implications for both domestic and international policy, influencing many areas from trade relations to military engagements.

It added that global economic activity was projected to decelerate, largely due to weakening economic performance in major economies, like the US and China.

"In the United States, the effects of the Federal Reserve’s aggressive past monetary tightening are expected to lead to a slowdown in corporate hiring, suppressing household income

growth and curtailing consumer spending," the report said.

Although IIF estimated inflation in the US easing significantly to around 2.4 per cent this year, down from three per cent last year, it said inflationary risks still remained in the world's largest economy in its services sector and wage growth, which could keep inflation slightly above target.

IIF expected the Fed to deliver two additional 25 basis points of rate cuts in November and December.

"Similarly, China’s economic momentum has faltered, with recent data highlighting a broad-based slowdown across key sectors," said the report.

The association projected China's economic growth slowing to 4.7 per

cent in 2024, down from per cent in 2023, driven by continued softness in domestic demand, especially in consumer spending and real estate, which have struggled to gain momentum despite support. The report said, "However, the Chinese government is expected to deploy additional fiscal stimulus and further monetary easing in the second half of 2024 to support growth, aiming to keep the economy close to its official target.

"While these measures may help stabilize activity, structural challenges such as aging demographics, high youth unemployment, and ongoing tensions with the United States are likely to constrain China's growth prospects over the medium term."

NMCN: Global Demand for Nigerian Nurses Still

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

With high mobility of labour in the healthcare profession and the attendant “Japa” syndrome, the global demand for Nigerian nurses is not abating, Registrar/Chief Executive of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), Dr. Faruk Abubakar, has said. Abubakar stated this at the maiden induction ceremony of the Nursing Science Department, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Clifford University, Owerrinta, Abia State.

Sixty-seven pioneer nurses trained at the institution were admitted to the nursing profession by NMCN at the occasion.

Abubakar said the world looked up to Nigeria for the supply of well-trained nurses, hence, the need for expansion of training opportunities for nurses to mitigate the manpower drain in

the country's health sector.

The registrar, who was represented by Mrs. Patricia Anunobi at the maiden induction ceremony of the nursing graduates, stated that nurses played a crucial role in the healthcare delivery chain. He said this was behind the increasing global demand for their services.

Abubakar said the vantage position of nurses as the closest to patients meant that they were at the forefront in the efforts towards attainment of the universal health coverage and sustainable development goals.

He acknowledged the rigorous training programme for the Bachelor of Science, Nursing, at Clifford University, and lauded the newly inducted nurses for scaling through, as well as recording huge successes in the professional examinations of the nursing and midwifery council

of Nigeria.

Vice Chancellor and President, Clifford University, Professor Chimezie Omeonu, testified to the high quality products of the institution's Nursing Sciences Department, saying that they are well prepared for the task ahead.

Omeonu said the pioneer nursing and midwifery graduates passed through the globally accepted standard of training for professionals in the field of nursing and midwifery.

He assured that the institution would continue to sustain and improve on the quality of training.

Omeonu charged the pioneer nurses and midwives of the institution to always strive to be the best.

Chancellor of the university, Professor Bassey Udoh, urged the newly inducted nurses and midwives to always uphold their professional calling in their character, commitment,

competence, and compassion. Dean, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Professor Precious E. Omeonu, described the maiden induction/oath taking ceremony as a "historic event that marks a significant milestone in the lives of our inductees".

She stated, "We gather here to recognise their academic excellence, clinical expertise, and dedication to the noble profession of nursing."

Omeonu added that the new nurses "have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and attitude required to excel in this demanding and evolving profession".

She stated that Clifford Varsity was proud of the quality of the nurses it had added to the profession, stressing that they are "equipped with the tools needed to excel in this demanding and ever-evolving healthcare landscape".

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

RELAUNCH OF THE LORD'S LONDON DRY GIN...

Power Supply: REA Signs Deals with Federal Varsities for 100mw Mini-grids, Expends $250m

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA), under its Energising Education Programme (EEP), at the weekend, signed agreements with several federal universities in Nigeria for the supply of over 100mw of clean energy.

REA said during a Stakeholders’ Engagement Forum (SEF) in Abuja that in phase one, 10 tertiary institutions were involved, while phase two and three will have nine institutions each. The forum was organised by the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP).

The three-day high-level event brought together key stakeholders,

including vice chancellors, chief medical directors, directors of physical planning/ works, and legal officers from EEP beneficiary institutions, along with representatives from the World Bank, African Development Bank (AfDB), and others.

The forum was themed, “Empowering Education through Sustainable Energy: Collaborative Pathways for the Long-term Success of the Energising Education Programme (EEP).”

In his remarks at the event, Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, said energy access was no longer a luxury, but a necessity that underpinned the

modern world and a catalyst that drove economic growth, improved healthcare, and empowered communities.

Represented by Assistant Director of Renewable and Rural Power Access Department, Samuel Ayangeaor, Adelabu stressed that when schools had reliable electricity, they could extend learning hours, utilise educational technology, and create safe and comfortable learning environments.

According to the minister, “Although a number of universities in Nigeria are connected to the national grid, the consistency and quality of electricity supply can differ substantially, particularly in rural regions. However,

many educational institutions in Nigeria continue to grapple with the challenges of securing reliable and affordable electricity.

“These challenges include infrastructure limitations, financial constraints, and technical difficulties, which collectively hinder the delivery of quality education and undermine the academic experience.”

REA said the provision of EEP was in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in relation to expanding alternative energy access to underserved and unserved rural communities.

EEP was launched by the federal

How House Rules Stopped National Assembly’s Oil Sabotage Probe

A strong indication emerged yesterday that the ongoing probe into the sabotage in the nation's oil and gas sector being undertaken by a joint National Assembly adhoc committee was being delayed in order to comply with the Rules of the House of Representatives.

THISDAY Investigation revealed that the inability by the two chambers to begin the four-day public hearing on the probe from Monday, September 9 to Thursday, September 12 was due to the need to properly constitute the panel in the House of Representatives.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen had in July appointed seven members into the Joint Senate/ House Committee tasked with investigating alleged economic sabotage within the petroleum industry.

Prof. Julius Inhovbere was named

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has said that opposition political parties do not exist in Anambra State.

The governor said the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) where he belongs has been the only dominant political party in Anambra State, and that it will remain so. Soludo who addressed party faithful during a mega rally for

as the Co-Chairman, while members included Iduma Ighariwey; Gboyega Isiaka; Sada Soli; Fatima Talba; Tunji Raheem; and Patrick Umoh.

The House spokesperson Akin Rotimi, in a statement then said the urgency and importance of the matter had necessitated close collaboration between the Senate and the House of Representatives.

The development followed the dissolution of the erstwhile ad-hoc Joint Downstream and Midstream Committees, which were established to investigate critical issues in the oil and gas sector amidst controversies. At about the same time, Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, set up the an adhoc committee led by the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, to probe sabotage in the oil and gas sector of the nation's economy.

Other members of the Bamideleled ad-hoc committee included Senators Adams Oshiomhole (Edo North), Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central), Osita Izunaso (Imo West),

the run up to the September 28 local government election in the state said Anambra people can vote for any political party in national elections, but once it is local elections, they will always choose APGA over other political parties. He said: "Ndi Anambra can vote for anybody, but when it comes to local elections, Ndi Anambra have resolved that APGA is the vehicle for the transformation of their state.

"There are about nine political

the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah (Anambra South), Diket Plang (Plateau Central), TahirMonguno (Borno North) and Abdullah Yahaha (Kebbi North).

He also said the joint hearing would be done in conjunction with the Ihonvbere -led seven member panel of the House of Representatives.

A few day to the commencement of the probe, the Senate Leader in a paid advertisement in some major newspapers announced that assignment had been deferred.

But THISDAY checks however revealed that the fact that the Ihonvbere panel was not properly constituted by the House of Representatives, actually stalled the probe.

The 9th Edition of the House Rules specifically prescribed that such a committee should be announced by the Speaker during plenary and approved by a resolution of the members.

parties contesting in the Anambra local government election, but only APGA fielded candidates in all the local government and wards. In the 21 Local Government Areas and 326 wards, we fielded candidates for chairmen and councillors.

"We have no opposition here. Out of the nine political parties contesting the election, only APGA fielded candidates for all the positions.

"Of course, Labour Party has disintegrated, APC does not exist

It was learnt that the public hearing had to be postponed because the National Assembly was still on annual vacation penultimate week, and the plenary hadn't been held to properly constitute the panel.

The House of Representatives confirmed the development in a statement last week, by its spokesperson who announced that the need to properly constitute the adhoc committee was one of the assignments to be undertaken on Tuesday, September 24, 2024.

Akin Rotimi, in his statement had said: “Upon reconvening, the leadership of the House will inaugurate the new board of the Public Complaints Commission (PCC) and the Joint Senate/House Ad Hoc Committees on the Petroleum Industry Investigation on Wednesday, September 25, 2024.

“Further details regarding these activities will be announced during plenary on the day of resumption.”

in Anambra and they fielded no candidates. They are afraid, but they make a lot of noise. They have been calling for election, now election is around and they have run away.

"This would have exposed their underbellies that they can't win one ward in Anambra State. It is now evident that APGA is Anambra and Anambra is APGA. We therefore appeal to all of you to come out en masse on Saturday 28 September and vote en masse for APGA."

government in 2018 to provide reliable power supply to 37 federal universities and seven affiliated teaching hospitals across Nigeria. Under the three phases of the EEP, 24 federal universities and four teaching hospitals had already been included.

The agreement outlined the roles, responsibilities, and financial commitments necessary to sustain the solar power plants.

REA Managing Director, Abba Aliyu, said the arrangement will see stakeholders put in place commercial, technical and operational framework that will ensure that after the deployment of the mini-grids they will continue to operate over a long period of time.

Aliyu disclosed that the government had spent about $250 million to improve electricity supply to 24 federal universities and four teaching hospitals in a bid to expand alternative energy access to underserved and unserved rural communities.

Some of the beneficiaries that signed the deal yesterday included Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University and Teaching Hospital, Bauchi; Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, Delta; Obafemi Awolowo University and Teaching Hospital, Ile-Ife; Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike; and Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. Others were Federal university, Gashua, Yobe State; Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Adamawa; Federal University, Dustin-Ma, Katsina; Federal University, Lafia, Nasarawa State; Federal University, Lokoja, Kogi State; University of Port Harcourt and Teaching Hospital, Rivers State; University of Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State; and Federal University, Akure, Ondo State.

New NDPHC CEO Pledges to Prioritise Customer Satisfaction, Staff Welfare

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), Jennifer Adighije, at the weekend disclosed her plans to prioritise customer satisfaction and put staff welfare at the forefront.

Adighije made the pledge in Abuja while addressing staff during a town hall ‘meet and greet’ where she also formally met with other executive directors in the organisation, a statement from the company said.

Adighije emphasised that the three pillars of her administration would be: “Optimising the performance of our assets, optimising our processes to improve organisational efficiency and leveraging technology and human capital to drive positive change and long-term transformation.”

While highlighting the fact that the human capital remains the greatest asset of any thriving organisation, she made it clear that staff welfare would be a priority under her leadership.

According to her, staff welfare was important to achieve the other goals, which include asset and processes optimisation as well as deployment of top-notch technology.

She noted that within the short space of assumption of office, she and her team were already working out a housing plan for the staff in

addition to other crucial incentives.

The NDPHC boss told her staff that even though the financial situation of the company was currently dire, she was optimistic that things would soon improve especially with the creation of a new directorate of commercial and strategy, promising to reward staff who attract bilateral trading business. She however, warned that to achieve these lofty objectives, staff must be ready to become more disciplined, dedicated and prompt in their approach to work.

“If I can get to the office at 8.30 am, long before official resumption of 9am, I don’t see why any staff will be late to work.

“Any staff that knows that they are not ready to cooperate with my team to achieve the mandate of the company should decide immediately and leave as there will zero tolerance for incompetence and indiscipline,” she explained. She expressed her determination to recalibrate NDPHC, the biggest integrated power company in Nigeria to regain its pride of place in terms of efficiency, productivity and profitability.

The event, which helped employees reconnect, also featured insightful discussions, introductions and exciting moments as several staff won numerous prizes, including the star price of N1 million, giant refrigerators, fans and other consolation prices.

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

L-R: Account Manager, Leo Burnett,Mr. Yakub Momodu; Director, Grand Oak Prime Business Unit,Mr. Stanley Obi; Chief Operating Officer, Quadrant MSL, Chidinma Nwankwo; and Brand Business Manager, Lord's Gin, Mr. Olusegun Akinyemiju, during the media parley of the relaunch of the Lord's London Dry Gin held in Lagos recently

PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

08033025611 SMS ONLY

Gang Up that Befell PDP in Edo Guber Poll

The 2024 Governorship election in Edo State has come and gone, with the All Progressives Congress’ candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo being returned elected by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Adibe Emenyonu in this piece concludes that a lot of factors worked against the People’s Democratic Party’s candidate, Asue Ighodalo, at the poll.

The just concluded Edo State Governorship poll could well be described as a three-horse race. The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo; the All Progressives Congress (APC) which featured Senator Monday Okpebholo; the Labour Party (LP) with Olumide Akpata. There were also 14 other parties and their candidates.

In concrete terms, Akpata and other parties’ candidates right from onset lacked the wherewithal to upturn the chances of the big two (APC and PDP) to make any difference. The two big parties were already household names and their rivalry did not just begin yesterday but since the advent of the Fourth Republic over 25 years ago.

Although APC’s emergence into a national political force actually began in 2015 when it won the presidential election, it has remained an opposition element with different nomenclature like Alliance for Democracy (AD), Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and lastly, the All Progressives Congress (APC) after a coalition was born.

On the other hand, the PDP has been a dominant force right from the emergence of the present democratic dispensation.

Labour Party, though not too new as a political force, but the only time it made wave was during the 2023 general election when it fielded the former Anambra State governor, Mr. Peter Obi as its presidential candidate as well as the ability of the party to win one governorship seat and a number of national assembly seats.

Therefore in the just concluded Edo gubernatorial poll, it was clear that it’s either the PDP or APC that will carry the day.

Incidentally, the APC displaced the PDP this time around after the outgoing governor had ran on the platform of the two parties. First on the platform of APC and second with the PDP.

Obaseki was able to defeat the APC in 2020 not because he was well grounded politically, but because the Edo electorate saw him as someone being oppressed by a political godfather and benefactor. The infighting in APC both at the national and state levels contributed to his being re-elected for second term.

However, he was carried away by his successes and neglected the human element in governance, hence his political opponents began to see him as someone who lack empathy but derives joy in fighting those that helped him politically.

One had thought that after parting ways

with his predecessor, Comrade Adams Oshiomohle, who helped him in his first shot as governor, he would have mellowed down and settle down for proper governance of the state.

But immediately he got his second term through the help of the PDP, Obaseki began to display similar characters to those he met in the party. For instance, if Oshiomohle was “overbearing”, there was no reason why Obaseki should part ways with Chief Dan Orbi, former governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, former Speaker of the state assembly, Hon Kabiru Adjoto, Charles Idahosa, Anselm Ojezua, Gideon Ikhine, Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama and many others who were there for him then when APC showed him the way out of the party ahead of the 2020 governorship poll.

Even with his deputy, Philip Shaibu, who was impeached by the state assembly through the push of Obaseki was unnecessary. Rather than finding a way to tolerate Shaibu, he went for the jugular by ensuring he was removed from office.

Similar behaviour played out when Obaseki championed the non swearing in of 14 elected state lawmakers in 2019 and their fate still hanging in the ballance with another set already in the saddle.

All these culminated in the gang up against Obaseki. It is not as if his candi-

date, Ighodalo lacks the knowledge and swag of governance having played significant role in the administration of Oshiomohle and in the present government, but what played out is just a gang up to teach Obaseki some political lessons that you can’t have it all the time.

Unfortunately, his preferred candidate, Ighodalo and running mate, Osarodion Ogie, are the sacrificial lambs that suffered Obaseki’s self centred behaviour, politics of alienation and annihilation. Two fine unassuming gentlemen are now the ones to carry the cross of Obaseki’s uncompromising attitude.

Comparatively, Okpebholo in terms of governance quality is a minus compared to cerebral people like Akpata and Ighodalo but he is the one the entrenched political class both in the state and at the national level chose to foist on the people of Edo State known for their sophistication. This was due to Obaseki’s hard stance on issues and holier than thou attitude to others especially people that opened their doors for him when it was raining heavily outside.

Therefore, even with all the infrastructure put in place, the agricultural revolution, the ability to build an independent power station, the inroad in education and the propensity to build high Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), the political hawks said No! You can’t continue to have your way.

Though the victory of APC may not have anything to do with Obaseki’s relationship with the Oba of Benin and the issue of proposed return

Though the victory of APC may not have anything to do with Obaseki’s relationship with the Oba of Benin and the issue of proposed return of artifacts and where to house them, the party to a large extent used it as a campaign strategy to create enemity between the Oba and Governor Obaseki, especially among indigenes of Benin dominant in Edo South senatorial district who look up to the paramount ruler as god on earth. That sentiment played significant role in demarketing Ighodalo because of Obaseki’s support for him.

of artifacts and where to house them, the party to a large extent used it as a campaign strategy to create enemity between the Oba and Governor Obaseki, especially among indigenes of Benin dominant in Edo South senatorial district who look up to the paramount ruler as god on earth. That sentiment played significant role in demarketing Ighodalo because of Obaseki’s support for him.

To them, a victory for Ighodalo and Ogie is victory for Obaseki. So the best thing to do is to stop their aspirations even with the best of intentions. The best thing is to throw away the baby with the bath water.

Another critical issue that played out is the unguided utterances during the electioneering campaign. “Edo will burn if PDP did not win the election”, “Edo no be Lagos”, a slogan that worked during the 2020 governorship forgetting that this is 2024.

It would be recalled that in the build up to APC presidential primary election, then presidential aspurant, Bola Tinubu had promised the party delegates that if he wins, he will return Edo back to APC fold. He may not have given such assurance for the sake of campaign. Today, opportunity knocks and he has to fulfil his promise using what he has to get what he wanted.

The last straw that broke the camel’s back was the accusation by the Edo PDP Chairman, Tony Aziegbemi during the symbolic Peace Accord signing organised by the Kukah Foundation in conjunction with former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar in Benin. At the meeting, Aziegbemi openly accused the police of bias concerning the arrest and detention of some PDP members few weeks to election. In his response, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun told Aziegbemi frontally that if arresting and investigating persons allegedly involved in the killing of a Police Inspector is bias, he (Aziegbemi) will live with that dream forever. Such combative attitude is not the best approach knowing fully well that implications will no doubt have a rebound and other ripple effects. And today, the PDP is struggling for legitimacy in a state it once holds sway.

Nonetheless, nothing is meant to last forever. Like Moises Naim in his book, “The End of Power”, said: “From boardrooms to battlefields and churches to states, why being in power isn’t what it use to be.”

In other words, power like every other sphere of life is in constant shift.

Obaseki

Ighodalo

Email: chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, 07010510430

Violence against Women: A Silent Pandemic

The growing rate of violence against women (VAW) particularly in Africa requires rapid interventions, support for survivors, intensified public sensitisation and stronger legal action against perpetrators, Yinka Olatunbosun and Esther Oluku write

With a heartwrenching cry for help, Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei broke into a run. This time, she was not racing against a fellow athlete on the tracks at the Paris Olympics. She had just been doused with fire, scorching her black hair and skin while her face bore the anguish of the excruciating pain. Sadly, no one could save her from her former boyfriend who reportedly lynched her. The 33-year old Ugandan marathon runner died some days later alongside the unfulfilled dream of securing an Olympic medal some day.

Prior to this incident was a harrowing story. According to the authorities in north-west Kenya, where Cheptegei lived and trained, she was targeted after returning home from church with her two daughters by her ex-boyfriend who had been at loggerheads with her over a piece of land.

Cheptegei was said to have bought a plot in Trans Nzoia county and built a house to be near Kenya's elite athletics training centres. Sadly, justice was cut short in its tracks when the suspected killer cum ex-boyfriend also died after sustained injury from the same inferno that killed the athlete.

In Nigeria, a student of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Christiana Idowu was kidnapped while commuting between Ikorodu and Yaba in Lagos State and reportedly murdered by her abductor.

A family source revealed to the press that the abductors were demanding a sum of N3m as a ransom before they could release the student. When the ransom wasn't paid in full, young Idowu was made to pay an ultimate price- her life. Meanwhile, it was reported that the suspect confessed that he killed the girl and buried her in the house.

There is also a new story awaiting further confirmation that in 2018, the suspect’s

ex-girlfriend may have been killed in the same manner. Also, it was alleged that in 2020, the suspect’s own biological sister might have experienced the same thing that happened to Christianah in 2024. The investigation is ongoing.

This horrifying incident has ignited widespread outrage across Nigeria, especially on social media with the hashtag #JusticeForChristianah.

Global Voice Against VAW…

Violence against women is a global problem demanding global attention. Expectedly, these incidents of violence against women have not gone unnoticed by stakeholders in global public health and women rights.

For instance, the United Nations had issued a statement in response to the death of the former Olympic athlete.

"We join the UN Population Fund and UN Women in strongly condemning (Cheptegei's) violent murder," the spokesperson for the UN secretary-general, Stephane Dujarric said.

What Statistics Show… Statistics vary from continent to continent with more developed or high income nations reporting a decline, and low income countries in Africa, which traditionally operate a patriarchal society.

According to UN Women, in 2021, around 45,000 women and girls worldwide were killed by their intimate partners or other family members. This means that, on average, more than five women or girls are killed every hour by someone in their own family.

Also, it was documented that 56 per cent of all female homicides are committed by intimate partners or other family members, only 11 per cent of all male homicides are perpetrated in the private sphere.

Attacks on women have become a major concern in Kenya. According to the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS), over 40 per cent of women have experienced physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner during their lives.

In 2022, it was reported that at least 34% of women had experienced physical violence.

Described as the “rape capital of the world" by Human Rights Watch, South Africa has some of the highest rates of gender-based violence worldwide, including rape, female homicide and domestic

According to UN Women, in 2021, around 45,000 women and girls worldwide were killed by their intimate partners or other family members. This means that, on average, more than five women or girls are killed every hour by someone in their own family. Also, it was documented that 56 per cent of all female homicides are committed by intimate partners or other family members…

abuse. The women in South Africa are faced with challenges that share fences with the country’s history of patriarchy vis-a-vis apartheid.

Gender-based violence is a threat to the mental, physical, and reproductive health of women, increases the incidence of homicide, contributes to the HIV/AIDS crisis, and places families at risk. The female homicide rate in South Africa is roughly 24.6 per 100,000 population—nearly six times the global average.

The World Health Organisation reported in March 2024 that one in three women or 30 per cent of the world women population have been "subjected to either physical and/or sexual intimate partners violence or non-partner sexual violence in their lifetime" with violence ranging from physical abuse, to mental and emotional torture.

Likewise, the United Nations women reported that in 2022, about 48,000 women were killed globally by their intimate partners or family members. The statistics also pose that 55 per cent of all female homicides were perpetrated by intimate partners or family members with only 12 percent of all male homicides perpetrated in the private spheres.

Narrowing the lens to Nigeria, ‘16 Facts About Violence Against Women and Girls in Nigeria,’ a Spotlight Initiative backed by the UN, European Union, UNICEF, and the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, reveals that nearly one in three women aged 15-49 has experienced physical violence in Nigeria.

Legal Framework…

Although African Union in Maputo, Mozambique, in July 2003, has adopted the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and People's Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa with its enactment in 2005, as of 2023, only 49 of the 55 member countries of the African Union

Olympic Athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei

Christiana Idowu

Violence against Women: A Silent Pandemic

have signed the document. Also, while 49 countries have ratified the charter, localised enforcement within countries is still very low.

In 2015, the Nigerian Senate enacted the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act. Of the 36 states of the federation, 34 states and the Federal Capital Territory have domesticated the VAPP Act.

After years of grassroots campaigns and protests, legislative measures like the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act brought some hope that things would change for the better.

However, recent legislative developments have raised concerns. In 2022, Senator Jibrin Isah introduced a Bill proposing to repeal the VAPP Act, arguing that the existing law had shortcomings and the need for a more comprehensive legal framework. Last month, the Repeal VAPP Act Bill passed a second reading, making the threat of a complete withdrawal of the Act more pressingly real. Concerns are now mounting among gender-based violence activists and advocates about the potential repeal and its implications argue that while a repeal would completely eliminate the existing protections and provisions, an amendment would be a better option, allowing for changes or improvements.

Priye Diri, a leading advocate and change leader with Nguvu Collective, cautions against the potential repeal of the VAPP Act, stating, “Since 2015, the VAPP Act has been a critical lifeline for women and vulnerable individuals in Nigeria. It has empowered thousands to report GBV cases, established essential support services, and made tangible progress toward gender justice. Repealing the Act would reverse these advancements, leaving survivors without necessary protections and creating exploitable gaps in the legal system.”

Senator Jibrin’s proposal aims to introduce a more holistic reform to the Act, aligning its provisions with evolving societal needs. Repealing the Act will undo the decades of progress that gender rights activists in Nigeria made on addressing violence against vulnerable people and will be a major setback for democracy in the country.

To address these concerns, Priye Diri has launched an online petition urging Senate Committee Chairman on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters, Mohammed Tahir Monguno, and Senator Jibrin Isah to consider amending rather than repealing the VAPP Act. The petition highlights the need for legislative action that enhances existing protections without dismantling the progress made. By amending the VAPP Act, legislators can address its shortcomings while preserving the vital legal framework that supports survivors of gender-based violence.

Non-governmental Interventions…

The war against the scourge of violence against women had been in the ring of non-governmental organizations and other stakeholders in Nigeria for many years.

One of the warriors of VAW is Dr. Abiola Akiode, an African activist, feminist scholar, senior lecturer at the Faculty of Law and Executive Director, Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC). She shed light on how patriarchy has contributed to the increase in violence against women.

“Patriarchy contributed to the rise in violence against women that we see in society. The way the African system is structured, women are seen as subordinate to men. At a point in time, a woman is also seen as a property of the man who can be used, who can be damaged, who can be broken, who can be thrown away and all of that. But I think that it is very important to put the narrative correctly.

“African culture does not also harbor violence. Right from the onset, the African system is opposed to rape. The African system of patriarchy does not represent Africa because patriarchy is not only about the men in Africa; it's also about the women in Africa. When anyone does anything that can lead to discrimination and inequality, he is a patriarch. And colonialism itself is patriarchal in nature.

“Colonialism also contributed to the kind of patriarchy that we see in Africa. Most of all these went on unabated. This led to the fact that we have violence against women as a continuous process of life.

On why educated women and girls are also victims of VAW, she explained that the scourge has no boundaries.

“This is because violence has no bounds. It does not respect authority; it does not respect position. It is not a respecter of titles and all of that.”

In the same vein, the Founder and Executive Director of the Women's Rights and Health Project (WRAHP), Bose Ironsi offered her perspective on the gaps in fighting gender-based violence.

She attributed the increase in reportage of cases locally to increase in awareness of the societal menace. Impunity is another factor that she pointed out as being responsible for the rising figures of victims of VAW.

“I think that it is a result of awareness that has increased the reportage,” she began. “People are now aware that domestic violence is not something they should sweep under the carpet. Also, in Lagos state, there is a good political will to work and create an agency that they are funding to respond to the scourge. But then the funding is not enough. The Lagos state government cannot fund it alone.

“A lot of people and cases are waiting and when perpetrators are not prosecuted, it doesn't deter

other people. If you are living in a community as an offender, the community will be stigmatising survivors.

“They are abusing the survivors. They say ‘you cannot live in this community as long as our brother is in jail.’ There is also a high level of incest or defilement. You would expect that mother's would come out and speak but they won't want to speak out.

“The issue of impunity stems from mother's trying to keep their marriages. The reason why they would do that is because of the pushback from the society warning a woman not to send her husband to jail for domestic violence. "If you didn't come out to say it, would anybody know?”

She identified social constructs that made girls a weaker gender as a problematic factor in this silent pandemic.

“There is low funding for those of us working in the areas of sexual and domestic violence. When the case persists in court, the parents may start complaining of transport fares and time spent on justice delivery. We expect the government to take charge of that. Majority of the NGOs in this area are sourcing for funds and funding is drying up daily.

“Ireti Resource Centre is predominantly for psycho-social support for survivors of sbv and has been there for three years. We ask if someone has been sexually abused, who takes care of the social aspect of the child or woman? The government can't do everything. That's the truth. People need to support them. That's why we are there. But we need resources. We pay money to file the cases in court. We also pay lawyers to hear and defend the cases. If we don't have money, what happens?”

Government Action

Every life matters. However, women are

Patriarchy contributed to the rise in violence against women that we see in society. The way the African system is structured, women are seen as subordinate to men. At a point in time, a woman is also seen as a property of the man who can be used, who can be damaged, who can be broken, who can be thrown away and all of that. But I think that it is very important to put the narrative correctly

vulnerable and they are central figures in family building. This is why the government has put the right foot forward in fighting the scourge of violence against women.

The Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, Titi Vivour-Adeniyi explained that the issue of violence against women requires a multidisciplinary approach.

“We look at ensuring that we have relevant laws to protect women and in particular, persons in cohabiting relationships that experience domestic violence. We have laws like the Criminal law of Lagos state that has a chapter devoted to sexual offense related issues. Lagos was the first to punish rape and defilement perpetrators with life imprisonment. The criminal code was reviewed in 2011.

“We also established dispute institutions to address this menace. In 2014, the government created the Domestic and Sexual Violence Response team which metamorphosed domestic and sexual violence agency- a statutory agency.”

She observed that Lagos is still the only state that has institutions for issues of domestic and sexual violence.

She continued: “Of course, there is no one agency that can provide all the services. Hence, the need to have professionals across the various responder agencies.

“For instance, the Ministry of Justice has the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP) which is in charge of prosecuting these cases and there is a specialised unit in the DPP that prosecutes cases of gender and sexual violence related. We have the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation that addresses domestic violence issues. We have the Ministry of Youth and Social development that provides holistic support to child survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.”

As one of the first responders to cases of domestic violence, the Nigeria Police are also trained to handle these matters with care and caution.

“We have the police that have designated units in the police commission to investigate sexual and gender-based violence cases. They are referred to as the family support unit. Of course you know that Lagos state has specialised courts on domestic and sexual based violence and these courts adjudicate the cases, ensuring that these cases are expedited by reducing the frequency in adjournment because this is why judgment is delayed.

“Our statutory mandate is to prevent and respond- we are very heavy on prevention. That's why we have different programmes in place. We engage boys and girls separately through our ‘king and queens club’ initiative.

“We engage religious leaders, clerics, community leaders, traditional rulers, gatekeepers and custodians of culture. People that are influential and are first responders before matters escalate to us. We let them know where they need to make referrals and where their interventions should stop.

“We have other programmes that we run with the registrars of marriage, traditional MCs referred to as ‘Alaga.’ We also have direct engagement with different women, young girls in higher institutions, secondary schools, social media, radio jingles. We are able to create that awareness around the different kinds of violence: physical, emotional, financial and psychological.”

Even in cases of technology-enabled violence against women such as cyber bullying and cyber stalking, the law protects a woman from a perpetrator.

“We have private organisations that we work in and assist in building capacity and human resources department to be able to create sexual harassment protocols and help them to investigate these complaints if and when they are made.

“There is also what is called revenge porn when someone threatens to release your nude or has released the nude. This is a punishable offense under the criminal law and we work with the police to apprehend the suspect and, where possible, charged to court.”

FREDRICK NWABUFO commends the President and family for their kindness and generosity to Maiduguri’s flood victims

TINUBU’S COMPASSIONATE SPIRIT

Compassion is an intrinsic value of leadership. Where there is compassion in leadership, there is healing, solidarity, and community. Leadership exists not in a vacuum but in the furtherance of ideals, welfare, and the protection of lives and property. A show of compasleadership – to serve the people.

parts Maiduguri, Borno State, a few days lives, and leaving a ghastly trail of devastation. According to the National Emergencytorrential rains, resulting in the state’s worst

As the consoler-in-chief, a few short hours President Tinubu spared no room for niceties, he travelled to Borno State to sympathise with the people, inspire hope and resilience through the roughpatch, as well as provide

In Maiduguri, the President announced a other disasters. He visited the Shehu of Borno, an internally displaced persons’ camp at Government Secondary School, Maiduguri, and had an immersive assessment of the situation with a drive-through of the areas impacted by the contretemps of nature.

“After my visit to the Shehu of Borno and climate change. There must be a disaster relief fund. I will invite the private sector to teameas. If we take a small percentage from FAAC and put it as a disaster relief fund, which will include all of you, we will be activating and strengthening our sense of belonging,” the President said.

The President also sympathised with other people of Yobe State, I sympathise with you. We will create an outstanding programme for Nigeria to recover from this calamity. We will build our nation together.’’

Of great essence is President Tinubu’s clarity and precision on a strategy to address the tragedy, to help the people build back better, and prepare for future unforeseen natural accidents.

Pending the activation of the relief fund, so

have been provided to citizens imperilled by the mishap by the federal government.

In an accustomed display of charity, Mr. Seyi Tinubu and Mr. Yinka Tinubu on Friday also led a team to Maiduguri, where they do-

Mr. Seyi emphasised the transcendence of the unity of wills and purpose at a time of great concern, such as now in Borno.resentatives of our family but as members of hope and relief to those who need it most. This is a moment for solidarity, compassion, and immediate action. Maiduguri and Borno State have rich histories. The people are resilient. Despite the issues of the past few years, they have braved all odds, which is why such a painful national tragedy that befell the state prayers. Even more, it deserves our active collaboration and contributions.

‘’When my dad, President Bola Tinubu, visited Maiduguri earlier this week, he spoke about the urgent need for the private sector and individuals alike to step up in support call, my wife Layal, and I through the Noella Foundation, my brother Yinka, our friends, and numerous private sector partners have of those displaced by this tragedy.

“However, we hope this small contribution brings comfort and relief to those in need. Together, we can rebuild and heal, for in unity, there is strength. The Nigerian youth stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Borno. We are in this together, and our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Just like President Bola Tinubu said on Monday, Borno will rise again.”

Other items donated to the state include mattresses, kettles, wrappers, buckets, mats, sanitary pads and wash kits, as well as critical supplies to cover prescriptions for almostti-hypertensive, anti-parasitic, anti-diabetic, analgesics and antibiotics.

the human spirit, renew hope, and emphasise our shared humanity. They show that with can have a moment of paradise. Leadership is healing.

Nwabufo is Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Engagement

The government must prioritise addressing insecurity, argues PAT ONUKWULI

INSECURITY:

URGENT CALL FOR MORE ACTION

Insecurity is not simply a fleeting sense of instability; it is a destructive force that undermines the very core of society. In Nigeria, this destructive force has persisted for too long, eroding the fabric of governance, the economy, and the collective spirit of its people.

Like an unrelenting storm, insecurity is causing widespread devastation, displacing millions and extinguishing the aspirations of a once-thriving nation. To continue to overlook this issue would be to succumb to utter destruction.

In his Second Treatise of Government, philosopher John Locke argued, 'The primary role of governance is to ensure the preservation of society'. This preservation is not a distant ideal; it means protecting citizens, their property, and their rights to a peaceful life.

As the custodian of this protection, the government must stand firm. Without security, the government's commitment is hollow, its citizens are exposed, and its foundation is in peril.

Security is not just a concept but the bedrock of daily life. Without security, farmers cannot tend to their fields in peace, traders cannot carry out their business, social life cannot flourish, and children cannot learn in a safe environment. Without security, hope becomes a scarce commodity.

Nigeria, a nation brimming with culture, diversity, and potential, is grappling with an insecurity crisis that threatens its existence.

Nigeria's security situation has always been delicate, but it has deteriorated into a full-blown crisis in the past decade.

The once-assured safety under previous administrations has crumbled, leaving deep scars. Challenges have persisted, with the Chibok girls serving as a reminder of unfulfilled promises.

They symbolise how President Buhari's assurances fell short. His eight-year tenure did not verify triumph over insecurity but deepened its roots in the national consciousness. His unfulfilled promise has left the country more divided and wounded than ever before.

The insurgency that was once limited to Boko Haram's presence in the North-east has now transformed into a widespread epidemic of violence.

Banditry, once a whispered concern, has grown into a large-scale operation, spreading rapidly across the North.

Kidnapping, once isolated, has now become a calculated industry, with lives treated as commodities.

In addition, illegal mining involving external actors further worsens the situation by providing support for local bandits.

Meanwhile, conflicts between farmers and herders persist, and the proliferation of arms continues to supply both insurgents in the North and separatists in the South-east.

Insecurity has spread throughout the nation, becoming a powerful force that generates fear and hinders progress. It is not just a challenge but an existential threat that undermines the government's assurances of safety and leaves behind widespread devastation.

The alarming statistics highlight its profound impact, with many lives lost and countless stories of hardship, broken families, and destroyed communities. It steals from citizens their peace, prosperity, and hope for the future.

The prevalence of insecurity has led to a significant loss of lives and extensive damage to the economy, with devastating consequences.

As of the first quarter of 2024, more than 2,336 lives had been lost due to various violent incidents, including attacks by insurgent groups, banditry, and clashes between herders and villagers, averaging 26 deaths per day.

The situation remains critical, with Benue, Zamfara, Borno, and Katsina States being the most severely affected by fatalities.

For example, Benue State has recorded a staggering 28,997 deaths due to the crisis in recent years, exacerbating poverty and hampering local economies.

This toll of human suffering depletes national resources and perpetuates a vicious cycle of underdevelopment.

The increasing insecurity is a human tragedy that has a severe impact on the economy and investor confidence. It significantly affects the gross domestic product (GDP) and overall

economic growth, diverting over $40.6 billion of foreign investments, exacerbating unemployment, and reducing government revenues.

Nigeria's projected economic growth rate for 2024 is 3.3 per cent, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). However, this falls below the projected growth of 3.8 per cent for sub-Saharan Africa.

Several sub-Saharan African countries are expected to experience even faster growth, with nations like Niger (11.2 per cent) and Senegal (8.2 per cent) leading the way. The forecast indicates that ongoing instability is significantly hindering Nigeria's progress.

These disruptions discourage foreign investment and slow domestic economic activities, especially agriculture, mining, and oil production, exacerbating Nigeria’s financial challenges.

Therefore, the government must prioritise addressing insecurity, as sustainable development cannot be attained during persistent violence and instability.

Consequently, tackling insecurity is crucial for achieving substantial economic growth, as recovery cannot occur in an environment overshadowed by banditry, kidnappings, and insurgency.

The new administration, led by President Tinubu, faces a critical moral obligation: reversing the current downward trajectory. The government has promised to address this by investing significant funds to tackle insecurity.

In 2024, N3.25 trillion or 12 per cent of the entire Budget was allocated for defence and security. However, the lack of tangible results raises questions about the effectiveness of this spending. Without a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying causes of insecurity, such as corruption, economic disparity, and ethnic tensions, this expenditure is unlikely to have a significant impact.

Onukwuli PhD, writes from Bolton, UK patonukwuli2003@yahoo.co.uk

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

ADDRESSING MATERNAL MORTALITY ISSUES

Health authorities must do more to stem the scourge

The scale of maternal mortality in Nigeria has become so alarming that we must call on the health authorities to fashion out a blueprint that will extenuate this pressing challenge. According to UNICEF, no fewer than 40 million women of childbearing age (between disproportionate high level of health issues surrounding birth. “While the country represents 2.4 per cent of the world’s population, it currently contributes 10 per cent of global deaths for pregshow a maternal mortality rate of 576 per 100,000 live births, the fourth highest on Earth.”

In its 2023 Progress Report, the World Health Organisation (WHO) revealed that Nigeria accounts for over 34 per cent of global maternal deaths while the lifetime risk of dying during pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum, or after an abortion for a woman is one in 22, compared to one in 4900 in developed countries. The report ranked Nigeria as accounting for the second-highest number of maternal and child deaths globally, after India. In 2020, according to the report, 788 women and children died ‘per thousand’ in India and 540 women and children ‘per thousand’ died in Nigeria. In the same year, India accounted for 17 per cent of global maternal and neonatal deaths and stillbirths, while Nigeria accounted for 12 per cent.

ing from their homes to a medical facility.

Yet, when a pregnant woman avoids prenatal care, she puts herself under the risk of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), a complication arising from childbirth, which can result in a fatal outcome. Besides, women who do not have access to healthcare are prone to unassisted delivery carried out by quack midwives in unhealthy conditions with dire consequences for both the mother and foetus. To address this serious public health issue, we must begin to examine how to mitigate the acute poverty in the country, especially in the rural areas.

We must end the agony and tears of mothers who carry pregnancy for nine months only to die at the point of delivery

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

The challenge at hand goes beyond what the federal government can handle. Unfortunately, many of the rural communities in the 36 states lack cottage hospitals and medical facilities that will address these challenges. Where they exist, there is shortage of manpower, or obsolete medical equipment. Also, instances abound of pregnant women who died in the process of commut-

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

State governments must pay adequate attention to primary healthcare system at the grassroots. As it is, most of the states have rendered prostrate local government administration in their states, leaving healthcare delivery at that level comatose. The solution goes beyond mere formulation of policies by the federal government. There should be a framework where states and local governments are held accountable for maternal child healthcare services in their domains.ic burden on most of the women who dwell in -

tal and post-natal care. There should be a special focus on maternal, newborn and child health. That many hospitals in the country are without the necessary drugs is a situation that should be addressed. We cannot continue to put the lives of our women at risk. There is urgent need to go beyond rhetoric and promises, to actionable plans to address the existing gaps in the primary health sector.

We must end the agony and tears of mothers who carry pregnancy for nine months only to die at the point of delivery.

RE: OF FORMIDABLE EAGLE AND PAPER TIGER

The article by one Nasir Aminu entitled, “A Formidable Eagle or a Paper Tiger,” exposes the dangers of a single narrative. But it’s obvious, from the start, that it was deliberate. I have seen many such tainted pieces; smarter ones even try to disguise their motives from the beginning. But not this one.

In the article, the fellow, supposedly a teacher in Economics and Finance with an interest in ethics, had one agenda: to feed the dangerous narrative that the leadership of certain institutions in the country is the prerogative of one section. Nonsense!

Invoking the nostalgia of the Nuhu Ribadu days and the current trial of former governor Yahaya Bello were among the convenient distractions.

But he didn’t need to hide in plain sight. His scandalous attempt to stretch a weak narrative betrayed his sinister motive.

It is not the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, who has invited the drama in former Governor Yahaya Bello’s case. I thought Aminu should know that. The governor, in a desperate attempt to avoid accountability at all costs by manipulating public perception, is responsible. I’m sorry for the Kogi people. The incident of September 18, which Aminu pretends to be the basis of his article – and not his jaundiced view – was one of the series of

well-scripted shenanigans executed by Bello, without shame and posgovernor’s trial.

-

duct, including conspiring to divert public funds for personal gain. If he had any respect for the people of Kogi who elected him, he would have long submitted himself to court to answer these grave charges.

The EFCC, I believe, is determined to follow through with Bello’s trial. It does not need to be Aminu’s or anyone else’s tiger to do its job.

The commission has recovered over N150 billion and secured over 2000 convictions in the last year. It cannot progress if it cherry-picks from Aminu, whose ethnic agenda and intention to instigate resentment in the commission are apparent but whose vested interests we don’t yet know.

It is shocking that a teacher who should have called out Bello’s conduct at the premises of the EFCC is using the disgusting drama to advance his ethnic agenda at the commission and stir trouble within.

Alhaji Shahada Umar, Northern Region Coordinator of the Global Peace Movement International (UK), Kaduna State

LOOK UP NOT DOWN

Donald Trump has stated "I HATE TAYLOR SWIFT!" and he might be one of the few people in the world to say so, especially in all caps, but the majority love her, many of them voters.

Most honest people will say there are people they would not want to work or socialise with, but rarely anyone they truly hate. Hate is only negative.

The world of politics is complex, divisive, dishonest but it shouldn't be. Those that represent the people should represent all of the people but that doesn't seem likely to be the path in the US.

Look for the positive, create the positive and support the positive.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

POLITY

Nigeria, Prodigiously Endowed and Incredibly Wayward

Okey Anueyiagu

The title to this short essay was borrowed from words of the great novelist and activist, Chinua Achebe, who constantly provides us with a consistent voice of wisdom loaded with conscientious and punctilious exposition to the problems with our country. Achebe, the magnifico, and the grandmaster of our literary world, in his lifetime, saw Nigeria as enormously gifted and talented, but desperately useless and endemically sick.

The history of our country’s waywardness, has proven to be a conscious debilitating process that has completely emptied out into time and memory. We must view and consider our history, and all its sordid turns, with very specific goals; with the definite ends that have inevitably, and with dialectic trends, distorted our growth, unity, cohesion and development. In many respects, one is little surprised that the long-lingering persistence of Nigeria’s waywardness has been so predominantly ignored. Its longevity and sustenance distort the mythology of most ignorant Nigerians who are quick to dismiss and explain our past as a normal evolutionary growth of a nation. No matter how we attempt to embroider our sins, we must all be shamed, and, must recoil from the paths that the country has towed from inception to date.

The problems of Nigeria did not start yesterday. It started way back and as far back as our soiled memories can recall. To begin to recall and write about the well over 100 years of the horrifying discontents that have characterized our country’s existence, will be an endless ordeal without providing us with sufficient answers to these seemingly absurd occurrences. I have always known that beneath the query about what has been happening to our country, lay a persistent haunting worry about how we have apparently been damned by this hedious fate and doomed by our unworthiness.

We must acknowledge and accept the many years of the heavy weight and burden of the cycle upon cycle of malevolent destruction, and the pains and agony of seeing the country rise above the cusp of extinction, only to be indignantly taken back to higher levels of violence, anarchy and obliterated opportunities of greatness. Even as the pain of plowing our past is so excruciating, the ephemera dumped on the country by our leaders that have been imbedded in our trifles from day one, are telling explanations for the waywardness, and the fissures that have beclouded our Country.

Today if we can be profoundly certain of one thing, it is the incontrovertible fact that our country, Nigeria, has been besieged by anarchism, and has become divisively dysfunctional, and a dangerous enclave to dwell in. That, despite all the human and natural endowments bestowed upon this country, we have little or nothing to positively show to ourselves and to the world.

The prodigious endowment of our country can be traced back to the period when we were considered to be one of the most prosperous countries in the world. We were number 3 in the entire world in the production, distribution and export of cocoa, rubber and palm oil. We were in the group of the world’s largest producers of textile, sugar cane, sorghum, cotton, magnesium, columbine and tin. We became one of the top 5 producers and exporters of crude oil. We refined our own crude, and exported many useful byproducts of crude. Our country had a viable, strong and an enviable potentially progressive economy that was the toast of the world. And boom, we became desperately poor, despondent and hopelessly, a miserable entity.

The most painful part of the story of our country’s decline, is to recall that we were at a time, the hub of first-rate infrastructural development - we built sustainable railways and road infrastructures, we built dams and hydropower systems, seaports and airports, manufacturing industries, and were on the path of massive forays into being a giant in the field of evolutionary industrial development. It appears evident that we have collectively failed our country, and that it is abundantly clear that we are all deeply vulnerable to the pathologies that started to plague us to our descent into infamy. With the primitive and the gratuitously disgraceful actions and behaviour of our political actors, and the incivility of its

leadership, our country essentially, and in such an alarming and catastrophic speed, degenerated into the abyss.

The myriad of problems that have rendered Nigeria a wayward state and hindered its growth are many. They range from political, social to economic issues like; leadership deficiency, followership docility, weak democratic structures and institutions, deficient power (electricity) supply, dilapidated road network, air, rail and waterways transportation inefficiency, insufficient domestic food production and processing, fuel and multiple oil industry issues. These problems and others that include ethnic and religious strifes, corruption, nepotism, kidnapping, terrorism and the killings that follow them, have continued to fester unabatedly, holding our country down in a dangerously precarious stranglehold. It is pathetic that for several decades and still counting, our country has confronted and endured these deep-rooted problems, and has failed, or has been unable to solve or resolve them.

Going through the length and breadth of this country, it is difficult not to find a single Nigerian citizen of age and maturity that can claim ignorance of the calamities that have befallen our country. We all are aware of our problems, the causes and who the culprits are. We know how they planned and perfected their ruthful and rueful ruination of our country. These men and women are still with us, and are still parading the corridors of power, and still descending on us, with their wicked hammers of heterodox doom.

What can be considered to be the impediment on how to create prosperity and peaceful tranquility for our people, can be traced to the past 6 decades or more, that our country has been burdened with a retinue of bad, incompetent, contemptuous, corrupt and inexperienced leaders, who essentially did not, and do not understand the art and science of how to manage a country and its people. The cluelessness and insouciant behaviour of our leaders, coupled with their fecklessness, deprived us of the benefits of keeping abreast with the rest of the world, thereby keeping us all in poverty and misery. Paradoxically, the irresponsible, worthless, and inept leadership that our country has mostly inherited from birth, and their weaknesses, has been our bane, leaving us unable to deal and grasp with dexterity, the intricate predatory nuances of world politics and economics.

The critical issue pervading our political and economic evolution since independence, is the persistent problems of governance, and how these intractable problems have held and strangulated the country, stunting its growth and development. What has become very disturbing and painful about these analytical and prescriptive views about our country, is that the overall cognitive evaluation of our past and our present, paint a very pernicious, contemptuous and consequential

dire situation for us, and for our future. We must all be worried and frightened by the prevailing evidence that Nigeria has become injuriously more fractious than at any time in our history. Even in our psyche, it is abundantly clear that not even the apocalyptic civil war atrocities and the after effects of that rancid and evil war, match the vicious trend of the horrible orgys of killings and the other corybantic events that we are witnessing in our today’s Nigeria. The waywardness of our country can be found without looking very deeply in the waning and decline of trust and confidence in the Executive, the Legislature and the Judiciary branches of our government. The levels of distrust are so high and alarming, that it has become rather centrifugal, and raising the already high stakes of disunity, hostility and the multifaceted crisis that have engulfed the entire country.

As Achebe predicted, a robust country can be weakened and destroyed when actions ignored and not timely taken can inimically bode ill for the smooth functioning of that country. When we pertinaciously ignore to address the issues of bad governance, corruption, ethnic and tribal bigotry, nepotism, and electoral malpractices, we surreptitiously invite chaos. When we fail to address the issues of productivity, innovative initiatives, educational backwardness, poor management of our natural resources, the diversification of the economy, we leave the fate of the country’s existence and survival in a dangerous balance of endangerment. These pervasive institutional and structural disorders portend for domestic instability and destabilization.

Now, it is clear that the waywardness of our country inspite of the abundance of blessings at her disposal, has precipitated the instability, the hunger and the distortions of the lives of its people. The wanton killings, the lack of empathy and compassion for human life and dignity, and the general desecration of the various structures and institutions, are responsible for our tolling misfortunes.

There is a clear nexus between a legitimate, stable and safe government, its leaders, and the growth and advancement, and that of any society or any country. If the government lacks legitimacy and is unstable, and unable to form, formulate and implement an acceptable polity, foster and promote social and economic plans based on consistent and strong policies; both fiscal, monetary, and other terms, the political, economic and social growth of that country will dwindle and suffer. Unfortunately, these issues have negatively deepened the despair and disenchantment of the people of our country.

The verisimilitude of the Nigeria situation resembles the truthfulness of what our leaders have done to our country, and presenting the most vicious cycle of an open realism of a

perfectly recalled account of a people’s bitter and wicked journey through darkness and gloom. To ponder Nigeria’s often bewildering history of the 1966 crisis, the senseless military and civilian killings, and the ultimate killings through starvation, bullets and bombs of well over 3 million innocent civilians in Biafra, is to understand the beginning and the deepening of the callousness that continues to consume us today.

The vertiginous steps of those who falsely claim to be vanguards of a strong and united nation, have today, become even more steep and slippery, thereby causing the country to remain stagnated and abysmally poor and despondent. I am doubtful if we have learned any lessons from our past mistakes; if our visible waywardness has shamed us enough to provide us with any intrinsic measures in our history or culture to immunize us against our new chaos and disorder. I doubt it. And the frightening reality is that today, Nigeria is by far not inoculated from the festering diseases of hate, tribal and religious bigotry, corruption and the many other atrocious calamities that have overtaken the entire country.

Presently, I believe that the exacerbation of many non-democratic practices of governance in our land, are the biggest threats facing our democracy and inevitably forcing down our already battered-down precedents that are leveling our established norms and ethos, and demolishing our constituted institutions, and our people.

I have struggled to come to terms with the level of pain and anguish inflicted by our leaders on the country. It is difficult and painful to see how and where this country has been driven to by those who fought for, and won the war; the war they claimed was necessary to spill the blood of millions of the innocent in order to unite the country and make it strong and virile. It appears that the victors have taken all the bounties of the hallowed victory, and driven the country to the brink of a total collapse. When I hear some Nigerians say things like: “It is a waste of lives to die for Nigeria, because Nigeria is a fraud”, I quiver. These people justify what they say, because they believe that Nigeria lacks accountability, fairness, justice, equity, equality, and not a respecter of the rule of law. Within this group of thinkers, I do not see any tint of unpatriotic spirit in them. Rather, I perceive a certain level of despair, despondency and frustration with the dire realities of living our lives as Nigerians, in a country that is so prodigiously endowed and incredibly wayward. Philosophically, I am a proponent of the dictum that people can never achieve peace and prosperity, if they do not look backward and reflect on their pasts. This is to say, that no good will come out of our violent and wicked past, even as we contemplate that the imposition of the so-called rational ideals and changes would result in a just and fair society. Being acutely aware of our libertine tendencies, and our contradictory ways of life, how are we handling the weakness by many unaided reasons to find out the truth in our waywardness, by truly embracing self-transformation?

An inconvenient truth is the reality that our country is infested with people who have forced their way into public affairs and politics by hook or by crook. This group of people, simply because they have no meaningful and useful private business or lives worthy of their attention outside government, venture into politics and stay in it perpetually without a clue of why they are there, and of when they will exit. These emergency politicians who have no useful impact and nothing worthwhile to offer, appear to do nothing but pollute our systems with their unreasonable and dishonourable actions and judgments. These people, are the problems of Nigeria. Until we find credible, reliable and knowledgeable leaders and dedicated followers with a complete disquisition on the importance of visionary political and economic ideas, devoid of the known ills that have been bedeviling Nigeria, we will continue to remain incredibly wayward no matter how prodigious our endowment is.

Okey Anueyiagu A Professor of Political Economy Is The Author of Biafra, The Horrors of War

Tinubu

Kayode Tokede

As the Naira continued to plummet at the foreign exchange market over Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) reforms, MTN Communication Plc, Nestle Nigeria Plc, Dangote Cement Plc, and eight other listed companies on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) have reported N2.02 trillion foreign exchange losses in half year ended June 30, 2024.

This represents 87.3 per cent increase from N1.08 trillion reported in the half year ended June 30, 2023.

Other eight listed companies investigated by THISDAY with significant foreign exchange losses in the period under review include: Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, Nigerian Breweries Plc, BUA Foods Plc, and BUA Cements Plc.

Nume Ekeghe

As Nigeria’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) prepares to meet today and the day after, analysts are projecting that interest rates will remain steady, even as emerging risks from the energy sector threaten to push inflation higher.

In their outlook on the upcoming MPC meeting, analysts at Afrinvest highlighted that while inflation has slowed, energy costs continue to present significant upside risks.

“Domestic Macroeconomy: MPC Expected to Hold Rates as Energy

Also, the likes of International Breweries Plc, Cadbury Nigeria Plc, Lafarge Africa Plc, and Eterna Plc reported FX losses that impacted on profit in the period under view.

The apex banking regulating body had announced changes in the Nigerian foreign exchange operations which required the immediate collapse of all segments of the market into the Investor & Exporter (I&E) foreign exchange window and reintroduced the ‘willing buyer, willing seller’ model. Naira at the official rate in the first six months of 2024 dropped to N1,470.191against the dollar from N899.393 against the dollar when it closed in 2023.

The depreciation of the local currency has impacted these companies’ third party loans, which eventually led to rising

Cost Presents Upside Inflation Risks,” the firm said, adding that inflation data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) shows a decline for the second consecutive month. In August, the headline inflation rate dipped to 32.15 per cent year-on-year, compared to 33.40 per cent in July.”

“This annual print, 11bps higher than our projection of 32.04per cent, stemmed from slower-than-expected moderation in month-on-month price growth to 2.22 per cent from 2.28 per cent reported in July – albeit, below the 12-month average of 2.43 per cent,” Afrinvest stated.

net exchange loss in the period under review.

The CBN under the new administration of President Bola Tinubu has aggressively introduced new foreign exchange policies in a move to liberalise the market and attract more inflow.

THISDAY checks revealed that most investigated companies continued to report worst earnings and its impact reflecting on dividend pay out and dwindling stock price on NGX.

THISDAY analysis of the companies results showed that MTN Nigeria Communication, Nestle Nigeria and Dangote Cement reported the highest foreign exchange losses in the period under review.

Specifically, telecommunication giant, MTN Nigeria Communication

Breaking down the Consumer Price Index (CPI), Afrinvest noted that food inflation eased slightly, driven by the green harvests and softer price increases in commodities like tobacco, tea, cocoa, and coffee.

Annual food inflation now sits at 37.52 per cent, down from 39.53 per cent, the lowest in seven months. However, core inflation, which excludes food prices, surged to 2.27 per cent in August, marking the strongest monthly rise since March.

Transportation, household equipment, and utility costs were key drivers of this trend, with month-on-month

that declared loss in 2023, announced a whooping N974.98 billion foreign exchange loss in H1 2024, about 87.3 per cent increase from N520.42 billion reported in H1 2023.

With a foreign exchange gain of N87.3 billion in H1 2024 from N65.76 billion in H1 2023, and N974.98 billion foreign exchange loss in H1 2024 from N520.42 billion in H1 2023, the telecommunication company closed the period with N887.68 billion net foreign exchange loss as against N454.7 billion reported in the corresponding period of 2023.

The Chief Executive Officer, MTN Nigeria Communication, Mr. Karl Toriola in a statement stated that, “ the depreciation of the naira between the period ended December 2023 and June 2024 also resulted in materially higher net foreign exchange losses

increases of 2.7 per cent, 1.9 per cent, and 1.9 per cent, respectively.

In contrast, analysts at Cowry Assets struck a more optimistic tone, citing favorable inflation trends in both headline and food inflation.

“Cowry Research notes a favorable downward shift in both headline and food inflation trends, signaling a significant change in the inflation trajectory,” the firm said.

According to Cowry Assets, aggressive monetary policy by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has played a crucial role in this moderation. The CBN has raised

of N887.7 billion in H1 2024 from N454.7 billion in H1 2023, arising from the revaluation of the foreign currency-denominated obligations.

“This led to a ls after tax of N519.1 billion in H1 2024 compared to a restated loss of N85.66 billion in H1 2023 and a negative retained earnings and shareholders’ equity of N727.2 billion and N577.7 billion, respectively.

“Adjusting for the net foreign losses, PAT would have been N102.3 billion (down by 56 per cent). Further adjusting for the impact of foreign exchange in our operating expenses, PAT would have been up by 11.3 per cent to N267.5 billion.”

For Nestle Nigeria, it announced N263.71 billion net exchange loss on translation of foreign currency denominated balances in H1 2024 from N118.5 billion in H1 2023, while

interest rates to 26.75 per cent, and government initiatives to stabilize food prices have contributed to the easing inflationary pressures.

Cowryassets projects inflation to ease further in September to 30.95 per cent, as the harvest season boosts food supply and relieves some of the economic strain caused by rising prices.

Looking ahead to the MPC meeting, Cowry Assets believes the committee may take a cautious stance. “At the next Monetary Policy Committee meeting next week, it is expected that given the progress of

Dangote Cement reported N201.3 billion net foreign exchange loss in H1 2024, an increase of 77.2 per cent from N113.63billion reported in H1 2023.

According to the management of Dangote Cement, the net foreign exchange loss of N201.3B from its foreign currency obligations reflected on the devaluation of the naira from N951 against the dollar at the end of December 2023 to N1,488 against the dollar at the end of June 2024. Amid challenges, the cement maker reported a group’s profit for H1 2024 at N189.9 billion, about 6.3 per cent increase from N178.68 billion. Consequently, its earnings per share increased to N11.26 in H1 2024 from N10.39 in H1 2023.

the recent efforts at taming inflation, the committee may adopt a waitand-see approach to monitor price developments closely and evaluate the full effect of previous rate hikes on the economy,” the analysts stated. This approach would allow the MPC to assess whether further tightening is necessary or if the current trajectory is sufficient to maintain price stability. The combination of aggressive monetary policy, harvest season benefits, and energy sector risks will shape the inflation outlook as Nigeria navigates through a period of economic uncertainty.

Abanobi: How FG Can Boost Production of Automotive Parts

In this definitive interview, Business Manager and Head, Vitaparts Nigeria Limited, a subsidiary of Vitafoam Nigeria Plc, Mr Udoka Abanobi speaks on the challenges facing manufacturers of automotive parts in Nigeria and how the federal government can initiate appropriate policy to enhance production of automotive parts for accelerated growth and development of the Nigerian economy, excerpts

The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) and the African Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM) have recently toured auto parts manufacturing companies in Nigeria, including your organization. What insights or opportunities did these visits reveal for the Nigerian automotive sector?

It was amazing that the government is working to support local auto manufacturers. I must say I was elated to have welcomed the team to Vitaparts Ltd. The visits highlighted the immense potential for growth within Nigeria’s automotive sector, emphasizing the need for local content development for collaboration between local manufacturers and international partners. Opportunities identified include increasing local production to reduce dependency on imports and fostering innovation through research and development. Local manufacturing will also help lower the demand on forex.

What are the primary challenges currently facing manufacturers of automotive parts in Nigeria, and how is your company addressing these issues?

The primary challenges include high operating costs, inadequate infrastructure, and competition from sub-standard imports. Vitaparts addresses these by investing in technology to improve efficiency and implementing strict quality control measures in our processes.

With differential tariffs and an influx of substandard products impacting genuine manufacturers, how does Vitaparts contend with these challenges to maintain product quality and market position?

Yes, the influx of substandard products impacts seriously on our sellout to the market. Being a subsidiary of Vitafoam Nigeria Plc, we pride ourselves in the quality of our products. Vitaparts maintains product quality by sourcing high-grade raw materials and employing rigorous testing procedures. Our company also works closely with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with industry standards and educates consumers about the dangers of using sub-standard products. We undertake periodic enlightenments aimed at mechanics on

the importance of using genuine and quality filters. As an organization. We are not just about profits but also about making positive impact in our environment through our enlightenment initiatives.

Vitaparts, as a subsidiary of Vitafoam Nigeria Plc, operates below installed capacities. What strategies are you employing to navigate and thrive in the challenging operating environment?

At the moment, Vitaparts operates below the installed capacity because of several factors. Prominent amongst them is impacts of the differential tariffs and low quality products that have flooded the market .We are currently focusing on optimizing existing processes to improve

efficiency. We are also exploring new markets and diversifying product offerings to increase demand and utilize full capacity.

What specific measures should the government implement to foster a more supportive environment for automotive parts manufacturers in Nigeria?

The federal government should implement favorable policies, such as tax incentives and subsidies for local manufacturers, improve infrastructure, and establish stronger regulations to curb the importation of sub-standard parts. Currently, imported raw materials are subject to higher taxes than fully assembled products imported from abroad, which does not incentivize local production. To enhance the quality of our products, it is essential that the automotive manufacturing industry be granted tax waivers.

A committee is working on a blueprint for the Nigerian Automotive Industry Development from 2023-2033. What key areas should this blueprint prioritize to boost the sector’s growth?

For us at Vitaparts, key areas include enhancing local production capabilities, fostering R&D, improving supply chain logistics, and developing skilled labor. Additionally, the blueprint should emphasize the importance of creating a favorable business environment through policy support. The blueprint should also help in creating a database for collaboration amongst local manufacturing companies and the auto industry

Could you highlight the main products offered by Vitaparts, and explain the unique benefits they provide to the automotive industry?

Vitaparts offers high-quality oil filters designed to extend engine life and improve vehicle performance. Our products meet stringent international standards, ensuring durability and reliability. It is imperative to note that our filters can function effectively for more than 20,000KM which clearly separates us from most of the filters in the market.

In the face of rising inflation, high production costs, and decreased consumer purchasing power, how is Vitaparts maintaining profitability and operational efficiency?

As a business operating in a highly competitive market, Vitaparts is currently implementing cost-saving measures, optimizing supply chains, and prioritizing high-margin products. We are also exploring alternative energy sources to lower production costs and alleviate the effects of inflation. Additionally, automating our processes has significantly enhanced our operational efficiency and resulted in substantial cost savings.

Are there any upcoming product innovations or plans for market expansion that you can share and how do these initiatives align with your growth strategy?

Vitaparts plans to introduce new eco-friendly filters that align with global sustainability trends. Our market expansion strategy includes entering new regional markets in West Africa and forming strategic alliances with international partners. Our goal is to become the leading oil filter brand insub-Sharan Africa.

What sets Vitaparts apart from other automotive parts manufacturers in Nigeria?

What sets Vitaparts apart is our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. We leverage advanced technology and continuous improvement processes to deliver superior products.

What steps is Vitaparts taking to educate consumers about the benefits of using high-quality automotive parts and how do you enhance consumer awareness and trust in your products?

Vitaparts conducts workshops, seminars, and online campaigns to educate consumers on the importance of using genuine parts. We also collaborate with industry associations to promote standards and build consumer trust.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

CBN’s Monetary Measures Support Nigeria’s Economic Stability, Growth

Oluchi Chibuzor

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is contributing significantly to efforts aimed at stabilising the economy, particularly through foreign exchange management, inflation control, and promoting foreign capital inflows.

Despite challenges such as fiscal dominance and structural issues, the apex bank is actively coordinating with other authorities and implementing well-sequenced monetary policies to help restore market confidence. These steps, alongside other economic measures, have contributed to improved FX inflows, a decline in inflation numbers, and growth in the economy.

Monetary policy effectiveness plays a crucial role in building a sustainable economy and fostering business growth. The target is to ensure full impact on inflation figures, exchange rate stability, and economic growth.

In contributing to economic stabilisation, the CBN led by Olayemi Cardoso recognises the need to constantly enhance monetary policy effectiveness, especially in addressing the current challenging economic environment.

The regulator has therefore taken several strategic initiatives as part of broader economic stability efforts. These include fiscal-monetary policy coordination, where it works closely with other economic authorities to ensure that fiscal dominance (where excessive government borrowing undermines monetary policy) does not impede inflation control and economic growth. The CBN actively advises on sustainable fiscal practices.

The CBN has consistently encouraged FX inflows to support naira stability. The success of these efforts is seen in the surge in total inflows into the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEM) by 21.4 per cent to $2.34 billion between July and August this year. The increased inflows came from individuals and non-bank institutions.

The data, obtained from the FMDQ Securities Exchange, indicated that total inflows rose from $1.92 billion in July 2024 to $2.34 billion in August 2024. The increase was driven broadly by stronger inflows from both domestic and foreign sources.

Analysts said the surge in dollar inflows is expected to help stabilize the naira and ease exchange rate pressures. Other steps contributed to a 35.5 per cent rise in inflows to $47.9 billion in the first half of this year.

Nigeria has also seen success in policies that led to the convergence of the official and parallel market exchange rates, reducing the premium to just 1.7% by mid-2024. This has helped restore market confidence in the naira. The liberalization of the FX market and

removal of restrictions on 43 items has improved market transparency and liquidity.

The apex bank also continues to create and enhance financial instruments for foreign exchange and money markets, aimed at improving liquidity and attracting foreign investment into the Nigerian economy.

FX LIBERALISATION GAINS

The success in FX market liberalisation is noticeable in the convergence between the official and parallel market rates. This reduced the chances of FX abuses and round tripping that previously dominated the market.

Cardoso promised that the forex market liberalisation policy implementation will promote free market entry and exit, transparency, boost dollar liquidity and create vibrancy within the forex market. The move he predicted, will attract Foreign Portfolio Investments (FPIs) and Foreign Direct Investment (FDIs) inflows to the economy.

The operational changes to the foreign exchange

market also included the re-introduction of the “Willing Buyer, Willing Seller” model at the I&E Window- now the official market.

Charlie Robertson, head of Macro Strategy at Asset Management firm, FIM Partners, said the new methodology could help Nigeria attract more investment as it essentially abolishes the multiple exchange rates that frustrated investors. “It could take months but there could be more dollars swirling around in Nigeria now that the currency is officially very cheap,” Robertson said.

MONETARY POLICY

CHALLENGES

In achieving its mandate, the CBN faces several key challenges including high government borrowing, policy credibility, infrastructure deficits and limited FX inflows. Despite significant progress, limited foreign exchange inflows continue to restrict the ability to stabilize the naira and manage exchange rate volatility.

But it is not all gloom as foreign exchange management efforts have shown positive outcomes. Remittances from Nigerians in the diaspora grew by 23.48% year-on-year to $2.34 billion in mid-2024, further bolstering foreign exchange reserves.

Capital importation increased by 234.4% year-on-year, reaching $5.92 billion in H1 2024. The surge in foreign direct investment (FDI) and portfolio investments is attributed to policy reforms, including the liberalization of the FX market and the clearing of FX backlogs.

As part of efforts to stabilize the economy, major steps were taken, including raising the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) by cumulative 800 basis points to 26.75%, while the cash reserve ratio was increased to 45%, all to manage inflation and liquidity. FX market reforms, including the liberalization of FX trading and enhancing the operational efficiency of Bureaux De Change (BDCs), have increased foreign investor participation.

The CBN has worked to improve the efficiency of remittance services, further encouraging Nigerians in the diaspora to invest in the economy through licensed International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs).

The substantial growth in remittance receipts is attributable to policy measures introduced to enhance liquidity in Nigeria’s foreign exchange market. These measures include granting licenses to new IMTOs, implementing a willing buyer-

willing seller model, and enabling timely access to naira liquidity for IMTOs.

President, Association of Bureaux De Change Operators of Nigeria, Aminu Gwadabe, said the increase in remittances is a strong testament to ongoing efforts to bolster public confidence in the foreign exchange market, strengthen a robust and inclusive banking system, and promote price stability, which is essential for sustained economic growth.

POSITIVE ECONOMIC OUTLOOK

Nigeria’s nominal Gross Domestic Product reached N60.93trillion in the second quarter of 2024, reflecting significant improvements in the nation’s economy. This is supported by strategic interventions and improving external factors like surge in crude oil production and expansion in the services sector. However, risks such as exchange rate pressures and rising energy costs remain significant challenges.

INFLATION DECLINE GAINS

Equally, while inflation remains high, recent data shows a gradual decline. The adoption of inflation targeting and tight monetary policy is expected to help keep inflationary pressures under control.

For the second consecutive time, inflation has dropped to 32.15 per cent. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) attributed the 1.25 per cent reduction from the 33.40 per cent rate it announced for July on the crash in the prices of food and non-alcoholic beverages.

In its Consumer Price Index (CPI) report for August, the NBS said food inflation dropped by 0.10 per cent from 2.47 per cent in the previous month to 2.37 per cent.

The fiscal side has gained more grounds despite high debt servicing costs and concerns about fiscal sustainability. Close coordination between monetary and fiscal authorities to mitigate risks and stabilize the economy is also working out effectively.

There was also a directive to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to remit dollar revenues to boost reserves and strengthen the naira. The decision remains a positive step aimed at enhancing investor confidence in the economy. Despite numerous setbacks in the economy, analysts strongly believe the current exchange rate framework is expected to increase transparency in the forex market, reduce exchange rate misalignment and transaction costs, and buoy investor confidence.

Cardoso

Abanobi

FG to Clear Outstanding Pension Liabilities, Remove Delays in Fund Releases

The Director-General, National Pension Commission (PenCom), Mrs. Omolola Oloworaran, has said concerted efforts have reached advanced stages to clear all outstanding pension liabilities of the federal government under the Contributory Pensions Scheme (CPS).

Oloworaran, also said there are plans to put in place lasting

solutions that will address the problems of inadequate funding and delay in fund releases for the payment accrued rights.

Speaking at the opening of the 2nd annual conference of the Pension Correspondents Association of Nigeria (PENCAN), with the theme, “20 Years of Pension Reform Act: Gains, Challenges, and Prospects,” in Abuja, she also decried the delay in the payment of accrued pension

Firm Reaffirms Commitment to Empowering Commuters in Africa

James

Africa’s leading corporate mobility startup, Treepz, has reiterated its commitment to empowering one million daily commuters with options to move better in Africa.

Commenting on the company’s five-year milestone, Chief Operating Officer/Co-founder, Treepz, Mr. Johnny Enagwolor, said it has achieved momentum in the African mobility industry, providing cutting-edge solutions to address the prevalent transportation challenges across the continent.

He said through its partnerships with leading companies, the mobility firms had continued to expand its services by providing transportation solutions for over 50,000 employees monthly.

Enagwolor said, “This collaboration highlights Treepz’s growing influence and its ability

to meet the evolving needs of corporate clients.

“Beyond this remarkable achievement, we also made history as the first mobility startup in Africa to successfully complete an international cross-border rental trip between two African countries.

“This historic journey, which covered nearly 1,400 kilometers, featured a fleet of two wellmaintained coasters and three Toyota Hiace buses.

“It took place from August 7, 2024, to August 11, 2024, transporting 96 passengers from Lagos, Nigeria, to Cotonou, Benin Republic, and back.”

According to him, the feat marked a giant leap forward in solving the mobility challenges faced by many African countries, adding “From the beginning, our goal has always been to redefine how people and businesses move across the continent.”

rights for the retires of treasury funded MDAs.

The PenCom boss said, “Although the current delay in the payment of retirees’ accrued rights negates the cardinal objective of the CPS of payment of retirement benefits as and when due, I would like to assure you that this situation will soon be resolved.”

She was represented by PenCom Head, Corporate

Communications, Mr. Ibrahim Buwai.

Oloworaran said the consistent accumulation of pension fund assets since commencement of the CPS remained a key performance indicator, especially considering the estimated N2 trillion pension liabilities prior to June 2004.

She pointed out that this clear transformation resulted in the rise of total Pension Fund Assets

under management to N20.87 trillion as at July 2024.

The PenCom DG attributed the remarkable growth to sound regulation and stringent oversight by the commission.

Also, listing the achievements of the CPS over the years, Chief Executive Officer, Pension Funds Operators Association of Nigeria (PenOp), Mr. Ogwuche Aguda, disclosed that N1.12 trillion had been paid out in lump sums to

357,310 retirees over the past 15 years through programmed withdrawals and annuities, pointing out that the figure reflected the scale of the CPS and its impact on pensioners across the country. He said N247.47 billion had been disbursed to 483,464 Nigerians who withdrew 25 per cent from their Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs) after losing their jobs.

Keyamo Invites Union Leaders over 50% Agencies’ IGR Deductions

Chinedu Eze

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has invited union leaders for a meeting in Abuja on the deductions of 50 per cent Internally Generated Revenues (IGRs) of aviation agencies into the Treasury Single Account (TSA) by the Federal Government.

The Minister in a letter dated September 20, 2024 with the reference number: PS/FMA/PC/S.017/265, signed by Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, the Permanent Secretary in the

Ministry and made available to THISDAY, indicated that the meeting is slated for today, September 23, 2024 in his conference room in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

The letter tagged: “Save Aviation from Collapse: Notice of Nationwide Protest,” was sent to the concerned unions; National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), Amalgamated Union of

Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE) and Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN).

Keyamo also advised the union leaders to attend the scheduled meeting with their GeneralsSecretary in a bid to have a fruitful engagement.

The letter read in part: “I write to express the appreciation of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo for heeding to his appeal

to reconsider the planned protest scheduled for September 18, 2024 and to use this opportunity to invite you to a meeting with the Honourable Minister. To ensure very fruitful engagement, the Presidents/Chairmen of the unions are implored to come with their General Secretaries only.” Keyamo had earlier scheduled a meeting with the unions on September 17, 2024 to address the vexed issue, but was postponed due to the official assignment of the minister.

Heirs Life Reaffirms Commitment to Affordable, Accessible Insurance

James Emejo in Abuja

Managing Director/Chief Executive, Heirs Life Assurance Limited, Mr. Niyi Onifade, said the company has kept to its promises to deliver simple, accessible, and affordable insurance products for Nigerians.

He said the company had also deployed technology to change the insurance landscape and boost consumers’ confidence.

Speaking to THISDAY at the 2024 Heirs Insurance Essay Championship in Abuja, he said though insurance penetration still remained low, there had been

remarkable improvements in recent times.

Onifade, who also doubles as Sector Head, Heir Insurance Group (HIG), said, “But I can confirm to you that the situation is getting better than before. People are becoming much more aware of insurance, unlike before.

“The issue of trust has been a big one. But that is one of the reasons why we decided to enter into the market. To change the narrative. And that is what we are doing. Today, I want to believe that people are hearing what they were not used to in terms of insurance.”

Emejo in Abuja

James Emejo in Abuja

AMES: Nigeria Could Recoup $9.1bn Freight Earnings Annually

In a drive to ensure the Nigerian maritime transport and blue economy sector optimally harness its potentials, the Association of Marine Engineers and Surveyors (AMES) organised a one-day conference that brought together stakeholders and regulatory agencies in the shipping industry

Flood:

to discuss the approaches for viable success in line with global best practices.

The one-day conference with the theme, “Marine Transport and Blue Economy: Route to sustainable Success,” saw the presentation of four papers by shipping operators and industry veterans, as well as panel discussions for each paper and

NPA Donates N200m to Borno Victims

In a corporate humanitarian gesture, the Management and Staff of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), have identified with victims of devastating floods that ravaged communities in Borno State recently with a donation of N200 million.

In a letter he personally signed, the Managing Director/ CEO of the NPA, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho said, “The Nigerian Ports Authority stands with Borno State during this very devastating occurrence that has resulted in huge losses and disruption of lives and livelihoods.

“As a token of support for your disaster relief efforts, the Nigerian

Ports Authority under the guidance of the Honourable Minister of Marine & Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola hereby donates the sum N200 million to aid efforts at stabilising the victims as quickly as possible.”

The Authority was represented at the presentation of the cheque to the Governor of Borno State in Maiduguri over the weekend by the trio of the Executive Director Engineering & Technical Services, Engr. Ibrahim Abba Umar, Executive Director Finance & Administration, Ms. Vivian Richard Edet and Executive Director Marine & Operations Engr. Olalekan Badmus.

PenCom Assures Pensioners of Addressing Accrued Rights Problem

Against the backdrop of continued delay in payment of retiring workers’ benefits as a result of delay in the release of their accrued rights by the federal government, the National Pension Commission (PenCom) has assured that it would collaborate with stake holders to resolve all accrued rights related problems causing unnecessary delays in payment of retiring workers’ benefits .

The Acting Director General PenCom, Ms. Omolara Oloworaran, gave the assurance at the workshop on the online enrollment application for desk officers of Federal Government treasury -funded MDAs held in Lagos.

She noted that the delay in release of accrued rights of workers by Federal Government negated the objectives of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

The Accrued Pension Rights represents an employee’s benefits for the past years of service up to June 2004, when the Pension

Reform Act (PRA) that birthed the CPS, came into effect.

The act establishing the CPS and PenCom insists that retiring workers can only access their retirement benefits when their Accrued Rights were released to add to the savings in their Retirement Savings Accounts.

“Although the current delay in release of funds by the Federal Government for the payment of retirees’ accrued rights negates the cardinal objective of the CPS of payment of retirement benefits as and when due, I would like to assure you that this situation will soon be resolved. It is also heart-warming to report to you that concerted efforts by the critical stakeholders have reached advanced stage, to not only clear all outstanding pension liabilities of the Federal Government under the CPS, but to also put in place lasting solutions that will address the problems of inadequate funding and delay in fund releases for the payment of accrued rights,” Oloworaran stated.

general interventions.

In his opening speech, the President of AMES, Israel Obadan expressed dissatisfaction at the current state of shipping activities the country, especially the lack of single digit interest loans for operators and the dearth of qualified engineers and master mariners.

Obadan, stated that the association has initiated plans for training arrangements with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and Dangote Refinery for the capacity

building of marine engineers, with emphasis on sea time.

While harping on experts inputs to ensure rapid maritime growth, the President stated that the association will continue to speak to the government until the needed changes are effected through capacity building, tax holiday and a conducive playing field for operators.

He lamented that the maritime regulatory agencies have failed to utilize experts in advisory or operational capabilities in furtherance to make significant

impacts , which in turn has resulted to no future progression plans .

On his part, Chairman of Starz Marine and Engineering Limited, Greg Ogbeifun, estimated that Nigeria could attract over $1billion foreign direct investment (FDI) and recoup $9.1billion annual freight earnings with the availability of Nigerian ships participating in global trade.

Amid the huge economic crisis plaguing the nation, Ogbeifun said: ”Figuratively, Nigeria will be poised to witness an upturn of $9.1billion freight revenue annually,

$5.42billion added to our gross domestic product (GDP) and $1.62 billion contribution to corporate income tax if it returns back to global trading.”

While observing that the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) opens a new vista for shipping development, he remarked that availability of Nigerian ships for the regional trade would have led to increased Foreign Direct Investment significantly leading to a 7% increase in Nigerian income from the current path by 2043.

Sanwo-Olu: Technology Will Enhance Governance, Impact Economic Growth

Emma Okonji

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has assured Nigerians that the state will continue to invest in technology to deliver government services to the people, insisting that technology will address inefficiency in governance, advance development and impact economic growth.

Sanwo-Olu said this in Lagos at the weekend, while addressing industry stakeholders during the Nigeria eGovernment Summit 2024, organised by DigiServe Network Services Limited.

The governor who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Science and Technology, Ibilola Kasumu, said Nigeria e-Government Summit 2024, reaffirmed government’s commitment to harnessing

technology’s potential to drive inclusive growth, enhance service delivery and foster transparency.

“Technology offers us an unprecedented opportunity to address inefficiencies in governance through the adoption of e-government strategies, where technology is seamlessly integrated into government processes and service delivery, to revolutionise governance in ways that can profoundly impact economic growth. Incorporating technology into governance brings with it many advantages that we cannot afford to ignore. First, it enhances the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of government service delivery. In a world where time and resources are precious, leveraging technology enables faster and more reliable service provisions, reduces bureaucratic bottlenecks and

eliminates redundant processes. It will help citizens to access government services from the comfort of their homes, and businesses, interact with government agencies more easily, leading to increased productivity and economic activity,” Sanwo-Olu said.

The Director General/CEO, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Abisoye Coker-Odusote, who presented one of the keynote addresses at the summit, laid more emphasis on the theme: ‘Transforming Governance with Technology for Improved Economy’.

Coker-Odusote who was represented by the Head, Enterprise Services and Network Infrastructure at NIMC, Elias Okafor, said government must leverage technology to create systems that are efficient and transparent, in order

to achieve better service delivery to the citizens and foster economic growth.

“Identity management is therefore key in unlocking the potential of digital services, ensuring security, trust and inclusivity in the ecosystem. NIMC will continue to provide the robust, secure and inclusive digital identity infrastructure that supports effective governance and empowerment of Nigerian economy,” Coker-Odusote said.

The Director-General/CEO, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, who was represented by the Director, eGovernment Development And Regulations at NITDA, Dimie Shively Wariowei, stressed on the benefits of technology in driving e-government services.

APM Terminals Extends Barge Capacity, Dedicates Lanes for Non-oil Exports

Nigeria’s largest container terminal, APM Terminals Apapa, has extended its barge capacity to accommodate more volumes of non-oil exports.

The company made this known at the second edition of its Exporters Forum in Lagos.

Chief Commercial Officer of APM Terminals Nigeria, Caroline Aubert-Adewuyi, emphasised the value of feedback from exporters and highlighted APM Terminals’ service improvements from the previous forum, including expanded barge slots, a new booking app, and enhanced rail services for smoother logistics.

“This forum is an opportunity

to hear feedback from our customers to continue building products that will help the exporters grow their business and grow Nigeria exports in the future,” she said.

Chief Financial Officer of APM Terminals Nigeria, Courage Obadagbonyi, highlighted the importance of non-oil exports in driving foreign exchange, job creation, and reducing inflation, particularly in light of fluctuating global oil prices.

“APM Terminals Apapa is committed to advancing the Federal Government’s economic diversification efforts by promoting non-oil exports.

As a result of our efforts in this regard, we have recorded a 25% increase of non-oil exports in throughput, handling 51,000 TEUs in the first half of 2024 compared to 47,000 TEUs in the same period of 2023,” Obadagbonyi said.

He stressed the need for further investments in transport infrastructure, streamlined export procedures, and higher-quality products to increase Nigeria’s non-oil export potential.

APM Terminals Apapa’s Head of Operations, Riyaz Melekolangath, said that an extended gate access and dedicated export lanes have been

created to cut turnaround times for export containers.

“What they are doing is to promote the heart of the business because export is sine qua non to the growth of a country. We need exports to balance our trade. We don’t want vessels coming and going without taking any cargo. We need to promote and enhance our capacity in export.

“APM Terminals have started taking our concerns into consideration, goods are now getting to the terminals on time and barging processes have become seamless,” President of the Barge Operators Association of Nigeria (BOAN), OlabunmiOlumekun, said.

L-R: Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Zulum; Executive Director Engineering & Technical Services, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Ibrahim Abba Umar; Executive Director Finance & Administration, Ms. Vivian Richard Edet and Executive Director Marine & Operations Olalekan Badmus during a visit to the governor to support victims of the recent flooding in the state

Ebere Nwoji

Arthur Eriye

This Week In Tech

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Rising Mobile Fraud: Dark Side of ‘Nigeria’s Mobile Money Revolution’

Nosa Alekhuogie writes about the alarming rise of mobile fraud, a growing challenge for consumers and banks in Nigeria. While the mobile money revolution has transformed financial accessibility, it has also exposed users to sophisticated fraud schemes, leaving many victims vulnerable to theft and exploitation. As the country navigates this digital shift, the need for enhanced security measures has never been more urgent

In Nigeria, the digital revolution has transformed how people conduct financial transactions, leading to a significant rise in mobile money usage. However, this shift has also paved the way for a surge in mobile fraud, posing serious threats to consumers and financial institutions alike. With reported losses escalating and various fraud tactics evolving, understanding and combating this issue is more important than ever.

UNDERSTANDING MOBILE MONEY FRAUD

Mobile money fraud encompasses deceptive practices aimed at harming users, providers, or third parties involved in mobile financial services. The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) defined it as fraud involving assets like money, personal information, or reputation. Fraudsters leverage deception to gain unauthorised access, often resulting in severe financial and reputational damage.

CATEGORIES OF MOBILE FRAUD

Various forms of mobile fraud exist, including impersonation or SIM swap, in which criminals impersonate network employees to extract personal details, allowing them to take control of victims’ accounts without their knowledge. Another mode is data mining scams focused on using phishing and smishing scams to trick users into providing sensitive information through fraudulent links. There is also the Wangiri scam, in which victims are lured into returning missed calls from premium international phone numbers, resulting in hefty charges.

MOBILE FRAUD: AN IN-DEPTH LOOK AT THE STATISTICS IN NIGERIA

Data gleaned from the Financial Institutions Training Centre (FITC) revealed that in the first quarter of 2023, Nigeria reported 12,553 fraud cases, reflecting a 14.07 per cent decrease from the previous quarter’s 14,609 cases. Despite this drop, mobile fraud remains a pressing concern, with losses reaching N1.1 billion—an 18.3 per cent increase from N938 million in Q4 2022. Mobile fraud accounted for 34.07 per cent of all fraud-related losses during this period, highlighting the ongoing challenges as the country embraces digital banking.

Further analysis showed that mobile fraud is increasingly prevalent. In Q1 2023, losses from mobile fraud represented a significant portion of total fraud, with a breakdown showing that mobile fraud accounted for N161 million, while computer/web fraud followed at 27.69 per cent (N130 million) and fraudulent withdrawals at 24.72 per cent (N116 million).

The trend continued into the second quarter of 2023, where there was a notable shift: the number of fraud cases involving outsiders decreased by 6.40 per cent, dropping from 12,351 in Q1 to 11,561 in Q2. Conversely, staff-related fraud incidents surged by 22.22 per cent, increasing from 72 to 88 cases.

As of the third quarter of 2023, mobile fraud, alongside computer/web fraud and fraudulent withdrawals, remained the leading types of fraud. There was a slight 3.31 per cent rise in overall fraud cases, increasing from 11,679 in Q2 to 12,066 in Q3. In terms of financial impact, mobile fraud accounted for N1.3 billion, representing 25.28 per cent of the total fraud amount, while fraudulent withdrawals reached N1.19 billion (23.05 per cent) and computer/web fraud totalled N1.17 billion (22.78 per cent).

By the fourth quarter of 2023, the number of reported fraud cases rose again to 12,405, marking a 2.81 per cent increase from Q3. Notably, the total monetary value involved in fraud cases skyrocketed by 34.12 per cent, escalating from N5.15 billion to N6.91 billion. The amount lost due to fraudulent activities surged dramatically, rising by 77.58 per cent from N1.18 billion to N2.09 billion.

In 2024, the second quarter saw a slight increase in reported fraud cases, totalling 11,532. While mobile and PoSrelated fraud persisted, losses attributed to mobile fraud decreased significantly by 59 per cent, dropping from N216.4 million in Q1 to N88.7 million in Q2. Conversely, losses through bank branches surged dramatically, accounting for N54 billion, or 95.63 per cent of the total fraud amount in Q2 2024.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST MOBILE FRAUD

The rise in mobile scams, such as phishing emails and SMS fraud, has reached alarming levels in Nigeria. Fraudsters increasingly impersonate trusted organisations to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information like bank account details or personal identification numbers. According to recent reports, online fraud activities have skyrocketed, costing Nigerian citizens millions of naira each year. Beyond financial losses, these scams inflict deep emotional scars on victims. Many experience feelings of shame, helplessness, and betrayal, especially when life savings or business funds are wiped out. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable, often facing credit issues and, in severe cases, bankruptcy due to fraudulent attacks. Victims also suffer long-term psychological stress, which affects their ability to rebuild both their financial stability and emotional well-being.

To tackle this growing threat, Nigerian banks need to prioritise enhancing their digital security. Investments in advanced cybersecurity, real-time transaction monitoring, and stringent identity verification systems are crucial. Regular security audits and testing must be conducted to uncover and rectify any system vulnerabilities. Strengthening fraud prevention must also include educating customers and employees on recognising and avoiding these scams.

Moreover, a robust partnership

between financial institutions and law enforcement is essential for tracking down fraudsters and recovering stolen funds. Fast response times can act as a significant deterrent to criminals. Nigerian banks should also ensure that they are up-to-date with regulatory requirements around fraud prevention and data security. By adopting these measures, banks can better safeguard both their institutions and customers from the growing threat of mobile fraud.

With mobile transactions becoming the norm, users need to be vigilant to protect themselves from fraud. Below are key tips.

USE VERIFIED APPS ONLY

Ensure that any app you download is from an authorised and verified source, such as Google Play or Apple’s App Store. Fraudulent apps designed to look genuine can steal sensitive data from unsuspecting users.

BROWSE ON SECURE WEBSITES

When shopping or banking online, always check for https:// at the beginning of the URL and a padlock symbol in the browser. These indicators show that the site is secure. Avoid entering personal details on sites that don’t meet these standards.

AVOID PUBLIC WIFI FOR FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS

Free wi-fi networks in places like cafes, airports, or hotels can be a hotbed for hackers. Never conduct financial transactions over unsecured networks to avoid your information being intercepted.

USE STRONG PASSWORDS

Create strong, unique passwords for your accounts, combining uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Update these passwords regularly to prevent unauthorised access to your accounts.

DON’T SHARE PERSONAL INFORMATION

Never give out personal details— whether online or offline—unless you’re sure of the identity of the person or organisation requesting it. Scammers often pose as bank representatives

to trick people into revealing sensitive information.

BEWARE OF SUSPICIOUS LINKS IN EMAILS, SMS

Fraudsters use fake emails and texts to lure victims to phishing sites. Be cautious of links promising lottery wins or job offers, and always verify the sender before clicking on anything.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR MOBILE DEVICE

Mobile devices are at the heart of our daily lives but are also prime targets for cybercriminals. One way to protect your mobile device is to enable auto-lock and use a strong passcode to ensure your phone locks automatically when idle. Modern devices offer features like fingerprint or facial recognition for extra security. If using a PIN, make it at least six digits.

Another way to protect your device is to activate ‘Find My Phone’. This feature can help you locate, lock, or even erase your phone remotely in case of theft or loss. Along with that, you can also back up your data regularly. By saving your data to the cloud or your computer, you won’t lose critical information if your phone is stolen or damaged.

Keep your software updated. Always install the latest operating system updates designed to patch any security gaps that hackers might exploit. In addition, if you must dispose of your device by giving it out, selling or trading it in, erase all personal data to prevent your information from falling into the wrong hands.

It is also important that you use payment apps safely. Only send money through apps like Venmo or CashApp to people you know personally. Double-check recipient details to avoid being scammed by fake profiles. You should also be wary of phishing attempts. Don’t trust unexpected emails or messages that ask for personal details. Always verify the legitimacy of the sender. You should avoid using public wi-fi. Never access sensitive accounts like banking apps over unsecured public wi-fi. Disable automatic connection to public networks in your phone’s settings.

You should enable two-step verification. Activate two-factor authentication on apps and accounts that support it. This adds an extra layer of protection, requiring a unique code in addition to your password when logging in.

Finally, refrain from returning suspicious calls. If you receive an unexpected international call, it is best not to return it, as it could be part of a scam.

HOMES & DESIGN

First Pension Custodian Raises Skyscraper on Victoria Island

The high street Akin Adesola on Victoria Island is home to premium motor distributorships and is fitted with high-profile office buildings. A new one is evolving as the head office highrise of First Pension Custodian. It has the potential to take the shine off most buildings on that street. Bennett Oghifo writes

The First Pension Custodian’s edifice is gradually taking shape and making a rare statement. It is located on Akin Adesola Street, with its sights on Adeola Odeku Street.

The five-storey building’s facade is made mostly of glass, a preferred material designed and used in modern construction. First Pension Custodian Nigeria Limited is a whollyowned subsidiary of First Bank of Nigeria Limited. Their origin dates back to 2005, when they were licensed to operate as a Pension Fund Custodian. This is a truly green building that Interstate Architects designed. The quantity surveyor was Anya Samm, and Associate PinConsult Associates Limited was the structural engineers. MacJoan Associates Limited undertook the mechanical and electrical works, and the main contractor is Ponti and Co Italware.

BUSINESS SPECIAL

H1: GTCO Beats the Odds to Hit N1tn Profit Milestone

Despite the challenging operating environment, Guaranty Trust Holding Company recorded a profit before tax of N1.004 trillion for the half year ended June 30, 2024, writes Kayode Tokede

Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) in its audited half year(H1) ended June 30, 2024 historically crossed the N1 trillion mark in profit before tax(PBT), becoming the first Nigerian financial institution to attain such milestone achievement.

The Group reported profit before tax of N1.004trillion in H1 2024, representing an increase of 206.6per cent over N327.4billion recorded in the corresponding period ended June 2023. Nigerian operations accounted for 84per cent, West Africa – 13per cent, East Africa – 1.1per cent, United Kingdom – 1.1per cent and Non-Banking Entities – 0.8per cent.

Also, the Group’s profit after tax (PAT) closed H1 2024 at N905.6 billion, about 222.86per cent increase from N280.48 billion reported in H1 2023.

On the H1 2024 earning s per share (EPS) of N32.12, the board proposed an interim dividend of N1.00 and it is an interim dividend yield of 2.11per cent as the stock price of GTCO closed Friday (September 20, 2024) at N47.50 on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX).

Amid macroeconomy challenges, the Group leveraged on effective management of topline performance, synergies created through the holding company(holdco) structure, utilising its robust foreign exchange liquidity, benefitting maximally from the structure of its balance sheet as Naira suffered massive devaluation, core banking operations played a critical role in remarkable PBT growth in H1 2024.

The Group’s gross earnings stood at N1.39 trillion in H1 2024, about 107 per cent increase from N672.6billion in H1 of 2023 due to growth in transactional volumes and sustenance of its solid balance sheet structure which led to significant increase in net interest earning and enhanced other income.

GTCO’s interest earnings moved to N617.9 billion in H1 2024, about 173.5per cent increase from N225.95 billion in H1 2023, primarily on the back of growth in Earning Assets (EA) volumes of Banking subsidiary resulting from increased funding and complemented by yield uptick, as well as increased interest earnings posted by GTCO Fund Managers(GTFM) and GTCO Pension Managers (GTPFA) as these business verticals effectively deployed assets under management (AUM) volumes to higher yielding investment securities. Average volumes of EA were up by 90.7per cent; earning asset yields improved y-o-y to 12.72per cent in H12024 from 9.93per cent in H1 2023. GTFM’s interest income grew from N5.1billion in H1 2023 to N19.6bn in H1-2024 principally from earnings on GT Investment Note Funds. GTPFA also complemented the Group’s interest earnings, posting N405.3million (60.9per cent)

growth (N1.07billion vs N0.66billion) during the same period.

The 173.5per cent growth in interest income was further assisted by the 73.4per cent growth recorded in non-funded income (N774.66billion from N446.66billionn).

Also, interest expenses stood at N126.4 billion in H1 2024, a growth of 160.6per cent from N48.5 billion in H1 2023, driven by the 642basis points and 780bassis points pick-up in the cost of savings account and time deposits on the back of adjustment to Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) to which interest paid on savings account is indexed; 18.75per cent in H1-2023 as against 26.25 per cent in H1-2024.

The Group’s net interest income moved from N177.46 billion in H1 2023 to N491.5 billion in H1 2024, about 177 per cent as the 173.5per cent increase in funded income was sufficient to douse the impact of 160.6per cent growth in interest expense.

The increase in interest rates impacted interest paid on savings accounts and time deposits, leading to an increase in the Group’s cost of funds from 1.4per cent in H1 2023 to 1.5per cent in H1 2024.

The Group booked sizeable loan impairment charges of N47.40 billion in H1 2024, though lower than the sum of N82.96billion that was charged in H1 2023, due to the level of risk buffers created in prior year and continued improvement in the loan book quality.

Notwithstanding weakening macroeconomic variables, the key driver of the predictive ECL model weighed negatively on the ECL allowance charged during the period causing management overlay on stage 2 facilities as permitted under IFRS 9 in line with its conservative posture of building up credit risk reserves to deal with adverse situations.

The Group also recognised N357.55 million in H1-2024 as an additional impairment charge on other financial assets (FA) as a mitigant against residual loss rate on its investment in Ghanaian sovereign securities and other foreign currency financial instruments whose underlying values are sensitive to adverse exchange rate movement.

Meanwhile, the Group total operating expenses (opex) increased to N201.80 billion in H1 2024, a growth of 60.7 per cent from N125.56 billion reported in H1 2023, primarily from an increase in Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) levy and Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) premium. Other contributory factors to Opex growth include incremental depreciation

charge arising from capital spending, rise in inflation to 34.2per cent in H1 2024 from 22.8per cent in H1 2023, precipitate by increased energy costs, and impact of adverse exchange rate movement of functional currencies against the Dollar in Nigeria and across other jurisdiction of operations outside Nigeria in H1 2024.

STRONGER BALANCE SHEET REFLECTS IN PROFIT BEFORE TAX

GTCO, however, reported a significant increase in deposits from customers and loans and advances to customers that impacted on total assets in the period under review.

The Group recorded growth across all its asset lines and continues to maintain a well-structured, healthy, and diversified balance sheet across all jurisdictions where it operates a banking franchise as well as across its Payments, Pension, and Funds Management business verticals: closing H1 2024 with total assets of N14.5trillion, representing a 49.7per cent growth over N9.7 trillion recorded in 2023.

The growth in the Group’s balance sheet was primarily from the 40.4 per cent increase in the asset base of GTBank Ltd, its flagship subsidiary as the bank benefited from the net impact of devaluation on its Foreign Currency (FCY) denominated assets and liabilities (USD to Naira at the I&E Window closed $1/N1505.30 in H12024 vs $1/N907.11 in FY-2023).

Total assets of the non-banking subsidiaries also increased significantly by 83 per cent (N292.0 billion) to N642.2 billion in H1 2024 from N350.2 billionn in 2023, resulting in a 4.4 per cent contribution to the Group’s total assets relative to 3.6 per cent posted in 2023, thereby complementing the growth from banking group.

Earning asset mix improved by three per cent to 69.3per cent in H1 2024 from 66.4 per cent in 2023 on account of 56.3 per cent growth in earning assets (N10.054trillion as against N6.435trillion), which was principally influenced by the effective and efficient utilisation of deposit liabilities which grew 38.4 per cent. The synergies created by the Holdco structure enabled the increase and aided retention of funds across all business verticals.

In spite of the Group’s cautious approach to loan growth, net loans closed June 2024 at N3.11trillion, 25.5 per cent growth from N2.48trillion in 2023.

The Group increased its investments in risk free assets, leveraging improving yields in the Fixed Income (FIS) space. FIS

portfolio volume grew by 56.1per cent (N1.449 trillion) to N4.033 trillion from N2.584 trillion and yield on the portfolio picked up 918basis points to settle at 15.9 per cent.

The funding base comprising customer deposits (72.7 per cent), equity (16.5per cent), customer escrow balances (1.3per cent from 0.8 per cent) and other borrowed funds (two per cent from 0.7 per cent in 2023) remains very stable and well distributed.

Meanwhile, GTCO’s Customer deposit liabilities grew by 38.4per cent to N10.254 trillion in H1 2024 from N7.411 trillion in 2023, with low-cost funds growing by 35.4per cent (N8.889 trillion vs N6.565 trillion) resulting in low-cost deposit mix of 87per cent, a slight dip of two per cent from 89 per cent recorded in 2023.

On the back of increase in Naira deposits and modification to Cash Reserve Requirement (CRR) determinants by Bank of Ghana (BOG), total sterilised funds (SF) grew by 8.3 per cent to N1.782 trillion in H1 2024 from N1.647 trillion in 2023, CRR and SIR balances with CBN represented 99 per cent of this sum, closing at N1.732trillion and N50.6billion, respectively. Consequently, CRR ratio to Naira deposits closed at 43.3per cent in H1 2024 from 42per cent in 2023, a 1.7per cent (170bps) shy of the harmonised CRR of 45per cent advised by the CBN.

The Group’s performance attests to its resilience and responsiveness to daunting challenges which pervaded the operating environment in H1 2024 such as elevated inflation and heightened foreign exchange risks.

GROUP’S STRONGER FINANCIAL RATIOS

In spite of the challenges which characterised the operating environment with attendant negative impact on businesses and households in H1 2024, the Group posted Pre-tax Return on Average Assets of 15 per cent and Pre-tax Return on Average Equity of 93.4 per cent on the back of efficient and timely deployment of appropriate strategies to deal with challenges as they arise.

The Group continued to maintain strong capital positions with Full IFRS 9 impact Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) of 21per cent (Bank:19.9per cent), 600 basis points above the regulatory minimum of 15 per cent and 500 basis points if adjusted for one per cent loss absorbency ratio.

Tier 1 capital remained a very significant component of the Group’s CAR closing at 19.3 per cent representing 92per cent of the Group’s CAR of 21per cent. The robust capital position provides the Group with the needed headroom required for future expansion and risk-taking.

Access Pension Sensitises Individuals on Portfolio Diversification, Strategies for Retirement

Nume Ekeghe

To enhance pension education in Nigeria, Access Pension has advised Nigerians on the importance of balancing their risk appetite while exploring portfolio diversification and making strategic investments for retirement.

This was highlighted during the recent, ‘Plan Smart, Secure Your Future,’ webinar organised by Access Pensions. The event, which focused on the theme, “Pensions Unpacked: Mastering Retirement Planning,” featured key officials from the firm sharing insights on prudent financial strategies for individuals planning for retirement.

Speaking, Deputy Lead Ecosystem Orchestrator at Access Pensions, Adaeze Raji, stressed the importance

of striking a balance between risk and return when building a retirement portfolio.

“The most important thing is balancing your risk and return scale. And this is particularly relevant when looking at stocks and bonds,” Raji said during the session.

She elaborated further, noting: “When you’re thinking about investing towards retirement, you can be conservative, meaning you have a low-risk appetite, which implies balancing investments between variable income and fixed income instruments. Alternatively, if you have a high-risk appetite, you might lean heavily towards high-yielding investments like equities.”

Raji also encouraged participants to diversify their investments and seek financial

knowledge. “Seek instrument diversification to limit downside risks, obtain some exposure to USD assets to mitigate the impact of exchange rate weakness, and consult a good financial adviser,” she recommended.

Head of Strategy and Products/PCD North at Access Pensions, Bilkisu Ogirima discussed how retirees can unlock homeownership by using 25 percent of their Retirement Savings Account (RSA) for mortgage payments.

“Unlocking RSA savings for mortgage down payments will be catalytic for the development of the housing market,” Ogirima said. She noted that while guidelines for the scheme were released in September 2022, RSA mortgage applications and approvals began in Q2 of 2023.

FCT-IRS to Give CSR to Local Businesses

The Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS) said it intends to focus more on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by giving back to businesses and communities across the territory.

The Acting Executive Chairman Michael Ango, disclosed this when he hosted a delegation of Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), led by the President, Chief Emeka Obegolu.

He said: “The FCT-IRS as a tax authority will now be visible in the area of CSR. We can go to the market, plazas and offer assistance by improving their facilities in order to have a conducive environment. In doing this, they will understand that we are not only coming to take from them but to also give

to support their businesses”.

He pledged support for businesses to thrive in the territory in anyway he can for the progress of the FCT, adding that the focus of the current administration was to improve the ease of doing business and create a conducive environment for businesses to grow.

Ango said the Service under his leadership was mapping out strategies to promote voluntary compliance by the taxpayers adding that, in taxation voluntary compliance was the best form of compliance.

He thanked the ACCI team for the visit and assured of the support and continued collaboration by the Service to promote business activities in the FCT.

Earlier in his remarks, Obegolu, congratulated the FCT-IRS Chairman on his appointment and expressed

gratitude for the historical support the Service has rendered, emphasizing the positive impact on business opportunities.

He noted that the major mandate of ACCI, being the voice of the private sector in the FCT was to advance the ease of doing business in the FCT and advocate for policies of government that will support it.

“We work with four focal centres in ACCI.The first is the national chambers of commerce dispute resolution centre, it is a centre established within ACCI with mandate to promote effective dispute resolution in commercial disputes. Second is the national chamber of commerce dispute which serves the business community in the FCT and we believe that with the appropriate policies of government it can serve in tax dispute resolution.

Jaiz Wins 2024 Global Most Promising Islamic Bank Award

Nume Ekeghe

Jaiz Bank, Nigeria’s pioneer Non-Interest Bank, has emerged as the global Most Promising Islamic Bank in 2024.

The Global Islamic Finance Awards (GIFA) yesterday announced Jaiz Bank as the overall winner in this category over two other nominees of equal pedigrees, during the Global Islamic Finance Summit (GIFS) and awards ceremony in the picturesque Republic of Maldives.

In a statement, GIFA’s

Chairman, Professor Humayon Dar, said: “The GIFA Awards Committee evaluated several institutions within the same category and, after a rigorous assessment based on multiple factors outlined in the GIFA methodology, selected Jaiz Bank Plc for this distinguished recognition.”

He also asserted that the Bank was recognised for reinforcing its leadership position as a financial institution that stands out in terms of exceptional growth potential, innovation, and financial performance.

Receiving the Award, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Jaiz Bank Plc, Haruna Musa, expressed his gratitude on behalf of the Board, Management, and Staff of the Bank.

He also acknowledged the significance of the award, he said: “it is a vital milestone in realizing the Bank’s strategic vision, emphasizing that the recognition aligns with Jaiz Bank’s goal of becoming one of Africa’s leading non-interest financial institutions within the next five years.

NOVA Bank Announces Isiavwe, Iloghalu Executive Directors

Kayode Tokede

The management of NOVA Bank has announced the appointment of David Isiavwe as Executive Director, Operations and Information Technology, and Chinwe Iloghalu as Executive Director, Institutional and Commercial Banking.

According to the financial institution, the appointments are part of its plan to strengthen its leadership team as the Bank continues its innovative journey, following its recent transition to a

national commercial bank.

Commenting on the appointments, the Chairman of NOVA Bank, Phillips Oduoza in a statement said,

“The addition of Dr. Isiavwe and Mrs. Iloghalu marks a critical point in constituting the management team that will lead NOVA into its next phase of growth.

“David’s expertise in technology will be key in enhancing our phygital model, while Chinwe’s strong business drive and relationship management coupled with the retail and product engine of

the bank will be instrumental in driving the Bank’s strategic intent to become a formidable player in the banking industry.

“Their deep understanding of digital and electronic banking will significantly contribute to our trademarked phygital experience, which seamlessly combines the best of in-person service and bespoke digital solutions to serve our customers. Both leaders bring valuable experience that aligns perfectly with NOVA’s vision to be Africa’s preferred financial solutions provider.”

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),

L-R: Global Islamic Finance Awards (GIFA) Chairman, Prof. Humayon Dar presenting award for Most Promising Islamic Bank to Jaiz Bank MD/CEO, Haruna Musa during the 14th GIFA ceremony in the republic of Maldives... recently

Olawale Ajimotokan

H1: Access Holdings Record N20.1tn Customers’ Deposits, N36.6tn Assets

Kayode Tokede

Access Holdings Plc has declared N20.1 trillion in deposits from customers as of half year ended June 2024, about 31.3per cent increase from N15.3 trillion reported in 2023 financial year, while its gross loans and advances to customers stood at N12.3 trillion as of June 2024, representing an increase of 37.6per cent from N8.90 trillion reported in 2023

The reported deposits from customers and loans and advances

to customers lifted the Pan-African financial institution’s total assets to N36.6 trillion as of June 2024, making it the largest in Nigeria.

The financial institution in its audited result and accounts for H1 2024 posted on the Nigeria Exchange Limited (NGX) demonstrated strong performance across all key balance sheet indicators and continues to maintain a well-structured, healthy, and diversified financial position.

Access Holdings reported tripledigit growth across all profitability

metrics, with gross revenue that increased significantly to N2.2 trillion in H1 2024, about 133.5 per cent increase from N940 billion in H1 2023.

According to the bank, the increase was supported by higher interest and non-interest earnings in the period. Also, the group’s interest income surpassed the N1 trillion mark to N1.47 trillion H1 2024, representing an increase of 142 per cent from N606.8 billion in H1 2023 amid expansion of risk assets and effective pricing.

IN the period under review, thee Group’s profit before tax moved to N348.97 billion in H1 2024, about 108.2 per cent increase from N167.6 billion declared in H1 2023, while profit after tax stood at N281.3 billion in H1 2024, 107.7 per cent increase from N135.4 billion reported inn H1 2023. This resulted in a 103per cent growth in earnings per share (EPS), which increased from N3.74 in H1 2023 to N7.58 in H1 2024.

On the banking group per-

formance, the statement stated that, “Despite the challenging operating environment and tight monetary policy stance, Access Banking Group recorded strong year-on-year growth across all performance metrics, with Interest and non-interest income contributed significantly to gross earnings.

“Net interest income grew by 131per cent from N232.2 billion in half year 2023 to N536.7 billion in half year 2024. Fees and commissions increased by 94per

cent year on year from N119.8 billion to N232.5 billion from higher transaction volumes on our digital channels, credit related fees and card payments.

“The Banking Group subsidiaries contributed 55peer cent to the Group’s Profit Before Tax (PBT), demonstrating the significant impact of their operations and growing importance in driving overall profitability. Year-on-year, their PBT performance grew by 218per cent from N63.3 billion to N201.7 billion.

LAUNCH

OF WILDLIFE AND FOREST CRIME ANALYTIC

TOOLKIT ASSESSMENT REPORT...

L-R: Commissioner of Police in Charge of Administration, Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) of the Nigeria Police Force NPF, Ajani Musibau Omolabi; Representative of Minister of Environment/Director of Planning, Research and Statistics,Mr. Stanley Jonah; Director of Forest Tree,Mr. Moses Ama; and Africa Coordinator, UNODC Global Programme for Crimes that Affect the Environment, Mr. Giovanni Broussard, during the launch of the International Consortium on Combating Wildlife Crime (ICCWC), wildlife and forest crime analytic toolkit assessment report for Nigeria, held in Abuja .. recently

Stakeholders Advocate Collective Responsibility in Tackling Sexual, Gender-Based Violence

Mary Nnah

The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Agency (DSVA), in collaboration with the Rule of Law and the AntiCorruption Programme (RoLAC II), recently commemorated Child Protection Week with a resounding message of collective responsibility in addressing Sexual and GenderBased Violence (SGBV).

Themed “SGBV? Not On My Watch!,” the first day of this year’s campaign held at Eko Boys High School, Mushin, underscored the urgency of tackling the menace of SGBV through a unified effort from all stakeholders, with special focus on empowering the younger generation.

The event, which drew participation from school children across the state, highlighted the need for awareness and capacity building to equip children with the tools necessary to recognize, report, and combat SGBV in their communities and schools.

Through interactive workshops, presentations, and the distribution of educational materials such as textbooks and posters, the programme successfully engaged children on how to identify signs of abuse and seek the appropriate help when necessary. A central focus of the event was the empowerment of school children through educational resources aimed at raising awareness about the prevalence of SGBV.

The capacity-building initiative, which aims to strengthen children's understanding of their rights, also trained them on how to report cases of SGBV to the appropriate authorities.

RoLAC II reaffirmed its commitment to making justice accessible to the most vulnerable populations, including children, women, persons with disabilities, and victims of SGBV.

Through its partnership with the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), RoLAC II strives

International Day of Peace: Nigeria Needs Strong Institutions for Peace Building, Says Rotary Governor

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

The Assistant Governor, Rotary District 9141, Zone 9, Hon. Akpodiogaga Emeyese, has said the country needs strong executive, legislative and judicial institutions for peace building initiatives to provide fundamental services to her citizens.

He noted that the initiatives should aimed to promote non-violent mechanisms that eliminate violence, foster structures that meet basic human needs and maximize public participation.

Emeyese, a former member of the National Assembly said this over the while delivering a key note address during the International Day of Peace organized by Rotary Action Group for Peace, Nigeria Chapter, Delta State branch in Warri.

The theme of the event held at College of Education, Warri, was "Cultivating a Culture of Peace".

He noted that it was crucial to establish and maintain the rule of law and implement rules and procedures that constrain powers of all parties and hold them accountable for their actions adding "These can help to ease tension, create stability and lessen the likelihood of further conflict.

Emeyese said cultivating the culture of Peace was beyond rhetorics and semantics but with peace building focused on social, economic and political foundations that serves the needs of the populace.

Head, Drug Demand Reduction Unit, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Delta Port Command, Superintendent of Narcotics, Mrs. Adeosun Olabisi, highlighted the effects of drug abuse and its attendant threat to peace in the country.

She urged parents to help the agency in educating their wards on the to stay off drugs for them to achieve their God given talents adding that NDLEA alone cannot curb the menace of drugs.

Olabisi drew the attention of the parents to the fact that the youths have gone beyond taking already known drugs to using and mixing unexpected substances to get high.

"It is not only drugs that our youths and children are using in Nigeria, today especially in Delta State. They now abuse household items in our kitchen in our house. Anytime, your maggi is missing, please don't think it is rat that takes them away. It is possible that our children are using it to mix with other substances to abuse drugs", she said.

to enhance child protection measures and safeguard children's physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

On the second day of the Child Protection Week’s commemoration, a symposium was held at the Marriott Hotel, Ikeja, to assess the progress made in addressing SGBV in Lagos State over the past decade.

The event brought together key stakeholders, including policymakers, law enforcement officers, civil society organizations, and development partners, to review the state's efforts and renew their commitment to ending SGBV.

In her opening remarks, Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, Executive Secretary of the DSVA, emphasized the critical importance of collective efforts in the fight against SGBV.

She highlighted the agency's work over the past decade, stressing that while significant progress had been made, there is still much to be done.

Prof. Ayodele Atsenuwa, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, presented a policy brief that detailed the Lagos State government’s initiatives in tackling SGBV. The policy brief provided insights into both the achievements and challenges faced, as well as key areas for further improvement.

Day three of the Child Protection Week was held at Ideal Girls Junior High School.

In a keynote, Mrs. Ajibola Ijimakinwa, Lagos State Project Coordinator for RoLAC II/ International IDEA, reiterated the importance of collective

responsibility in eradicating SGBV from schools, stressing the need for every stakeholder, including students, teachers, parents, and government bodies, to work together to protect children from abuse.

There was an interactive training session led by Miss Odunbo, focusing on child abuse, its prevention, and the support systems available from the Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Agency (DSVRA).

Miss Odunbo engaged the students in meaningful discussions about the different forms of abuse, how to recognize them, and how to report incidents of abuse to the appropriate authorities.

The event saw participation from four schools within the Obele Community, including

Ideal

and Obele Community Junior High School.

Over 300 students were actively involved in the sessions, gaining valuable knowledge on how to identify and prevent abuse in their surroundings.

RoLAC is a European Unionfunded program implemented by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA). The programme works across seven states in Nigeria and at the federal level, focusing on improving access to justice, especially for women, children, persons with disabilities, and victims of sexual and gender-based violence.

FG Says Legal Frameworks to Safeguard Country’s Biodiversity Being Reviewed

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The federal government has said it is currently reviewing the nation’s legal frameworks, among other steps to safeguard the country’s biodiversity and curb the illegal activities that is presently threatening Nigeria’s wildlife and natural heritage.

Speaking at the launch of the international consortium on combating wildlife toolkit assessment report for Nigeria, the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abass, said the Nigeria stand at a critical juncture in our nation’s efforts to safeguard its rich biodiversity and to curb the illegal activities that threaten our wildlife and natural heritage.

He said: “Nigeria is a nation blessed with an abundance of natural endemic iconic natural resources such as gorilla, elephant, pangolin, ostrich, lion, flora, including some of the world’s most diverse ecosystems.

“However, these blessings come with immense responsibility. Over the past few decades, we have witnessed an alarming increase in wildlife crime, including poaching, illegal logging, and trafficking of endangered species.

“These crimes only threaten our environment but also undermine the rule of law, fuel corruption, and deprive communities of their livelihoods, undermine public health and natural security.”

The minister, represented by the

Director Planning, Research and Statistics in the Ministry, Stanley Jonah, noted that the ICCWC toolkit assessment report was a comprehensive and timely document that provides us with a clear-eyed view of the challenges we face, as well as the opportunities for strengthening our efforts to combat wildlife crime.

He disclosed that one of the key findings of the report highlights the need for enhanced coordination among national agencies, improved law enforcement capacity, and stronger legal frameworks in response.

Lawal said: “in response, the Federal Government of Nigerians taken several proactive steps. We have strengthened the capacity of our law enforcement agencies, currently reviewing our legal frameworks, signed the Cooperation Agreement Framework between Nigeria and Cameroon on Transboundary Ecosystems Conservation and Sustainable Management of Wildlife and Forest Resources and increased public awareness on the importance of wildlife conservation.”

While acknowledging that wildlife crime was complex for it is transnational issues, the minister that requires a multi-faceted and collaborative approach, noted that the recommendations in the ICCWC toolkit assessment report provide us with a valuable guide as we work

to improve “our efforts.”

He said: “As we launch this important report today, I urge all stakeholders, government agencies, international partners, civil society organisations, and the private sector to come together and renew our collective commitment to combating wildlife crime,” adding that: “Let us remember that the protection of our wildlife is not just an environmental issue, it is a matter of national security, economic prosperity, and global responsibility.”

On his part, the Officer-in-Charge, UNODC Country Office, Nigeria, Danilo Campisi. said: “The World Wildlife Crime Report 2024 reminds us that the harms resulting from wildlife crime include a range of interlinked negative environmental, social, economic, and governance impacts, which are evident in the ongoing exploitation of Nigeria’s rich biodiversity.”

Campisi, while commending the Nigeria Customs Service for its efforts which has resulted in increased seizures at land, sea, and airport border points, two-thirds of all seizures involving Nigeria were reported by authorities of other countries, said this suggests that interception capabilities still need to be strengthened. He added that: “Enhanced information exchange and cooperation with relevant authorities in countries

of origin, transit, and destination offer opportunities for intelligenceled operations and parallel or joint investigations aimed at detecting and dismantling trafficking networks.

“In this context, it is critical to understand what further steps are required to tackle the illegal trade in wildlife and forest products.

“The ICCWC Analytical Toolkit for Nigeria, conducted by UNODC in cooperation with all relevant Nigerian authorities under the overall lead of the Federal Ministry of Environment, examines the effectiveness of the legal and regulatory environment, as well as the institutional capacities of specialized law enforcement, prosecution, and the judiciary to prevent, detect, investigate, prosecute, and adjudicate wildlife and forest crimes.

“This assessment provides important inputs for the effective implementation of the National Strategy to Combat Wildlife and Forest Crime in Nigeria 2022-2026, which was first launched in 2022.”

He explained that: “The ICCWC toolkit report provides us with new insights and recommendations aimed to strengthen the legal and institutional response to wildlife and forest crime in Nigeria and I urge all national stakeholders to work together to advance the implementation of these recommendations.”

Girls Junior High School, Ideal Girls Senior High School, Obele Community Senior High School,

CIBN VISITS SANWO-OLU.

..

L-R: Registrar Chief Executive; Akin Morakinyo; HCIB; 1st Vice President; Mr. Dele Alabi; FCIB; President Chairman of Council; CIBN; Prof Pius Deji Olanrewaju; FCIB; Governor of Lagos State; His Excellency Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; 2nd Vice President; Mrs Mojisola Bakare-Asieru; FCIB and the National Treasurer; Dr. Peter Ashade; FCIB at the courtesy call to the Governor in Lagos ..recently

Oil Theft: Army Arrests 18 Suspects, Destroys 13 Illegal Refining Sites in N'Delta

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt Troops of the Nigerian Army, 6 Division, at the weekend clamped down on the hideouts of suspected crude oil thieves and arrested 18 suspects in communities in the Niger Delta region.

A release by the Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Jonah Danjuma, said the troops also neutralised two armed vandals, recovered two AK 47 rifles, destroyed seven boats, discovered eight illegal connection points and confiscated over 60,000 litres of stolen products across the region.

Danjuma said the achievement was in line with the ongoing anti-illegal bunkering operations, assuring that the army will continue to dominate

the Niger Delta Region with enormous operational successes recorded.

"Following credible intelligence on a criminal attempt to vandalise Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) pipeline, traversing Upatabo Community in Ahoada West LGA, troops swiftly mobilised to the scene. On getting to the scene, the criminal elements engaged troops in fire fight.

"In the gun duel that ensued, troops neutralised 2 of the criminals, recovered two AK 47 rifles, eight magazines and 69 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) ammunition, while others fled in disarray. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.

"At Bille in Degema LGA, troops deactivated four illegal refining sites, two wooden boats and handled over 6,000 litres of stolen products. Likewise

at Odagba village, at the fringes of Imo River, troops intercepted two wooden boats with over 5,000 litres of stolen products, destroyed one oven and receiver each within the swampy area of Odagba village."

"Along the road Ndoni Obiafu, troops sighted suspected oil thieves who fled and abandoned two vehicles, a KIA with Reg No DG 991 PHC Rivers and a Toyota Avalon with Reg No GWB 972 HM Abia with four motorcycles. Further surveillance revealed the vehicles were loaded with over 28 sacks suspected to be illegally refined products estimated to be over 1,700 litres of stolen products," the statement added.

In another development, Danjuma said troops on routine patrol arrested two suspected oil thieves within the

vicinity of an illegal connection point, along Edia bridge Ndoni in Ogba/ Egbema/Ndoni LGA.

He said: "At Imo River, two active illegal refining sites were deactivated around Owaza Odogwa Creeks, four wooden boats used criminality were destroyed, four pumping machines, over 10 cooking pots as well as several items were recovered with over 6,000 litres of stolen products confiscated.

"At Alakiri general area in Okrika LGA, troops deactivated one illegal refining site, equipped with several fabricated ovens, and unquantified litres of stolen products".

In Delta State, he revealed that "at Okpoko in Warri South LGA, one wooden boat was intercepted late at night siphoning crude from Well 8 at Okpoko Oil Field, the suspected oil

NDLEA Intercepts N16.1bn Opioids, Arrests Octogenarian, Community Leader’s Wives, Son

As Iran-bound drug mule excretes 76 wraps of cocaine at Kano airport

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, have intercepted a total of TwentyFive Million (25,000,000.00) pills of tapentadol, an opioid three times stronger than tramadol and Three Hundred and Fifty Thousand (350,000) bottles of codeine-based syrup at the Tincan port complex in Lagos. The seizures were made on Tuesday 17th and Friday 20th September 2024 from three containers which had been on the watchlist of the Agency following processed intelligence. As a result, the NDLEA had requested for 100% joint examination of the shipments with men of the Nigeria Customs Service and other security agencies.

The 25 million pills of tapentadol have an estimated street value of Thirteen Billion Seven Hundred and TwentyFive Million Naira (N13,725,000,000.00) while the codeine consignment has an estimated street value of Two Billion Four Hundred and Fifty Million Naira (N2,450,000,000.00), bringing the total value of the seizures to Sixteen Billion One Hundred and Seventy Five

Million Naira (N16,175,000,000.00). The tapentadol consignment packed in 500 cartons was discovered in one of the containers on Tuesday 17th September while another container examined same day contained 175,000 bottles of Barcadin cough syrup with codeine packed in 875 cartons. The third container containing 175,000 bottles of CSC cough syrup with codeine was examined on Friday 20th September. Meanwhile, operatives of the Lagos State Strategic Command of the Agency on Friday 20th September arrested an 80-year-old grandfather, Pa Aremu Shojobi with 14 kilograms of cannabis at his home in Iyana Ipaja area of the state. In his statement, the Octogenarian claimed he has been in the business of selling illicit drugs for 25 years. He further claimed he gets his supplies from Benin republic, and sells to his customers from his residence between 7am and 10pm every day.

In the same vein, NDLEA operatives in Lagos on Wednesday 18th September raided the two homes of a community leader and Sarkin Yamma of Badagry West LCDA, Alhaji Bashir Mohammed Talba,

where a total of 226kg of cannabis was recovered from his two wives and son. Though Alhaji Talba is currently at large, a search of his house in Ashipa area of Seme Badagry led to the recovery of 93 compressed blocks of cannabis sativa weighing 57.6kg from his first wife, Asma'u Bashiru, 35, and son, Sadat Bashiru, 22, while another search of his house at Aketegbo area of Seme Badagry led to the seizure of 302 compressed blocks of cannabis weighing 168.6kg from his second wife Hauwa Bashir, 42.

No less than 720 blocks of Arizona, a strain of cannabis weighing 390kg were also recovered from a Mitsubishi delivery van marked MUS 720 XH at Ojo area of Lagos on Monday 16th September.

At the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA), Kano, NDLEA operatives on Sunday 15th September arrested a 38-year-old drug mule, Okafor Ifeanyi Anthony while attempting to board a Qatar Airlines flight to Iran via Doha with 76 wraps of cocaine in his stomach. After three days in excretion observation, Okafor excreted the 76 pellets of the ingested cocaine weighing 1.267kg.

In Kogi state, NDLEA officers on patrol along Okene-Lokoja-Abuja expressway on Tuesday 17th September recovered 700,000 pills of exol-5 coming from Lagos for distribution in Kano and Kaduna, while a suspect Udemefuna Chibuike, 23, was arrested by operatives on Friday 20th September along MokwaJebba road, Niger state, in possession of 49,000 tablets of tramadol, 20,000 tablets of diazepam, 100 ampoules of tramadol injection and 50 bottles of cough syrup with codeine.

A total of 451 blocks of cannabis weighing 213kg were intercepted along Azikiwe road, Port Harcourt, Rivers state on Wednesday 18th September, by NDLEA officers who apprehended a suspect Ogochukwu Paul, 33, conveying the consignment to a notorious drug haven in Borikiri.

While operatives in Plateau state on Friday 20th September arrested a wanted suspect Jonathan Ali Abuttur, 46, at Agingi- Rukuba road Bassa LGA in possession of 808kg of cannabis sativa concealed in 68 bags of sugar and fertilizer, their counterparts in Kwara also nabbed Shaibu Musa with 28kg of the same psychoactive substance.

thieves fled into the bush on sighting troops.

Relatedly, at Ndemili Community, a border between Ndokwa West and Ika North LGAs, he said troops discovered and confiscated a reservoir stocked with over 2,000 litres of stolen crude.

"Troops also sighted sacks in the general area concealed, suspected to be used in transporting stolen products. Further combing of the area, led to the arrest of five suspected oil thieves.

At Oleh, following a tip-off, troops intercepted two vehicles, a Honda Accord with Reg No Taraba USS 431 AA and Pacio mini bus with Reg No Lagos APP 296 EP ladened 33 sacks of stolen products within Asaba and Ase communities in Ndokwa East LGA.

"At Orde bridge, along road Odorobu Bomadi in Bomadi LGA, troops arrested a Toyota bus with Reg No AR 284 loaded with 20 cellophane bags stocked with stolen products and carefully concealed inside 67 empty crates of bottled drinks. The driver of

the vehicle has been arrested. While, at Burutu 3 persons have been arrested with stolen products.

"In Bayelsa State, along the Nun River in Southern Ijaw LGA, troops intercepted seven suspects in two fibre boats with sacks of stolen products estimated to be over 1,000 litres. At Clough Creek in Ekeremor LGA, troops intercepted one suspect with navdalised NAOC armoured cables, one saw, one iron bar and a shovel in a locally made wooden boat.” Also, at Apuama in Southern Ijaw, he said troops deactivated one illegal refining site and confiscated over 3,000 stolen products.

This feat, he said, was also recorded at Okegbene creeks, where two illegal refining sites, drums and one wooden boat were destroyed. The operations also led to the confiscation of over 10,000 litres of stolen products. Same was also done at Obotoro Creek, where one wooden boat was intercepted with over 1,500 litres of stolen crude.

UNIOSUN Leads in Teacher Devt: 199 Graduate Teachers Inducted, Gifted Cash Awards, Scholarships

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

The Osun State University College of Education (UNIOSUN COE), Ipetu Ijesa Campus, at the weekend, demonstrated its commitment to excellence in teacher development, with the induction of 199 graduate teachers into the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN).

This milestone ceremony, held yesterday at the University main campus Osogbo, marks a significant step forward in strengthening the education sector in Nigeria and underscores UNIOSUN COE’s leadership role in shaping the next generation of educators.

The Provost of the College of Education Osun State University, Professor Florence Adeoti Yusuf, a professor of Guidance and Counselling, in her welcome address highlighted the crucial role teachers play in shaping society. She emphasised that without teachers, no other profession would exist.

According to the erudite professor,

teachers are the architects of society, laying the foundation for future generations.

According to her, "They are the unsung heroes inspiring minds and shaping destinies.

"The ceremony also came with some exciting announcements! Afolabi Celestina Aderonke, the overall best graduating student was awarded a scholarship covering her studies from Master to PhD level and a one hundred thousand Naira cash gift courtesy of Senator Kamorudeen Olalere, the Deputy Minority Leader of the 10th Senate Assembly of Nigeria." Additionally, six other students: Olawoyin Kebeerat Gbemisola; Eboda Abosede Mary; Ajayi Muizat Gbemisola; Abdulsalam Amirah Ayomide; Makinde Zainab Akonke; Odeyemi Temiloluwa Faith with outstanding performance of CGPA above 4.O received cash gifts of N100,000 each from Prof. Dayo Akinmoladun and Crown Prince Babajide Agunbiade Oke of Ipetu-Ijesa Kingdom.

NATIONAL SOCIAL INSURANCE TRUST FUND VISIT...

L-R: Director, National Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Mr. Adedeji Adegoke; the Managing Director, National Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Mr Oluwaseun Faleye; the Director General/CEO, Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde; Director, Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Mrs. Adenike Adebayo-Ajala and the Managing Director, Pro-Health HMO, ) Mr. Chinedu Nnabuihe during a courtesy visit by NECA management to the new management of the National Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) in Abuja recently.

But the PDP and LP State Agents, Osaigbovo Iyoha and Sam Omede, refused to endorse the result announced by INEC as both walked out of the collation centre after the declaration by INEC.

The APC, which was thrown into wild jubilation and described their win as victory for democracy, had mobilised heavily to the state with 10 governors and several other prominent leaders of the party across the country.

APC, which considered the election important to the president, did not take any chances as it distributed its team to different parts of Edo in order to avoid leaving any loose end.

Although Obaseki had vowed to seek justice in court, APC, however, successfully made the election a referendum on the outgoing governor, taking advantage of his feud with different power centres in the state and the federal government, including Oba of Benin and Senator Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, amongst others.

Tinubu, Buhari, Barau Greet Okpebholo

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the APC candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo on his victory at the polls.

The President, in a release by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, commended APC national leaders, Edo State leaders, and party governors for working hard to achieve victory.

According to him, the victory testified to the people's support for the ruling party, its progressive ideals, its economic reengineering programme and its commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians.

He urged Okpebholo not to gloat over his victory but to see it as a challenging call to service and encouraged him to demonstrate magnanimity by reaching out to his political rivals and uniting the people of Edo State to ensure its development.

Tinubu also praised other candidates, who participated in the election for their contributions to advancing Nigeria's democracy, saying peaceful political contests, such as the one on Saturday, portray Nigeria as a stable democracy.

The President urged all those aggrieved by the election outcome to seek redress through the legal channels.

In addition, Tinubu commended the people of Edo State for their orderly and peaceful conduct during the election, underscoring the maturing of Nigeria's democracy after 25 years.

"I commend the INEC and our security agencies for working round the clock to conduct a successful,

peaceful and largely hitch-free exercise.

“INEC has once again demonstrated that it is committed to organising a free and fair election in our country,” the president said.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari, who congratulated Okpebholo, following "this prized, historic electoral victory," expressed hope that both leaders of the incoming administration and the party that lost would work together to strengthen democracy and maintain the trajectory of the state’s development.

In a congratulatory message, the ex-President stated: "Congratulations to the APC and the election winner, Senator Monday Okpebholo on the historic electoral victory and my warmest wishes for a new lease of life for Edo State and its people.

“I very much hope the winners and the losers would work together to strengthen democracy and maintain the trajectory of development in the state.

“I commend law enforcement agencies for the efforts that they put in ensuring a peaceful election and the multitude of election officials who strive to improve their act with each election.

“I pray that the Nigeria, the continent’s most populous country, will continue to achieve remarkable progress under democracy."

The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, described the victory as a vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu.

Barau, in a statement by his media aide, Ismail Mudashir, said the people’s will remained the most potent force in any democracy, and commended INEC for upholding the people’s will as expressed by their votes.

He also applauded the visionary leadership of the National Chairman of the APC, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, which, according to him, gave the party more cohesion and ultimately led to the party's victory in the election.

“The victory of our great party, the All Progressives Congress in last Saturday’s governorship election in Edo State is well-deserved.

"I congratulate the governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo and all our supporters for this victory. It is not just a victory for the APC but for our democracy and the people of Edo State.

“This victory is a further expression of the confidence of the people of the state in the exemplary leadership and performance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu since his assumption of office in May last year.”

PDP Backs Fintiri, Insists Its Candidate, Asue Ighodalo,is Winner of Edo

Guber Poll

The PDP, has said it stood by the results garnered by its polling agents across the state and echoed by the Chairman of the Edo PDP National Campaign Council, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State, which indicated that the party’s candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, won the election.

In a statement by the National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the PDP explained that, "As Governor Fintiri presented, the results collated from the Polling Units, have Asue Ighodalo in clear lead before the state collation exercise was hijacked by the APC, which in connivance with some unscrupulous INEC and security officials, engaged in blatant alteration and substitution of the genuine results with fabricated figures in favour of the defeated APC candidate."

He said the PDP had on several occasions alerted Nigerians of this sinister plot by the APC, which will be firmly resisted as the APC and its candidate, Monday Okpebholo, were thoroughly defeated in the election.

According to him, "The PDP in the strongest terms, cautions the APC and INEC not to announce or declare any result that does not reflect the Will of the people as expressed at the Polling Units. Such will be a recipe for a huge crisis in the state as the people of Edo State, will never allow their mandate in illegitimate hands.

"Our party again cautions INEC not to lose sight of the violent protest that trailed the criminal attempt by the former Adamawa State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mallam Hudu Ari, to alter the outcome of the 2023 governorship election in that state, which nearly led to the death of some INEC officials..

"Any attempt to change the results of the Edo State governorship election and allocate victory to a defeated candidate will provoke worse consequences. INEC must therefore do that which is right in the interest of peace, stability and sustenance of Democracy in Nigeria," the party spokesman said.

Edo PDP Objects to Results Announcement, Alleges Manufacture, Unjust Vote Entries

The Edo State chapter of the PDP, has protested the ongoing collation of results in the governorship election by INEC, alleging that the commission was manufacturing votes, entering an unjust inflation of APC votes and deduction of PDP votes as well.

Chairman of PDP, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, who made the allegation

at a press conference, said he called the conference because of what the party saw on the conduct of the election, which according to him, was characterised by massive irregularities from analysis that emerged.

Requesting that INEC should look into the party's observations, he said preliminary report from the electoral umpire in three local government areas showed massive discrepancy.

For example, he said Egor collation did not take place in the LGA as against the electoral law that all collations must be at the LGA.

He drew the attention of INEC that entries made were totally different from the actual results as uploaded on the INEC IREV, thereby unjustly inflating votes in favour of the APC and deducting the votes of the PDP.

Specifically, Aziegbemi said in Akoko-Edo LGA, a simple collation of all the votes recorded in the polling unit results uploaded on the IREV showed that the APC obtained 25,010 votes while 34,847 votes.

"It would interest you that in Ward 9 Akoko Edo LGA, from the 36 polling unit results uploaded on the IREV, the total votes obtained by APC is 2,350 while 9104 was entered into the EC8B result for APC. The total votes for PDP is 1,359 while 633 was entered in the EC8B.

"Also, in Ward 6 Akoko Edo LGA, where elections did not hold in Ward 6 Units 12, 17, 15, 18, 14 and 16, results were returned for the said polling units in the Ward Result sheet (EC8B)," he said.

The Edo PDP boss, therefore, requested INEC not to announce the final results until all the observations were correcting, adding that if all were done, Asue Ighodalo of the PDP would win the election.

CNPP Charges INEC to Remain Impartial, Not Destroy Democracy

The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP), has warned INEC to maintain neutrality and ensure the sanctity of the electoral process in the Edo election.

In a statement signed by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Comrade James Ezema, the CNPP emphasised that, “As Edo State citizens have exercised their right to vote, INEC must remain impartial and transparent during the collation of results.

“It is worrisome and troubling that the feelers we are getting from Edo State confirm a deliberate ploy by one of the big parties, who are mouthing the support of Mr President, and insisting on changing the results and the figures already on the INEC Portal. Mr President MUST call them to order.”

The CNPP insisted that INEC

must safeguard the trust of Nigerians by prioritising the integrity of the process, warning against manipulation or undermining democracy in the State.

“INEC must not allow itself to be used to scuttle democracy in Edo State under any circumstances,” the CNPP cautioned.

With the Ondo State governorship election on the way, the CNPP stressed the importance of INEC demonstrating its commitment to conducting credible elections to restore confidence in the electoral process after the questionable 2023 general election.

Election Observers Raise Concern About INEC’s Transparency in Collation Process

Election observers have raised concerns about the transparency of INEC in the ongoing Edo election.

These observers included Nigerian Civil Society Situation Room, Yiaga Africa, Kimpact Development Initiative, Nigerian Women Trust Fund, ElectHER and TAF Africa

According to them, "We, the undersigned accredited civil society organisations observing the 2024 Edo governorship elections, express concern over the transparency of the ongoing results collation by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

"Reports of disruptions at ward and local government collation centers, including intimidation of INEC officials and attempts to collate results contrary to the provisions of the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines, raise significant concerns about the credibility of the results collation process.

“We acknowledge INEC's recent statement recognising reports of result mutilation and its commitment to investigate and address any proven violations.

"In light of this, we urge INEC to invoke its powers under Section 65 of the Electoral Act 2022 to review any declarations and returns where results were not declared voluntarily or violated provisions of the electoral act and INEC regulations, and guidelines.

"We further call on security agencies to refrain from interference in the collation process and to ensure that accredited party agents, the media, and election observers are granted full access to collation centers.

“We wish to emphasize that the role of security agencies in the election is to safeguard the process and not to create a situation that will undermine the transparency of the process and thus impact negatively on the credibility of the outcome of the election."

PDP Protests against Kwara LG Polls

Members of the PDP in Kwara State, yesterday, embarked on peaceful protest against the conduct and outcome of last Saturday’s local government council elections

The party, however, said the election was marred with a lot of electoral malpractices and lacked credibility whatsoever and therefore rejected the election totally.

The KWASIEC has declared all the Chairmanship and Councillorship candidates of APC as the sole winners of the election in the state. Since then, stakeholders in the state have been expressing their divergent views on the conduct and outcome of the election.

The PDP in the state matched to the office of the KWASIEC located at Fate Road, Ilorin to express their minds against the election.

The protesters were armed with various placards with inscriptions like, “Kwara people say no to the continuation of bad governance led by the APC,” and “LG election results declared by KWASIEC is fake,” among others.

Speaking with journalists in Ilorin at the KWASIEC office, Ilorin, a former Commissioner in the state, who led the protest, Saratu Adebayo, accused the state electoral commission of forging the results.

Police Activate Post-election Security Tactic

The Nigeria Police Force has immediately activated the post election security strategy as the Edo governorship election came to an end, yesterday.

This strategy, the Police said, included, but not limited to, "Show of Force Exercise," designed to boost the confidence of citizens and to reassure the people of the readiness of the Force to respond appropriately to any possible threat to public safety and security in the state.

A statement by Force PRO Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the DIG in-charge of the Elections, DIG Frank Mba, in line with the post-election security strategy, ordered enhanced deployment in and around INEC facilities, key stakeholders involved in the election and other critical infrastructure within the state.

"The Nigeria Police Force called on citizens to remain peaceful and law abiding while going about their endeavours.

“The Force however warns against any conduct by any individual or group capable of disrupting the existing peace in the State," he said. He concluded that the force and the security forces were prepared than ever before to ensure continuous peace in the state.

FG Urged to Obey Judgments on Electoral Offenders, N729bn Poverty Fund by SERAP

Wale Igbintade and Sunday Okobi

Human right lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana SAN, and Legal Adviser at Amnesty International Secretariat, London, Dr Kolawole Olaniyan, have urged the federal government to comply with two recent judgments obtained by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP).

Specifically, they urged the federal government to obey the order of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to hold governors, their deputies and others to account over cases of electoral violence, bribery, vote-buying, and conspiracy during the 2023 general election.

Besides, the senior lawyers also demanded compliance with the judgement of the Federal High Court in Lagos, which ordered the immediate past Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disasters Management and Social Development, Sadia Umar-Farouk, to account for payments of N729billion to 24.3 million poor Nigerians.

18 by Justice Obiora Atuegwu Egwuatu following a mandamus lawsuit numbered FHC/ABJ/ CS/583/2023 brought by SERAP.

The judgment on electoral violence was delivered on July

The court also ordered INEC “to promptly, thoroughly and effectively investigate cases of electoral violence and other electoral offences committed during the 2023 general election and to identify suspected perpetrators and their sponsors and ensure their effective prosecution.”

HURIWA Debunks Tinubu’s ‘No Free Beer Parlour’ Assertion, Cites Hypocrisy in Villa

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s recent comments, in which he urged Nigerians to be patient with the country’s current economic challenges, stating that there is "no free beer parlour" anymore.

The president reportedly made this statement during a visit by former Nigerian lawmakers to the State House, Abuja, where he underscored the need for hard work and resilience in overcoming the nation's economic woes.

However, HURIWA, in a statement by its National

Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, dismissed the president’s remarks as hypocritical, pointing out that the same government that preached sacrifice and austerity continued to spend billions on feeding and entertaining the families of the president and vice-president in Aso Rock, while also enabling unconstitutional expenditures for the first lady’s extravagant foreign trips.

According to HURIWA, “This dichotomy between words and actions exemplifies the disconnect between the leadership and the everyday struggles of millions of Nigerians grappling with inflation and

economic hardship."

While President Tinubu emphasised the importance of working hard and being patient to rebuild the nation, HURIWA highlighted that the federal budget allocated billions of naira annually to feed and maintain the president and vice-president's families at taxpayers’ expense.

The rights group frowned that this free provision of meals, housing, and entertainment contradicted the president's assertion that there was no “free beer parlour,” as it indicated that the leaders themselves benefitted from a system that provided for their needs without personal financial contribution.

"Research has revealed that in the 2023 budget, significant sums were allocated for feeding in the Presidential Villa. The Presidency's budget for foodstuffs, catering materials, and refreshments ran into billions, alongside substantial allocations for vehicles and other expenditures for the personal comfort of the President’s family," it said.

HURIWA argued that if the government was truly serious about austerity, these funds should be cut, and the president and vice-president’s families should pay for their own meals and other personal expenses, just as most Nigerian workers do.

A'Ibom Maps Out Plans to Celebrate World Tourism Day

Okon Bassey in Uyo

Akwa Ibom State Government is to boost tourism attraction in the state by hosting its first ever boat regatta and fishing festival to celebrate the world tourism day.

The celebration is planned in line with the theme of the 2024 WTD celebration, tagged: "Tourism and Peace", designed to see tourism as sustainable transformation driver to communities, creating jobs, fostering inclusion and strengthening local economies.

Speaking with Journalists in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, the state Commissioner, Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Mr. Charles Udoh, noted the peaceful nature of the communities hosting Ibom Icon Hotel and other facilities, including the Nwaniba beaches, and pledged state government preparedness to

reciprocate such gestures. Udoh said the inaugural "Ibom Boat Regatta and Fishing Festival", slated for September 27, 2024, at Marina Beach, will showcase the state’s rich maritime heritage and serve as a platform to promote tourism, culture, and peace.

The Commissioner listed highlights of the event to include unveiling of a fully restored slave boat, symbolizing a painful yet significant chapter in the history of the region as one of the major slave routes during the transatlantic slave trade.

The boat’s restoration, funded by the Ibom National Association of Akwa Ibom USA Incorporated, according to the Commissioner, underscores efforts to preserve the state’s heritage.

In addition, a newly established Slave Memorial Park, initiated by a local philanthropist, will also be officially commissioned during the festival.

Udoh, said those projects were part of the state's broader vision to leverage Akwa Ibom’s historical and cultural assets.

"Governor Umo Eno’s administration is committed to turning our rich heritage into a major economic driver. This year’s World Tourism Day focuses on peace, and through events like the regatta, we are fostering unity within the Marina community and beyond.”

The state government, he said has made significant strides in preparing for the event, with robust security measures in place.

"We have partnered with the Nigerian Navy to acquire 14 gunboats to ensure safety in our waterways. In addition, we are introducing a fully air-conditioned luxury ferry service, expected to arrive soon, to boost marine transport and attract tourism to the area," the Commissioner stressed.

The festival, which also involves cultural displays, tug-of-war contests, and fishing competitions, will help stimulate local economies in coastal communities and attract both tourists and investors to the region.

He said efforts to make Akwa Ibom a tourism hub include steps to harness its unique historical sites, such as the amalgamation site and locations tied to the 1929 Women's War, Mary Sllessor House, all mapped out for preservation and restoration.

In line with the vision to transform the sector, Udoh explained that the state is also transforming an erosion-ravaged area into a world-class tourist center.

He said, the state is currently developing the area with a nine-hole golf course, an artificial lake with a restaurant at its center, luxury chalets, a football field, basketball courts, floodlights for night sports, and a children's park.

Justice Egwuatu ordered INEC “to swiftly prosecute all arrested offenders in the 2023 general election in the custody of the Nigeria Police Force, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and other law enforcement agencies.”

Justice Egwuatu noted that being citizens, SERAP and its members have a legal interest whose enjoyment or enforcement directly or substantially depends on the performance of public duty by INEC.

A similar groundbreaking judgement was delivered by Justice Deinde Dipeolu following SERAP's Freedom of Information suit numbered FHC/L/CS/853/2021.

In the judgement, the court ordered former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disasters Management and Social Development, Sadia UmarFarouk, to provide details of how N729billion was disbursed.

Justice Dipeolu held “I, therefore, grant an order of mandamus directing and compelling the minister to provide the spending details of N729 billion to 24.3 million poor Nigerians in 2021.”

Reacting to the judgements, Falana said, “SERAP deserves the commendation of all well-meaning people that have agonised over reports of systemic corruption in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disasters Management and Social Development and other MDAs.

“This is one of the most patriotic public interest litigations ever undertaken in Nigeria.

“We call on the Tinubu government to use the judgment as the basis for comprehensively addressing cases of corruption in the ministry and bringing to justice those suspected to be responsible as well as recovering proceeds of corruption.”

Reacting to Justice Egwuatu’s judgment on prosecution of electoral offenders, SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare said it was an “important milestone for Nigerians’ right to free and fair elections, and for victims of electoral offences in their search for justice, truth and reparations for the crimes which took place during the 2023 general elections.”

Oluwadare described Justice Dipeolu’s verdict against the former minister as “ground-breaking” and “a victory for transparency and accountability in the spending of public funds.”

Mutfwang Engages UN on Sustainable Devt to Improve Rural Dwellers’ Lives in Plateau

Seriki

Adinoyi in Jos

Governor Caleb Mutfwang has restated his administration's unwavering commitment to sustainable development, with a focus on improving the lives of rural dwellers who constitute the majority of the state's population.

Mutfwang made this declaration during a high-level bilateral meeting with the United Nations Deputy Secretary General, Amina Mohammed, as the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly gets underway in New York.

This was disclosed in a press statement signed by the governor's Director of Press, Gyang Bere.

He said that as part of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum and Presidential delegation to the event, Mutfwang's engagement with the Deputy Secretary General was geared toward strengthening Plateau State's partnership with the United Nations.

The objective, he noted, was to capitalize on the state's unique climatic advantages to attract global investors

to the peaceful city of Jos, and foster economic growth.

The governor affirmed that his state is undergoing a strategic repositioning under his leadership, with an emphasis on sustainable development, adding that his administration is implementing impactful projects designed to directly improve the lives of the people.

He also highlighted his efforts to build a legacy of trust, unity, and hope, particularly for the state's most vulnerable populations, stressing that inclusive governance is key to achieving sustainable progress and urged citizens to actively participate in decision-making processes to ensure effective delivery of democracy’s dividends.

Underscoring his administration's inclusive approach, the governor pointed out that people from various ethnic groups, including those from outside Plateau State, have been appointed to government positions to ensure better communication of government policies, effective representation, and a truly inclusive governance structure.

Representative of the Chief of Air Staff, Col. Obiabaka, at the PENCAN Stakeholders Conference Forum in Abuja ... recently

OPENING OF WELLNESS CENTRE…

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Akin Eso Medics Partners Multi-Specialist Hospital, Akin Eso; Elegushi of the Ikate Elegushi Kingdom, Oba Saheed Elegushi, and Chief Medical Director, Medics Partners MultiSpecialist, Dr. Busola Ayelowo-Eso, during the opening of Medics Partners Multi Specialist Hospital in Victoria Island, Lagos…recently

LG Poll: Amid Controversy, KWASIEC Declares APC Candidates as Winners

Hammed Shittu in

Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission (KWASIEC) yesterday declared the electoral victory of all the chairmanship and councillorship candidates of the All Progressives Congress(APC) as the sole winners of last Saturday local government councils election in the state.

Irrespective of the declaration of the election results, there was allegation of manipulations and irregularities that marred the poll in all the 16 local government councils of the state.

Already, the people of Offa Local Government Council of the state has called for the suspension of the poll over the alleged non availability of electoral materials meant for

Enugu Announces Major Trade Fair to Boost SMEs

Gideon Arinze in Enugu

The Enugu State Government has announced plans for a landmark trade fair that will accelerate growth for local businesses as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

Announcing the initiative at a press conference in Enugu, the Special Adviser to the Governor on MSMEs and Digital Economy, Arinze Chilo-Offiah, said that the trade fair would be held under the banner of the newly created brand, the “Enugu 042 Naija Brand Chick Trade Fair.”

“This inaugural event will take place on the second and third of November, 2024, and is expected to become an annual fixture on the state’s business calendar,” he said.

the poll in the local government.

Also, the state Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Babatunde Mohammed, has described the election as the worst in history of the state in view of

the alleged manipulations and irregularities exhibited by the electoral body in the state.

However, announcing the election results in Ilorin, the state Chairman of KWASIEC, Mr.

Mohammed Baba-Okanla, stated that: “The electoral process, which unfolded across the state’s 16 local government areas and 193 wards, witnessed the participation of five political parties: APC, APM, PDP,

SDP, and Accord. “Our electoral officers and returning officers from the field have filed their results, and I’m pleased to share the outcomes with you.

Gombe Gov Seeks Collaboration with Michigan Varsity on Modern Farming Practices

Segun Awofadeji in Gombe

Michigan State University (MSU) in the United States of America.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Director-General (Press Affairs), Government House in Gombe, Ismaila Uba Misilli, which was made available to journalists last Saturday.

Chilo-Offiah maintained that the initiative aligns with Governor Peter Mbah administration’s vision to invigorate Enugu’s economy by promoting private-sector investment and facilitating the ease of doing business.

On her part, Founder, NaijaBrandChick, Mrs. Nelly Agbogu, said that vendors from across Nigeria and beyond are expected to participate in the fair, creating a melting pot of business opportunities and market connections.

“Our goal is to empower these businesses by making them more visible, connecting them to new customers, and helping them grow,” she said. “Beyond facilitating trade, Agbogu emphasised that the fair would also include workshops and training sessions for participants.”

He explained that the fair is a collaborative effort between the Enugu State Government, through its SME Agency and Office of Digital Economy, and NaijaBrandChick, a renowned business influencer and entrepreneur dedicated to empowering SMEs across Nigeria and beyond.

Oyebanji Bags Outstanding Leadership Awards

Raheem Akingbolu

The management of Marketing Edge Magazine and organisers of the newly rebranded EDGE Awards, has named the Ekiti State Governor, Abiodun Abayomi Oyebanji, as ‘Outstanding Governor of the Year for Inclusive Leadership and Grassroots Development’ in the 2024 edition of its annual awards and recognitions. Oyebanji, who will mark his two years in office in October this year, was unanimously voted for the coveted category by the team of assessors and Editorial Board who painstakingly evaluated the governor’s approach to governance, development and leadership, alongside other governors in Nigeria.

The organisers, who disclosed this in a statement which was signed by the Editor-in-Chief of the country’s number 1 Marketing Journal, John Ajayi, at the weekend, stated that the award was given to the governor in recognition and celebration of his political credentials as

a respected technocrat and renowned public servant, who has not only impacted the people of the state with laudable projects and policies but has also used his exalted position to redefine governance by promoting peace and uniting leaders across the states, irrespective of their political and social backgrounds.

The management of Marketing Edge Magazine noted Oyebanji’s sterling performances as the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, in which office he has distinguished himself through exemplary inclusiveness in governance, as well as his result-oriented, transformative turn-around in the infrastructural landscape of the state, particularly in projects and policies that engender grassroots development across the state.

The statement said: “In the last two years running, Governor Oyebanji distinguished himself through exemplary continuing and result-oriented, transformative turnaround in the infrastructural landscape of the state.

As part of his efforts to foster international collaboration towards achieving his vision of a more prosperous and food-secure Gombe State, the state Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, yesterday visited the Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering at the

During the visit, the governor met with the university’s authorities and agricultural experts, with discussions focused on exploring avenues for collaboration that could enhance the agricultural value chain in Gombe State.

According to the statement, one of the key areas of focus is the introduction of appropriate mechanization technologies that are tailored to the specific needs of smallholder farmers who form the backbone of the state’s agricultural economy.

Governor Yahaya expressed optimism that the partnership would lead to the adoption of costeffective and sustainable solutions that can enhance food security and promote rural economic growth in the state.

Faceless Group Behind Otulu Crisis in Delta, Ogwashi-Uku Monarch Alleges

Omon-Julius Onabu inAsaba

The Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, HRM (Dr) Ifechukwude Okonjo, has blamed the spate of crisis in Otulu Community in Delta State on a “faceless group” comprising a handful of mischievous residents masquerading as leaders of what they termed the “Autonomous Community of Otulu”, stressing that such nomenclature was not only alien to Delta State but also claims from strangers to the Ogwashi-Uku.

with the hope of hand-twisting the government to concede an illegal position to them as so-called traditional rulers overnight,” the royal father said.

“It is ridiculous and unheard of that a few unruly individuals would be for mentioning trouble

Reacting to the recent protest and press briefing by a group claiming to be “United And Concerned Indigenes” of Otulu Community fighting for their court-recognised autonomous traditional status, in chat with newsmen in Asaba, a counsel to the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, Ngozi Chukura Esq, and Prince Onyeama Okonjo, urged law-abiding Otulu residents and the general public to disregard antics of the group.

Adopt UNICEF Fund Initiative to Check Open Defecation, Stakeholders Urge States

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

Stakeholders in the water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) sector have called for the adoption of UNICEF Sanitation Pool Fund Initiative in Bauchi by other states to scale up the construction of improved toilets

by households to check open defecation in Nigeria.

The stakeholders made the call during a one-day workshop organised by WaterAid Nigeria to validate and disseminate Bauchi State WASH situational assessment report held in Bauchi with MDA representatives,

CSOs, donors and the media in attendance.

According to the report, the N20 million released to the Bauchi State Government by UNICEF has grown to about N80 million as the fund was lent to toilet business operators who subsequently distributed it to

households for the construction of improved toilets. The stakeholders, who commended the Bauchi State government for judicious management of the fund, called for the initiative to be replicated in other states of the federation to achieve open defecation free society.

RxAll Joins CGI Greenhouse 2024 Cohort, to Transform African Healthcare

RxAll, Inc., the digital operating system for African pharmacies, is proud to announce its selection for the prestigious CGI Greenhouse 2024 cohort. This global recognition underscores RxAll’s commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery across Africa by empowering pharmacies to unlock the value of their transaction data.

With over one billion Africans relying on neighborhood pharmacies for essential healthcare services, many of these vital outlets face significant challenges. They struggle to effectively utilise their transaction data, leading to issues such as the prevalence of low-quality and expired medicines, frequent stockouts, and unnecessarily high prices. RxAll is dedicated to addressing these problems by providing innovative digital solutions that help pharmacies better serve their communities.

Commenting, the Chief Executive Officer of RxALL, Adeboye Alonge said: “We are thrilled to be part of the CGI Greenhouse 2024 cohort, which provides us with a unique platform to further our mission of improving healthcare delivery across Africa. “These new initiatives are a testament to our commitment to empowering African pharmacies with the tools and technology they need to provide better healthcare outcomes for their patients.”

NIMC, SecureID Strategise on Advancing Identity Management

Ayodeji Ake

SecureID, a smart card manufacturing company, proudly hosted the Director General of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Abisoye Coker-Odusote for an insightful role in Nigeria’s identity management, emphasising the importance of

local solutions in tackling Nigeria’s identity management hurdles, According to the Founder and Group CEO of SecureID, Mrs. Kofo Akinkugbe, “Identity management is an essential social infrastructure worldwide. We firmly believe that home-grown solutions are the most effective ways to overcome the unique challenges we face.”

She also reiterated that through strategic Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), both the government and the private sector can unlock new opportunities for growth and success in this crucial industry.

The DG of NIMC, CokerOdusote, discussed the numerous benefits that robust identity management systems bring to the economy. She also highlighted key accomplishments of the Commission namely enhanced security, increased financial inclusion, improved efficiency in public service and healthcare delivery. She stressed the role of PPPs in accelerating the realization of these benefits.

Widow Petitions Lagos AG over Plots to Take Over Husband’s Property

Wale Igbintade

The widow of the late Ambassador Moshood Olatokunbo, Nigeria’s former representative at the United Nations Refugee Agency, Mrs. Olabisi Olatokunbo, has petitioned the Lagos Attorney-

General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro (SAN), over alleged plot by a businessman, Lai Omotola, to forcefully take over her late husband property situated at No 63, Iju Road, Agege.

The petitioner stated that her husband purchased the property in 2001, obtained the state governor’s consent to his Deed of Assignment as far back as 2003 and also obtained development permit thereafter. Unfortunately, he died before he could start any development on the land.

She added that despite the fact

that Lai Omotola was dislodged by the Task Force against land grabbers since February 2020, she has not been able to take back possession of the land, expressing her fears that the case may be withdrawn from court by the Lagos Attorney General to deny her justice.

Ilorin

PROMOTING EDUCATION…

L-R: Director General, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, Charles Odii; Non-Executive Director, Heirs General Insurance, Alhaji Misbau Umar Yola; Managing Director/CEO, Heirs Life Assurance, Niyi Onifade ; the Group’s Sector Head; Winner, 2024 Heirs Insurance Essay Championship, Hephzibah Chidi; MD/CEO, Heirs Insurance Brokers, Tony Aniemeke, and Chief Marketing Officer, Heirs Insurance Group, Ifesinachi Okpagu during the essay championship prize presentation in Lagos…yesterday

Agency Warns of Imminent Flooding in Benue Basin

The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has raised concerns about rising water levels along the River Benue Basin, warning of potential widespread flooding of the area soon.

Data released by the agency to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday revealed a steady increase in water levels, approaching the flood threshold.

“Water levels recorded at key gauge stations are alarming, with Wuro Boki at 6.36 metres and Jimeta Bridge at 5.04 metres.

“Ibbi station stands at 8.2 metres, Makurdi at 9.4 metres, and Lokoja (Niger River) at 8.68 metres,” the report said.

It noted that the rising waters, especially at Makurdi and Ibbi, had placed the River Benue Basin on high alert.

IPAC Describes Enugu Council Polls

The Interparty Advisory Council (IPAC) has commended the conduct of the Enugu State local council polls held on September 21, describing it as free, fair, credible and peaceful.

In a preliminary statement released by IPAC State Chairman, Mr Obioma Nnamani and State Secretary, Dr Afam Ani in Enugu yesterday , the council commended the lack of political interference during the polls.

The statement urged both winners and losers to collaborate for the advancement of Enugu State. The council added that “in line with our mission to promote peaceful, free, fair, and transparent elections in accordance with the law, IPAC deployed observers across the 17 council areas to monitor the conduct of the Sept. 21, 2024 local government election in Enugu State.

“IPAC’s preliminary report indicates no incidents of electoral violence and the exercise was remarkably peaceful.

“This is a significant achievement

for our electoral process, and we commend the leaders, stakeholders and security agencies for their efforts.

“Crucially, there was substantial adherence to legal provisions by the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC) during the elections.

“However, IPAC observed delays in the arrival of election materials in certain areas, attributed in part to heavy rain in the early morning hours.

“Additionally, some isolated infractions have been reported by our observers, which we are currently investigating.

“Nonetheless, the overall exercise was overwhelmingly transparent, free, fair, and credible.”

The council urged civil society and political parties to enhance political education and awareness to ensure that elected leaders, including those from Saturday’s council elections, deliver on the promises of democracy and are held accountable.

JDPC Facilitates Drug Prevention Awareness

The Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos (Ikeja deanery) under the aegis of the Justice Development and Peace Commission (JDPC) has called on Nigeria government and well-meaning groups and individuals to increase educational materials against drug influencers with emphasis on prevention and treatment of addicts.

The call was made during a workshop conducted by the body on prevention of drug addiction.

Speaking during the programme, the Facilitator, Mr. Afam Paulkinson, enumerated trending drugs in circulation especially unknown ones like kolanut, coffee, energy drinks, snuff and anti-malaria medicines (amongst others) and warned against complacency which leads to addiction to them.

Also, parents were informed

to beware of their children’s attitudes particularly when they become withdrawn from social life/interaction or exhibit easy-anger traits. Similarly, youths were warned against experimenting information gotten from social media and free mingling with their peers who might have been familiar with hard drugs in their families and spread the acts to their innocent contemporaries. Similarly, care-givers were cautioned against vulnerability due to the fast spread and contagious effect of drug abuse on those around the addict.

It was highlighted that the consequences of drug addiction affects both male and female alike in different degrees as well as have a devastating effect which prevents the realisation of one’s potential in civil life due to its incurable effect, as it can only be managed.

The agency advised immediate preventive measures in states along the river, particularly those previously identified as flood-prone.

“The water levels at our critical stations along the River Benue Basin as of Saturday, September 21, 2024, show steady increases towards flood levels,” NIHSA

stated. The agency stressed the urgency of improving water conveyance and flood containment to protect vulnerable communities. It added that they would monitor river levels and provide updates to help authorities and the public mitigate flood risks.

Ondo ‘ll Become Nigeria’s Hub for Entrepreneurship, Says Aiyedatiwa

The Governor of Ondo State, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has vowed to transform the state into Nigeria’s leading hub for entrepreneurship, innovation, and technology.

Speaking at the prize-giving ceremony for the ONDEA My IDEA 2.0 Competition in Akure,

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo inUmuahia

The Abia State Independent Electoral Commission(ABSIEC) at the weekend announced that the local government election would hold on November 2, 2024.

But the election time table, which

Governor Aiyedatiwa declared his administration’s commitment to fostering an environment where young entrepreneurs can thrive and shine on national and global stages.

Each of the 20 winners, who emerged from hundreds of applicants from across the state, would get N1million and

the state electoral body unveiled at a meeting with political parties, showed that the parties have just four days to commence their primaries beginning from Wednesday, September 25, 2024.

Chairman of ABSIEC, Professor George Chima, announced both the poll date and the time table at

N2million worth of working equipment to enhance their businesses.

Governor Aiyedatiwa had earlier in the year increased the number of beneficiaries from the initial 10 to 20 in order to encourage more young people to embrace entrepreneurship.

According to him, “The end has come for the narrative of Ondo State being a civil service state. In my time as the state governor, as I renew my mandate in November, by the Grace of God, Ondo State will be known as the capital for entrepreneurship, innovation and technology, thereby allowing our youths to shine brightly in the Sunshine State.

the Commission’s headquarters, Umuahia, during a stakeholders’ meeting with representatives of 18 political parties.

He apologised to the parties for the short notice for the poll, explaining that the abrupt preparation became expedient to enable Abia beat the three months deadline set by the federal government for states to conduct council poll or forfeit council allocations.

Prof Chima told party representatives, comprising chairmen and secretaries, at the stakeholders’ meeting that party primaries were expected to end on October 4, despite the short notice.

VisionSpring Warns 32% of Nigerians Lack Access to Affordable Eyes Glasses

Oluchi Chibuzor

VisionSpring, a social enterprise organisation, has warned that about 32 percent of Nigerians do not have access to the affordable eyeglasses they need to see clearly.

This percentage, according to them, revealed that 70 million of Nigerians have uncorrected

blurry vision and are mostly found in the low-income communities.

Speaking recently at an event in Lagos to accelerate the use of affordable eyeglasses, VisionSpring CEO, Ella Gudwin, said they would continue to engage in an effort to tackle blurry vision problems in Nigeria.

Gudwin, however, noted that a combination of a lack of affordable eyeglasses and stigma associated with wearing eyeglasses prevents Nigerians from getting the glasses they need to see clearly.

According to him, “In Nigeria, 32 percent of people do not have access to the affordable eyeglasses they need to see clearly.” Meanwhile, to address this problem, VisionSpring launched a new range of eyeglasses with a broad array of style and colours, and highly affordable frames, specifically targeted at those on lower incomes, as well as mid-range and more premium products.

Enviable Transport Unveils CNG Tricycles to Ease Financial Burden

Sunday Okobi

In response to rising fuel costs following the removal of fuel subsidies, businessman, Chief Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, has unveiled a showroom for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered tricycles through his company,

Enviable Transport, in partnership with Bajaj Auto Nigeria.

The initiative is aimed at reducing transportation expenses for both drivers and passengers.

The unveiling was held at Enviable Transport’s head office showroom on Ikorodu–Sagamu Road, Ikorodu, Lagos

The partnership seeks to promote the adoption of CNG vehicles as a cost-effective solution to the fuel crisis.

During the launch event, Chief Executive Officer, Enviable Transport, Iyiegbu, explained the strategic choice of Ikorodu for the showroom, stating that: “We want to meet the transportation needs of the people with ease and convenience. This location, with its world-class infrastructure and accessibility, is perfect for that.” Also, the Chief Executive Officer, Enviable Transport Mr. Ituma Chukwuemeka, emphasized that the company has been working to address the impact of rising fuel prices on the transportation sector.

Kogi LG Poll: Work for Our Party’s Victory, Shun Violence, Ododo Tasks APC Supporters

Ibrahim OyewaleinLokoja

Ahead of the Kogi State local government area election, the state Governor, Usman Ododo, has urged the members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state to work for the victory of the party, and shun violence as the

party commences local government electioneering across the state.

Just as he charged the people of the state not to be intimidated by anyone, but to go out boldly to campaign and cast their votes during the council election for the candidates of the APC.

Ododo gave this charge while

speaking at the official flag-off of the APC local government electioneering at the Muhammadu Buhari Civic Centre in Lokoja at weekend.

The governor stated that his administration has laid the foundation for the victory of his party by touching the lives of the people positively

He commended President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for making security top priority of his administration which he said accounted for the peace being enjoyed in the state, as he assured them that the election would not only be peaceful but free, fair and transparent.

Abia, Tricycle Union Organise Medical Outreach for Members

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Abia State Tricycle Operators Union (ASTOPU) in partnership with the state Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Health organised a three-week free medical outreach for tricycle operators in the commercial city of Aba and its environs.

Speaking at the flag off of the free medical outreach at the Abayi Umuochom Primary School in Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area, the state Commissioner of Transport, Chimezie Ukaegbu, emphasised the importance of healthcare

for the people, especially those engaged in rigorous physical activities.

He commended the tricycle association for putting premium on the health of the tricycle operators, stating that the welfare package was a valuable contribution to the growth of the state.

Ukaegbu remarked: “I am happy that the medical outreach is going on smoothly as planned and I can see the excitement written all over the faces of the operators, who I was told were also delighted by the good performance of the Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti.”

Fidelis David in Akure

Becky UbaUmenyili

A GOVERNOR AS RETURNING OFFICER

Court dock this morning.

Not that this was the first time in Nigeria’s history that this has happened. During the 1983 general and presidential election of the Second Republic, candidates of the five registered opposition parties [UPN, NPP, GNPP, PRP and Tunji Braithwaite’s NAP] anxiously anticipated a power grab by NPN, which controlled the Federal Government. They had a plausible reason. Even though opposition politicians and their supporters these days are accusing INEC of favouring the ruling APC’s candidates, without visible evidence, FEDECO’s partisanship in the Second Republic was fairly open. In this Fourth Republic, for example, INEC registered APC as a mega opposition party in 2013, a very big game changer alongside PVCs, card readers and BVAS. In 1982-83, FEDECO flatly refused to register the Progressive Peoples Party [PPP], a coalition of UPN, NPP and factions of PRP and GNPP, enabling NPN to railroad over all of them in the 1983 elections.

Coming back to our story, NPN, which controlled 7 of the 19 states in 1979-83, targeted another eight in 1983. These were old Kaduna, old Borno, old Gongola, old Anambra, old Imo, old Bendel, old Oyo and old Ondo. NPN had plausible strategic reasons to target those states, ranging from electoral history of Kaduna, to splits in both PRP and GNPP, to crises arising from UPN governorship primaries when its national leader supported all the five sitting governors to recontest, leading to defections by some important UPN chieftains. When governorship election results began emerging in August 1983, Governor Bola Ige of old Oyo appeared on state-owned radio and TV and began announcing the results. He said NPN was trying to rig him out. Governor Sam Mbakwe of old Imo followed suit; he appeared on state-owned TV and radio, declared the results local government by local government and returned himself elected. In one case the tactic worked and in

another it didn’t; NPN still grabbed old Oyo from Bola Ige and installed Dr. Victor Omolulu Olunloyo as governor, but in old Imo, FEDECO certified Mbakwe as duly re-elected, despite his blatant breach of the electoral law.

Governors Muhammadu Goni of old Borno, Abubakar Barde of old Gongola and Michael Adekunle Ajasin of old Ondo, who did not take to the airwaves to declare themselves re-elected, were all declared by FEDECO to have lost to NPN candidates, Asheik Jarma, Bamanga Tukur and Akin Omoboriowo respectively. After protracted court cases in Enugu, Ibadan and Akure, the Supreme Court restored Ajasin but Ige and Anambra State governor Jim Nwobodo lost out, the latter to Chief C. C. Onoh of NPN.

The other drama in Benin City at the weekend was of Governor Godwin Obaseki storming the state INEC office and trying to stay put, until police DIG Frank Mbah firmly escorted him out. It reminded me of an incident during the 1983 governorship elections in Niger State. Due to some political quarrels in 197983, most of Nupeland, the state’s largest ethnic bloc, had turned against NPN and Governor Muhammad Auwal Ibrahim. NPN was jittery because its senatorial candidate for Nupeland, Malam Turi Muhammadu, who was President of Ndaduma Development Association, lost to NPP candidate Professor Jerry Gana. According to a newspaper story at the time, two days to the governorship election, aides warned Governor Auwal that the NPP governorship candidate, Alhaji Alhassan Badakoshi, had already spent two nights at the FEDECO office. They alleged that a babalawo told Badakoshi that if he spent three consecutive nights in FEDECO office, he will win the governorship election. Governor Auwal, a deeply Islamic Malam who did not believe in babalawos, was nevertheless prodded by his men to act. He spoke to the Police Commissioner, who took

50 Mobile Policemen, stormed FEDECO office, fired a lot of tear gas and bundled out Badakoshi. Due to that or not, the governor was re-elected.

The PDP candidate’s defeat in weekend’s Edo State governorship election will once again revive talk about use of “federal might” in Nigerian elections. INEC, Nigeria Police, eight other security agencies and the military are all federal agencies. There is therefore an assumption that they will work in favour of ruling APC candidates. Add to these, the supposed deep pockets of the Federal Treasury, which is alleged to do a “ways and means” for ruling party candidates. This allegation is however a slippery slope. Last week, when Edo PDP alleged that National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu sent huge sums to support Edo APC’s candidate, Ribadu, the former anti-corruption Czar who is very sensitive about his anti-corruption credentials, immediately threatened to go to court and claim billions of naira in damages. Edo PDP panicked and swiftly recanted, much as Kano State’s Deputy Governor swiftly recanted an allegation against Ribadu earlier this year when he threatened to sue.

Not only NPN in the Second Republic, but PDP in this Republic too, in the heydays, was roundly accused of using “federal might” to eject opposition parties’ candidates from Government Houses. In the 2003 elections, PDP managed to grab Gombe, Kogi and Kwara states from ANPP candidates. It also grabbed five South Western states from AD.

On occasions, federal might backfired. In 1983, the mighty NPN still had its Kwara State governor, Adamu Attah, defeated by UPN’s Cornelius Adebayo. That very obviously was because the state’s redoubtable kingmaker Dr. Olusola Saraki switched his support and even NPN could not overcome that. In 2003, while PDP was railroading its way across ANPP and AD states, its Governor of Kano, Rabiu Kwankwaso,

was defeated by the then little-known Malam Ibrahim Shekarau. Pundits have long said that Kano and Lagos are the only states in Nigeria where federal might does not work, that they are far too cosmopolitan and too volatile for their votes to be tampered with. PDP also lost Anambra State to APGA that year. In Edo State, ACN’s candidate Adams Oshiomhole managed to unseat PDP’s Prof Oserheimen Osunbor in 2007, but only after a protracted legal fight.

To some pundits, it was a surprise that APC managed at the weekend to capture Edo despite the dire economic conditions in the country, which ordinarily should drive voters away from the Federal ruling party. It is however well to remember that outgoing Governor Godwin Obaseki himself was actually elected under APC’s banner in 2016, only for him to defect to PDP after quarrelling with his godfather, Oshiomhole. Obaseki did not have a tranquil two terms in office. He quarreled left, right and centre with his godfather, had a very bitter quarrel and unsuccessful impeachment of his Deputy Governor, quarreled with a faction of the State Assembly, with a powerful faction of his own party led by the Deputy National Chairman, had a bitter quarrel with top PDP spoiler Nyesom Wike, and many political associates left the party in disgust. And then, add to that the Labour Party effect, mostly thought to have been peeled off votes from PDP. With weekend’s flip of Edo State Government House from PDP to APC, the latter’s leaders must be smirking their lips ahead of 2027, since the party now controls the National Assembly, the Federal and 21 state governments while the main opposition PDP is now down to 12 states. There are three state governors who belong to other small parties, which for now is advantageous to APC. APC should however remember that PDP had exactly the same political assets when it went down to defeat in the 2015 elections.

BUILDING CAPACITY TO SUPPORT SUSTAINABLE DEVT ACTIVITIES

the validity of his theory.

Although the 1972 book The Limits to Growth by Meadows et al. discussed the uncertain fate that awaits humanity when, ultimately, exponential economic and population growth are eventually confronted by the reality of finite resource supply, the work was greeted with cynicism as many scholars accused the authors of promoting pessimism. Subsequently, Beyond the Limits, published in 1992 in an attempt to address the criticisms raised in the 1972 edition, was met with even fiercer criticisms as cynics argued that the projections were misleading and incorrect. These criticisms clearly showed that interests in the planet's future and the limits of natural resources were very peripheral to mainstream economic development theorists' consideration.

Things would however take a new turn in the development circuit as fresh perspectives around the subject of sustainability began to move into mainstream debates. The publication of a Gro Harlem Brundtland report in 1987 titled Our Common Future opened a new vista for scholarly discussions and debates around the subject. This report gave the first standard definition of sustainable development as one that meets the needs of the current generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

The Brundtland report and the interest it generated formed the background for the interactions at the Rio Earth Summit in 1992. Participants reached a consensus that sustainable development must be made a priority of the International Community, recommending that national strategies be realigned to reflect the new global consciousness on the dynamics of sustainable development, including the new framework's economic, social, and environmental demands. A 2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg, South Africa (Rio+10), reviewed the progress recorded in the efforts at achieving sustainable development and developed new strategies for pushing the agenda mainly through a multi-stakeholder partnership framework. A subsequent summit (Rio+20) in 2012 held in Rio de Janeiro highlighted the importance of the Green Economy and the urgency of developing an institutional framework to drive the

of funds and supplies. However, this influx of generosity was more about optics than solutions. The flood brought politicians and business people of all persuasions into a symbolic handshake—not to address the root causes of the disaster nor to create a system that prevents future recurrences but to protect elite interests and boost political capital. Amidst this, desperate and displaced Nigerians, struggling to rebuild their lives, began keeping mental records of who was donating what, hoping against hope that the show of support would somehow translate into lasting change.

But the real work remains undone. What was the root cause of this flooding that displaced millions in the Northeast? With a plethora of governmental institutions, including the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMET), why did we not have accurate intelligence or early warning systems to forestall this disaster? Nigeria’s reactive approach to disaster management is a recurring theme; each year, communities face floods, and each year, relief arrives too late for many.

It is impossible to ignore the impact of climate change on these weather patterns. This flood is not an isolated incident but part of a broader, troubling trend of extreme weather events linked to global climate change. In 2022 alone, floods across Nigeria displaced over 2.8 million people, with Borno among the worst affected states. Yet, how seriously are we taking climate change? Our policies and actions seem disconnected from the urgent need to

agenda on a global scale.

The development of the core elements of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework, which came to the fore in 2015, started at the Rio+20 Summit.

The SDGs are built around a set of clearly defined global goals related to protecting the environment and addressing the international community's political and economic challenges. Featuring 17 critical areas of focus designed to build on the progress made through the Millennium Development Goal (MDGs) framework, which ran from 2000 through 2015, the SDGs architecture sought to drive a global agenda to eradicate poverty and end the menace of hunger, amongst other carefully articulated objectives consented to by world leaders in September 2015.

The priority of attacking poverty and hunger is proof that the primary concerns of improving the living conditions and welfare of the general population remains ever present, like in every other economic development model. The superiority of the sustainable development framework is, however, found in the attention it gives to measures aimed at protecting the environment, including the push for cleaner, renewable energy, climate action, and responsible production and consumption.

The sustainable development framework generally offers a global perspective on social, economic, and environmental policies, considering the present and future needs. The recognition of the importance of biodiversity, the appreciation and imperative to protect indigenous cultures, the cultivation of economic and social equity, and the importance of robust governance mechanisms dedicated to solving problems and making good use of the resources of the earth collectively add to the appeal as a more robust and all-encompassing paradigm for long term economic and social development in all parts of the world.

Its wide acceptance notwithstanding, the sustainable economic development paradigm has also been strongly criticised by scholars who describe it as vague and lacking in specificity. It has also come under attack for lacking critical milestones that can be quantitatively measured, which further lends credence to the views

build climate resilience. Despite being one of the world's most climate-vulnerable countries, Nigeria's response to these challenges is often piecemeal and needs a more strategic vision.

The Borno flood is an exposé o deeper, systemic issues plaguing our government and country. Beyond the relief efforts, it is time for the government and stakeholders at all levels to address sustainable development, particularly poverty alleviation, environmental degradation, and the dire lack of requisite infrastructure that makes our communities vulnerable to disasters. It is high time governments adopt proactive policies that anticipate potential disasters rather than merely reacting after they occur. This includes monitoring dams and related infrastructure, regular updates to disaster response plans based on past experiences, and integrating climate adaptation strategies.

Prevention is key

Nigeria does not have a comprehensive warning system for landslides, floods, and other natural disasters. We tend to wait until calamities strike before mobilizing resources for the affected, highlighting the inefficiencies and inconsiderate disposition of our political leaders. The urgent need for a comprehensive warning system cannot be overstated. Very often, short-term political agendas overshadow long-term flood and disaster prevention measures.

As I stated in my earlier essay on reactive governance, dated July 10, 2023, our political leaders cannot continue

of those who criticise it for vagueness.

Abia, one of the five states in the South-east region of Nigeria, has a population of about 4.8 million people and a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of about US$7.1 billion. Abia has two important urban locations — Umuahia, the State capital, and Aba, the commercial nerve centre. Aba is also one of the most crucial trade destinations in West Africa. Farming and trading are the predominant occupations of our people. Abians are also known for producing high-quality fashion products and several other household and industrial goods that are sold in markets across Nigeria and West Africa.

We bought into the sustainable development framework long before assuming office in May 2023. Our campaign manifesto was built around the sustainable economic development model because we noted that it holds great potential to drive the development of the various communities in the State and ultimately make the future more prosperous through the prudent use of resources. Additionally, it clearly focuses on building systems that support our people's economic and political aspirations. Permit me, however, to share my views on the subject matter of climate change as it relates to clean energy and net zero emissions for purposes of intellectual honesty and presentation accuracy. While we agree that the reduction of carbon footprint is unavoidable, we contend that the deadlines set by countries in Europe and America may be a little too aggressive and unrealistic for Africa. We also note that the cost of reaching net zero emission in countries like Nigeria who rely on oil and gas to run their economy may be extremely high. We see gas as a cleaner hydrocarbon quite unlike coal and believe it should pass as a transition fuel in the march towards net zero emission. This argument is eloquently canvassed in my article titled “Can Renewables Change the Future of Gas?” (Thisday Newspapers, September 13, 2021). Again, in my column in the wake of COP 26, titled “Of Glass Houses, Stones and Glasgow,” published in THISDAY Newspapers of November 22, 2021, I had maintained that all the regions and nations of the world are not on the same development pedestal

to prioritize short-term relief over long-term readiness and resilience planning. This shortsightedness hampers effective disaster management in situations like the Borno flood. The emphasis on short-term aid reflects a larger pattern in which political narratives precede genuine efforts to implement innovative measures to avert future disasters. Moreover, it undermines the efficiency of response efforts when disasters do occur.

The critical question is: what kind of flood management system do we need to implement to prevent a repeat occurrence? Here are some key strategies that Nigeria, should consider adopting:

First is building a comprehensive flood risk mapping and early warning systems. Flood risk mapping is essential for identifying flood-prone areas and implementing risk reduction measures. By investing in robust, real-time early warning systems, authorities can provide timely alerts to residents, enabling them to take precautionary measures. These systems should be integrated with weather forecasts from the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMET) and real-time river basins and dams monitoring.

The second is improving and maintaining Dams and Drainage Systems. Critical infrastructure failures like the Alau Dam are a significant contributing factor to Borno's flooding. Regular maintenance and upgrading of dams, levees, and drainage systems are vital to ensure they can withstand extreme weather events. Governments should establish a monitoring framework to regularly assess the

with respect to climate responsibilities. In Africa for example, our development realities still revolve around hygiene issues as scores of millions of people around the continent wake up each morning preoccupied with concerns about where the next meal will come from. Challenges of unemployment, poverty, and access to basic amenities including clean water, quality road networks, and stable electricity still dominate social and political discourses across the continent. In another 2021 article, I shared a depressing report from the World Bank which ranked Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, as being the largest energy-deficient country in the world with more than 40% of the total population lacking access to grid electricity. The implication is that active production is hampered as machines and other resources lie idle across factories and production centres. This perhaps explains Africa’s record of low emissions at just 3.8% of the global total. My argument at the time, as it would be today, is that while we shall do well to keep our eyes on the future and work closely with our global partners for an emission-free world eventually, it would not be realistically prudent to immediately follow the same trajectory as those who have since conquered the existential development challenges we are still grappling with today. Our task as leaders is to constantly appraise the state of affairs in our society and make decisions that will be in the long-term best interest of our people, taking cognisance of available resources, and competing needs of the populace. Again, we have to state that an honest appraisal of our development reality imposes a certain burden on us as leaders of the developing world to adopt initiatives that will improve the socio-economic development of the general population, prioritising programmes that address the challenges of mass poverty, hunger, unemployment and limited access to education and health services.

*Dr. Otti, OFR, is the Executive Governor of Abia State. He was on the editorial board of THISDAY Newspapers between 2016 and 2022 and maintains the column, ‘Outside The Box’ To be continued.

integrity of such infrastructures and carry out necessary repairs and reinforcements.

Third is a Reforestation and Sustainable Land Management project. Deforestation and land degradation significantly increase flood risks by reducing the land's natural ability to absorb water. Reforestation, particularly in flood-prone areas, helps stabilize soil and reduce runoff. Promoting sustainable agricultural practices and managing land use can also mitigate flood impacts.

Fourth is executing urban planning and Flood-Resilient Infrastructure. Urban areas in Nigeria often suffer from poor drainage, unregulated building practices, and inadequate flood defences. Enforcing stricter urban planning regulations and investing in flood-resilient infrastructure, such as elevated roads, floodwalls, and permeable pavements, can reduce the impact of flooding. Moreover, relocation of communities from high-risk zones to safer grounds should be considered.

Fifth is to create a Community-Based Flood Management. Engaging local communities in flood management initiatives ensures that responses are tailored to the specific needs and vulnerabilities of the population. This includes raising awareness about flood risks, emergency preparedness training, and involving communities in maintaining flood defences. Community-led initiatives can enhance resilience and ensure faster, more coordinated responses when floods occur.

Boniface Delivers Last-minute Winner for Leverkusen

Femi Solaja with agency report

Super Eagles striker, Victor Boniface, scored Bayer Leverkusen’s winner in the seven-goal-thriller with Wolfsburg at the Bay Arena on Sunday afternoon.

Enyimba Qualify for Group Stage as Rangers Crash Out

Former African champions, Enyimba FC, saved the day for Nigeria on the continent this season as the Aba-based team progressed to the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup by dumping out Burkina Faso’s Etoile Filante.

The Nigerian side recorded the hard-earned win via the lottery of a penalty shoot-out following a goalless outing over the two legs.

Enyimba were held in their home game at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, while Etoile too could not do anything extraordinary yesterday.

Nigerian representatives were lucky not to have conceded a late goal as their goalkeeper saved a one-on-one situation from a close range.

However, in the shootout, the People's Elephant sealed a 3-2 shootout win to qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup group stages.

Earlier in the day, Sagrada Esperanca of Angola dumped out Nigeria's remaining representatives in the CAF Champions League, Rangers International.

The Flying Antelopes suffered a 3-1 defeat to the Angolan opponents in the second preliminary round, second leg fixture.

Despite beating their opponents by a lone goal in the first leg in Uyo, Rangers failed to make it to the group stages losing 3-2 on aggregate.

The People's Elephants are now the only Nigerian side in the continent.

Remo Stars Regain NPFL Top Position after Away Win in Kano

Remo Stars continued their good form in the Nigeria domestic league as they snatched another 2-0 away win against one of the traditional strong sides, Kano Pillars last night.

The win makes the Ikenne side the only club with a perfect score so far in the ongoing season as they go top of the log ahead of former champions Rivers United who had on Saturday secured an away win at Lobi Stars.

Interestingly, Remo Stars are the only side yet to concede a goal haven defeated Abia Warriors 2-0 away on the opening day and managed a lone goal win at home against Sunshine Stars of Akure before another clean win in Kano yesterday.

Super Eagles’ invitee last April, Sodiq Ismail, put Remo Stars in front after 26 minutes and Togolese import, Franck Mawuena, doubled the lead in the 60th minute and maintained the scoreline till the end of the match.

In another encounter, Niger Tornadoes pulled a major upset, winning 2-1 away from home as they beat former Nigerian champions, Plateau United. Ifeanyi Okechukwu put the visitors ahead in the 17th minute.

They doubled their lead in the

fourth minute of added time of the second half through Kufre Ebong.

A minute later, Pam Samuel scored a consolatory goal for Plateau United. Heartland of Owerri continued their winless run as they played a goalless draw at home with visiting Katsina United.

Sunshine Stars also played 0-0 with Abia Warriors while in Owerri, Coach Emmanuel Amuneke endured a goalless draw at home with Katsina United after losing his first two matches in charge of the Heartland FC.

Newly-promoted Ikorodu City of Lagos played goalless at Kwara United.

Lobi Stars 0-1 River Utd Nasarawa 3-4 El-kanemi

K’Pillars 0-2 Remo Stars

Plateau Utd 1-2 Tornadoes

Heartland 0-0 Katsina Utd

Sunshine 0-0 Abia Warriors

Kwara Utd 0-0 Ikorodu City

The Nigerian international was introduced in the 68th minute when the scoreline was still three goals apiece. He however made the difference, giving Leverkusen

all three points in the 4-3 victory. After a 4-0 win over Feyenoord in the UEFA Champions League midweek, Leverkusen returned to Bundesliga action with the home

game against Wolfsburg. Boniface started in the midweek clash with Feyenoord. But yesterday, Coach Xabi Alonso opted to start him from the bench alongside

compatriot Nathan Tella. Wolfsburg got in front just after five minutes, courtesy of an own goal from Nordi Mukiele. Nonetheless, the reigning Bundesliga champions bounced back with goals from Florian Wirtz and Jonathan Tah in the 14th and 32nd minutes.

Unfortunately for Die Werkself, their joy was short-lived, as goals from Sebastiaan Bornauw and Mattias Svanberg ensured the first half ended 3-2 in Wolfsburg’s favour. Leverkusen started the second half with their tails up, and they got the opener just four minutes in through Piero Hincapie. However, after Leverkusen scored the equaliser, the goals stopped going in. Coach Alonso then introduced Boniface for Patrik Schick in the 68th minute to add some bite to the attack.

That move added Pep to Leverkusen fire power, as they piled pressure on Wolfsburg. Boniface could have even scored in the 77th minute, but his strike was saved. In the 88th minute, Leverkusen got an advantage after Yannick Gerhardt got sent off for a bad tackle. Die Werkself took the opportunity and continued to pile the pressure on the Wolfsburg backline, and they eventually got their breakthrough.

A cross was swung in from the right, Wirtz got to it and struck a weak effort towards the goal. Then, Boniface collected the ball in the middle of a Wolfsburg crowd and scored from close range to make it 4-3.

Boniface had another opportunity to score just before full-time but failed to convert. After 90 minutes, it ended 4-3 in Bayer Leverkusen’s favour.

Manchester City’s John Stones Denies Arsenal Win at Etihad

John Stones scrambled home an equaliser seconds from time amid chaos and controversy to deny Arsenal a famous victory against Manchester City at Etihad Stadium. The game ended 2-2.

Arsenal had mounted a magnificent rearguard action following the first half-dismissal of Leandro Trossard - and stood moments away from arguably the finest moment in manager Mikel Arteta's reign - until substitute Stones forced in following a well-worked short corner at the end of seven minutes of added time.

There will be pride as well as pain for the Gunners, who went behind early on to Erling Haaland’s 100th goal for Manchester City but turned a thrilling encounter on its head to lead before the interval.

In moments of huge significance, City lost talisman Rodri with a knee injury after 21 minutes, manager Pep Guardiola's mood worsening even further when Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori swept home an angled finish high past Ederson seconds later.

Arsenal's set-piece expertise was in evidence again as Gabriel, in a replica of his winner at Tottenham

still

Victor Boniface scored the winner as Bayer Leverkusen defeated Wolfsburg 4-3 in a Bundesliga clash at the Bay Arena... yesterday

THE CENTURY MAN...

Erling Haaland yesterday became the fourth player to score 100 goals in all competitions for Manchester City in the Premier League era

last week, headed home a corner at the far post seconds into first-half stoppage time.

The most contentious incident came seconds before the break when Arsenal's Trossard was given

a second yellow card for kicking the ball away, leaving the visitors nursing a sense of injustice after City's Jeremy Doku had escaped punishment for a similar offence.

The crunch battle for the eight final tickets of the 2024 Zenith Bank National Women’s Basketball League started yesterday in two centres. Abuja centre, which is the Savannah Conference took off at the National Stadium Sports Hall just as the Atlantic Conference slated for Enugu also commenced at the Indoor Sports Hall of the

Nnamdi Azikwe Stadium. The Savannah Conference has Customs as the favourite team to beat after winning all games in the 1st Phase that took place in Lafia, Nasarawa State earlier this month. Other teams in the Savannah

competing for the four slots at stake include; Air Warriors, Plateau Rocks, Kada Angels, Titans, Royal Aces, Nigeria Army and Nasarawa Babes. Today, Nigerian Army will take on Kada Angels, Air Warriors will clash with Plateau Rocks, Royal Aces will try Nasarawa Amazons for size while Titans and

Monday, September 23,

MISSILE

HURIWA to EFCC

“Thishide-and-seekgamewithYahayaBelloisnothingshortofacoordinatedfarceandan unpardonablegimmick.Itisabsolutelyunacceptable.TheEFCCmuststopthischaradeand getseriouswiththeenforcementofNigeria'santi-graftlaws,orelsetheentiremanagement mustbeuprootedifthecountryistohaveanyhopeofwagingadecisivewaroncorruption" -HURIWANationalCoordinator,EmmanuelOnwubiko,tellstheEFCCtogetseriousandstoptheir charadewiththeformerKogiStateGovernor,YahayaBello,overcorruption allegations.

MAHMUDJEGA

VIEW FROM THE GALLERY

Early in the day on Sunday, I tuned in to the television set to catch up on results from Edo State’s off-season governorship election. To my amazement as a political reporter for three decades, I saw two PDP governors holding a press conference in Benin. Leading them to perform the functions of the INEC Returning Officer was Professor [sorry, Governor] Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa, said to be the chairman of PDP Campaign Council for Edo State. Flanking him was Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, for whom the election was a kind of referendum of his person and legacy. Fintiri was announcing the results local government by local government, saying those were the authentic results and the INEC Returning Officer, whom he upstaged, should not declare anything else. Was that not what the Electoral Act precisely said no one should ever do? Scanning through a dozen websites of online and print media throughout Sunday,

I could see that they severely adhered to the admonition not to preempt the returning officer, obviously because there are legal consequences. In years past, before the import of that aspect of the law sank in, online sites rushed during elections to declare results, some of them factual, many of them manufactured. Was it not a wonder that Fintiri, who last year was himself a victim of a preemptory result declaration in Yola for which the Resident Electoral Commissioner is still standing trial, will borrow the Binani Formula and orchestrate such a declaration of his own?

The fact is, leading political parties and their candidates, as well many of the NGO election monitors, which have got national and state level “Situation Rooms,” had a good idea by Saturday evening as to who was winning the election, since the results were all declared at each polling unit and also uploaded on INEC’s IRev viewing site. While INEC’s own collation process is cumbersome, involving the authentication of results

and filling of a lot of forms, parties and their candidates could speedily add up figures and see where things were going. In a Nigerian election, the earliest indication one gets as to who is winning is to be found in which party is protesting and which one is celebrating. Frowning faces of PDP bigwigs, storming of the INEC collation centre in Benin by PDP supporters on Sunday morning to lodge protests, as well as social media videos of cheers at the Edo APC collation centre, were early indications of where things were going. However, to have two sitting governors openly flouting the law by holding a press conference to declare results was going over the edge. The two were carefully selected to do the return because both of them are constitutionally immune from arrest and prosecution. If anyone else had done that, he will probably be sitting in a Magistrate’s

Continued on page 38

Building Capacity to Support Sustainable Devt Activities

Development is an ever-present idea that continues to evolve as human society reaches new possibilities and comes to a new sense of awareness of its strengths, opportunities and environmental advantages. The theory of development has preoccupied economists, policy makers and a wide range of other professionals for centuries. Improvement or lack thereof, in the living conditions of the various demographics and income groups, was the first layer of interest in the study of development. As society began to advance, scholars turned attention to other equally important frontiers of fulfillment beyond the material well-being of the populace. This era opened new vistas of attention in the quest to understand the

evolution of our progress as social justice, respect for the fundamental rights of citizens, democracy, and transparent governance systems began to count as important development metrics. Evidently, the understanding of development will continue to expand as researchers break new grounds into the dynamic nature of individual and social aspirations.

The principle of dynamism drives the study of development across epochs, supporting the understanding that nothing is static. Adam Smith, James Steuart, David Hume, and John Stuart Mill, whose thoughts and ideas pioneered the subject of development studies, focused extensively on the principles of wealth distribution and the best path to eliminating poverty and lack among the majority within the community. As the subject

continued to expand, scholars began to look beyond just material comfort to draw attention to how the principles of equality, freedom and justice resonate with the ideals of development across broad frontiers. These expanded parameters influenced the policy decisions of leaders who sought to improve the material well-being of the citizens while also addressing the challenges of inequality through deliberate initiatives that are aimed at reducing the gap between the haves and have-nots.

Through a careful analysis of the above insights and scholarly philosophies on the path to attaining improved living conditions for the general population, one finds that not much attention was paid to the future, the generations that will be here when we are gone.

BENEATH THE SURFACE

future generations, another major failing of the regular economic development philosophy of the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries was the blatant disregard for the condition of the environment and its continuing capacity to sustain man's financial activities beyond the immediate. Although T. R. Malthus did call attention to the dangers of explosive population growth vis-à-vis limited food supply in a 1798 essay, future scholars were only able to highlight the loopholes in the theory, especially as technology and discovery of new lands further increased food supply even as population grew. This seeming paradox raised unsettling questions about the postulations of the British scholar and, of course,

In addition to the scant regard paid to the needs of Continued on page 38

A Governor As Returning Officer DAKUKU PETERSIDE

Borno Floods: Beyond Relief

Let me be upfront: I commiserate with everyone affected by the Borno flood. This is a catastrophe that goes beyond physical devastation; it is about systemic failures. I appreciate Governor Babagana Zulum's leadership so far. In response to the crisis, he outperforms the typical Nigerian governor with swift action, pragmatic decisions, and an unflinching commitment to the people. I join the people of Borno, particularly those affected by the flood, in thanking everyone who has expressed concern about the terrible but avoidable humanitarian situation in Nigeria's Northeast. According to yet-to-be-verified accounts, exceptionally heavy rains in September caused the Alau Dam to collapse just a few kilometres outside Maiduguri. By

Tuesday morning, September 10, about half of the city was submerged, displacing thousands of families, destroying homes, and crippling critical infrastructure. The flood has directly impacted over 150,000 people in Maiduguri alone, with several communities completely cut off due to submerged roads. According to the Borno State Emergency Management Agency, over 30,000 homes have been damaged or destroyed, and critical facilities, including schools, hospitals, and markets, have been inundated. The extensive damage to farmland, affecting more than 12,000 hectares, threatens food security in a region grappling with severe hunger and malnutrition.

This year alone, floods have affected multiple local government areas in Borno State, including Jere, Konduga,

and Dikwa. Reports from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) indicate that over 250,000 people across Borno and neighbouring Yobe and Adamawa states have been displaced by floods in 2024. The tragic death toll stands at over 50, with many more still unaccounted for. The economic losses run into billions of naira, exacerbating the region's already dire humanitarian crisis. The tragedy starkly highlights our vulnerability to extreme weather events, exacerbated by climate change and lack of preparedness.

In line with global standards of response to humanitarian disasters of this nature, humanitarian organizations, the World Health Organization (WHO), local and international NGOs, and the National Emergency Management Agency

(NEMA) quickly mobilized to provide relief materials such as food, healthcare supplies, and sanitation facilities to assist affected persons. Notable contributions also came from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the World Food Programme (WFP), the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL), the Aliko Dangote Foundation, and the Presidential Committee on Flood and Disaster, showcasing a wide-ranging but often uncoordinated response. Federal and state governments joined the "disaster relief donation club," and politicians and the business elite, some genuinely altruistic and others merely grandstanding, started outcompeting one another in the publicized donation

Fintiri